ULTRAFILTRATION MEMBRANE FORMATION OF PES-C,PES AND PPESK POLYMERS WITH DIFFERENT SOLVENTS

Ultrafiltration membranes were prepared using phenolphthalein polyarylethersulfone (PES-C),polyethersulfone (PES) and poly(phthalazinone ether sulfone ketone) (PPESK) as polymers and NMP,DMAc,DMF and DMSO as solvents by immersion precipitation via phase inversion.Experimental data of thermodynamic properties of the polymer solutions and kinetic process of membrane formation were reported.For polymer solutions with good solvents,the sequence of the viscous flow activation energy (E_η) was coincident with tha...

Severe prelenticular membrane formation on the surface of a hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lens after cataract surgery in an eye with an Ahmed valve implant

【正】Dear Sir,Iam Yong-Sun Ahn,from the Department of Ophthalmology of St.Vincent Hospital of Suwon,Kyungki-do,South Korea.Cataracts are a common problem in eyes with a glaucoma drainage device(GDD),because tube shunt surgery increases the incidence and progression of cataracts[1].An Ahmed valve,the most commonly inserted GDD,is composed of a silicone tube connected to a flat plate sewn to the sclera,and aqueous humor flows from the

Mechanics of water pore formation in lipid membrane under electric field

Transmembrane water pores are crucial for substance transport through cell membranes via membrane fusion, such as in neural communication. However, the molecular mechanism of water pore formation is not clear. In this study, we apply all-atom molecular dynamics and bias-exchange metadynamics simulations to study the process of water pore formation under an electric field. We show that water molecules can enter a membrane under an electric field and form a water pore of a few nanometers in diameter. These water molecules disturb the interactions between lipid head groups and the ordered arrangement of lipids. Following the movement of water molecules, the lipid head groups are rotated and driven into the hydrophobic region of the membrane. The reorientated lipid head groups inside the membrane form a hydrophilic surface of the water pore. This study reveals the atomic details of how an electric field influences the movement of water molecules and lipid head groups, resulting in water pore formation.

Effects of changes of membrane lipid microenvironment on CD71 protein conformation

Highly purified CD71 protein was isolated from human placental trophoblasts and Molt-4 cells with affinity chromatography and was shown with SDS-PAGE as an obvious protein band of 90 ×103u under reducing condition and about 180 × 103u under non-reducing condition. The protein molecules were reconstituted into artificial membranes composed of different ratios of phospholipids (PL)/cholesterol (Ch). Circular dichroism analysis demonstrated that there was a decrease of the beta-laminar structure and an increase of alpha-helica and random coils when the Ch content of the artificial membranes DMPC/Ch or DOPC/Ch was increased. Tryptophan fluorescence spectrum also demonstrated that along with the changes of the lipid constituents of the artificial membrane,the spatial conformation of CD71 protein underwent corresponding changes.

Membrane Formation on the Surface of Implanted Posterior Chamber Intraocular Lenses

Purpose:To study the prevention and treatment of the membrane formation on the lens surface after extracapsular cataract extraction(ECCE)with posterior chamber intraocular lens(PCIOL)implantation.Methods:We reviewed the records of 312 cataractous patients that had undergone ECCEwith PCIOLimplantation between1989and1993,Postoperatively all pa-tients were examined under slit-lamp microscopy.The membrane formation on the surface of PCIOLin pupilar area was divided into four grades.Two mem-branes of surgical removal were observed under a transmission electrom mi-croscopy.One PCIOLof surgical removal was observed under a scanning electron microscopy.Results;Of312 patients,21 had the membrane formation on the surface of the PCIOL postoperatively.The incidence of the membrane formation was6.7%.Comparisone with cases of senile cataract showed the incidence to be significantly the highest among;1.patients who had traumatic cataract(P<0.05);2.pa-tients with complicated cataract(P<0.05).Interoperatively residual lens corten and rupture of posterior capsule,interval time betwwen the first and second eye operations less than 1month are the main factors of menbrane formation.The ultrastructure in membrane and cytology on the lens surface showed that the membrane on the surface of PCIOLs is usually composed of acellular protein film and cellular elements,including macrophages.fibroblast-like cells,epithelioid cells,giant cells,fibroblasts and collagen fibrils,etc.Conclusions:The cellular response on the surface of an implanted PCIOLis a chonic foreign-body inflammatory reaction and the membrane of the surfaceof implanted PCIOL is a reactive membrane of the foreign-body.Eye Science1995;11:131-135.

