Effect of alkyl branches on the thermal stability of quaternary ammonium cations in organic electrolytes for electrochemical double layer capacitors.

PubMed

Ahn, Yong Nam; Lee, Sung Hoon; Lee, Goo Soo; Kim, Hyunbin

2017-08-02

Quaternary ammoniums are cations having widespread use in organic electrolytes for high performance electrochemical double layer capacitors (EDLCs) due to their various advantages such as high electrochemical stability and inexpensive production cost. However, the decomposition of quaternary ammoniums via Hofmann elimination hinders their applications for EDLCs operating at elevated temperatures. This study systematically investigates the reactivity of four different quaternary ammoniums (tetraethyl-, triethylmethyl-, diethyldimethyl-, and trimethylethyl-ammonium) in EDLC by utilizing density functional theory calculations and Brownian dynamics simulations complemented with molecular dynamics simulations. It is found that ammonium stability reduces upon increasing the number of ethyl branches that have a stronger positive charge than the methyl groups. However, the contribution of the entropy change to the reaction free energy makes trimethylethylammonium less stable than diethyldimethylammonium at room temperature although the former has less ethyl branches than the latter. Trimethylethylammonium becomes the most stable at a high temperature of 488 K above which the activation free energy becomes effectively negligible and thus the number of reactive sites determines the overall stability. The fundamental understanding of the ammonium decompositions through Hofmann elimination demonstrated in this study is expected to contribute to developing new long-life organic electrolyte systems for high-temperature applications.

[Health survey of plant workers for an occupational exposure to ammonium perchlorate].

PubMed

Chen, Hong-xia; Shao, Yuan-peng; Wu, Feng-hong; Li, Yang-ping; Peng, Kai-liang

2013-01-01

To understand the occupational hazards of ammonium perchlorate dust on operating workers and to provide the basis preventive measures for protecting the workers' health. 36 workers exposed to ammonium perchlorate dust and 48 unexposed workers from one factory were selected as the exposure and control groups. Investigations on the general condition, sampling of dust in the workplaces and a special medical examination were conducted for two groups, including occupational history, clinical manifestations, blood routine test, hepatic and renal functions, indexes of thyroid hormone, spirometric test and chest X-ray. The total dust concentration of AP in the batch plant reached to 51.63 ± 43.27 mg/m(3), exceeding the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) permission exposure limits. The systolic blood pressure in the exposure group was higher than that of the control group (146.14 ± 21.03 VS 134.67 ± 18.58), and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The detection rates of the cumulative total symptoms, short of breath and skin itch symptoms in the exposure group were significantly higher than those in the control group (86.11% VS 66.67%; 30.56% VS 12.50%) (P < 0.05), respectively. FT(3) level in the exposure group significantly lowered than the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.01); The pulmonary function result showed that FEV1/FVC% in the exposure group was lower than that in the control group (106.50 ± 28.99 VS 111.70 ± 19.72), but the difference was not significant. X-ray examination revealed one case of pulmonary X-ray abnormalities in the exposure group, diagnosis of pneumoconiosis, and one case with about 1.0 × 1.0 small nodules detected on the left of lung door area in the control group. The systolic blood pressure of workers in the exposure group was significantly higher, which could not exclude related to the exposure to AP dust; The T(3) levels in the exposure workers were lower than those in the control group, which may due to AP exposure, suggesting that long-term chronic exposure to AP dust may affect thyroid function.

Nitrogen and phosphorus uptake rates of different species from a coral reef community after a nutrient pulse

PubMed Central

den Haan, Joost; Huisman, Jef; Brocke, Hannah J.; Goehlich, Henry; Latijnhouwers, Kelly R. W.; van Heeringen, Seth; Honcoop, Saskia A. S.; Bleyenberg, Tanja E.; Schouten, Stefan; Cerli, Chiara; Hoitinga, Leo; Vermeij, Mark J. A.; Visser, Petra M.

2016-01-01

Terrestrial runoff after heavy rainfall can increase nutrient concentrations in waters overlying coral reefs that otherwise experience low nutrient levels. Field measurements during a runoff event showed a sharp increase in nitrate (75-fold), phosphate (31-fold) and ammonium concentrations (3-fold) in waters overlying a fringing reef at the island of Curaçao (Southern Caribbean). To understand how benthic reef organisms make use of such nutrient pulses, we determined ammonium, nitrate and phosphate uptake rates for one abundant coral species, turf algae, six macroalgal and two benthic cyanobacterial species in a series of laboratory experiments. Nutrient uptake rates differed among benthic functional groups. The filamentous macroalga Cladophora spp., turf algae and the benthic cyanobacterium Lyngbya majuscula had the highest uptake rates per unit biomass, whereas the coral Madracis mirabilis had the lowest. Combining nutrient uptake rates with the standing biomass of each functional group on the reef, we estimated that the ammonium and phosphate delivered during runoff events is mostly taken up by turf algae and the two macroalgae Lobophora variegata and Dictyota pulchella. Our results support the often proposed, but rarely tested, assumption that turf algae and opportunistic macroalgae primarily benefit from episodic inputs of nutrients to coral reefs. PMID:27353576

Nitrogen and phosphorus uptake rates of different species from a coral reef community after a nutrient pulse

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

den Haan, Joost; Huisman, Jef; Brocke, Hannah J.; Goehlich, Henry; Latijnhouwers, Kelly R. W.; van Heeringen, Seth; Honcoop, Saskia A. S.; Bleyenberg, Tanja E.; Schouten, Stefan; Cerli, Chiara; Hoitinga, Leo; Vermeij, Mark J. A.; Visser, Petra M.

2016-06-01

Terrestrial runoff after heavy rainfall can increase nutrient concentrations in waters overlying coral reefs that otherwise experience low nutrient levels. Field measurements during a runoff event showed a sharp increase in nitrate (75-fold), phosphate (31-fold) and ammonium concentrations (3-fold) in waters overlying a fringing reef at the island of Curaçao (Southern Caribbean). To understand how benthic reef organisms make use of such nutrient pulses, we determined ammonium, nitrate and phosphate uptake rates for one abundant coral species, turf algae, six macroalgal and two benthic cyanobacterial species in a series of laboratory experiments. Nutrient uptake rates differed among benthic functional groups. The filamentous macroalga Cladophora spp., turf algae and the benthic cyanobacterium Lyngbya majuscula had the highest uptake rates per unit biomass, whereas the coral Madracis mirabilis had the lowest. Combining nutrient uptake rates with the standing biomass of each functional group on the reef, we estimated that the ammonium and phosphate delivered during runoff events is mostly taken up by turf algae and the two macroalgae Lobophora variegata and Dictyota pulchella. Our results support the often proposed, but rarely tested, assumption that turf algae and opportunistic macroalgae primarily benefit from episodic inputs of nutrients to coral reefs.

Nitrogen and phosphorus uptake rates of different species from a coral reef community after a nutrient pulse.

PubMed

den Haan, Joost; Huisman, Jef; Brocke, Hannah J; Goehlich, Henry; Latijnhouwers, Kelly R W; van Heeringen, Seth; Honcoop, Saskia A S; Bleyenberg, Tanja E; Schouten, Stefan; Cerli, Chiara; Hoitinga, Leo; Vermeij, Mark J A; Visser, Petra M

2016-06-29

Terrestrial runoff after heavy rainfall can increase nutrient concentrations in waters overlying coral reefs that otherwise experience low nutrient levels. Field measurements during a runoff event showed a sharp increase in nitrate (75-fold), phosphate (31-fold) and ammonium concentrations (3-fold) in waters overlying a fringing reef at the island of Curaçao (Southern Caribbean). To understand how benthic reef organisms make use of such nutrient pulses, we determined ammonium, nitrate and phosphate uptake rates for one abundant coral species, turf algae, six macroalgal and two benthic cyanobacterial species in a series of laboratory experiments. Nutrient uptake rates differed among benthic functional groups. The filamentous macroalga Cladophora spp., turf algae and the benthic cyanobacterium Lyngbya majuscula had the highest uptake rates per unit biomass, whereas the coral Madracis mirabilis had the lowest. Combining nutrient uptake rates with the standing biomass of each functional group on the reef, we estimated that the ammonium and phosphate delivered during runoff events is mostly taken up by turf algae and the two macroalgae Lobophora variegata and Dictyota pulchella. Our results support the often proposed, but rarely tested, assumption that turf algae and opportunistic macroalgae primarily benefit from episodic inputs of nutrients to coral reefs.

Effects of Ammonium Perchlorate on Thyroid Function in Developing Fathead Minnows, Pimephales promelas

PubMed Central

Crane, Helen M.; Pickford, Daniel B.; Hutchinson, Thomas H.; Brown, J. Anne

2005-01-01

Perchlorate is a known environmental contaminant, largely due to widespread military use as a propellant. Perchlorate acts pharmacologically as a competitive inhibitor of thyroidal iodide uptake in mammals, but the impacts of perchlorate contamination in aquatic ecosystems and, in particular, the effects on fish are unclear. Our studies aimed to investigate the effects of concentrations of ammonium perchlorate that can occur in the environment (1, 10, and 100 mg/L) on the development of fathead minnows, Pimephales promelas. For these studies, exposures started with embryos of < 24-hr postfertilization and were terminated after 28 days. Serial sectioning of thyroid follicles showed thyroid hyperplasia with increased follicular epithelial cell height and reduced colloid in all groups of fish that had been exposed to perchlorate for 28 days, compared with control fish. Whole-body thyroxine (T4) content (a measure of total circulating T4) in fish exposed to 100 mg/L perchlorate was elevated compared with the T4 content of control fish, but 3,5,3′-triiodothyronine (T3) content was not significantly affected in any exposure group. Despite the apparent regulation of T3, after 28 days of exposure to ammonium perchlorate, fish exposed to the two higher levels (10 and 100 mg/L) were developmentally retarded, with a lack of scales and poor pigmentation, and significantly lower wet weight and standard length than were control fish. Our study indicates that environmental levels of ammonium perchlorate affect thyroid function in fish and that in the early life stages these effects may be associated with developmental retardation. PMID:15811828

Surface-modified nanoparticles as anti-biofilm filler for dental polymers

PubMed Central

Zaltsman, Nathan; Ionescu, Andrei C.; Weiss, Ervin I.; Brambilla, Eugenio; Beyth, Shaul

2017-01-01

The objective of the study was to synthesis silica nanoparticles modified with (i) a tertiary amine bearing two t-cinnamaldehyde substituents or (ii) dimethyl-octyl ammonium, alongside the well-studied quaternary ammonium polyethyleneimine nanoparticles. These were to be evaluated for their chemical and mechanical properties, as well for antibacterial and antibiofilm activity. Samples were incorporated in commercial dental resin material and the degree of monomer conversion, mechanical strength, and water contact angle were tested to characterize the effect of the nanoparticles on resin material. Antibacterial activity was evaluated with the direct contact test and the biofilm inhibition test against Streptococcus mutans. Addition of cinnamaldehyde-modified particles preserved the degree of conversion and compressive strength of the base material and increased surface hydrophobicity. Quaternary ammonium functional groups led to a decrease in the degree of conversion and to low compressive strength, without altering the hydrophilic nature of the base material. In the direct contact test and the anti-biofilm test, the polyethyleneimine particles exhibited the strongest antibacterial effect. The cinnamaldehyde-modified particles displayed antibiofilm activity, silica particles with quaternary ammonium were ineffective. Immobilization of t-cinnamaldehyde onto a solid surface via amine linkers provided a better alternative to the well-known quaternary ammonium bactericides. PMID:29244848

HPLC of fluoroquinolone antibacterials using chiral stationary phase based on enantiomeric (3,3'-diphenyl-1,1'-binaphthyl)-20-crown-6.

PubMed

Choi, Hee Jung; Cho, Hwan Sun; Han, Sang Cheol; Hyun, Myung Ho

2009-02-01

A residual silanol group-protecting chiral stationary phase (CSP) based on optically active (3,3'-diphenyl-1,1'-binaphthyl)-20-crown-6 was successfully applied to the resolution of fluoroquinolone compounds including gemifloxacin mesylate. The chiral recognition ability of the residual silanol group-protecting CSP was generally greater than that of the residual silanol group-containing CSP. From these results, it was concluded that the simple protection of the residual silanol groups of the latter CSP with lipophilic n-octyl groups can improve its chiral recognition ability for the resolution of racemic fluoroquinolone compounds. The chromatographic resolution behaviors were investigated as a function of the content and type of organic and acidic modifiers and the ammonium acetate concentration in aqueous mobile phase and the column temperature. Especially, the addition of ammonium acetate to the mobile phase was found to be a quite effective means of reducing the enantiomer retentions without sacrificing the chiral recognition efficiency of the CSP.

Transport characteristics of mammalian Rh and Rh glycoproteins expressed in heterologous systems.

PubMed

Westhoff, C M; Wylie, D E

2006-01-01

The development and use of heterologous expression systems is critical for deciphering the function of mammalian Rh and Rh-glycoproteins. The studies here use Xenopus oocytes, well known for their ability to readily traffic and express difficult membrane proteins, and S. cerevisiae wild-type strains and mutants that are defective in ammonium transport. Data obtained in both of these expression systems revealed that mammalian Rh-glycoprotein-mediated transport (RhAG, RhBG, and RhCG) is an electroneutral process that is driven by the NH4+ concentration and the transmembrane H+ gradient, effectively exchanging NH4+ for H+ in a process that results in transport of net NH3. Homology modeling and functional studies suggest that the more recently evolved erythrocyte blood group proteins, RhCE and RhD, may not function directly in ammonia transport and may be evolving a new function in the RBC membrane. The relationship of Rh and Rh-glycoproteins to the Amt/Mep ammonium transporters is substantiated with functional transport data and structural modeling.

Precursor Mediated Synthesis of Nanostructured Silicas: From Precursor-Surfactant Ion Pairs to Structured Materials.

PubMed

Hesemann, Peter; Nguyen, Thy Phung; Hankari, Samir El

2014-04-11

The synthesis of nanostructured anionic-surfactant-templated mesoporous silica (AMS) recently appeared as a new strategy for the formation of nanostructured silica based materials. This method is based on the use of anionic surfactants together with a co-structure-directing agent (CSDA), mostly a silylated ammonium precursor. The presence of this CSDA is necessary in order to create ionic interactions between template and silica forming phases and to ensure sufficient affinity between the two phases. This synthetic strategy was for the first time applied in view of the synthesis of surface functionalized silica bearing ammonium groups and was then extended on the formation of materials functionalized with anionic carboxylate and bifunctional amine-carboxylate groups. In the field of silica hybrid materials, the "anionic templating" strategy has recently been applied for the synthesis of silica hybrid materials from cationic precursors. Starting from di- or oligosilylated imidazolium and ammonium precursors, only template directed hydrolysis-polycondensation reactions involving complementary anionic surfactants allowed accessing structured ionosilica hybrid materials. The mechanistic particularity of this approach resides in the formation of precursor-surfactant ion pairs in the hydrolysis-polycondensation mixture. This review gives a systematic overview over the various types of materials accessed from this cooperative ionic templating approach and highlights the high potential of this original strategy for the formation of nanostructured silica based materials which appears as a complementary strategy to conventional soft templating approaches.

Protic ammonium carboxylate ionic liquids: insight into structure, dynamics and thermophysical properties by alkyl group functionalization.

PubMed

Reddy, Th Dhileep N; Mallik, Bhabani S

2017-04-19

This study is aimed at characterising the structure, dynamics and thermophysical properties of five alkylammonium carboxylate ionic liquids (ILs) from classical molecular dynamics simulations. The structural features of these ILs were characterised by calculating the site-site radial distribution functions, g(r), spatial distribution functions and structure factors. The structural properties demonstrate that ILs show greater interaction between cations and anions when alkyl chain length increases on the cation or anion. In all ILs, spatial distribution functions show that the anion is close to the acidic hydrogen atoms of the ammonium cation. We determined the role of alkyl group functionalization of the charged entities, cations and anions, in the dynamical behavior and the transport coefficients of this family of ionic liquids. The dynamics of ILs are described by studying the mean square displacement (MSD) of the centres of mass of the ions, diffusion coefficients, ionic conductivities and hydrogen bonds as well as residence dynamics. The diffusion coefficients and ionic conductivity decrease with an increase in the size of the cation or anion. The effect of alkyl chain length on ionic conductivity calculated in this article is consistent with the findings of other experimental studies. Hydrogen bond lifetimes and residence times along with structure factors were also calculated, and are related to alkyl chain length.

Octa-ammonium POSS-conjugated single-walled carbon nanotubes as vehicles for targeted delivery of paclitaxel

PubMed Central

Naderi, Naghmeh; Madani, Seyed Y.; Mosahebi, Afshin; Seifalian, Alexander M.

2015-01-01

Background Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have unique physical and chemical properties. Furthermore, novel properties can be developed by attachment or encapsulation of functional groups. These unique properties facilitate the use of CNTs in drug delivery. We developed a new nanomedicine consisting of a nanocarrier, cell-targeting molecule, and chemotherapeutic drug and assessed its efficacy in vitro. Methods The efficacy of a single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs)-based nanoconjugate system is assessed in the targeted delivery of paclitaxel (PTX) to cancer cells. SWCNTs were oxidized and reacted with octa-ammonium polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (octa-ammonium POSS) to render them biocompatible and water dispersable. The functionalized SWCNTs were loaded with PTX, a chemotherapeutic agent toxic to cancer cells, and Tn218 antibodies for cancer cell targeting. The nanohybrid composites were characterized with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and ultraviolet–visible–near-infrared (UV–Vis–NIR). Additionally, their cytotoxic effects on Colon cancer cell (HT-29) and Breast cancer cell (MCF-7) lines were assessed in vitro. Results TEM, FTIR, and UV–Vis–NIR studies confirmed side-wall functionalization of SWCNT with COOH-groups, PTX, POSS, and antibodies. Increased cell death was observed with PTX–POSS–SWCNT, PTX–POSS–Ab–SWCNT, and free PTX compared to functionalized-SWCNT (f-SWCNT), POSS–SWCNT, and cell-only controls at 48 and 72 h time intervals in both cell lines. At all time intervals, there was no significant cell death in the POSS–SWCNT samples compared to cell-only controls. Conclusion The PTX-based nanocomposites were shown to be as cytotoxic as free PTX. This important finding indicates successful release of PTX from the nanocomposites and further reiterates the potential of SWCNTs to deliver drugs directly to targeted cells and tissues. PMID:26356347

49 CFR 172.800 - Purpose and applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Groups I and II; perchlorates; or ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate fertilizers, or ammonium nitrate emulsions, suspensions, or gels; (11) Any quantity of organic peroxide, Type B, liquid or solid, temperature...

Synthesis of Water-Soluble Amino Functionalized Multithiacalix[4]arene via Quaternization of Tertiary Amino Groups.