Cellular Response and Membrane Formation on the Surface of Implanted Posterior Chamber Intraocular Lens in Rabbit

Purpose: In order to study the cellular response and membrane formation on the surface of intraocular lens after cataract surgery and lens implantation, this study was designed to observe the deposits on the surface of implanted posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC-IOL) for 4,7,15,30 and 90 days in rabbits. Methods : 30 rabbits had undergone ECCE with PC-IOL implantation. PC-IOLs were removed at different stages after operation. 20 PC-IOLs were stained by HE to demonstrate cells on the surface of PC-IOL under light microscopy. 5 PC-IOLs for scanning electron microscopy were observed. 5 membranes were studied by transmission electron microscopy.Results: On 25 implanted PC-IOLs, the incidence of cell adhesion was 100% . The cells adherent to lens included macrophages,fibroblast-like cells,epithelioid cells,giant cells, ultralarge giant cells and lymphocytes. It was seen that there was a thin proteinaceous film on the surface of the implanted PC-IOLs and the membrane was composed of fibrin collagen

Imidazolium group prompted alkaline anion-exchange membrane with high performance for efficient electrochemical CO_(2) conversion

Development of high-performance hydroxide-conductive membranes is a focus research subject owing to promising applications in electrochemical reduction of CO_(2)(eCO_(2)RR).However,few satisfactory membranes have been developed to maximize the performance of CO_(2) electrolyzers,despite its role as the core in regulating ion transport and preventing product crossover or fuel loss.Herein,we report the synthesis of alkaline anion-exchange membranes fabricated by poly(vinyl-alcohol)(PVA)and poly[(3-methyl-1-vinylimidazoliummethylsulfate)-co-(1-vinylpyrrolidone)](PQ44)for use in CO_(2) electrolysis.Owing to the unique imidazolium ring structure coupled with a three-dimensional semiinterpenetrating porous internal architecture,the PVA/PQ44-OH-membranes provide a high hydroxide conductivity(21.47 mS cm^(-1)),preferable mechanical property and thermal stability.In particular,the eCO_(2)RR used PVA/PQ44-OH^(-) as electrolyte membrane realized a charming Faradaic efficiency(88%)and partial current density(29 mA cm^(-2))at0.96 VRHE and,delivered the excellent durability over 20 h electrolysis in 0.5 mol L^(-1) KHCO_(3) electrolyte.Notably,it can even enable an ultrahigh current density beyond 100 mA cm^(-2) at^(-1).11 VRHE when the electrolyte was KOH instead,and produced the FEHCOOof 85%at a low potential of0.81 VRHE,superior to both commercial alkaline A201 and acidic Nafion117 membrane.

Effects of Honghua preserved amniotic membrane on scar healing in experimental glaucoma surgery

AIM:To investigate the efficacy and safety of Honghua preserved amniotic membrane(AM)for preventing scar formation of the filtering bleb in a rabbit model of glaucoma trabeculectomy surgery.METHODS:Totally 36 rabbits(36 eyes)were randomly divided into 3 groups:the experimental group(ocular trabeculectomy in combination with Honghua preserved AM transplantation),the control group(ocular trabeculectomy surgery in combination with AM implantation),and the blank group(single trabeculectomy).Clinical observations[including intraocular pressure(IOP),filtering blebs and complications],MassonTrichrome staining,real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction(real-time PCR),Western blot were performed on different time points(D1,D7,D14,D21 and D56)after the surgery.RESULTS:After operated for 14d,there were statistically significant differences in the filtering blebs compared to the situation before operation(P【0.05),whereas no statistically difference on that among three groups(P】0.05).After 21d,the IOP of experimental group was lowest(P【0.05).There was significant difference between control group and blank group(P【0.05).On postoperative D14,the mean number of fibroblasts in the experimental group was significantlylower(40.6±10.2)compared to those in the control group(54.4±10.8)and blank group(68.2±11.6)(P【0.05,respectively).The mean numbers of the macrophage in the experimental and control groups were respcitively significantly lower versus the blank group(P【0.05,P【0.05,respectively).Compared to that in blank group,the level of transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β1)expression in sclera and conjunctival areas was reduced in the experimental and control groups on protein and mRNA level(P【0.05),but not significant difference between these two groups(P】0.05).CONCLUSION:The trabeculectory surgery with Honghua preserved AM can control IOP,sustain the functional filtration bleb,inhibit the proliferation of fibroblasts and open the filtrating pathway on the rabbit glaucoma models.