PubMed

Nosov, Roman; Padnya, Pavel; Shurpik, Dmitriy; Stoikov, Ivan

2018-05-08

A convenient approach to the synthesis of multithiacalix[4]arene derivatives containing amino groups and phthalimide fragments by the formation of quaternary ammonium salts is presented. As the initial macrocycle for the synthesis of multithiacalix[4]arenes, a differently substituted p-tert- butylthiacalix[4]arene containing bromoacetamide and three phthalimide fragments was used in a 1,3-alternate conformation. The macrocycle in cone conformation containing the tertiary amino groups was found to be a convenient core for the multithiacalix[4]arene systems. Interaction of the core multithiacalix[4]arene with monobromoacetamide derivatives of p-tert- butylthiacalix[4]arene resulted in formation in high yields of pentakisthiacalix[4]arene containing quaternary ammonium and phthalimide fragments. The removal of phthalimide groups led to the formation of amino multithiacalix[4]arene in a good yield. Based on dynamic light scattering, it was shown that the synthesized amino multithiacalix[4]arene, with pronounced hydrophobic and hydrophilic fragments, formed dendrimer-like nanoparticles in water via direct supramolecular self-assembly.

Hydroxide Degradation Pathways for Substituted Benzyltrimethyl Ammonium: A DFT Study

DOE PAGES

Long, Hai; Pivovar, Bryan S.

2014-11-01

The stability of cations used in the alkaline exchange membranes has been a major challenge. In this paper, degradation energy barriers were investigated by density functional theory for substituted benzyltrimethyl ammonium (BTMA+) cations. Findings show that electron-donating substituent groups at meta-position(s) of the benzyl ring could result in increased degradation barriers. However, after investigating more than thirty substituted BTMA+ cations, the largest improvement in degradation barrier found was only 6.7 kJ/mol. This suggests a modest (8×) improvement in stability for this type of approach may be possible, but for anything greater other approaches will need to be pursued.

Highly conductive side chain block copolymer anion exchange membranes.

PubMed

Wang, Lizhu; Hickner, Michael A

2016-06-28

Block copolymers based on poly(styrene) having pendent trimethyl styrenylbutyl ammonium (with four carbon ring-ionic group alkyl linkers) or benzyltrimethyl ammonium groups with a methylene bridge between the ring and ionic group were synthesized by reversible addition-fragmentation radical (RAFT) polymerization as anion exchange membranes (AEMs). The C4 side chain polymer showed a 17% increase in Cl(-) conductivity of 33.7 mS cm(-1) compared to the benzyltrimethyl ammonium sample (28.9 mS cm(-1)) under the same conditions (IEC = 3.20 meq. g(-1), hydration number, λ = ∼7.0, cast from DMF/1-propanol (v/v = 3 : 1), relative humidity = 95%). As confirmed by small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), the side chain block copolymers with tethered ammonium cations showed well-defined lamellar morphologies and a significant reduction in interdomain spacing compared to benzyltrimethyl ammonium containing block copolymers. The chemical stabilities of the block copolymers were evaluated under severe, accelerated conditions, and degradation was observed by (1)H NMR. The block copolymer with C4 side chain trimethyl styrenylbutyl ammonium motifs displayed slightly improved stability compared to that of a benzyltrimethyl ammonium-based AEM at 80 °C in 1 M NaOD aqueous solution for 30 days.

Noncovalent Complexation of Monoamine Neurotransmitters and Related Ammonium Ions by Tetramethoxy Tetraglucosylcalix[4]arene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Torvinen, Mika; Kalenius, Elina; Sansone, Francesco; Casnati, Alessandro; Jänis, Janne

2012-02-01

The noncovalent complexation of monoamine neurotransmitters and related ammonium and quaternary ammonium ions by a conformationally flexible tetramethoxy glucosylcalix[4]arene was studied by electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (ESI-FTICR) mass spectrometry. The glucosylcalixarene exhibited highest binding affinity towards serotonin, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and dopamine. Structural properties of the guests, such as the number, location, and type of hydrogen bonding groups, length of the alkyl spacer between the ammonium head-group and the aromatic ring structure, and the degree of nitrogen substitution affected the complexation. Competition experiments and guest-exchange reactions indicated that the hydroxyl groups of guests participate in intermolecular hydrogen bonding with the glucocalixarene.

PRN 88-2: Clustering of Quaternary Ammonium Compounds

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This Notice announces that EPA has clustered the Quaternary Ammonium Compounds into four groups for the purpose of testing chemicals to build a database that will support continued registration of the entire family of quaternary ammonium compounds

The Influence of the Anionic Counter-Ion on the Activity of Ammonium Substituted Hoveyda-Type Olefin Metathesis Catalysts in Aqueous Media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gułajski, Łukasz; Grela, Karol

Polar olefin metathesis catalysts, bearing an ammonium group are presented. The electron withdrawing ammonium group not only activates the catalysts electronically, but at the same time makes the catalysts more hydrophilic. Catalysts can be therefore efficiently used not only in traditional media, such as methylene chloride and toluene, but also in technical-grade alcohols, alcohol— water mixtures and in neat water. Finally, in this overview the influence of the anionic counter-ion on the activity of ammonium substituted Hoveyda-type olefin metathesis catalysts in aqueous media is presented.

Precursor Mediated Synthesis of Nanostructured Silicas: From Precursor-Surfactant Ion Pairs to Structured Materials

PubMed Central

Hesemann, Peter; Nguyen, Thy Phung; Hankari, Samir El

2014-01-01

The synthesis of nanostructured anionic-surfactant-templated mesoporous silica (AMS) recently appeared as a new strategy for the formation of nanostructured silica based materials. This method is based on the use of anionic surfactants together with a co-structure-directing agent (CSDA), mostly a silylated ammonium precursor. The presence of this CSDA is necessary in order to create ionic interactions between template and silica forming phases and to ensure sufficient affinity between the two phases. This synthetic strategy was for the first time applied in view of the synthesis of surface functionalized silica bearing ammonium groups and was then extended on the formation of materials functionalized with anionic carboxylate and bifunctional amine-carboxylate groups. In the field of silica hybrid materials, the “anionic templating” strategy has recently been applied for the synthesis of silica hybrid materials from cationic precursors. Starting from di- or oligosilylated imidazolium and ammonium precursors, only template directed hydrolysis-polycondensation reactions involving complementary anionic surfactants allowed accessing structured ionosilica hybrid materials. The mechanistic particularity of this approach resides in the formation of precursor-surfactant ion pairs in the hydrolysis-polycondensation mixture. This review gives a systematic overview over the various types of materials accessed from this cooperative ionic templating approach and highlights the high potential of this original strategy for the formation of nanostructured silica based materials which appears as a complementary strategy to conventional soft templating approaches. PMID:28788602

The presence of polymeric material in radiolysed aqueous solutions of ammonium bicarbonate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Draganic, Z. D.; Negron-Mendoza, A.; Navarro-Gonzalez, R.; Vujosevic, S. I.

A polymeric material is present in radiolysed aqueous solutions (O 2-free) of ammonium bicarbonate (0.05 mol dm -3) at large doses of cobalt-60 gamma rays (0.15-1.7 MGy). Polymer is a secondary radiolytic product: its measurable amounts appear after about 0.15 MGy and increase with dose to become about 0.1 g dm -3 at 1.7 MGy. Throughout the dose range studied, the HPLC gives for molecular weight 16,000-14,000 dalton, and the i.r. spectra show the presence of characteristic functional groups of CH 2, CH, CO -3, COO - and NH +4. Possible chemical nature of polymeric material and its origin are considered.

Analysis of the Hazardous Material Reutilization Facilities at SUBASE Bangor and NS San Diego

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-12-01

soprene * styrene methyl acrylate methyl methacrylate *turpentine? varnish 9 GROUP IV: OXIDES AND PEROXIDE -rORKING COMPOUNDS a) Gases b) Liquids...lead fluorine GROUP XV: POISON a GROUP XVI: OXIDIZERS .a) Solid a) Solid phosphorus red ammonium nitrate phosphorus white/, ammonium perchlorate yellow

Stille coupling via C-N bond cleavage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Dong-Yu; Kawahata, Masatoshi; Yang, Ze-Kun; Miyamoto, Kazunori; Komagawa, Shinsuke; Yamaguchi, Kentaro; Wang, Chao; Uchiyama, Masanobu

2016-09-01

Cross-coupling is a fundamental reaction in the synthesis of functional molecules, and has been widely applied, for example, to phenols, anilines, alcohols, amines and their derivatives. Here we report the Ni-catalysed Stille cross-coupling reaction of quaternary ammonium salts via C-N bond cleavage. Aryl/alkyl-trimethylammonium salts [Ar/R-NMe3]+ react smoothly with arylstannanes in 1:1 molar ratio in the presence of a catalytic amount of commercially available Ni(cod)2 and imidazole ligand together with 3.0 equivalents of CsF, affording the corresponding biaryl with broad functional group compatibility. The reaction pathway, including C-N bond cleavage step, is proposed based on the experimental and computational findings, as well as isolation and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis of Ni-containing intermediates. This reaction should be widely applicable for transformation of amines/quaternary ammonium salts into multi-aromatics.

Crystallization of Chicken Egg White Lysozyme from Assorted Sulfate Salts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Forsythe, Elizabeth L.; Snell, Edward H.; Malone, Christine C.; Pusey, Marc L.

1998-01-01

Chicken egg white lysozyme has been found to crystallize from ammonium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, magnesium, and manganese sulfates at acidic and basic pH, with protein concentrations from 60 to 190 mg/ml. Four different crystal morphologies have been obtained, depending upon the temperature, protein concentration, and precipitating salt employed, Crystals grown at 15 C were generally tetragonal, with space group P43212. Crystallization at 20 C typically resulted in the formation of orthorhombic crystals, space group P21212 1. The tetragonal much less than orthorhombic morphology transition appeared to be a function of both the temperature and protein concentration, occurring between 15 and 20 C and between 100 and 125 mg/ml protein concentration. Crystallization from 0.8 -1.2M magnesium sulfate at pH 7.6 - 8.0 gave a hexagonal (trigonal) crystal form, space group P3121, which diffracted to 2.8 A. Ammonium sulfate was also found to result in a monoclinic form, space group C2. Small twinned monoclinic crystals of approx. 0.2 mm on edge were grown by dialysis followed by seeded sitting drop crystallization.

Consequences of ions and pH on the supramolecular organization of sphingomyelin and sphingomyelin/cholesterol bilayers.

PubMed

Chemin, Caroline; Bourgaux, Claudie; Péan, Jean-Manuel; Pabst, Georg; Wüthrich, Patrick; Couvreur, Patrick; Ollivon, Michel

2008-06-01

For drug delivery purpose the anticancer drug S12363 was loaded into ESM/Chol-liposomes using either a pH or an ammonium gradient. Association between the drug and the liposome depends markedly on the liposome membrane structure. Thus, ESM and ESM/Chol bilayer organization had been characterized by coupled DSC and XRDT as a function of both cholesterol concentration and aqueous medium composition. ESM bilayers exhibited a ripple lamellar gel phase P(beta') below the melting temperature and adopted a L(beta)-like gel phase upon Chol insertion. Supramolecular organization of ESM and ESM/Chol bilayers was not modified by citrate buffer or ammonium sulfate solution whatever the pH (3< or = pH < or =7). Nevertheless, in ESM bilayer, ammonium sulfate salt induced a peculiar organization of head groups, leading to irregular d-spacing and weakly correlated bilayers. Moreover, in the presence of salts, a weakening of van der Waals attraction forces was seen and led to a swelling of the water layer.

Infrared spectroscopy of protonated trimethylamine-(benzene)(n) (n = 1-4) as model clusters of the quaternary ammonium-aromatic ring interaction.

PubMed

Shishido, Ryunosuke; Kawai, Yuki; Fujii, Asuka

2014-09-04

The essence of the molecular recognition of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine has been attributed to the attractive interaction between a quaternary ammonium and aromatic rings. We employed protonated trimethylamine-(benzene)n clusters (n = 1-4) in the gas phase as a model to study the recognition mechanism of acetylcholine at the microscopic level. We applied size-selective infrared spectroscopy to the clusters and observed the NH and CH stretching vibrational regions. We also performed density functional theory calculations of stable structures, charge distributions, and infrared spectra of the clusters. It was shown that the methyl groups of protonated trimethylamine are solvated by benzene one at a time in the n > 1 clusters, and the validity of these clusters as a model system of the acetylcholine recognition was demonstrated. The nature of the interactions between a quaternary ammonium and aromatic rings is discussed on the basis of the observed infrared spectra and the theoretical calculations.

Resin catalysts and method of preparation

DOEpatents

Smith, Jr., Lawrence A.

1986-01-01

Heat stabilized catalyst compositions are prepared from nuclear sulfonic acid, for example, macroporous crosslinked polyvinyl aromatic compounds containing sulfonic acid groups are neutralized with a metal of Al, Fe, Zn, Cu, Ni, ions or mixtures and alkali, alkaline earth metals or ammonium ions by contacting the resin containing the sulfonic acid with aqueous solutions of the metals salts and alkali, alkaline earth metal or ammonium salts. The catalysts have at least 50% of the sulfonic acid groups neutralized with metal ions and the balance of the sulfonic acid groups neutralized with alkali, alkaline earth ions or ammonium ions.

Resin catalysts and method of preparation

DOEpatents

Smith, L.A. Jr.

1986-12-16

Heat stabilized catalyst compositions are prepared from nuclear sulfonic acid, for example, macroporous crosslinked polyvinyl aromatic compounds containing sulfonic acid groups are neutralized with a metal of Al, Fe, Zn, Cu, Ni, ions or mixtures and alkali, alkaline earth metals or ammonium ions by contacting the resin containing the sulfonic acid with aqueous solutions of the metals salts and alkali, alkaline earth metal or ammonium salts. The catalysts have at least 50% of the sulfonic acid groups neutralized with metal ions and the balance of the sulfonic acid groups neutralized with alkali, alkaline earth ions or ammonium ions.

SNPs Altering Ammonium Transport Activity of Human Rhesus Factors Characterized by a Yeast-Based Functional Assay

PubMed Central

Deschuyteneer, Aude; Boeckstaens, Mélanie; De Mees, Christelle; Van Vooren, Pascale; Wintjens, René; Marini, Anna Maria

2013-01-01

Proteins of the conserved Mep-Amt-Rh family, including mammalian Rhesus factors, mediate transmembrane ammonium transport. Ammonium is an important nitrogen source for the biosynthesis of amino acids but is also a metabolic waste product. Its disposal in urine plays a critical role in the regulation of the acid/base homeostasis, especially with an acid diet, a trait of Western countries. Ammonium accumulation above a certain concentration is however pathologic, the cytotoxicity causing fatal cerebral paralysis in acute cases. Alteration in ammonium transport via human Rh proteins could have clinical outcomes. We used a yeast-based expression assay to characterize human Rh variants resulting from non synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) with known or unknown clinical phenotypes and assessed their ammonium transport efficiency, protein level, localization and potential trans-dominant impact. The HsRhAG variants (I61R, F65S) associated to overhydrated hereditary stomatocytosis (OHSt), a disease affecting erythrocytes, proved affected in intrinsic bidirectional ammonium transport. Moreover, this study reveals that the R202C variant of HsRhCG, the orthologue of mouse MmRhcg required for optimal urinary ammonium excretion and blood pH control, shows an impaired inherent ammonium transport activity. Urinary ammonium excretion was RHcg gene-dose dependent in mouse, highlighting MmRhcg as a limiting factor. HsRhCGR202C may confer susceptibility to disorders leading to metabolic acidosis for instance. Finally, the analogous R211C mutation in the yeast ScMep2 homologue also impaired intrinsic activity consistent with a conserved functional role of the preserved arginine residue. The yeast expression assay used here constitutes an inexpensive, fast and easy tool to screen nsSNPs reported by high throughput sequencing or individual cases for functional alterations in Rh factors revealing potential causal variants. PMID:23967154

Structure and Dynamics of Hydroxyl-Functionalized Protic Ammonium Carboxylate Ionic Liquids.

PubMed

Thummuru, Dhileep Nagi Reddy; Mallik, Bhabani S

2017-10-26

We performed classical molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the structure and dynamics of protic ionic liquids, 2-hydroxy ethylammonium acetate, ethylammonium hydroxyacetate, and 2-hydroxyethylammonium hydroxyacetate at ambient conditions. Structural properties such as density, radial distribution functions, spatial distribution functions, and structure factors have been calculated. Dynamic properties such as mean square displacements, as well as residence and hydrogen bond dynamics have also been calculated. Hydrogen bond lifetimes and residence times change with the addition of hydroxyl groups. We observe that when a hydroxyl group is present on the cation, dynamics become very slow and it forms a strong hydrogen bond with carboxylate oxygen atoms of the anion. The hydroxyl functionalized ILs show more dynamic diversity than structurally similar ILs.

Synthesis and anticoagulant activity of the quaternary ammonium chitosan sulfates.

PubMed

Fan, Lihong; Wu, Penghui; Zhang, Jinrong; Gao, Song; Wang, Libo; Li, Mingjia; Sha, Mingming; Xie, Weiguo; Nie, Min

2012-01-01

Quaternary ammonium chitosan sulfates with diverse degrees of substitution (DS) ascribed to sulfate groups between 0.52 and 1.55 were synthesized by reacting quaternary ammonium chitosan with an uncommon sulfating agent (N(SO(3)Na)(3)) that was prepared from sodium bisulfite (NaHSO(3)) through reaction with sodium nitrite (NaNO(2)) in the aqueous system homogeneous. The structures of the derivatives were characterized by FTIR, (1)H NMR and (13)C NMR. The factors affecting DS of quaternary ammonium chitosan sulfates which included the molar ratio of NaNO(2) to quaternary ammonium chitosan, sulfated temperature, sulfated time and pH of sulfated reaction solution were investigated in detail. Its anticoagulation activity in vitro was determined by an activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) assay, a thrombin time (TT) assay and a prothrombin time (PT) assay. Results of anticoagulation assays showed quaternary ammonium chitosan sulfates significantly prolonged APTT and TT, but not PT, and demonstrated that the introduction of sulfate groups into the quaternary ammonium chitosan structure improved its anticoagulant activity obviously. The study showed its anticoagulant properties strongly depended on its DS, concentration and molecular weight. Crown Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Isolation and functional characterization of an ammonium transporter gene, PyAMT1, related to nitrogen assimilation in the marine macroalga Pyropia yezoensis (Rhodophyta).

PubMed

Kakinuma, Makoto; Nakamoto, Chika; Kishi, Kazuki; Coury, Daniel A; Amano, Hideomi

2017-07-01

Ammonium and nitrate are the primary nitrogen sources in natural environments, and are essential for growth and development in photosynthetic eukaryotes. In this study, we report on the isolation and characterization of an ammonium transporter gene (PyAMT1) which performs a key function in nitrogen (N) metabolism of Pyropia yezoensis thalli. The predicted length of PyAMT1 was 483 amino acids (AAs). The AA sequence included 11 putative transmembrane domains and showed approximately 33-44% identity to algal and plant AMT1 AA sequences. Functional complementation in an AMT-defective yeast mutant indicated that PyAMT1 mediated ammonium transport across the plasma membrane. Expression analysis showed that the PyAMT1 mRNA level was strongly induced by N-deficiency, and was more highly suppressed by resupply of inorganic-N than organic-N. These results suggest that PyAMT1 plays important roles in the ammonium transport system, and is highly regulated in response to external/internal N-status. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Deetherification process

DOEpatents

Smith, Jr., Lawrence A.

1985-01-01

Ethers such as isobutyl tertiary butyl ether are dissociated into their component alcohols and isolefins by heat stabilized catalyst compositions prepared from nuclear sulfonic acid, for example, macroporous crosslinked polyvinyl aromatic compounds containing sulfonic acid groups are neutralized with a metal of Al, Fe, Zn, Cu, Ni, ions or mixtures and alkali, alkaline earth metals or ammonium ions by contacting the resin containing the sulfonic acid with aqueous solutions of the metals salts and alkali, alkaline earth metal or ammonium salts. The catalysts have at least 50% of the sulfonic acid groups neutralized with metal ions and the balance of the sulfonic acid groups neutralized with alkali, alkaline earth ions or ammonium ions.

Deetherification process

DOEpatents

Smith, L.A. Jr.

1985-11-05

Ethers such as isobutyl tertiary butyl ether are dissociated into their component alcohols and isoolefins by heat stabilized catalyst compositions prepared from nuclear sulfonic acid, for example, macroporous crosslinked polyvinyl aromatic compounds containing sulfonic acid groups are neutralized with a metal of Al, Fe, Zn, Cu, Ni, ions or mixtures and alkali, alkaline earth metals or ammonium ions by contacting the resin containing the sulfonic acid with aqueous solutions of the metals salts and alkali, alkaline earth metal or ammonium salts. The catalysts have at least 50% of the sulfonic acid groups neutralized with metal ions and the balance of the sulfonic acid groups neutralized with alkali, alkaline earth ions or ammonium ions.

Ion distribution in quaternary-ammonium-functionalized aromatic polymers: effects on the ionic clustering and conductivity of anion-exchange membranes.

PubMed

Weiber, E Annika; Jannasch, Patric

2014-09-01

A series of copoly(arylene ether sulfone)s that have precisely two, three, or four quaternary ammonium (QA) groups clustered directly on single phenylene rings along the backbone are studied as anion-exchange membranes. The copolymers are synthesized by condensation polymerizations that involve either di-, tri-, or tetramethylhydroquinone followed by virtually complete benzylic bromination using N-bromosuccinimide and quaternization with trimethylamine. This synthetic strategy allows excellent control and systematic variation of the local density and distribution of QA groups along the backbone. Small-angle X-ray scattering of these copolymers shows extensive ionic clustering, promoted by an increasing density of QA on the single phenylene rings. At an ion-exchange capacity (IEC) of 2.1 meq g(-1), the water uptake decreases with the increasing local density of QA groups. Moreover, at moderate IECs at 20 °C, the Br(-) conductivity of the densely functionalized copolymers is higher than a corresponding randomly functionalized polymer, despite the significantly higher water uptake of the latter. Thus, the location of multiple cations on single aromatic rings in the polymers facilitates the formation of a distinct percolating hydrophilic phase domain with a high ionic concentration to promote efficient anion transport, despite probable limitations by reduced ion dissociation. These findings imply a viable strategy to improve the performance of alkaline membrane fuel cells. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Synthesis of seaweed based carbon acid catalyst by thermal decomposition of ammonium sulfate for biodiesel production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ee, Tang Zo; Lim, Steven; Ling, Pang Yean; Huei, Wong Kam; Chyuan, Ong Hwai

2017-04-01

Experiment was carried out to study the feasibility of biomass derived solid acid catalyst for the production of biodiesel using Palm Fatty Acid Distillate (PFAD). Malaysia indigenous seaweed was selected as the biomass to be carbonized as the catalyst support. Sulfonation of seaweed based carbon material was carried out by thermal decomposition of ammonium sulfate, (NH4)2SO4. The effects of carbonization temperature at 200 to 600°C on the catalyst physical and chemical properties were studied. The effect of reaction parameters on the fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) yield was studied by varying the concentration of ammonium sulfate (5.0 to 40.0 w/v%) and thermal decomposition time (15 to 90 min). Characterizations of catalyst were carried out to study the catalyst surface morphology with Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), acid density with back titration and functional group attached with FT-IR. Results showed that when the catalyst sulfonated with 10.0 w/v% ammonium sulfate solution and heated to 235°C for 30 min, the highest FAME yield achieved was 23.7% at the reaction condition of 5.0 wt.% catalyst loading, esterification time of 4 h, methanol to PFAD molar ratio of 20:1 at 100°C reaction temperature.

75 FR 34573 - Bulk Solid Hazardous Materials: Harmonization With the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-17

... example, ammonium nitrate fertilizer and ferrosilicon. The term PDM is functionally equivalent to term... the same as for ammonium nitrate fertilizer, UN 2067. c. Four comments opposed the classification of... limitations for ammonium nitrate fertilizer should be ensured by monitoring and controlling temperature at the...

Structure, hydrogen bonding and thermal expansion of ammonium carbonate monohydrate.

PubMed

Fortes, A Dominic; Wood, Ian G; Alfè, Dario; Hernández, Eduardo R; Gutmann, Matthias J; Sparkes, Hazel A

2014-12-01

We have determined the crystal structure of ammonium carbonate monohydrate, (NH4)2CO3·H2O, using Laue single-crystal diffraction methods with pulsed neutron radiation. The crystal is orthorhombic, space group Pnma (Z = 4), with unit-cell dimensions a = 12.047 (3), b = 4.453 (1), c = 11.023 (3) Å and V = 591.3 (3) Å(3) [ρcalc = 1281.8 (7) kg m(-3)] at 10 K. The single-crystal data collected at 10 and 100 K are complemented by X-ray powder diffraction data measured from 245 to 273 K, Raman spectra measured from 80 to 263 K and an athermal zero-pressure calculation of the electronic structure and phonon spectrum carried out using density functional theory (DFT). We find no evidence of a phase transition between 10 and 273 K; above 273 K, however, the title compound transforms first to ammonium sesquicarbonate monohydrate and subsequently to ammonium bicarbonate. The crystallographic and spectroscopic data and the calculations reveal a quite strongly hydrogen-bonded structure (EHB ≃ 30-40 kJ mol(-1)), on the basis of H...O bond lengths and the topology of the electron density at the bond critical points, in which there is no free rotation of the ammonium cation at any temperature. The barrier to free rotation of the ammonium ions is estimated from the observed librational frequency to be ∼ 36 kJ mol(-1). The c-axis exhibits negative thermal expansion, but the thermal expansion behaviour of the a and b axes is ormal.

Structure, hydrogen bonding and thermal expansion of ammonium carbonate monohydrate

PubMed Central

Fortes, A. Dominic; Wood, Ian G.; Alfè, Dario; Hernández, Eduardo R.; Gutmann, Matthias J.; Sparkes, Hazel A.

2014-01-01

We have determined the crystal structure of ammonium carbonate monohydrate, (NH4)2CO3·H2O, using Laue single-crystal diffraction methods with pulsed neutron radiation. The crystal is orthorhombic, space group Pnma (Z = 4), with unit-cell dimensions a = 12.047 (3), b = 4.453 (1), c = 11.023 (3) Å and V = 591.3 (3) Å3 [ρcalc = 1281.8 (7) kg m−3] at 10 K. The single-crystal data collected at 10 and 100 K are complemented by X-ray powder diffraction data measured from 245 to 273 K, Raman spectra measured from 80 to 263 K and an athermal zero-pressure calculation of the electronic structure and phonon spectrum carried out using density functional theory (DFT). We find no evidence of a phase transition between 10 and 273 K; above 273 K, however, the title compound transforms first to ammonium sesquicarbonate monohydrate and subsequently to ammonium bicarbonate. The crystallographic and spectroscopic data and the calculations reveal a quite strongly hydrogen-bonded structure (E HB ≃ 30–40 kJ mol−1), on the basis of H⋯O bond lengths and the topology of the electron density at the bond critical points, in which there is no free rotation of the ammonium cation at any temperature. The barrier to free rotation of the ammonium ions is estimated from the observed librational frequency to be ∼ 36 kJ mol−1. The c-axis exhibits negative thermal expansion, but the thermal expansion behaviour of the a and b axes is ormal. PMID:25449618

Transcriptional Analysis of an Ammonium-Excreting Strain of Azotobacter vinelandii Deregulated for Nitrogen Fixation

PubMed Central

Plunkett, Mary H.; Natarajan, Velmurugan; Mus, Florence; Knutson, Carolann M.; Peters, John W.

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Biological nitrogen fixation is accomplished by a diverse group of organisms known as diazotrophs and requires the function of the complex metalloenzyme nitrogenase. Nitrogenase and many of the accessory proteins required for proper cofactor biosynthesis and incorporation into the enzyme have been characterized, but a complete picture of the reaction mechanism and key cellular changes that accompany biological nitrogen fixation remain to be fully elucidated. Studies have revealed that specific disruptions of the antiactivator-encoding gene nifL result in the deregulation of the nif transcriptional activator NifA in the nitrogen-fixing bacterium Azotobacter vinelandii, triggering the production of extracellular ammonium levels approaching 30 mM during the stationary phase of growth. In this work, we have characterized the global patterns of gene expression of this high-ammonium-releasing phenotype. The findings reported here indicated that cultures of this high-ammonium-accumulating strain may experience metal limitation when grown using standard Burk's medium, which could be amended by increasing the molybdenum levels to further increase the ammonium yield. In addition, elevated levels of nitrogenase gene transcription are not accompanied by a corresponding dramatic increase in hydrogenase gene transcription levels or hydrogen uptake rates. Of the three potential electron donor systems for nitrogenase, only the rnf1 gene cluster showed a transcriptional correlation to the increased yield of ammonium. Our results also highlight several additional genes that may play a role in supporting elevated ammonium production in this aerobic nitrogen-fixing model bacterium. IMPORTANCE The transcriptional differences found during stationary-phase ammonium accumulation show a strong contrast between the deregulated (nifL-disrupted) and wild-type strains and what was previously reported for the wild-type strain under exponential-phase growth conditions. These results demonstrate that further improvement of the ammonium yield in this nitrogenase-deregulated strain can be obtained by increasing the amount of available molybdenum in the medium. These results also indicate a potential preference for one of two ATP synthases present in A. vinelandii as well as a prominent role for the membrane-bound hydrogenase over the soluble hydrogenase in hydrogen gas recycling. These results should inform future studies aimed at elucidating the important features of this phenotype and at maximizing ammonium production by this strain. PMID:28802272

Studies on the growth, structural, spectral and third-order nonlinear optical properties of ammonium 3-carboxy-4-hydroxy benzenesulfonate monohydrate single crystal.

PubMed

Silambarasan, A; Krishna Kumar, M; Thirunavukkarasu, A; Mohan Kumar, R; Umarani, P R

2015-01-25

An organic nonlinear optical bulk single crystal, Ammonium 3-carboxy-4-hydroxy benzenesulfonate monohydrate (ACHBS) was successfully grown by solution growth technique. Single crystal X-ray diffraction study confirms that, the grown crystal belongs to P21/c space group. Powder X-ray diffraction and high resolution X-ray diffraction analyses revealed the crystallinity of the grown crystal. Infrared spectral analysis showed the vibrational behavior of chemical bonds and its functional groups. The thermal stability and decomposition stages of the grown crystal were studied by TG-DTA analysis. UV-Visible transmittance studies showed the transparency region and cut-off wavelength of the grown crystal. The third-order nonlinear optical susceptibility of the grown crystal was estimated by Z-scan technique using He-Ne laser source. The mechanical property of the grown crystal was studied by using Vicker's microhardness test. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Similar microbial communities found on two distant seafloor basalts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singer, E.; Chong, L. S.; Heidelberg, J. F.; Edwards, K. J.

2016-12-01

The oceanic crust forms two thirds of the Earth's surface and hosts a large phylogenetic and functional diversity of microorganisms. While advances have been made in the sedimentary realm, our understanding of the igneous rock portion as a microbial habitat has remained limited. We present a comparative metagenomic microbial community analysis from ocean floor basalt environments at the Lō'ihi Seamount, Hawai'i, and the East Pacific Rise (EPR) (9°N). Phylogenetic analysis indicates the presence of a total of 43 bacterial and archaeal mono-phyletic groups, dominated by Alpha- and Gammaproteobacteria, as well as Thaumarchaeota. Functional gene analysis suggests that these Thaumarchaeota play an important role in ammonium oxidation on seafloor basalts. In addition to ammonium oxidation, the seafloor basalt habitat reveals a wide spectrum of other metabolic potentials, including CO2 fixation, denitrification, dissimilatory sulfate reduction, and sulfur oxidation. Basalt communities from Lō'ihi and the EPR show considerable metabolic and phylogenetic overlap down to the genus level despite geographic distance and slightly different seafloor basalt mineralogy.

Advances in methods for detection of anaerobic ammonium oxidizing (anammox) bacteria.

PubMed

Li, Meng; Gu, Ji-Dong

2011-05-01

Anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox), the biochemical process oxidizing ammonium into dinitrogen gas using nitrite as an electron acceptor, has only been recognized for its significant role in the global nitrogen cycle not long ago, and its ubiquitous distribution in a wide range of environments has changed our knowledge about the contributors to the global nitrogen cycle. Currently, several groups of methods are used in detection of anammox bacteria based on their physiological and biochemical characteristics, cellular chemical composition, and both 16S rRNA gene and selective functional genes as biomarkers, including hydrazine oxidoreductase and nitrite reductase encoding genes hzo and nirS, respectively. Results from these methods coupling with advances in quantitative PCR, reverse transcription of mRNA genes and stable isotope labeling have improved our understanding on the distribution, diversity, and activity of anammox bacteria in different environments both natural and engineered ones. In this review, we summarize these methods used in detection of anammox bacteria from various environments, highlight the strengths and weakness of these methods, and also discuss the new development potentials on the existing and new techniques in the future.

Activation mechanism of ammonium ions on sulfidation of malachite (-201) surface by DFT study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Dandan; Mao, Yingbo; Deng, Jiushuai; Wen, Shuming

2017-07-01

The activation mechanism of ammonium ions on the sulfidation of malachite (-201) was determined by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Results of DFT calculations indicated that interlayer sulfidation occurs during the sulfidation process of malachite (-201). The absorption of both the ammonium ion and sulfide ion on the malachite (-201) surface is stronger than that of sulfur ion. After sulfidation was activated with ammonium ion, the Cu 3d orbital peak is closer to the Fermi level and characterized by a stronger peak value. Therefore, the addition of ammonium ions activated the sulfidation of malachite (-201), thereby improving the flotation performance.

PCDD/Fs' suppression by sulfur-amine/ammonium compounds.

PubMed

Fu, Jian-Ying; Li, Xiao-Dong; Chen, Tong; Lin, Xiao-Qing; Buekens, Alfons; Lu, Sheng-Yong; Yan, Jian-Hua; Cen, Ke-Fa

2015-03-01

Three distinct -S and -NH2 or NH4(+) containing compounds, including ammonium thiosulfate, aminosulfonic acid and thiourea, were studied as polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) inhibitors. All these three -S and -N containing compounds tested show strong suppression of PCDD/Fs formation, especially for thiourea which has not been studied before. With a (S+N)/Cl molar ratio of only 0.47, thiourea could inhibit 97.3% of PCDD/Fs and even 99.8% of I-TEQ. At an unusually high de novo test temperature (650 °C), the PCDD/Fs' formation was still very low but also the inhibition capacity of thiourea was weak, with an efficiency of 59% for PCDD/Fs when with a (S+N)/Cl molar ratio of 1.40. The results also revealed that the inhibition capability of the combined -S/-NH2 or -S/NH4(+) suppressant was strongly influenced by both the nature of the functional group of nitrogen and the value of the molar ratio (S+N)/Cl. The amine functional group -NH2 tends to be more efficient than ammonium NH4(+) and within a certain range a higher (S+N)/Cl value leads to a higher inhibition efficiency. Moreover, the emission of gases was continuously monitored: the Gasmet results revealed that SO2, HCN and NH3 were the most important decomposition products of thiourea. Thiourea is non-toxic, environment-friendly and can be sprayed into the post-combustion zone in form of powder or aqueous solution. The cost of thiourea at least can be partially compensated by its high inhibition efficiency. Therefore, the application of thiourea in a full-scale incinerator system is promising and encouraging. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The toxicity of ammonia/ammonium to the vermifiltration wastewater treatment process.

PubMed

Hughes, R J; Nair, J; Ho, G

2008-01-01

This study was undertaken to assess the toxicity of ammonia/ammonium to key species within the vermifiltration process. The key species, the earthworm Eisenia fetida, was subjected to a series of tests in solid phase mesocosms and full-scale units. The solid phase tests showed a relatively low toxicity to ammonium with ammonium chloride having an LC50 for ammonium of 1.49 g/kg. Ammonium sulfate did not show an effect on mortality at 2 g/kg ammonium. The full-scale units showed that ammonia hydroxide can change the pH and concentration of ammonia in wastewater and while it caused some mortality to the worms its overall affect on system functioning was minimal with no significant difference in terms of worm survival found between treatments. The affect on nitrifying bacteria was also minimal with no linear trend shown with ammonia concentration. IWA Publishing 2008.

Self-assembly and photopolymerization of a novel quaternary-ammonium functionalized diacetylene on noble metal nanoparticles: A comparative study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martinez-Espinoza, Maria Isabel; Maccagno, Massimo; Thea, Sergio; Alloisio, Marina

2018-01-01

Stable hydrosols of gold and silver nanoparticles coated with the quaternary-ammonium group endowed diacetylene DAAMM (N,N,N-trimethyl-3-(pentacosa-10,12-diynamido)propan-1-ammonium) were obtained through a ligand-exchange reaction leaving the morphology of the pristine cores unmodified. Photopolymerization of the chemisorbed diacetylene shell occurred in both red and blue phases thanks to the presence of internal, H-bondable amide functions in the monomer chain, which are supposed to help the formation of a packed bilayer on the metal surfaces. Multidisciplinary characterization of the polymerized samples, including spectroscopic, morphological and thermal techniques, highlighted that differences occur in the polymerization process on gold and silver nanoparticles under different experimental conditions, suggesting a higher affinity of the trimethylammonium headgroup for gold substrates in acidic media. With respect to the extensively investigated PCDA (pentacosa-10,12-diynoic acid), DAAMM showed reduced capability of photogenerating thick polymer shells, especially in the more delocalized blue form, probably because of the inefficiency of the cationic monomer to form the multi-bilayered architecture typical of the highly-performing, carboxyl-terminated diacetylene. On the other end, the inner cross-linked structure gives to poly(DAAMM)-coated nanohybrids increased stability in water with respect to self-assembled counterparts deriving from saturated cationic surfactants, making them a promising sensing platform for rapid and cost effective assays of real samples.