Instability Mechanisms of Supported Liquid Membrane for Phenol Transport

The instability mechanisms of the supported liquid membrane using Celgard 2500 membranes as support and tributyl phosphate dissolved in kerosene as carrier for phenol transport was studied by ele.etroehemical impedance spectroscopy. Emulsion formation is demonstrated to be one of the main causes for the instability of supported liquid membrane in the present system. The emulsion-facilitated conditions, such as higher membrane liquid concentration, faster stirring speed, lower salt concentration and higher HLB value, would accelerate the degradation of supported liquid membrane. Other mechanisms including solubility and osmotic pressure work together to increase the membrane liauid loss.

Homemade lyophilized cross linking amniotic sustained-release drug membrane with anti-scarring role after filtering surgery in rabbit eyes

AIM: To investigate the antifibrotic effect of the freeze-dried bilayered fibrin-binding amniotic membrane as a drug delivery system on glaucoma surgery in rabbit model. The aim of this study was to prepare a novel local delivery system for the sustained and controllable release of 5-Fu. METHODS: Twenty-four Japanese white rabbits were randomized into three groups: the experimental group (ocular trabeculectomy in combination with 5-Fu loaded freeze-dried bilayered fibrin-binding amniotic membrane transplantation), the control group (ocular trabeculectomy in combination with 5-Fu) and the blank group (single trabeculectomy). HE staining, massion staining and immunohistochemistry for alpha -SMA were performed on days 7, 14, 21 and 30 following surgery. The concentration of 5-Fu in rabbit aqueous humor was examined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) 3 days after the surgery. RESULTS: Statistical differences were noted in intraocular pressure among groups on day 7, 14, 21 and 30 following surgery. Histology further demonstrated that trabeculectomy in combination with freeze-dried bilayered fibrin-binding amniotic membrane yielded well wound healing and no scar formation and was beneficial for long term effect. CONCLUSION: HPLC showed a good slow-release effect with freeze-dried bilayered fibrin-binding amniotic membrane.

Numerical Simulation of a Mathematical Model for Dry/Wet-Spun Nascent Hollow Fiber Membrane

In an effort to find the effect of mass transfer, surface tension and drag forces on the velocity distribution, the mathematical model of the velocity profile of a nascent hollow fiber during membrane formation in the air gap region was numerically simulated by using the Runge-Kutta method (fourth-order method). The effect of mass transfer on velocity distribution based on the complicated function (G(Cs h)) was presented and the effects of a complicated function were studied in two cases: in the first case, G(Cs h) was constant; in the second, G(Cs h) was variable. The latter was done by varying with the concentration of solvent in a nascent hollow fiber through the air-gap region. One empirical equation was used to describe this change and the predicted values had a better agreement with the experimental values. To verify the model hypotheses, hollow fiber membranes were spun from 20∶80 polybenzimidazole/polyetherimide dopes with 25.6 wt% solid in N, N-dimethylacetamide (DMAc) using water as the external and internal coagulants. Based on the experimental results of dry-jet wet-spinning process for the fabrication of hollow fiber membranes, it is found that the model calculated values were in a good agreement with the experimental values.