Identification and Characterization of a PutAMT1;1 Gene from Puccinellia tenuiflora

PubMed Central

Bu, Yuanyuan; Sun, Bo; Zhou, Aimin; Zhang, Xinxin; Lee, Imshik; Liu, Shenkui

2013-01-01

Nitrogen is one of the most important limiting factors for plant growth. However, as ammonium is readily converted into ammonia (NH3) when soil pH rises above 8.0, this activity depletes the availability of ammonium (NH4 +) in alkaline soils, consequently preventing the growth of most plant species. The perennial wild grass Puccinellia tenuiflora is one of a few plants able to grow in soils with extremely high salt and alkaline pH (>9.0) levels. Here, we assessed how this species responds to ammonium under such conditions by isolating and analyzing the functions of a putative ammonium transporter (PutAMT1;1). PutAMT1;1 is the first member of the AMT1 (ammonium transporter) family that has been identified in P. tenuiflora. This gene (1) functionally complemented a yeast mutant deficient in ammonium uptake (2), is preferentially expressed in the anther of P. tenuiflora, and (3) is significantly upregulated by ammonium ions in both the shoot and roots. The PutAMT1;1 protein is localized in the plasma membrane and around the nuclear periphery in yeast cells and P. tenuiflora suspension cells. Immunoelectron microscopy analysis also indicated that PutAMT1;1 is localized in the endomembrane. The overexpression of PutAMT1;1 in A. thaliana enhanced plant growth, and increased plant susceptibility to toxic methylammonium (MeA). Here, we confirmed that PutAMT1;1 is an ammonium-inducible ammonium transporter in P. tenuiflora. On the basis of the results of PutAMT1;1 overexpression in A. thaliana, this gene might be useful for improving the root to shoot mobilization of MeA (or NH4 +). PMID:24340088

Cytosolic Glutamine Synthetase Gln1;2 Is the Main Isozyme Contributing to GS1 Activity and Can Be Up-Regulated to Relieve Ammonium Toxicity1[OPEN

PubMed Central

Pedersen, Carsten

2016-01-01

Cytosolic GS1 (Gln synthetase) is central for ammonium assimilation in plants. High ammonium treatment enhanced the expression of the GS1 isogene Gln-1;2 encoding a low-affinity high-capacity GS1 protein in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) shoots. Under the same conditions, the expression of the high-affinity low-capacity isoform Gln-1;1 was reduced. The expression of Gln-1;3 did not respond to ammonium treatment while Gln-1;4 and Gln-1;5 isogenes in all cases were expressed at a very low level. Gln-2 was highly expressed in shoots but only at a very low level in roots. To investigate the specific functions of the two isogenes Gln-1;1 and Gln-1;2 in shoots for ammonium detoxification, single and double knock-out mutants were grown under standard N supply or with high ammonium provision. Phenotypes of the single mutant gln1;1 were similar to the wild type, while growth of the gln1;2 single mutant and the gln1;1:gln1;2 double mutant was significantly impaired irrespective of N regime. GS1 activity was significantly reduced in both gln1;2 and gln1;1:gln1;2. Along with this, the ammonium content increased while that of Gln decreased, showing that Gln-1;2 was essential for ammonium assimilation and amino acid synthesis. We conclude that Gln-1;2 is the main isozyme contributing to shoot GS1 activity in vegetative growth stages and can be up-regulated to relieve ammonium toxicity. This reveals, to our knowledge, a novel shoot function of Gln-1;2 in Arabidopsis shoots. PMID:27231101

Ammonium Inhibits Primary Root Growth by Reducing the Length of Meristem and Elongation Zone and Decreasing Elemental Expansion Rate in the Root Apex in Arabidopsis thaliana

PubMed Central

Gao, Kun; Chen, Fanjun; Yuan, Lixing; Mi, Guohua

2013-01-01

The inhibitory effect of ammonium on primary root growth has been well documented; however the underlying physiological and molecular mechanisms are still controversial. To avoid ammonium toxicity to shoot growth, we used a vertical two-layer split plate system, in which the upper layer contained nitrate and the lower layer contained ammonium. In this way, nitrogen status was maintained and only the apical part of the root system was exposed to ammonium. Using a kinematic approach, we show here that 1 mM ammonium reduces primary root growth, decreasing both elemental expansion and cell production. Ammonium inhibits the length of elongation zone and the maximum elemental expansion rate. Ammonium also decreases the apparent length of the meristem as well as the number of dividing cells without affecting cell division rate. Moreover, ammonium reduces the number of root cap cells but appears to affect neither the status of root stem cell niche nor the distal auxin maximum at the quiescent center. Ammonium also inhibits root gravitropism and concomitantly down-regulates the expression of two pivotal auxin transporters, AUX1 and PIN2. Insofar as ammonium inhibits root growth rate in AUX1 and PIN2 loss-of-function mutants almost as strongly as in wild type, we conclude that ammonium inhibits root growth and gravitropism by largely distinct pathways. PMID:23577185

Distinguishing Two Ammonium and Triazolium Sites of Interaction in a Three-Station [2]Rotaxane Molecular Shuttle.

PubMed

Waelès, Philip; Fournel-Marotte, Karine; Coutrot, Frédéric

2017-08-25

This paper reports on the synthesis of a tri-stable [2]rotaxane molecular shuttle, in which the motion of the macrocycle is triggered by either selective protonation/deprotonation or specific carbamoylation/decarbamoylation of an alkylbenzylamine. The threaded axle is surrounded by a dibenzo[24]crown[8] (DB24C8) macrocycle and contains three sites of different binding affinities towards the macrocycle. An N-methyltriazolium moiety acts as a molecular station that has weak affinity for the DB24C8 macrocycle and is located in the centre of the molecular axle. Two other molecular stations, arylammonium and alkylbenzylammonium moieties, sit on either side of the triazolium moiety along the molecular axle and have stronger affinities for the DB24C8 macrocycle. These two ammonium moieties are covalently linked to two different stopper groups at each extremity of the thread: a tert-butylphenyl group and a substituted DB24C8 unit. Owing to steric hindrance, the former does not allow any π-π stacking interactions with the encircling DB24C8 macrocycle, whereas the latter residue does; therefore, this allows the discrimination of the two ammonium stations by the surrounding DB24C8 macrocycle in the fully protonated state. In the deprotonated state, the contrasting reactivity of the amine functional groups, as either a base or a nucleophile, allows for selective reactions that trigger the controlled shuttling of the macrocycle around the three molecular stations. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Thermochemical Stability Study of Alkyl-Tethered Quaternary Ammonium Cations for Anion Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mohanty, Angela D.; Tignor, Steven E.; Sturgeon, Matthew R.

2017-01-01

The increased interest in the use of anion exchange membranes (AEMs) for applications in electrochemical devices has prompted significant efforts in designing materials with robust stability in alkaline media. Most reported AEMs suffer from polymer backbone degradation as well as cation functional group degradation. In this report, we provide comprehensive experimental investigations for the analysis of cation functional group stability under alkaline media. A silver oxide-mediated ion exchange method and an accelerated stability test in aqueous KOH solutions at elevated temperatures using a Parr reactor were used to evaluate a broad scope of quaternary ammonium (QA) cationic model compound structures,more » particularly focusing on alkyl-tethered cations. Additionally, byproduct analysis was employed to gain better understanding of degradation pathways and trends of alkaline stability. Experimental results under different conditions gave consistent trends in the order of cation stability of various QA small molecule model compounds. Overall, cations that are benzyl-substituted or that are near to electronegative atoms (such as oxygen) degrade faster in alkaline media in comparison to alkyl-tethered QAs. These comprehensive model compound stability studies provide valuable information regarding the relative stability of various cation structures and can help guide researchers towards designing new and promising candidates for AEM materials.« less

Quaternary ammonium-functionalized MCM-48 mesoporous silica as a sorbent for the dispersive solid-phase extraction of endocrine disrupting compounds in water.

PubMed

Zhang, Shijuan; Lu, Fengli; Ma, Xiaoyun; Yue, Mingbo; Li, Yanxin; Liu, Jiammin; You, Jinmao

2018-07-06

MCM-48 mesoporous silica was functionalized with dimethyloctadecyl[3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl]ammonium chloride, a quaternary ammonium salt with a long hydrophobic chain, to prepare a new sorbent for the dispersive solid-phase extraction (DSPE) of seven endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) including 4-hexylphenol, 4-octylphenol, 4-nonylphenol, bisphenol A, estrone, 17β-estradiol and estriol in water. A series of differently functionalized MCM-48 materials were also synthesized, and they served as reference materials to study the mechanism. The developed DSPE method was combined with HPLC with fluorescence detection to evaluate the adsorption performance. The results indicated that the quaternary ammonium-functionalized MCM-48 mesoporous silica can be used as ideal sorbent for EDCs in water with recoveries of higher than 95% due to the electrostatic interactions and hydrophobic effect. Hydrogen bonding and π-π interactions in other synthesized materials could lead to about 25-30% increase in recoveries, but the results for polyhydroxy compounds were still not satisfying. The quaternary ammonium-functionalized MCM-48 mesoporous silica was successfully applied to the DSPE of EDCs in real water samples. The optimum extraction conditions were sorbent amount, 15 mg; desorption time; 5 min; elution volume, 0.8 mL; sample pH 3.0; and salt addition, 5 g/L. The limits of detection were in the range of 1.2-2.6 ng/L, while the limits of quantitation were in the range of 4.3-8.3 ng/L. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Ether bond effects in quaternary ammonium and phosphonium ionic liquid-propanol solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kishimura, Hiroaki; Kohki, Erica; Nakada, Ayumu; Tamatani, Kentaro; Abe, Hiroshi

2018-03-01

The liquid-liquid equilibria (LLE) of quaternary ammonium and phosphonium ionic liquid (IL)-propanol solutions were examined. The ILs contained cations with or without ether bonds; the anion in all the ILs was bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (TFSI-). The cations without ether groups are tributylmethyl ammonium (N4441+), triethylpentyl phosphonium (P2225+), triethyloctyl phosphonium (P2228+), and tributylmethyl phosphonium (P4441+). The cations containing ether groups are N,N-diethyl-N-methyl-N-(2-methoxyethyl) ammonium, (N122(2O1)+), triethyl(methoxymethyl) phosphonium (P222(1O1)+), and triethyl(2-methoxyethyl) phosphonium, (P222(2O1)+). Propanol isomer effect was observed to affect the LLEs, reflecting the geometrical factors and hydrophobicities of 1-propanol and 2-propanol. According to Raman spectroscopy, the TFSI- anion conformers in the mixtures were altered in the presence of ether bonds in the cations. The universal quasichemical (UNIQUAC) interaction parameters are consistent with significant factors affecting IL-propanol solutions, such as the type of cation (ammonium or phosphonium), ether bonds, TFSI- conformers, and propanol isomer effects.

Solar cells with perovskite-based light sensitization layers

DOEpatents

Kanatzidis, Mercouri G.; Chang, Robert P.H.; Stoumpos, Konstantinos; Lee, Byunghong

2018-05-08

Solar cells are provided which comprise an electron transporting layer and a light sensitizing layer of perovskite disposed over the surface of the electron transporting layer. The perovskite may have a formula selected from the group consisting of A₂MX₆, Z₂MX₆ or YMX₆, wherein A is an alkali metal, M is a metal or a metalloid, X is a halide, Z is selected from the group consisting of a primary ammonium, an iminium, a secondary ammonium, a tertiary ammonium, and a quaternary ammonium, and Y has formula M_b(L)₃, wherein M_b is a transition metal in the 2+ oxidation state L is an N--N neutral chelating ligand. Methods of making the solar cells are also provided, including methods based on electrospray deposition.

Influence of ammonium salts on the lipase/esterase activity assay using p-nitrophenyl esters as substrates.

PubMed

De Yan, Hong; Zhang, Yin Jun; Liu, Hong Cai; Zheng, Jian Yong; Wang, Zhao

2013-01-01

p-Nitrophenyl esters with a short-chain carboxylic group, such as p-nitrophenyl acetate (p-NPA) and p-nitrophenyl butyrate (p-NPB), could be effectively hydrolyzed by ammonium salts. p-Nitrophenyl esters were usually used as substrates to assay the lipase/esterase activity. Ammonium sulfate precipitation was often used to purify proteins, and some ammonium salts were usually used as nitrogen sources or inorganic salts for the lipase/esterase production. To study the effect of ammonium salts on the assay of the lipase/esterase activity, the contributing factors of hydrolysis of p-NPA/p-NPB catalyzed by ammonium salts were investigated. The lipase activities were compared in the presence and absence of ammonium sulfate. The hydrolysis reaction could be catalyzed under neutral and alkaline circumstances. The hydrolysis rate increased with the increase in the reaction temperature or the concentration of ammonium ion. When p-NPA was employed as the substrate for the analysis of the lipase/esterase activity, the effect of ammonium sulfate on the analysis could be neutralized by setting a control when the concentration of ammonium sulfate was less than 40% saturation. However, when the concentration of ammonium sulfate increased from 40% to 100% saturation, the enzyme activities decreased about 13-40%, which could not be ignored for accurate analysis of the enzyme activity. © 2013 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Developing a Genetically Encoded, Cross-Species Biosensor for Detecting Ammonium and Regulating Biosynthesis of Cyanophycin.

PubMed

Xiao, Yi; Jiang, Wen; Zhang, Fuzhong

2017-10-20

Responding to nitrogen status is essential for all living organisms. Bacteria have evolved various complex and exquisite regulatory systems to control nitrogen metabolism. However, natural nitrogen regulatory systems, owing to their complexity, often function only in their original hosts and do not respond properly when transferred to another species. By harnessing the Lactococcus GlnRA system, we developed a genetically encoded, cross-species ammonium biosensor that displays a dynamic range up to 9-fold upon detection of ammonium ion. We demonstrated applications of this ammonium biosensor in three different species (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas putida, and Synechocystis sp.) to detect different nitrogen sources. This ammonium sensor was further used to regulate the biosynthesis of a nitrogen-rich polymer, cyanophycin, based on ammonium concentration. Given the importance of nitrogen responses, the developed biosensor should be broadly applicable to synthetic biology and bioengineering.

Geoelectrical Monitoring of Ammonium Sorption Processes in a Biochar Filtration System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, S. L.; Osei, C.; Rabinovich, A.; Ntarlagiannis, D.; Rouff, A.

2017-12-01

With the rise of modern agriculture, nutrient pollution has become an increasingly important environmental concern. A common problem is excess nitrogen which agricultural livestock farms often generate in the form of ammonium (NH4+). This highly soluble ion is easily transported through runoff and leaching, leading to water supply contamination and soil fertility decline. Biochar is the carbon-rich product of thermal decomposition of biomass in an oxygen-free environment. It is primarily used as a soil enhancer with other applications currently under research. Biochar's unique characteristics such as high surface area, high sorption capacity and long term biological and chemical stability make it a prime candidate for environmental applications such as contaminant regulation and waste effluent treatment. The spectral induced polarization (SIP) method is an established geoelectrical method that has been increasingly used in environmental investigations. SIP is unique among geophysical methods because it is sensitive not only to the bulk properties of the medium under investigation but also to the interfacial properties (e.g., mineral-fluid). The unique properties that make biochar attractive for environmental use are associated with surface properties (e.g., surface area, surface charge, presence of functional groups) that are expected to have a profound effect on SIP signals. This study presents early results on the use of the SIP method to monitor ammonium recycling of swine wastewater in a biochar filtration system. SIP measurements were taken continuously as biochar-packed columns were first injected with an ammonium wastewater solution (sorption phase) and then an ammonium-free solution (desorption phase). Geochemical monitoring showed that outflow ammonium concentration decreased during the sorption phase and increased during the desorption phase. The collected SIP data appear to be in agreement with the geochemical monitoring, providing a temporally continuous record of changes on the waste fluid and biochar surface. The results suggest that biochar successfully sorbs and releases ammonium and that the SIP method is sensitive these sorption processes. Further research is required for the quantitative interpretation of the SIP signals, including the signal source mechanism.

Conserved ABC Transport System Regulated by the General Stress Response Pathways of Alpha- and Gammaproteobacteria.

PubMed

Herrou, Julien; Willett, Jonathan W; Czyż, Daniel M; Babnigg, Gyorgy; Kim, Youngchang; Crosson, Sean

2017-03-01

Brucella abortus σ E1 is an EcfG family sigma factor that regulates the transcription of dozens of genes in response to diverse stress conditions and is required for maintenance of chronic infection in a mouse model. A putative ATP-binding cassette transporter operon, bab1_0223-bab1_0226 , is among the most highly activated gene sets in the σ E1 regulon. The proteins encoded by the operon resemble quaternary ammonium-compatible solute importers but are most similar in sequence to the broadly conserved YehZYXW system, which remains largely uncharacterized. Transcription of yehZYXW is activated by the general stress sigma factor σ S in Enterobacteriaceae , which suggests a functional role for this transport system in bacterial stress response across the classes Alphaproteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria We present evidence that B. abortus YehZYXW does not function as an importer of known compatible solutes under physiological conditions and does not contribute to the virulence defect of a σ E1 -null strain. The sole in vitro phenotype associated with genetic disruption of this putative transport system is reduced growth in the presence of high Li + ion concentrations. A crystal structure of B. abortus YehZ revealed a class II periplasmic binding protein fold with significant structural homology to Archaeoglobus fulgidus ProX, which binds glycine betaine. However, the structure of the YehZ ligand-binding pocket is incompatible with high-affinity binding to glycine betaine. This is consistent with weak measured binding of YehZ to glycine betaine and related compatible solutes. We conclude that YehZYXW is a conserved, stress-regulated transport system that is phylogenetically and functionally distinct from quaternary ammonium-compatible solute importers. IMPORTANCE Brucella abortus σ E1 regulates transcription in response to stressors encountered in its mammalian host and is necessary for maintenance of chronic infection in a mouse model. The functions of the majority of genes regulated by σ E1 remain undefined. We present a functional/structural analysis of a conserved putative membrane transport system (YehZYXW) whose expression is strongly activated by σ E1 Though annotated as a quaternary ammonium osmolyte uptake system, experimental physiological studies and measured ligand-binding properties of the periplasmic binding protein (PBP), YehZ, are inconsistent with this function. A crystal structure of B. abortus YehZ provides molecular insight into differences between bona fide quaternary ammonium osmolyte importers and YehZ-related proteins, which form a distinct phylogenetic and functional group of PBPs. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Microbiology.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Herrou, Julien; Willett, Jonathan W.; Czyż, Daniel M.

ABSTRACT Brucella abortusσ E1is an EcfG family sigma factor that regulates the transcription of dozens of genes in response to diverse stress conditions and is required for maintenance of chronic infection in a mouse model. A putative ATP-binding cassette transporter operon,bab1_0223-bab1_0226, is among the most highly activated gene sets in the σ E1regulon. The proteins encoded by the operon resemble quaternary ammonium-compatible solute importers but are most similar in sequence to the broadly conserved YehZYXW system, which remains largely uncharacterized. Transcription ofyehZYXWis activated by the general stress sigma factor σ SinEnterobacteriaceae, which suggests a functional role for this transport systemmore » in bacterial stress response across the classesAlphaproteobacteriaandGammaproteobacteria. We present evidence thatB. abortusYehZYXW does not function as an importer of known compatible solutes under physiological conditions and does not contribute to the virulence defect of a σ E1-null strain. The solein vitrophenotype associated with genetic disruption of this putative transport system is reduced growth in the presence of high Li +ion concentrations. A crystal structure ofB. abortusYehZ revealed a class II periplasmic binding protein fold with significant structural homology toArchaeoglobus fulgidusProX, which binds glycine betaine. However, the structure of the YehZ ligand-binding pocket is incompatible with high-affinity binding to glycine betaine. This is consistent with weak measured binding of YehZ to glycine betaine and related compatible solutes. We conclude that YehZYXW is a conserved, stress-regulated transport system that is phylogenetically and functionally distinct from quaternary ammonium-compatible solute importers. IMPORTANCEBrucella abortusσ E1regulates transcription in response to stressors encountered in its mammalian host and is necessary for maintenance of chronic infection in a mouse model. The functions of the majority of genes regulated by σ E1remain undefined. We present a functional/structural analysis of a conserved putative membrane transport system (YehZYXW) whose expression is strongly activated by σ E1. Though annotated as a quaternary ammonium osmolyte uptake system, experimental physiological studies and measured ligand-binding properties of the periplasmic binding protein (PBP), YehZ, are inconsistent with this function. A crystal structure ofB. abortusYehZ provides molecular insight into differences between bona fide quaternary ammonium osmolyte importers and YehZ-related proteins, which form a distinct phylogenetic and functional group of PBPs.« less

Conserved ABC Transport System Regulated by the General Stress Response Pathways of Alpha- and Gammaproteobacteria

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Herrou, Julien; Willett, Jonathan W.; Czyż, Daniel M.

ABSTRACT Brucella abortusσ E1is an EcfG family sigma factor that regulates the transcription of dozens of genes in response to diverse stress conditions and is required for maintenance of chronic infection in a mouse model. A putative ATP-binding cassette transporter operon,bab1_0223-bab1_0226, is among the most highly activated gene sets in the σ E1regulon. The proteins encoded by the operon resemble quaternary ammonium-compatible solute importers but are most similar in sequence to the broadly conserved YehZYXW system, which remains largely uncharacterized. Transcription ofyehZYXWis activated by the general stress sigma factor σ SinEnterobacteriaceae, which suggests a functional role for this transport systemmore » in bacterial stress response across the classesAlphaproteobacteriaandGammaproteobacteria. We present evidence thatB. abortusYehZYXW does not function as an importer of known compatible solutes under physiological conditions and does not contribute to the virulence defect of a σ E1-null strain. The solein vitrophenotype associated with genetic disruption of this putative transport system is reduced growth in the presence of high Li +ion concentrations. A crystal structure ofB. abortusYehZ revealed a class II periplasmic binding protein fold with significant structural homology toArchaeoglobus fulgidusProX, which binds glycine betaine. However, the structure of the YehZ ligand-binding pocket is incompatible with high-affinity binding to glycine betaine. This is consistent with weak measured binding of YehZ to glycine betaine and related compatible solutes. We conclude that YehZYXW is a conserved, stress-regulated transport system that is phylogenetically and functionally distinct from quaternary ammonium-compatible solute importers. IMPORTANCEBrucella abortusσ E1regulates transcription in response to stressors encountered in its mammalian host and is necessary for maintenance of chronic infection in a mouse model. The functions of the majority of genes regulated by σ E1remain undefined. We present a functional/structural analysis of a conserved putative membrane transport system (YehZYXW) whose expression is strongly activated by σ E1. Though annotated as a quaternary ammonium osmolyte uptake system, experimental physiological studies and measured ligand-binding properties of the periplasmic binding protein (PBP), YehZ, are inconsistent with this function. A crystal structure ofB. abortusYehZ provides molecular insight into differences between bona fide quaternary ammonium osmolyte importers and YehZ-related proteins, which form a distinct phylogenetic and functional group of PBPs.« less

The critical relation between chemical stability of cations and water in anion exchange membrane fuel cells environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dekel, Dario R.; Willdorf, Sapir; Ash, Uri; Amar, Michal; Pusara, Srdjan; Dhara, Shubhendu; Srebnik, Simcha; Diesendruck, Charles E.

2018-01-01

Anion exchange membrane fuel cells can potentially revolutionize energy storage and delivery; however, their commercial development is hampered by a significant technological impedance: the chemical decomposition of the anion exchange membranes during operation. The hydroxide anions, while transported from the cathode to the anode, attack the positively charged functional groups in the polymer membrane, neutralizing it and suppressing its anion-conducting capability. In recent years, several new quaternary ammonium salts have been proposed to address this challenge, but while they perform well in ex-situ chemical studies, their performance is very limited in real fuel cell studies. Here, we use experimental work, corroborated by molecular dynamics modeling to show that water concentration in the environment of the hydroxide anion, as well as temperature, significantly impact its reactivity. We compare different quaternary ammonium salts that have been previously studied and test their stabilities in the presence of relatively low hydroxide concentration in the presence of different amounts of solvating water molecules, as well as different temperatures. Remarkably, with the right amount of water and at low enough temperatures, even quaternary ammonium salts which are considered "unstable", present significantly improved lifetime.

Synthesis, characterization, and antibacterial activity of N,O-quaternary ammonium chitosan.

PubMed

Xu, Tao; Xin, Meihua; Li, Mingchun; Huang, Huili; Zhou, Shengquan; Liu, Juezhao

2011-11-08

N,N,N-Trimethyl O-(2-hydroxy-3-trimethylammonium propyl) chitosans (TMHTMAPC) with different degrees of O-substitution were synthesized by reacting O-methyl-free N,N,N-trimethyl chitosan (TMC) with 3-chloro-2-hydroxy-propyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (CHPTMAC). The products were characterized by (1)H NMR, FTIR and TGA, and investigated for antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli under weakly acidic (pH 5.5) and weakly basic (pH 7.2) conditions. TMHTMAPC exhibited enhanced antibacterial activity compared with TMC, and the activity of TMHTMAPC increased with an increase in the degree of substitution. Divalent cations (Ba(2+) and Ca(2+)) strongly reduced the antibacterial activity of chitosan, O-carboxymethyl chitosan and N,N,N-trimethyl-O-carboxymethyl chitosan, but the repression on the antibacterial activity of TMC and TMHTMAPC was weaker. This indicates that the free amino group on chitosan backbone is the main functional group interacting with divalent cations. The existence of 100 mM Na(+) slightly reduced the antibacterial activity of both chitosan and its derivatives. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Heterogenous uptake of gaseous N(sub 2)O(sub 5) by sulfate aerosols

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leu, M. -T.; Kane, S. M.; Caloz, F.

2001-01-01

The heterogeneous uptake of gaseous N sub 2 O sub 5 by ammonium sulfate, ammonium bisulfate, and sulfuric acid aerosols as a function of relative humididty has been investigated at room temperature and atmsopheric pressure.

Treatment performance, nitrous oxide production and microbial community under low-ammonium wastewater in a CANON process.

PubMed

Mi, Weixing; Zhao, Jianqiang; Ding, Xiaoqian; Ge, Guanghuan; Zhao, Rixiang

2017-12-01

To investigate the characteristics of anaerobic ammonia oxidation for treating low-ammonium wastewater, a continuous-flow completely autotrophic nitrogen removal over nitrite (CANON) biofilm reactor was studied. At a temperature of 32 ± 1 °C and a pH between 7.5 and 8.2, two operational experiments were performed: the first one fixed the hydraulic retention time (HRT) at 10 h and gradually reduced the influent ammonium concentrations from 210 to 50 mg L -1 ; the second one fixed the influent ammonium concentration at 30 mg L -1 and gradually decreased the HRT from 10 to 3 h. The results revealed that the total nitrogen removal efficiency exceeded 80%, with a corresponding total nitrogen removal rate of 0.26 ± 0.01 kg N m -3 d -1 at the final low ammonium concentration of 30 mg L -1 . Small amounts of nitrous oxide (N 2 O) up to 0.015 ± 0.004 kg m -3 d -1 at the ammonium concentration of 210 mg L -1 were produced in the CANON process and decreased with the decrease in the influent ammonium loads. High-throughput pyrosequencing analysis indicated that the dominant functional bacteria 'Candidatus Kuenenia' under high influent ammonium levels were gradually succeeded by Armatimonadetes_gp5 under low influent ammonium levels.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pezeshki, Alan M.; Fujimoto, Cy; Sun, Che -Nan

In this paper, we report on the performance of Diels Alder poly(phenylene) membranes in vanadium redox flow batteries. The membranes were functionalized with quaternary ammonium groups to form an anion exchange membrane (QDAPP) and with sulfonic acid groups to form a cation exchange membrane (SDAPP). Both membrane classes showed similar conductivities in the battery environment, suggesting that the ion conduction mechanism in the material is not strongly affected by the moieties along the polymer backbone. The resistance to vanadium permeation in QDAPP was not improved relative to SDAPP, further suggesting that the polarity of the functional groups do not playmore » a significant role in the membrane materials tested. Both QDAPP and SDAPP outperformed Nafion membranes in cycling tests, with both achieving voltage efficiencies above 85% while maintaining 95% coulombic efficiency while at a current density of 200 mA/cm 2.« less

Fluorescent water-Soluble Probes Based on Ammonium Cation Peg Substituted Perylenepisimides: Synthesis, Photophysical Properties, and Live Cell Images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Wei; Cai, Jiaxuan; Zhang, Shuchen; Yi, Xuegang; Gao, Baoxiang

2018-01-01

To synthesize perylenbisimides (PBI) fluorescent probes that will improve the water-soluble ability and the cytocompatibility, the synthesis and properties of fluorescent water-soluble probes based on dendritic ammonium cation polyethylene glycol (PEG) substituted perylenebisimides(GPDIs) are presented. As we expected, with increased ammonium cation PEG, the aggregation of the PBI in an aqueous solution is completely suppressed by the hydrophilic ammonium cation PEG groups. And the fluorescence quantum yield increases from 25% for GPDI-1 to 62% for GPDI-2. When incubated with Hela cells for 48 h, the viabilities are 71% (for GPDI-1) and 76% (for GPDI-2). Live cell imaging shows that these probes are efficiently internalized by HeLa cells. The study of the photophysical properties indicated increasing the ammonium cation PEG generation can increase the fluorescence quantum yield. Live cell imaging shows that with the ammonium cation PEG chains of perylenebisimides has high biocompatibility. The exceptionally low cytotoxicity is ascribed to the ammonium cation PEG chains, which protect the dyes from nonspecifically interacting with the extracellular proteins. Live cell imaging shows that ammonium cations PEG chains can promote the internalization of these probes.

Experimental investigation and DFT calculation of different amine/ammonium salts adsorption on kaolinite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jun; Min, Fan-fei; Liu, Lingyun; Liu, Chunfu; Lu, Fangqin

2017-10-01

The adsorption of four different amine/ammonium salts of DDA (Dodecyl amine), MDA (N-methyldodecyl amine), DMDA (N,N-dimethyldodecyl amine) and DTAC (Dodecyl trimethyl ammonium chloride) on kaolinite particles was investigated in the study through the measurement of contact angles, zeta potentials, aggregation observation, adsorption and sedimentation. The results show that different amine/ammonium salts can adsorb on the kaolinite surface to enhance the hydrophobicity and reduce the electronegativity of kaolinite particle surface, and thus induce a strong hydrophobic aggregation of kaolinite particles which promotes the settlement of kaolinite. To explore the adsorption mechanism of these four amine/ammonium salts on kaolinite surfaces, the adsorptions of DDA+, MDA+, DMDA+ and DTAC+ on kaolinite (001) surface and (00 1 bar) surface are calculated with DFT (Density functional theory). The DFT calculation results indicate that different amine/ammonium cations can strongly adsorbed on kaolinite (001) surface and (00 1 bar) surface by forming Nsbnd H⋯O strong hydrogen bonds or Csbnd H⋯O weak hydrogen bonds, and there are strongly electrostatic attractions between different amine/ammonium cations and kaolinite surfaces. The main adsorption mechanism of amine/ammonium cations on kaolinite is hydrogen-bond interaction and electrostatic attraction.

The activity of nitrifying microorganisms in a high-altitude Andean wetland.

PubMed

Molina, Verónica; Dorador, Cristina; Fernández, Camila; Bristow, Laura; Eissler, Yoanna; Hengst, Martha; Hernandez, Klaudia; Olsen, Lasse Mork; Harrod, Chris; Marchant, Francisca; Anguita, Cristobal; Cornejo, Marcela

2018-06-01

High-altitude wetland holds freshwater springs, evaporitic ponds and lagoon with variable salinity and nutrients, potentially influencing the ecology of nitrifying communities. In this study, nitrifying microorganisms in Salar de Huasco (Chile) were surveyed to determine bacterial and archaeal contribution to ammonium (AO), nitrite oxidation (NO), ammonium uptake (AU) during wet and dry seasons. The activity signals from these groups were assessed by specific amoA-qPCR transcription, 15N tracer studies and addition of group specific inhibitor experiments for nitrifying microorganisms (N1-guanyl-1, 7-diaminoheptane [GC7]-archaeal specific and allylthiourea [ATU]-bacterial specific). Nitrifying communities, i.e. Nitrosopumilus, Nitrosospira, Nitrosomonas, Kuenenia and Nitrospira, were more frequent (∼0.25% of 16S rRNA sequences) at low salinity sites. Bacterial amoA-qPCR transcripts also increased at low salinity and along in situ ammonium increase observed between wet/dry seasons. Nutrient changes through time and 15N tracer experiments results showed that AO and NO were detected and peaked mainly at low salinity-high ammonium sites (<37 000 μS cm-1 and >0.3 μM), whereas AU was predominant at evaporitic sites. Our results indicate that salinity and ammonium affect the nitrifying communities that are potentially more active at low-salinity sites but persistent at saltier evaporitic areas of the wetland when ammonium is available.

Direct observation of electrogenic NH4(+) transport in ammonium transport (Amt) proteins.

PubMed

Wacker, Tobias; Garcia-Celma, Juan J; Lewe, Philipp; Andrade, Susana L A

2014-07-08

Ammonium transport (Amt) proteins form a ubiquitous family of integral membrane proteins that specifically shuttle ammonium across membranes. In prokaryotes, archaea, and plants, Amts are used as environmental NH4(+) scavengers for uptake and assimilation of nitrogen. In the eukaryotic homologs, the Rhesus proteins, NH4(+)/NH3 transport is used instead in acid-base and pH homeostasis in kidney or NH4(+)/NH3 (and eventually CO2) detoxification in erythrocytes. Crystal structures and variant proteins are available, but the inherent challenges associated with the unambiguous identification of substrate and monitoring of transport events severely inhibit further progress in the field. Here we report a reliable in vitro assay that allows us to quantify the electrogenic capacity of Amt proteins. Using solid-supported membrane (SSM)-based electrophysiology, we have investigated the three Amt orthologs from the euryarchaeon Archaeoglobus fulgidus. Af-Amt1 and Af-Amt3 are electrogenic and transport the ammonium and methylammonium cation with high specificity. Transport is pH-dependent, with a steep decline at pH values of ∼5.0. Despite significant sequence homologies, functional differences between the three proteins became apparent. SSM electrophysiology provides a long-sought-after functional assay for the ubiquitous ammonium transporters.

Surface modification and antimicrobial properties of cellulose nanocrystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bespalova, Yulia A.

Surface modification of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) was performed by acetylation and subsequent reaction with various tertiary amines with different lengths of alkyl groups. Chloroacetic anhydride (95%) was used for acetylation. The acetylation of CNC was confirmed using IR spectroscopy. The bands associated with C=0 stretching (1740 cm-1) and C-Cl stretching (793 cm -1) was present in the acetylated CNC but they were absent in the neat CNC. It has been suggested that the primary hydroxyl groups of CNC are substituted by chloro acetyl groups during acetylation reaction. Subsequent reaction of chloro acetylated CNC with N, N - Dimethyl ethylamine, N, N - Dimethyl hexylamine, N, N - Dimethyl dodecylamine, N, N - Dimethyl hexadecylamine and N, N - Dimethyl decylamine formed quaternary ammonium salts. These quaternary ammonium salts were characterized by FTIR and solid state13C NMR spectroscopy. FTIR spectra of five types of quaternary ammonium salts of CNC are similar and they showed infrared bands at 2905 -1 and 2850 cm-1, attributed to symmetrical and unsymmetrical C-H stretching vibration. The absence of C-Cl band at 793 cm-1 proves that quaternary salt formation was successful. The 13C NMR spectrum of quaternary ammonium modified CNC with N, N - Dimethyl dodecylamine shows several additional resonances ranging from 14.5 ppm to 58.0 ppm when compared to 13C NMR spectrum of pure CNC. This evidence proves that long alkyl chains have been added to the pure CNC. The disc diffusion method confirmed that quaternary ammonium modified CNCs with a chain longer than ten carbons are effective antimicrobial agents against Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli bacteria. Pure CNC and quaternary ammonium modified CNCs with an alkyl chain length of ten or less were not able to inhibit bacteria growth.

Inhibition of Protein Carbamylation in Urea Solution Using Ammonium Containing Buffers

PubMed Central

Sun, Shisheng; Zhou, Jian-Ying; Yang, Weiming; Zhang, Hui

2013-01-01

Urea solution is one of the most commonly employed protein denaturants for protease digestion in proteomic studies. However, it has long been recognized that urea solution can cause carbamylation at the N-termini of proteins/peptides and at the side chain amino groups of lysine and arginine residues. Protein/peptide carbamylation blocks protease digestion and affects protein identification and quantification in mass spectrometry analysis by blocking peptide amino groups from isotopic/isobaric labeling and changing peptide charge states, retention times and masses. In addition, protein carbamylation during sample preparation makes it difficult to study in vivo protein carbamylation. In this study, we compared the peptide carbamylation in urea solutions of different buffers and found that ammonium containing buffers were the most effective buffers to inhibit protein carbamylation in urea solution. The possible mechanism of carbamylation inhibition by ammonium containing buffers is discussed, and a revised procedure for the protease digestion of proteins in urea and ammonium containing buffers was developed to facilitate its application in proteomic research. PMID:24161613

Synthesis and characterization of β-napthalene sulphonic acid doped poly(o-anisidine)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sangamithirai, D.; Narayanan, V.; Stephen, A.