Dental Stimulation to the Buccal Mucous Membrane Causes Lumbago: A Report of Two Cases

This study aims to demonstrate that harmful stimulation of the buccal mucosa because of a rough tooth surface may cause lumbago. This report illustrates two cases of women in their 30s and 40s who are suffering from lumbago due to unknown causes. The patients are cured by a simple dental procedure in which the buccal surface of a molar is smoothened, thereby inhibiting the negative stimulation of the buccal mucosa. Soon after this treatment, the symptoms of lumbago have subsided. The reason for the effectiveness of this treatment remains unclear. However, the balance dysregulation observed in the patient may have been due to stimulation of the oral mucous membrane by the rough surface of the tooth. It is important for dentists to pay attention to the effects of tooth formation, dental restorations, and dental prosthetics on the entire body. A dental condition may have an effect on diseases affecting other parts of the body;thus a dental treatment may be considered as an option for the management of other systemic disorders. It appears that cooperation between the fields of dentistry and medicine is of utmost importance.

Do membrane proteins cluster without binding between molecules?

Clustering is a basic event for the initiation of immune cell responses, and simulation analyses of clustering of membrane proteins have been performed. It was claimed that a cluster is formed by the self-assembly induced by protein dimerization with a high binding speed (Woolf and Linderman, Biophys. Chem. 104, 217-227, 2003). We examined the cluster formation with Monte Carlo simulation using two algorithms. The first was that simulation processes were divided into two substeps. All proteins were subjected to movement in the first substep, followed by reaction in the second substep. The second algorithm was that proteins were first selected to react and proteins which did not react were subjected to movement. The self-assembly induced by dimerization was simulated only with the second algorithm. In this algorithm, monomers dissociated from dimers do not move because these monomers are not selected for movement, and a large proportion of such monomers are selected to form dimers in the next step. The self-assembly was again simulated with the first algorithm containing the conditions that monomers dissociated from dimers did not move in the next movement substep. This algorithm seems to be far removed from natural conditions. Thus, it is inferred that the self-assembly induced by dimerization is unlikely in situ, and that some interaction between proteins is required for cluster formation. In contrast to algorithms in previous simulations, our results suggest that it is more appropriate that proteins move to the same direction for a while and reflect when the collision occurs.

Coarse-grained simulations of branched bilayer membranes: effects of cholesterol-dependent phase separation on curvature-driven lipid sorting

Our recent coarse-grained (CG) molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of membranes with a hemifused-ribbon (λ-shaped) geometry showed curvature-driven demixing leading to enrich ment in dioleoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE) in a negatively-curved region (at C = –0.8 nm–1) of a DOPE/dipalmitoyl-phosphati-dylcholine (DPPC) membrane. Here we extend the analysis with respect to lipid composition and simulation time. Simulations of 12 – 20 μs effective time show that, compared with DOPE of the DOPE/DPPC system, a DPPC/dilinoleyl-PC [di(18:2)PC] membrane showed a similar degree of enrichment of di(18:2)PC in the curved region with C=–0.8 nm–1. For the latter mixture, even weak negative curvatures (C=–0.5 – 0.6 nm–1) caused significant degrees of di(18:2)PC enrichment. In agreement with recent studies of a planar bilayer, a ternary DPPC/ di(18:2)PC/cholesterol 0.42:0.28:0.3 mixture phase-separated into nanoscale raft-like liquid-ordered (Lo) and non-raft liquid-disordered (Ld) phases on a sub-microsecond time scale. The Lo domains were preferentially localized at planar portions, whereas the Ld domains were positioned mainly in curved regions of the membrane. Unlike binary dioleoylphosphatidylcho-line (DOPC)/cholesterol and DPPC/cholesterol mixtures, which showed only a slight enrich ment of cholesterol in the curved region, the ternary mixtures showed considerable migra tion of cholesterol and DPPC from the curved to the planar region. A pronounced degree of lipid segregation due to the preferential distribution of the Ld and Lo domains in the curved and planar regions, respectively, was observed even when the curvature of the fused monolayers (originally ‘cis’ leaflets) was weakened (C= –0.5 nm-1). Overall, the results are consistent with theoretical predictions based on spontaneous curvature of the constituent lipids and the difference in rigidity between the Ld and Lo domains, whereas lipid-lipid interactions, such as PE-PE or DPPC-cholesterol, as well as propensity for interleaflet colocalization (registration) of the Lo and Ld domains appear to significantly amplify curvature-induced lipid demixing in the λ system. Intriguingly, for the DPPC/ di(18:2)PC/cholesterol ternary mixtures, a Lo/Ld domain boundary often moved to the branched point of the membrane, suggesting enhanced flexibility at the domain boundary. We hypothesize that curvature-driven lipid sorting and energetically favored localization of domain boundaries at sharp bends in the membranes may collaborate to assist intracellular lipid sorting.