2014-04-01

Poly(o-anisidine) doped with β-napthalene sulphonic acid (β-NSA) was synthesized using ammonium persulphate as an oxidizing agent. The polymer was characterized by using FTIR, XRD and conductivity measurements. The FTIR spectra reveal the presence of functional groups that account for the formation of polymer. The structure was characterized by XRD. The conductivity of the poly(o-anisidine) salt was found to be 2.25 × 10-6 S/m.

Antimicrobial cotton containing N-halamine and quaternary ammonium groups by grafting copolymerization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Ying; Liu, Yin; Ren, Xuehong; Huang, T. S.

2014-03-01

The monomer (3-acrylamidopropyl)trimethylammonium chloride (APTMAC) was used to treat cotton fibers by grafting copolymerization. The grafted cotton fabrics were characterized by SEM image and FTIR spectra. The treated samples with quaternary ammonium groups could decrease 96.08% of Staphylococcus aureus and 48.74% of Escherichia coli O157:H7 within 30 min. After chlorination with dilute sodium hypochlorite, the treated cotton fabrics containing both N-halamine and quaternary ammonium groups effectively inactivated 100% (log reduction 5.82) of S. aureus and 100% (log reduction 6.26) of E. coli O157:H7 within 5 min of contact time. The grafting process of cotton fabric has small effect on the thermal stability and tensile strength, which favors the practical application. Compared to the traditional pad-dry-cure method to produce antibacterial materials, the radical grafting copolymerization method occurred in water without any organic solvents involved in the whole treatment.

Solubility of glucose isomerase in ammonium sulphate solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chayen, N.; Akins, J.; Campbell-Smith, S.; Blow, D. M.

1988-07-01

In order to quantify protein crystallization techniques, a method for measuring protein solubility in high salt concentration has been developed. It is based on a sensitive protein concentration assay, using binding to Coomassie blue dye. The protein concentration in a supernatant from which glucose isomerase is crystallising has been studied as a function of time. Equilibrium is established in 3-5 weeks, and the protein concentration remaining in solution is defined as the solubility of the protein. The solubility of glucose isomerase has been determined as a function of ammonium sulphate concentration; its variation with pH in 1.50M ammonium sulphate has also been studied. A remarkable dependence on pH over the range of 5.5 to 6.5 has been observed.

The metabolic waste ammonium regulates mTORC2 and mTORC1 signaling

PubMed Central

Merhi, Ahmad; Delrée, Paul; Marini, Anna Maria

2017-01-01

Two structurally and functionally distinct mammalian TOR complexes control cell growth and metabolism in physiological and pathological contexts including cancer. Upregulated glutaminolysis is part of the metabolic reprogramming occurring in cancer, providing fuels for growth but also liberating ammonium, a potent neurotoxic waste product. Here, we identify ammonium as a novel dose-dependent signal mediating rapid mTORC2 activation and further regulating mTORC1. We show that ammonium induces rapid RICTOR-dependent phosphorylation of AKT-S473, a process requiring the PI3K pathway and further involving the Src-family kinase YES1, the FAK kinase and the ITGβ1 integrin. Release of calcium from the endoplasmic reticulum store triggers rapid mTORC2 activation, similar to ammonium-induced activation, the latter being conversely prevented by calcium chelation.Moreover, in analogy to growth factors, ammonium triggers the AKT-dependent phosphoinhibition of the TSC complex and of PRAS40, two negative regulators of mTORC1. Consistent with mTORC1 stimulation, ammonium induces the inhibitory phosphorylation of 4EBP1, a negative regulator of protein biogenesis. Ammonium however dually impacts on the phosphorylation of p70S6K1 triggering a transient AKT-independent decrease in the phosphorylation of this second mTORC1 readout. Finally, we reveal ammonium as a dose-dependent stimulator of proliferation. This study underscores an mTORC2 and mTORC1 response to the so-called ammonium waste. PMID:28303961

The metabolic waste ammonium regulates mTORC2 and mTORC1 signaling.

PubMed

Merhi, Ahmad; Delrée, Paul; Marini, Anna Maria

2017-03-17

Two structurally and functionally distinct mammalian TOR complexes control cell growth and metabolism in physiological and pathological contexts including cancer. Upregulated glutaminolysis is part of the metabolic reprogramming occurring in cancer, providing fuels for growth but also liberating ammonium, a potent neurotoxic waste product. Here, we identify ammonium as a novel dose-dependent signal mediating rapid mTORC2 activation and further regulating mTORC1. We show that ammonium induces rapid RICTOR-dependent phosphorylation of AKT-S473, a process requiring the PI3K pathway and further involving the Src-family kinase YES1, the FAK kinase and the ITGβ1 integrin. Release of calcium from the endoplasmic reticulum store triggers rapid mTORC2 activation, similar to ammonium-induced activation, the latter being conversely prevented by calcium chelation.Moreover, in analogy to growth factors, ammonium triggers the AKT-dependent phosphoinhibition of the TSC complex and of PRAS40, two negative regulators of mTORC1. Consistent with mTORC1 stimulation, ammonium induces the inhibitory phosphorylation of 4EBP1, a negative regulator of protein biogenesis. Ammonium however dually impacts on the phosphorylation of p70S6K1 triggering a transient AKT-independent decrease in the phosphorylation of this second mTORC1 readout. Finally, we reveal ammonium as a dose-dependent stimulator of proliferation. This study underscores an mTORC2 and mTORC1 response to the so-called ammonium waste.

Structural basis for the enhanced stability of protein model compounds and peptide backbone unit in ammonium ionic liquids.

PubMed

Vasantha, T; Attri, Pankaj; Venkatesu, Pannuru; Devi, R S Rama

2012-10-04

Protein folding/unfolding is a fascinating study in the presence of cosolvents, which protect/disrupt the native structure of protein, respectively. The structure and stability of proteins and their functional groups may be modulated by the addition of cosolvents. Ionic liquids (ILs) are finding a vast array of applications as novel cosolvents for a wide variety of biochemical processes that include protein folding. Here, the systematic and quantitative apparent transfer free energies (ΔG'(tr)) of protein model compounds from water to ILs through solubility measurements as a function of IL concentration at 25 °C have been exploited to quantify and interpret biomolecular interactions between model compounds of glycine peptides (GPs) with ammonium based ILs. The investigated aqueous systems consist of zwitterionic glycine peptides: glycine (Gly), diglycine (Gly(2)), triglycine (Gly(3)), tetraglycine (Gly(4)), and cyclic glycylglycine (c(GG)) in the presence of six ILs such as diethylammonium acetate (DEAA), diethylammonium hydrogen sulfate (DEAS), triethylammonium acetate (TEAA), triethylammonium hydrogen sulfate (TEAS), triethylammonium dihydrogen phosphate (TEAP), and trimethylammonium acetate (TMAA). We have observed positive values of ΔG'(tr) for GPs from water to ILs, indicating that interactions between ILs and GPs are unfavorable, which leads to stabilization of the structure of model protein compounds. Moreover, our experimental data ΔG'(tr) is used to obtain transfer free energies (Δg'(tr)) of the peptide backbone unit (or glycyl unit) (-CH(2)C═ONH-), which is the most numerous group in globular proteins, from water to IL solutions. To obtain the mechanism events of the ILs' role in enhancing the stability of the model compounds, we have further obtained m-values for GPs from solubility limits. These results explicitly elucidate that all alkyl ammonium ILs act as stabilizers for model compounds through the exclusion of ILs from model compounds of proteins and also reflect the effect of alkyl chain on the stability of protein model compounds.

Biodegradability and aquatic toxicity of quaternary ammonium-based gemini surfactants: Effect of the spacer on their ecological properties.

PubMed

Garcia, M Teresa; Kaczerewska, Olga; Ribosa, Isabel; Brycki, Bogumił; Materna, Paulina; Drgas, Małgorzata

2016-07-01

Aerobic biodegradability and aquatic toxicity of five types of quaternary ammonium-based gemini surfactants have been examined. The effect of the spacer structure and the head group polarity on the ecological properties of a series of dimeric dodecyl ammonium surfactants has been investigated. Standard tests for ready biodegradability assessment (OECD 310) were conducted for C12 alkyl chain gemini surfactants containing oxygen, nitrogen or a benzene ring in the spacer linkage and/or a hydroxyethyl group attached to the nitrogen atom of the head groups. According to the results obtained, the gemini surfactants examined cannot be considered as readily biodegradable compounds. The negligible biotransformation of the gemini surfactants under the standard biodegradation test conditions was found to be due to their toxic effects on the microbial population responsible for aerobic biodegradation. Aquatic toxicity of gemini surfactants was evaluated against Daphnia magna. The acute toxicity values to Daphnia magna, IC50 at 48 h exposure, ranged from 0.6 to 1 mg/L. On the basis of these values, the gemini surfactants tested should be classified as toxic or very toxic to the aquatic environment. However, the dimeric quaternary ammonium-based surfactants examined result to be less toxic than their corresponding monomeric analogs. Nevertheless the aquatic toxicity of these gemini surfactants can be reduced by increasing the molecule hydrophilicity by adding a heteroatom to the spacer or a hydroxyethyl group to the polar head groups. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Macrobenthic diversity and sediment-water exchanges of oxygen and ammonium: Example of two subtidal communities of the eastern English Channel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tous Rius, Armonie; Denis, Lionel; Dauvin, Jean-Claude; Spilmont, Nicolas

2018-06-01

In organic-rich shallow habitats, benthic macrofauna is known to play a major role in the geochemical functioning of surficial sediments through its metabolism, as well as its bioirrigation and/or bioturbation activity. In this paper, the effects of benthic macrofauna on metabolic fluxes at the sediment-water interface were studied at four dates, from winter to late summer, on two major macrobenthic communities of the eastern English Channel (macrotidal system): the fine sand Abra alba community (2 stations) and the sandy gravel Ophiothrix fragilis community (1 station). Oxygen and ammonium fluxes showed temporal changes that could be attributed to the variation of sea water temperature. Once the effect of temperature removed (using Q10 = 2.5), the average fauna mediated fluxes (FFauna) represented respectively 77% and 76% of average total fluxes. Considering the whole dataset, species number and biomass showed a significant correlation with fauna mediated fluxes of O2 and NH4+, while the relationships with abundance were not significant. The species composition of the community might influence ecosystem functioning, but in the present study, functional groups have a very poor relationship with FFauna (O2) and FFauna (NH4+). Despite the presence of engineer species, establishing general and simple rules to link macrofaunal parameters to functional attributes remains very difficult, suggesting that communities rather followed the idiosyncrasy and rivet hypothesis.

A catalytic role of surface silanol groups in CO2 capture on the amine-anchored silica support.

PubMed

Cho, Moses; Park, Joonho; Yavuz, Cafer T; Jung, Yousung

2018-05-03

A new mechanism of CO2 capture on the amine-functionalized silica support is demonstrated using density functional theory calculations, in which the silica surface not only acts as a support to anchor amines, but also can actively participate in the CO2 capture process through a facile proton transfer reaction with the amine groups. The surface-mediated proton transfer mechanism in forming a carbamate-ammonium product has lower kinetic barrier (8.1 kcal mol-1) than the generally accepted intermolecular mechanism (12.7 kcal mol-1) under dry conditions, and comparable to that of the water-assisted intermolecular mechanism (6.0 kcal mol-1) under humid conditions. These findings suggest that the CO2 adsorption on the amine-anchored silica surface would mostly occur via the rate-determining proton transfer step that is catalyzed by the surface silanol groups.

Full cell study of Diels Alder poly(phenylene) anion and cation exchange membranes in vanadium redox flow batteries

DOE PAGES

Pezeshki, Alan M.; Fujimoto, Cy; Sun, Che -Nan; ...

2015-11-14

In this paper, we report on the performance of Diels Alder poly(phenylene) membranes in vanadium redox flow batteries. The membranes were functionalized with quaternary ammonium groups to form an anion exchange membrane (QDAPP) and with sulfonic acid groups to form a cation exchange membrane (SDAPP). Both membrane classes showed similar conductivities in the battery environment, suggesting that the ion conduction mechanism in the material is not strongly affected by the moieties along the polymer backbone. The resistance to vanadium permeation in QDAPP was not improved relative to SDAPP, further suggesting that the polarity of the functional groups do not playmore » a significant role in the membrane materials tested. Both QDAPP and SDAPP outperformed Nafion membranes in cycling tests, with both achieving voltage efficiencies above 85% while maintaining 95% coulombic efficiency while at a current density of 200 mA/cm 2.« less

A possibility for standoff bomb detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akar Tarim, U.; Ozmutlu, E. N.; Gurler, O.; Yalcin, S.

2015-01-01

The response functions of backscattered photons, which are initially collimated with an energy of 662 keV, were obtained by a Monte Carlo method in an NaI(Tl) scintillation detector using a suitcase or briefcase full of paper, clothing, ammonium nitrate or other generic explosives, as these can be used for terrorism. The results show that characteristic response functions for ammonium nitrate and generic explosives may be found, and using this information, standoff detection of these materials may be possible.

Direct observation of electrogenic NH4+ transport in ammonium transport (Amt) proteins

PubMed Central

Wacker, Tobias; Garcia-Celma, Juan J.; Lewe, Philipp; Andrade, Susana L. A.

2014-01-01

Ammonium transport (Amt) proteins form a ubiquitous family of integral membrane proteins that specifically shuttle ammonium across membranes. In prokaryotes, archaea, and plants, Amts are used as environmental NH4+ scavengers for uptake and assimilation of nitrogen. In the eukaryotic homologs, the Rhesus proteins, NH4+/NH3 transport is used instead in acid–base and pH homeostasis in kidney or NH4+/NH3 (and eventually CO2) detoxification in erythrocytes. Crystal structures and variant proteins are available, but the inherent challenges associated with the unambiguous identification of substrate and monitoring of transport events severely inhibit further progress in the field. Here we report a reliable in vitro assay that allows us to quantify the electrogenic capacity of Amt proteins. Using solid-supported membrane (SSM)-based electrophysiology, we have investigated the three Amt orthologs from the euryarchaeon Archaeoglobus fulgidus. Af-Amt1 and Af-Amt3 are electrogenic and transport the ammonium and methylammonium cation with high specificity. Transport is pH-dependent, with a steep decline at pH values of ∼5.0. Despite significant sequence homologies, functional differences between the three proteins became apparent. SSM electrophysiology provides a long-sought-after functional assay for the ubiquitous ammonium transporters. PMID:24958855

Interaction between Ammonium Toxicity and Green Tide Development Over Seagrass Meadows: A Laboratory Study

PubMed Central

Moreno-Marín, Francisco; Vergara, Juan J.; Pérez-Llorens, J. Lucas; Pedersen, Morten F.; Brun, Fernando G.

2016-01-01

Eutrophication affects seagrasses negatively by increasing light attenuation through stimulation of biomass of fast-growing, bloom-forming algae and because high concentrations of ammonium in the water can be toxic to higher plants. We hypothesized nevertheless, that moderate amounts of nitrophilic macroalgae that coexists with seagrasses under eutrophic conditions, can alleviate the harmful effects of eutrophication on seagrasses by reducing ammonium concentrations in the seawater to non-toxic levels because such algae have a very large capacity to take up inorganic nutrients. We studied therefore how combinations of different ammonium concentrations (0, 25 and 50 μM) and different standing stocks of macroalgae (i.e. 0, 1 and 6 layers of Ulva sp.) affected survival, growth and net production of the seagrass Zostera noltei. In the absence of Ulva sp., increasing ammonium concentrations had a negative influence on the performance of Z. noltei. The presence of Ulva sp. without ammonium supply had a similar, but slightly smaller, negative effect on seagrass fitness due to light attenuation. When ammonium enrichment was combined with presence of Ulva sp., Ulva sp. ameliorated some of negative effects caused by high ammonium availability although Ulva sp. lowered the availability of light. Benthic microalgae, which increased in biomass during the experiment, seemed to play a similar role as Ulva sp.–they contributed to remove ammonium from the water, and thus, aided to keep the ammonium concentrations experienced by Z. noltei at relatively non-toxic levels. Our findings show that moderate amounts of drift macroalgae, eventually combined with increasing stocks of benthic microalgae, may aid seagrasses to alleviate toxic effects of ammonium under eutrophic conditions, which highlights the importance of high functional diversity for ecosystem resistance to anthropogenic disturbance. PMID:27035662

Probing Competitive and Co-operative Hydroxyl and Ammonium Hydrogen-Bonding Directed Epoxidations.

PubMed

Brambilla, Marta; Brennan, Méabh B; Csatayová, Kristína; Davies, Stephen G; Fletcher, Ai M; Kennett, Alice M R; Lee, James A; Roberts, Paul M; Russell, Angela J; Thomson, James E

2017-10-06

The diastereoselectivities and rates of epoxidation (upon treatment with Cl 3 CCO 2 H then m-CPBA) of a range of cis- and trans-4-aminocycloalk-2-en-1-ol derivatives (containing five-, six-, and seven-membered rings) have been investigated. In all cases where the two potential directing groups can promote epoxidation on opposite faces of the ring scaffold, evidence of competitive epoxidation pathways, promoted by hydrogen-bonding to either the in situ formed ammonium moiety or the hydroxyl group, was observed. In contrast to the relative directing group abilities already established for the six-membered ring system (NHBn ≫ OH > NBn 2 ), an N,N-dibenzylammonium moiety appeared more proficient than a hydroxyl group at directing the stereochemical course of the epoxidation reaction in a five- or seven-membered system. In the former case, this was rationalized by the drive to minimize torsional strain in the transition state being coupled with assistance from hydrogen-bonding to the ammonium moiety. In the latter case, this was ascribed to the steric bulk of the ammonium moiety disfavoring conformations in which hydrogen-bonding to the hydroxyl group results in direction of the epoxidation to the syn face. In cases where the two potential directing groups can promote epoxidation on the same face of the ring scaffold, an enhancement of epoxidation diastereoselectivity was not observed, while introduction of a second, allylic heteroatom to the substrate results in diminishment of the rate of epoxidation in all cases. Presumably, reduction of the nucleophilicity of the olefin by the second, inductively electron-withdrawing heteroatom is the dominant factor, and any assistance to the epoxidation reaction by the potential to form hydrogen-bonds to two directing groups rather than one is clearly unable to overwhelm it.

Derivatization of peptides as quaternary ammonium salts for sensitive detection by ESI-MS.