Uncovering the effect of poly(ethylene-co-vinyl alcohol)molecular weight and vinyl alcohol content on morphology,antifouling,and permeation properties of polysulfone ultrafiltration membrane:thermodynamic and formation hydrodynamic behavior

Various hydrophilic poly(ethylene-co-vinyl alcohol)(EVOH)were used herein to precisely control the structure and hydrodynamic properties of polysulfone(PSF)membranes.Particularly,to prepare pristine PSF and PSF/EVOH blends with increasing vinyl alcohol(VOH:73%,68%,56%),the non-solvent-induced phase separation(NIPS)technique was used.Polyethylene glycol was used as a compatibilizer and as a porogen in N,Ndimethylacetamide.Rheological and ultrasonic separation kinetic measurements were also carried out to develop an ultrafiltration membrane mechanism.The extracted membrane properties and filtration capabilities were systematically compared to the proposed mechanism.Accordingly,the addition of EVOH led to an increase in the rheology of the dopes.The resulting membranes exhibited a microporous structure,while the finger-like structures became more evident with increasing VOH content.The PSF/EVOH behavior was changed from immediate to delayed segregation due to a change in the hydrodynamic kinetics.Interestingly,the PSF/EVOH32 membranes showed high hydrophilicity and achieved a pure water permeability of 264 L·m^(–2)·h^(–1)·bar^(–1),which was higher than that of pure PSF membranes(171 L·m^(–2)·h^(–1)·bar^(–1)).In addition,PSF/EVOH32 rejected bovine serum albumin at a high rate(>90%)and achieved a significant restoration of permeability.Finally,from the thermodynamic and hydrodynamic results,valuable insights into the selection of hydrophilic copolymers were provided to tailor the membrane structure while improving both the permeability and antifouling performance.

Advancing oxygen separation:insights from experimental and computational analysis of La_(0.7)Ca_(0.3)Co_(0.3)Fe_(0.6)M_(0.1)O_(3-δ)(M=Cu,Zn)oxygen transport membranes

In this study,perovskite-type La_(0.7)Ca_(0.3)Co_(0.3)Fe_(0.6)M_(0.1)O_(3-δ)(M=Cu,Zn)powders were synthesized using a scalable reverse co-precipitation method,presenting them as novel materials for oxygen transport membranes.The comprehensive study covered various aspects including oxygen permeability,crystal structure,conductivity,morphology,CO_(2) tolerance,and long-term regenerative durability with a focus on phase structure and composition.The membrane La_(0.7)Ca_(0.3)Co_(0.3)Fe_(0.6)M_(0.1)O_(3-δ)exhibited high oxygen permeation fluxes,reaching up to 0.88 and 0.64 mL·min^(−1)·cm^(−2) under air/He and air/CO_(2) gradients at 1173 K,respectively.After 1600 h of CO_(2) exposure,the perovskite structure remained intact,showcasing superior CO_(2) resistance.A combination of first principles simulations and experimental measurements was employed to deepen the understanding of Cu/Zn substitution effects on the structure,oxygen vacancy formation,and transport behavior of the membranes.These findings underscore the potential of this highly CO_(2)-tolerant membrane for applications in high-temperature oxygen separation.The enhanced insights into the oxygen transport mechanism contribute to the advancement of next-generation membrane materials.

乳液法制备PDMS/ZIF-8混合基质膜及VOC分离性能综合实验教学设计

双碳背景下,挥发性有机物(VOCs)减排受到广泛关注。为此本文设计了乳液法制备PDMS/ZIF-8混合基质膜并用于VOC分离的综合性实验。采用红外光谱、扫描电镜和超景深显微镜对成膜过程、膜结构和形貌进行表征和分析,VOC/N_(2)分离性能测试结果表明PDMA/ZIF-8膜具有良好的VOC分离性能;随着ZIF-8添加量的增加,PDMS/ZIF-8膜的VOC渗透系数呈先减小后增大的趋势,而分离选择性先增大后减小。实验涵盖了文献调研、气体分离膜制备、结构表征分析、性能测试等多种技能训练,可强化学生对化工传质与分离基础知识的理解和拓展,并激发学生的创新潜能,提高学生的自主学习和创新实践等能力。

Callus formation in relation to changes of the membrane Ca^(2+) in the graft unions of Ginkgo biloba L.

The relationship between the callus formation and intracellular Ca 2+ at the early stage of development of graft unions in Ginkgo biloba L. was investigated. On the second day after grafting, part of the undamaged living cells at the graft interface of the stock and scion in the regions of the cortex and pith began to dedifferentiate or divide. 8 d after grafting, a great number of callus cells were produced from the cortex and phloem, while callus bridges linking the stock with scion formed between the callus cells of the graft partners from the cortex. A membrane Ca 2+ probe, chlortetracycline (CTC), was used to locate the intracellular Ca 2+ distribution and it was found that the cortical and pith parenchyma cells were the first to show remarkably increased CTC Ca 2+ fluorescence, suggesting that the cortical and other parenchyma cells play a leading role at the early stage of development of graft unions by earlier dedifferentiation and more rapid production of callus cells.

Effects of different Ca^(2+) behavior patterns in the electric field on membrane fouling formation and removal of trace organic compounds

The effects of Ca^(2+) on membrane fouling and trace organic compounds(TrOCs)removal in an electric field-assisted microfiltration system were investigated in the presence of Na^(+) alone for comparison.In the electric field,negatively charged bovine serum albumin(BSA)migrated towards the anode far away from the membrane surface,resulting in a 42.9%transmembrane pressure(TMP)reduction in the presence of Na^(+) at 1.5 V.In contrast,because of the stronger charge shielding of Ca^(2+),the electrophoretic migration of BSA was limited and led to a neglectable effect of the electric field(1.5 V)on membrane fouling.However,under 3 V applied voltage,the synergistic effects of electrochemical oxidation and bridging interaction between Ca^(2+) and BSA promoted the formation of denser settleable flocs and a thinner porous cake layer,which alleviated membrane fouling with a 64.5%decrease in TMP and nearly 100%BSA removal.The Tr OCs elimination increased with voltage and reached29.4%–80.4%at 3 V.The electric field could prolong the contact between Tr OCs and strong oxidants generated on the anode,which enhanced the Tr OCs removal.However,a stronger charge shielding ability of Ca^(2+) weakened the electric field force and thus lowered the Tr OCs removal.

A Pair-Electrosynthesis for Formate at Ultra-Low Voltage Via Coupling of CO_(2) Reduction and Formaldehyde Oxidation

Formate can be synthesized electrochemically by CO_(2) reduction reaction(CO_(2)RR)or formalde-hyde oxidation reaction(FOR).The CO_(2)RR approach suffers from kinetic-sluggish oxygen evolution reac-tion at the anode.To this end,an electrochemical sys-tem combining cathodic CO_(2)RR with anodic FOR was developed,which enables the formate electrosynthesis at ultra-low voltage.Cathodic CO_(2)RR employing the BiOCl electrode in H-cell exhibited formate Faradaic efficiency(FE)higher than 90% within a wide potential range from−0.48 to−1.32 V_(RHE).In flow cell,the current density of 100 mA cm^(−2) was achieved at−0.67 V_(RHE).The anodic FOR using the Cu_(2)O electrode displayed a low onset potential of−0.13 V_(RHE) and nearly 100%formate and H_(2) selectivity from 0.05 to 0.35 V_(RHE).The CO_(2)RR and FOR were constructed in a flow cell through membrane electrode assembly for the electrosynthesis of formate,where the CO_(2)RR//FOR delivered an enhanced current density of 100 mA cm^(−2) at 0.86 V.This work provides a promising pair-electrosynthesis of value-added chemicals with high FE and low energy consumption.