PubMed

Cydzik, Marzena; Rudowska, Magdalena; Stefanowicz, Piotr; Szewczuk, Zbigniew

2011-06-01

A series of model peptides in the form of quaternary ammonium salts at the N-terminus was efficiently prepared by the solid-phase synthesis. Tandem mass spectrometric analysis of the peptide quaternary ammonium derivatives was shown to provide sequence confirmation and enhanced detection. We designed the 2-(1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2] octylammonium)acetyl quaternary ammonium group which does not suffer from neutral losses during MS/MS experiments. The presented quaternization of 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) by iodoacetylated peptides is relatively easy and compatible with standard solid-phase peptide synthesis. This methodology offers a novel sensitive approach to analyze peptides and other compounds. Copyright © 2011 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Ammonium nitrate-polymer glasses: a new concept for phase and thermal stabilization of ammonium nitrate.

PubMed

Lang, Anthony J; Vyazovkin, Sergey

2008-09-11

Dissolving of ammonium nitrate in highly polar polymers such as poly(vinylpyrrolidone) and/or poly(acrylamide) can result in the formation of single-phase glassy solid materials, in which NH 4 (+) and NO 3 (-) are separated through an ion-dipole interaction with the polymer matrix. Below the glass transition temperature of the polymer matrix the resulting materials remain phase and thermally stable as demonstrated through the absence of decomposition as well as the solid-solid transitions and melting of ammonium nitrate. The structure of the materials is explored by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and density functional calculations. Differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetry, and isoconversional kinetic analysis are applied to characterize the thermal behavior of the materials.

MpAMT1;2 from Marchantia polymorpha is a High-Affinity, Plasma Membrane Ammonium Transporter.

PubMed

Guo, Hanqing; Wang, Nu; McDonald, Tami R; Reinders, Anke; Ward, John M

2018-05-01

Plant ammonium transporters in the AMT/MEP/Rh (ammonium transporter/methylammonium and ammonium permease/Rhesus factor) superfamily have only been previously characterized in flowering plants (angiosperms). Plant AMT1s are electrogenic, while plant AMT2s are electroneutral, and MEP and Rh transporters in other organisms are electroneutral. We analyzed the transport function of MpAMT1;2 from the basal land plant Marchantia polymorpha, a liverwort. MpAMT1;2 was shown to localize to the plasma membrane in Marchantia gametophyte thallus by stable transformation using a C-terminal citrine fusion. MpAMT1;2 expression was studied using quantitative real-time PCR and shown to be higher when plants were N deficient and lower when plants were grown on media containing ammonium, nitrate or the amino acid glutamine. Expression in Xenopus oocytes and analysis by electrophysiology revealed that MpAMT1;2 is an electrogenic ammonium transporter with a very high affinity for ammonium (7 µM at pH 5.6 and a membrane potential of -137 mV). A conserved inhibitory phosphorylation site identified in angiosperm AMT1s is also present in all AMT1s in Marchantia. Here we show that a phosphomimetic mutation T475D in MpAMT1;2 completely inhibits ammonium transport activity. The results indicate that MpAMT1;2 may be important for ammonium uptake into cells in the Marchantia thallus.

Thiolated quaternary ammonium-chitosan conjugates for enhanced precorneal retention, transcorneal permeation and intraocular absorption of dexamethasone.

PubMed

Zambito, Ylenia; Di Colo, Giacomo

2010-06-01

Previously, a quaternary ammonium (N(+))-chitosan (Ch) conjugate (N(+)(60)-Ch) characterized by short pendant chains, made of 1.7+/-0.1 adjacent diethyl-dimethylene-ammonium groups, substituted onto the primary amino group of the chitosan repeating units (degree of substitution, 59.2+/-4.5%) was used to synthesize a multifunctional non-cytotoxic thiomer (N(+)(60)-Ch-SH(5)), carrying 4.5+/-0.7% thiol-bearing 3-mercaptopropionamide besides quaternary ammonium groups. The present work was aimed at evaluating the potential of N(+)(60)-Ch-SH(5) and N(+)(60)-Ch as bioactive excipients for dexamethasone (DMS) eyedrops. The DMS permeability across excised rabbit cornea was enhanced over the control value by the thiomer and the parent polymer to about the same extent (3.8 vs. 4.1 times). The mean precorneal retention time and AUC in the aqueous of DMS instilled in rabbit eyes via eyedrops were enhanced by the thiomer (MRT=77.96+/-3.57 min, AUC=33.19+/-6.96 microg ml(-1) min) more than the parent polymer (MRT=65.74+/-4.91 min, AUC=21.48+/-3.81 microg ml(-1) min) over the control (MRT=5.07+/-0.25 min, AUC=6.25+/-0.65 microg ml(-1) min). The quaternary ammonium ions were responsible for both permeabilization of corneal epithelium and polymer adhesion to precorneal mucus, while the thiols increased the latter. This synergistic action is the basis of the higher thiomer bioactivity in vivo. A good ocular tolerability of the chitosan derivatives resulted from in vivo experiments. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Inhibition of protein carbamylation in urea solution using ammonium-containing buffers.

PubMed

Sun, Shisheng; Zhou, Jian-Ying; Yang, Weiming; Zhang, Hui

2014-02-01

Urea solution is one of the most commonly employed protein denaturants for protease digestion in proteomic studies. However, it has long been recognized that urea solution can cause carbamylation at the N termini of proteins/peptides and at the side chain amino groups of lysine and arginine residues. Protein/peptide carbamylation blocks protease digestion and affects protein identification and quantification in mass spectrometry analysis by blocking peptide amino groups from isotopic/isobaric labeling and changing peptide charge states, retention times, and masses. In addition, protein carbamylation during sample preparation makes it difficult to study in vivo protein carbamylation. In this study, we compared the peptide carbamylation in urea solutions of different buffers and found that ammonium-containing buffers were the most effective buffers to inhibit protein carbamylation in urea solution. The possible mechanism of carbamylation inhibition by ammonium-containing buffers is discussed, and a revised procedure for the protease digestion of proteins in urea and ammonium-containing buffers was developed to facilitate its application in proteomic research. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Crystal structure of the heptamolybdate(VI) (paramolybdate) ion, [Mo7O24]6-, in the ammonium and potassium tetrahydrate salts

USGS Publications Warehouse

Evans, H.T.; Gatehouse, B.M.; Leverett, P.

1975-01-01

The crystal structures of the isomorphous salts MI6 [Mo7O24],4H2O (M = NH4 or K) have been refined by three-dimensional X-ray diffraction methods. Unit cell dimensions of these monoclinic compounds, space group P21/C with Z = 4, are, ammonium salt: a = 8.3934 ?? 0.0008, b = 36.1703 ?? 0.0045, c = 10.4715 ?? 0.0011 A??, ?? = 115.958?? ?? 0.008??; and potassium salt: a = 8.15 ?? 0.02, b = 35.68 ?? 0.1, c = 10.30 ?? 0.02 A??, ?? = 115.2?? ?? 02??. By use of multiple Weissenberg patterns, 8197 intensity data (Mo-K?? radiation) for the ammonium compound and 2178 (Cu-K?? radiation) for the potassium compound were estimated visually and used to test and refine Lindqvist's proposed structure in the space group P21/c. Lindqvist's structure was confirmed and the full matrix least-squares isotropic refinement led to R 0.076 (ammonium) 0.120 (potassium), with direct unambiguous location of the cations and water molecules in the potassium compound.

Soft antimicrobial agents: synthesis and activity of labile environmentally friendly long chain quaternary ammonium compounds.

PubMed

Thorsteinsson, Thorsteinn; Másson, Már; Kristinsson, Karl G; Hjálmarsdóttir, Martha A; Hilmarsson, Hilmar; Loftsson, Thorsteinn

2003-09-11

A series of soft quaternary ammonium antimicrobial agents, which are analogues to currently used quaternary ammonium preservatives such as cetyl pyridinium chloride and benzalkonium chloride, were synthesized. These soft analogues consist of long alkyl chain connected to a polar headgroup via chemically labile spacer group. They are characterized by facile nonenzymatic and enzymatic degradation to form their original nontoxic building blocks. However, their chemical stability has to be adequate in order for them to have antimicrobial effects. Stability studies and antibacterial and antiviral activity measurements revealed relationship between activity, lipophilicity, and stability. Their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was as low as 1 microg/mL, and their viral reduction was in some cases greater than 6.7 log. The structure-activity studies demonstrate that the bioactive compounds (i.e., MIC for Gram-positive bacteria of <10 microg/mL) have an alkyl chain length between 12 and 18 carbon atoms, with a polar headgroup preferably of a small quaternary ammonium group, and their acquired inactivation half-life must be greater than 3 h at 60 degrees C.

Physical, chemical and antimicrobial evaluation of a composite material containing quaternary ammonium salt for braces cementation.

PubMed

Sugii, Mari Miura; Ferreira, Fábio Augusto de Souza; Müller, Karina Cogo; Lima, Debora Alves Nunes Leite; Groppo, Francisco Carlos; Imasato, Hidetake; Rodrigues-Filho, Ubirajara Pereira; Aguiar, Flávio Henrique Baggio

2017-04-01

The antibiofilm effect of iodide quaternary ammonium methacryloxy silicate (IQAMS) in Transbond XT Light Cure Adhesive resin used for braces cementation was evaluated. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed IQAMS formation and Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled to Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) revealed that as coating, the quaternary ammonium groups from IQAMS were homogeneously dispersed throughout the surface. When incorporated, the composite material presented homogeneous dispersion throughout the resin. Assays with Streptococcus mutans demonstrated enhanced antibiofilm effect for the IQAMS coated resin, with much lower colony-forming units (CFU), in comparison to incorporated IQAMS. Such a difference was assigned to low availability of quaternary ammonium groups at the surface of resin when IQAMS was incorporated, hindering its antibiofilm effect. Additionally, the incorporation of IQAMS led to slight decrease in ultimate bond strength (UBS) and shear bond strength (SBS), in comparison to the neat commercial resin. Thus, the synthesized IQAMS displays great potential as antibiofilm coating or sealant to prevent oral infections in brackets during orthodontic treatment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Phosphate-dependent glutaminase in enterocyte mitochondria and its regulation by ammonium and other ions.

PubMed

Masola, B; Zvinavashe, E

2003-06-01

The effects of ammonium and other ions on phosphate dependent glutaminase (PDG) activity in intact rat enterocyte mitochondria were investigated. Sulphate and bicarbonate activated the enzyme in absence and presence of added phosphate. In presence of 10 mM phosphate, ammonium at concentrations <1 mM inhibited the enzyme. This inhibition was reversed by increased concentration of phosphate or sulphate. The inhibition of PDG by ammonium in presence of 10 mM phosphate was biphasic with respect to glutamine concentration, its effect being through a lowering of V(max) at glutamine concentration of

Density functional theory analysis of the impact of steric interaction on the function of switchable polarity solvents

DOE PAGES

McNally, Joshua S.; Noll, Bruce; Orme, Christopher J.; ...

2015-05-04

Here, a density functional theory (DFT) analysis has been performed to explore the impact of steric interactions on the function of switchable polarity solvents (SPS) and their implications on a quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) model previously proposed for SPS. An x-ray crystal structure of the N,N-dimethylcyclohexylammonium bicarbonate (Hdmcha) salt has been solved as an asymmetric unit containing two cation/anion pairs, with a hydrogen bonding interaction observed between the bicarbonate anions, as well as between the cation and anion in each pair. DFT calculations provide an optimized structure of Hdmcha that closely resembles experimental data and reproduces the cation/anion interaction withmore » the inclusion of a dielectric field. Relaxed potential energy surface (PES) scans have been performed on Hdmcha-based computational model compounds, differing in the size of functional group bonded to the nitrogen center, to assess the steric impact of the group on the relative energy and structural properties of the compound. Results suggest that both the length and amount of branching associated with the substituent impact the energetic limitations on rotation of the group along the N-R bond and NC-R bond, and disrupt the energy minimized position of the hydrogen bonded bicarbonate group. The largest interaction resulted from functional groups that featured five bonds between the ammonium proton and a proton on a functional group with the freedom of rotation to form a pseudo-six membered ring which included both protons.« less

Contributions of two cytosolic glutamine synthetase isozymes to ammonium assimilation in Arabidopsis roots

PubMed Central

Konishi, Noriyuki; Ishiyama, Keiki; Beier, Marcel Pascal; Inoue, Eri; Kanno, Keiichi; Yamaya, Tomoyuki; Takahashi, Hideki

2017-01-01

Abstract Glutamine synthetase (GS) catalyzes a reaction that incorporates ammonium into glutamate and yields glutamine in the cytosol and chloroplasts. Although the enzymatic characteristics of the GS1 isozymes are well known, their physiological functions in ammonium assimilation and regulation in roots remain unclear. In this study we show evidence that two cytosolic GS1 isozymes (GLN1;2 and GLN1;3) contribute to ammonium assimilation in Arabidopsis roots. Arabidopsis T-DNA insertion lines for GLN1;2 and GLN1;3 (i.e. gln1;2 and gln1;3 single-mutants), the gln1;2:gln1;3 double-mutant, and the wild-type accession (Col-0) were grown in hydroponic culture with variable concentrations of ammonium to compare their growth, and their content of nitrogen, carbon, ammonium, and amino acids. GLN1;2 and GLN1;3 promoter-dependent green fluorescent protein was observed under conditions with or without ammonium supply. Loss of GLN1;2 caused significant suppression of plant growth and glutamine biosynthesis under ammonium-replete conditions. In contrast, loss of GLN1;3 caused slight defects in growth and Gln biosynthesis that were only visible based on a comparison of the gln1;2 single- and gln1;2:gln1;3 double-mutants. GLN1;2, being the most abundantly expressed GS1 isozyme, markedly increased following ammonium supply and its promoter activity was localized at the cortex and epidermis, while GLN1;3 showed only low expression at the pericycle, suggesting their different physiological contributions to ammonium assimilation in roots. The GLN1;2 promoter-deletion analysis identified regulatory sequences required for controlling ammonium-responsive gene expression of GLN1;2 in Arabidopsis roots. These results shed light on GLN1 isozyme-specific regulatory mechanisms in Arabidopsis that allow adaptation to an ammonium-replete environment. PMID:28007952

Phase behavior in quaternary ammonium ionic liquid-propanol solutions: Hydrophobicity, molecular conformations, and isomer effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abe, Hiroshi; Kohki, Erica; Nakada, Ayumu; Kishimura, Hiroaki

2017-07-01

In ionic liquids (ILs), the effects of a quaternary ammonium cation containing a hydroxyl group were investigated and compared with the effect of a standard quaternary ammonium cation. The cation possessing a hydroxyl group is choline, Chol+, and the anion is bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, TFSI-. Crystal polymorphism of pure [Chol][TFSI] was observed upon both cooling and heating by simultaneous X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry measurements. In contrast, [N3111][TFSI] (N3111+: N-trimethyl-N-propylammonium), a standard IL, demonstrated simple crystallization upon cooling. By adding 1-propanol or 2-propanol, the phase behaviors of the [Chol][TFSI]-based and [N3111][TFSI]-based mixtures were clearly distinguished. By Raman spectroscopy, the TFSI- anion conformers in the liquid state were shown to vary according to the propanol concentration, propanol isomer, and type of cation. The anomalous behaviors of pure [Chol][TFSI] and its mixtures are derived from hydrogen bonding of the hydroxyl group of Chol+ cation coupled with the hydrophobicity and packing efficiency of propanol.

Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of restriction endonuclease EcoRII

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Karpova, E. A.; Meehan, E.; Pusey, M. L.; Chen, L.

1999-01-01

Crystals of the restriction endonuclease EcoRII have been obtained by the vapor-diffusion technique in the presence of ammonium sulfate or polyethylene glycol. The best crystals were grown with ammonium sulfate as a precipitant. Crystals with dimensions of up to 0.6 x 0. 6 x 0.6 mm have been observed. The crystals diffract to about 4.0 A resolution at a cryo-temperature of 100 K using a rotating-anode X-ray source and a Rigaku R-AXIS IV imaging-plate detector. The space group has been determined to be either I23 or I2(1)3, with unit-cell parameters a = b = c = 160.3 A, alpha = beta = gamma = 90 degrees. The crystal asymmetric unit contains two protein molecules, and self-rotation function analysis shows a pseudo-twofold symmetry relating the two monomers. Attempts to improve the resolution of crystal diffraction and to search for heavy-atom derivatives are under way.

Reciprocal-space and real-space neutron investigation of nanostructured Mo 2C and WC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Page, Katharine; Li, Jun; Savinelli, Robert; Szumila, Holly N.; Zhang, Jinping; Stalick, Judith K.; Proffen, Thomas; Scott, Susannah L.; Seshadri, Ram

2008-11-01

As possible substitute materials for platinum group metal heterogeneous catalysts, high surface area carbides of the early transition metals Mo and W are of great interest. Here we report nanostructured, high surface area Mo 2C and WC prepared by decomposing and carburizing ammonium paramolybdate [(NH 4) 6Mo 7O 24·4H 2O] and ammonium paratungstate [(NH 4) 10W 12O 41·5H 2O] in flowing 50%CH 4/50%H 2. Surface areas as high as 52 m 2/g for Mo 2C and 24 m 2/g for WC were obtained, with both structures crystallizing in structures appropriate for catalytic activity. We have studied these materials using a combination of neutron diffraction Rietveld refinement, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, surface area measurements, and scanning transmission electron microscopy. In addition, we have used pair-distribution function (PDF) analysis of the neutron total scattering data as a means of establishing the presence of graphitic carbon in the as-prepared materials.

Specific and total N-nitrosamines formation potentials of nitrogenous micropollutants during chloramination.

PubMed

Piazzoli, Andrea; Breider, Florian; Aquillon, Caroline Gachet; Antonelli, Manuela; von Gunten, Urs

2018-05-15

N-nitrosamines are a group of potent human carcinogens that can be formed during oxidative treatment of drinking water and wastewater. Many tertiary and quaternary amines present in consumer products (e.g., pharmaceuticals, personal care and household products) are known to be N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) precursors during chloramination, but the formation of other N-nitrosamines has been rarely studied. This study investigates the specific and total N-nitrosamine (TONO) formation potential (FP) of various precursors from nitrogen-containing micropollutants (chlorhexidine, metformin, benzalkonium chloride and cetyltrimethylammonium chloride) and tertiary and quaternary model amines (trimethyl amine, N,N-dimethylbutyl amine, N,N-dimethylbenzyl amine and tetramethyl ammonium). All the studied nitrogenous micropollutants displayed quantifiable TONO FP, with molar yields in the range 0.04-11.92%. However, the observed TONO pools constituted mostly of uncharacterized species, not included in US-EPA 8270 N-nitrosamines standard mix. Only the quaternary ammonium compound benzalkonium chloride showed quantifiable NDMA FP (0.56% molar yield), however, explaining only a minor fraction of the observed TONO FP. The studied model amines showed molar NDMA yields from 0.10% (trimethyl amine) to 5.05% (N,N-dimethylbenzyl amine), very similar to the molar TONO yields. The comparison of the FPs of micropollutants and model compounds showed that the presence of electron donating functional groups (such as a benzyl group) in tertiary and quaternary amine precursors leads to a higher formation of NDMA and uncharacterized N-nitrosamines, respectively. LC-qTOF screening of a list of proposed N-nitrosamine structures has enabled to identify a novel N-nitrosamine (N-nitroso-N-methyldodecylamine) from the chloramination of benzalkonium chloride. This finding supports the hypothesis that different functional groups in quaternary amines can act as leaving groups during chloramination and form differing N-nitrosamine structures at significant yield. Molar TONO yields determined for micropollutants were finally validated under experimental conditions closer to real water matrices, confirming their representativeness also for lower concentration ranges. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Hydrolysis of cellulose catalyzed by quaternary ammonium perrhenates in 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride.

PubMed

Wang, Jingyun; Zhou, Mingdong; Yuan, Yuguo; Zhang, Quan; Fang, Xiangchen; Zang, Shuliang

2015-12-01

Quaternary ammonium perrhenates were applied as catalyst to promote the hydrolysis of cellulose in 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([Amim]Cl). The quaternary ammonium perrhenates displayed good catalytic performance for cellulose hydrolysis. Water was also proven to be effective to promote cellulose hydrolysis. Accordingly, 97% of total reduced sugar (TRS) and 42% of glucose yields could be obtained under the condition of using 5mol% of tetramethyl ammonium perrhenate as catalyst, 70μL of water, ca. 0.6mmol of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and 2.0g of [Amim]Cl as solvent under microwave irradiation for 30min at 150°C (optimal conditions). The influence of quaternary ammonium cation on the efficiency of cellulose hydrolysis was examined based on different cation structures of perrhenates. The mechanism on perrhenate catalyzed cellulose hydrolysis is also discussed, whereas hydrogen bonding between ReO4 anion and hydroxyl groups of cellulose is assumed to be the key step for depolymerization of cellulose. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Tandem catalytic allylic amination and [2,3]-Stevens rearrangement of tertiary amines.

PubMed

Soheili, Arash; Tambar, Uttam K

2011-08-24

We have developed a catalytic allylic amination involving tertiary aminoesters and allylcarbonates, which is the first example of the use of tertiary amines as intermolecular nucleophiles in metal-catalyzed allylic substitution chemistry. This process is employed in a tandem ammonium ylide generation/[2,3]-rearrangement reaction, which formally represents a palladium-catalyzed Stevens rearrangement. Low catalyst loadings and mild reaction conditions are compatible with an unprecedented substrate scope for the ammonium ylide functionality, and products are generated in high yields and diastereoselectivities. Mechanistic studies suggested the reversible formation of an ammonium intermediate.

Cultivation, detection, and ecophysiology of anaerobic ammonium-oxidizing bacteria.

PubMed

Kartal, Boran; Geerts, Wim; Jetten, Mike S M

2011-01-01

Anaerobic ammonium-oxidizing (anammox) bacteria oxidize ammonium with nitrite under anoxic conditions. The anammox process is currently used to remove ammonium from wastewater and contributes significantly to the loss of fixed nitrogen from the oceans. In this chapter, we focus on the ecophysiology of anammox bacteria and describe new methodologies to grow these microorganisms. Now, it is possible to enrich anammox bacteria up to 95% with a membrane bioreactor that removes forces of selection for fast settling aggregates and facilitates the growth of planktonic cells. The biomass from this system has a high anaerobic ammonium oxidation rate (50 fmol NH(4)(+) · cell(-1) day(-1)) and is suitable for many ecophysiological and molecular experiments. A high throughput Percoll density gradient centrifugation protocol may be applied on this biomass for further enrichment (>99.5%) of anammox bacteria. Furthermore, we provide an up-to-date list of commonly used primers and introduce protocols for quantification and detection of functional genes of anammox bacteria in their natural environment. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Crystallization of chicken egg white lysozyme from assorted sulfate salts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Forsythe, Elizabeth L.; Snell, Edward H.; Malone, Christine C.; Pusey, Marc L.

1999-01-01

Chicken egg white lysozyme has been found to crystallize from ammonium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, magnesium, and manganese sulfates at acidic and basic pH, with protein concentrations from 60 to 190 mg/ml. Crystals have also been grown at 4°C in the absence of any other added salts using isoionic lysozyme which was titrated to pH 4.6 with dilute sulfuric acid. Four different crystal forms have been obtained, depending upon the temperature, protein concentration, and precipitating salt employed. Crystals grown at 15°C were generally tetragonal, with space group P4 32 12. Crystallization at 20°C typically resulted in the formation of orthorhombic crystals, space group P2 12 12 1. The tetragonal ↔ orthorhombic transition appeared to be a function of both the temperature and protein concentration, occurring between 15 and 20°C and between 100 and 125 mg/ml protein concentration. Crystallization from 1.2 M magnesium sulfate at pH 7.8 gave a trigonal crystal, space group P3 12 1, a= b=87.4, c=73.7, γ=120°, which diffracted to 2.8 Å. Crystallization from ammonium sulfate at pH 4.6, generally at lower temperatures, was also found to result in a monoclinic form, space group C2, a=65.6, b=95.0, c=41.2, β=119.2°. A crystal of ˜0.2×0.2×0.5 mm grown from bulk solution diffracted to ˜3.5 Å.

Prevalence of IgE against neuromuscular blocking agents in hairdressers and bakers.

PubMed

Dong, S; Acouetey, D S; Guéant-Rodriguez, R-M; Zmirou-Navier, D; Rémen, T; Blanca, M; Mertes, P M; Guéant, J-L

2013-11-01

Allergic IgE-mediated reactions to neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) are the main cause of immediate hypersensitivity reactions in anaesthesia; their predominant occurrence in the absence of previous exposure to NMBAs suggests a risk related to environmental exposure. To investigate the prevalence of specific IgE to quaternary ammonium ions in two populations professionally exposed to quaternary ammonium compounds, in the north-eastern France. The study had a retrospective follow-up design whereby apprentices were assessed after their 2-year training period as apprentices. The professionally exposed hairdresser populations (n = 128) were compared with baker/pastry makers (n = 108) and 'non-exposed' matched control subjects (n = 379). We observed a 4.6-fold higher frequency of positive IgE against quaternary ammonium ions in hairdressers (HD), compared with baker/pastry makers (BP) and control (C) groups. The competitive inhibition of quaternary ammonium Sepharose radioimmunoassay (QAS-IgE RIA) with succinylcholine was significantly higher in HD, compared with BP and C groups, with inhibition percentage of 66.2 ± 7.4, 39.7 ± 6.0 and 43.8 ± 9.9, respectively (P < 0.001). The specific IgE against quaternary ammonium ions recognized also two compounds widely used by hairdressers, benzalkonium chloride and polyquaternium-10, in competitive inhibition of IgE RIA. When considering the whole study population, hairdresser professional exposure and total IgE > 100 kU/L were the two significant predictors of IgE-sensitization against quaternary ammonium ions in the multivariate analysis of a model that included age, sex, professional exposure, increased concentration of total IgE (IgE > 100 kU/L) and positive IgE against prevalent allergens (Phadiatop(®) ; P = 0.019 and P = 0.001, respectively). The exposure to hairdressing professional occupational factors increases IgE-sensitization to NMBAs and quaternary ammonium ion compounds used in hairdressing. Besides the pholcodine hypothesis, our study suggests that repetitive exposure to quaternary ammonium compounds used in hairdressing is a risk factor for NMBAs sensitization. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Base-Free Photoredox/Nickel Dual-Catalytic Cross-Coupling of Ammonium Alkylsilicates.

PubMed

Jouffroy, Matthieu; Primer, David N; Molander, Gary A

2016-01-20

Single-electron transmetalation is recognized as an enabling technology for the mild transfer of alkyl groups to transition metal catalysts in cross-coupling reactions. Hypercoordinate silicates represent a new and improved class of radical precursors because of their low oxidation potentials and the innocuous byproducts generated upon oxidation. Herein, we report the cross-coupling of secondary and primary ammonium alkylsilicates with (hetero)aryl bromides in good to excellent yields. The base-free conditions have exceptional protic group tolerance on both partners, permitting the cross-coupling of unprotected primary and secondary amines.

Molecular Dynamics of β-Hairpin Models of Epigenetic Recognition Motifs

PubMed Central

Zheng, Xiange; Wu, Chuanjie; Ponder, Jay W.; Marshall, Garland R.

2012-01-01

The conformations and stabilities of the β-hairpin model peptides of Waters1,2 have been experimentally characterized as a function of lysine ε-methylation. These models were developed to explore molecular recognition of known epigenetic recognition motifs. This system offered an opportunity to computationally examine the role of cation-π interactions, desolvation of the ε-methylated ammonium groups, and aromatic/aromatic interactions on the observed differences in NMR spectra. AMOEBA, a second-generation force field4, was chosen as it includes both multipole electrostatics and polarizability thought to be essential to accurately characterize such interactions. Independent parameterization of ε-methylated amines was required from which aqueous solvation free energies were estimated and shown to agree with literature values. Molecular dynamics simulations (100 ns) using the derived parameters with model peptides, such as Ac-R-W-V-W-V-N-G-Orn-K(Me)n -I-L-Q-NH2, where n = 0, 1, 2, or 3, were conducted in explicit solvent. Distances between the centers of the indole rings of the two-tryptophan residues, 2 and 4, and the ε-methylated ammonium group on Lys-9 as well as the distance between the N- and C-termini were monitored to estimate the strength and orientation of the cation-π and aromatic/aromatic interactions. In agreement with the experimental data, the stability of the β-hairpin increased significantly with lysine ε-methylation. The ability of MD simulations to reproduce the observed NOEs for the four peptides was further estimated for the monopole-based force fields, AMBER, CHARMM, and OPLSAA. AMOEBA correctly predicted over 80% of the observed NOEs for all four peptides, while the three-monopole force fields were 40–50% predictive in only two cases and approximately 10% in the other ten examples. Preliminary analysis suggests that the decreased cost of desolvation of the substituted ammonium group significantly compensated for the reduced cation-π interaction resulting from the increased separation due to steric bulk of the ε-methylated amines. PMID:22934656

A nitrogen-dependent switch in the high affinity ammonium transport in Medicago truncatula.

PubMed

Straub, Daniel; Ludewig, Uwe; Neuhäuser, Benjamin

2014-11-01

Ammonium transporters (AMTs) are crucial for the high affinity primary uptake and translocation of ammonium in plants. In the model legume Medicago truncatula, the genomic set of AMT-type ammonium transporters comprises eight members. Only four genes were abundantly expressed in young seedlings, both in roots and shoots. While the expression of all AMTs in the shoot was not affected by the nitrogen availability, the dominating MtAMT1;1 gene was repressed by nitrogen in roots, despite that cellular nitrogen concentrations were far above deficiency levels. A contrasting de-repression by nitrogen was observed for MtAMT1;4 and MtAMT2;1, which were both expressed at intermediate level. Weak expression was found for MtAMT1;2 and MtAMT2;3, while the other AMTs were not detected in young seedlings. When expressed from their endogenous promoters, translational fusion proteins of MtAMT1;1 and MtAMT2;1 with green fluorescent protein were co-localized in the plasma membrane of rhizodermal cells, but also detected in cortical root layers. Both transporter proteins similarly functionally complemented a yeast strain that is deficient in high affinity ammonium transport, both at acidic and neutral pH. The uptake into yeast mediated by these transporters saturated with Km AMT1;1 = 89 µM and Km AMT2;1 = 123 µM, respectively. When expressed in oocytes, MtAMT1;1 mediated much larger (15)N-ammonium uptake than MtAMT2;1, but NH4 (+) currents were only recorded for MtAMT1;1. These currents saturated with a voltage-dependent Km = 90 µM at -80 mV. The cellular localization and regulation of the AMTs suggests that MtAMT1;1 encodes the major high affinity ammonium transporter gene in low nitrogen grown young M. truncatula roots and despite the similar localization and substrate affinity, MtAMT2;1 appears functionally distinct and more important at higher nitrogen supply.

Functionalization of graphene using deep eutectic solvents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hayyan, Maan; Abo-Hamad, Ali; AlSaadi, Mohammed AbdulHakim; Hashim, Mohd Ali

2015-08-01

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have received attention in various applications because of their distinctive properties. In this work, DESs were used as functionalizing agents for graphene due to their potential to introduce new functional groups and cause other surface modifications. Eighteen different types of ammonium- and phosphonium-salt-based DESs were prepared and characterized by FTIR. The graphene was characterized by FTIR, STA, Raman spectroscopy, XRD, SEM, and TEM. Additional experiments were performed to study the dispersion behavior of the functionalized graphene in different solvents. The DESs exhibited both reduction and functionalization effects on DES-treated graphene. Dispersion stability was investigated and then characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy and zeta potential. DES-modified graphene can be used in many applications, such as drug delivery, wastewater treatment, catalysts, composite materials, nanofluids, and biosensors. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first investigation on the use of DESs for graphene functionalization.

Functionalization of graphene using deep eutectic solvents.

PubMed

Hayyan, Maan; Abo-Hamad, Ali; AlSaadi, Mohammed AbdulHakim; Hashim, Mohd Ali

2015-12-01

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have received attention in various applications because of their distinctive properties. In this work, DESs were used as functionalizing agents for graphene due to their potential to introduce new functional groups and cause other surface modifications. Eighteen different types of ammonium- and phosphonium-salt-based DESs were prepared and characterized by FTIR. The graphene was characterized by FTIR, STA, Raman spectroscopy, XRD, SEM, and TEM. Additional experiments were performed to study the dispersion behavior of the functionalized graphene in different solvents. The DESs exhibited both reduction and functionalization effects on DES-treated graphene. Dispersion stability was investigated and then characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy and zeta potential. DES-modified graphene can be used in many applications, such as drug delivery, wastewater treatment, catalysts, composite materials, nanofluids, and biosensors. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first investigation on the use of DESs for graphene functionalization.

A Systematic Investigation of Quaternary Ammonium Ions as Asymmetric Phase Transfer Catalysts. Synthesis of Catalyst Libraries and Evaluation of Catalyst Activity

PubMed Central

Denmark, Scott E.; Gould, Nathan D.; Wolf, Larry M.

2011-01-01

Despite over three decades of research into asymmetric phase transfer catalysis (APTC), a fundamental understanding of the factors that affect the rate and stereoselectivity of this important process are still obscure. This paper describes the initial stages of a long-term program aimed at elucidating the physical organic foundations of APTC employing a chemoinformatic analysis of the alkylation of a protected glycine imine with a libraries of enantiomerically enriched quaternary ammonium ions. The synthesis of the quaternary ammonium ions follows a diversity oriented approach wherein the tandem inter[4+2]/intra[3+2] cycloaddition of nitroalkenes serves as the key transformation. A two part synthetic strategy comprised of: (1) preparation of enantioenriched scaffolds and (2) development of parallel synthesis procedures is described. The strategy allows for the facile introduction of four variable groups in the vicinity of a stereogenic quaternary ammonium ion. The quaternary ammonium ions exhibited a wide range of activity and to a lesser degree enantioselectivity. Catalyst activity and selectivity are rationalized in a qualitative way based on the effective positive potential of the ammonium ion. PMID:21446721

Crystal structure of ammonium bis­(pyridine-2,6-di­carboxyl­ato-κ3 O,N,O′)chromate(III) from synchrotron data

PubMed Central

Moon, Dohyun; Choi, Jong-Ha

2015-01-01

The structure of the title compound, (NH4)[Cr(pydc)2] (pydc is pyridine-2,6-di­carboxyl­ate, C7H3NO4), has been determined from synchrotron data. The CrIII ion and the N atom of the ammonium cation are located on a crystallographic fourfold rotoinversion axis (-4). The CrIII cation is coordinated by four O atoms and the two N atoms of two meridional pydc ligands, displaying a distorted octa­hedral geometry. The Cr—N and Cr—O bond lengths are 1.9727 (15) and 1.9889 (9) Å, respectively. The crystal structure is stabilized by inter­molecular hydrogen bonds involving the N–H groups of the ammonium cation and pyridine C–H groups as donors and the non-coordinating carbonyl O atoms as acceptors. PMID:25878821

Synthesis and theoretical studies on nitrogen-rich salts of bis[4-nitraminofurazanyl-3-azoxy]azofurazan (ADNAAF).

PubMed

Zheng, Chunmei; Chu, Yuting; Xu, Liwen; Lei, Wu; Wang, Fengyun; Xia, Mingzhu

2017-01-01

Multi-furazan compounds bis[4-nitramino- furazanyl-3-azoxy]azofurazan (ADNAAF) and its derivatives were first synthesized by our research group, and their structures were characterized by IR, 1 H-NMR, 13 C-NMR spectrums, and element analysis. ADNAAF was synthesized by nitration reaction of bis[4-aminofurazanyl-3-azoxy]azofurazan (ADAAF), and then reacted with ammonium hydroxide, hydrazine hydrate, and guanidine nitrate to obtain three salts marked as salt 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The thermal stabilities of the three salts were supported by the results of DSC analysis, which shows the decomposition temperatures are all above 190 °C. Their densities, enthalpies of formation, and detonation properties were studied by density functional theory (DFT) method. Salt 1 has the best detonation pressure (P), 37.42 GPa, and detonation velocity (D), 8.88 km/s, while salt 2 has the best nitrogen content and heat of detonation (Q), 1.27 kcal mol -1 . The detonation properties of salt 1 is similar to that of 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazineane (RDX). It means that the ammonium cation can provide the better D and P than the cation of hydrazine and guanidine. The three cations offer the enthalpies of formations in the order of hydrazinium > guanidinium > ammonium. Graphical Abstract Nitrogen-rich salts of bis[4-nitraminofurazanyl-3-azoxy]azofurazan(ADNAAF).

Identification of a Novel Regulatory Mechanism of Nutrient Transport Controlled by TORC1-Npr1-Amu1/Par32

PubMed Central

Boeckstaens, Mélanie; Merhi, Ahmad; Llinares, Elisa; Van Vooren, Pascale; Springael, Jean-Yves; Wintjens, René; Marini, Anna Maria

2015-01-01

Fine-tuning the plasma-membrane permeability to essential nutrients is fundamental to cell growth optimization. Nutritional signals including nitrogen availability are integrated by the TORC1 complex which notably regulates arrestin-mediated endocytosis of amino-acid transporters. Ammonium is a ubiquitous compound playing key physiological roles in many, if not all, organisms. In yeast, it is a preferred nitrogen source transported by three Mep proteins which are orthologues of the mammalian Rhesus factors. By combining genetic, kinetic, biochemical and cell microscopy analyses, the current study reveals a novel mechanism enabling TORC1 to regulate the inherent activity of ammonium transport proteins, independently of arrestin-mediated endocytosis, identifying the still functional orphan Amu1/Par32 as a selective regulator intermediate. We show that, under poor nitrogen supply, the TORC1 effector kinase' Npr1' promotes phosphorylation of Amu1/Par32 which appears mainly cytosolic while ammonium transport proteins are active. Upon preferred nitrogen supplementation, like glutamine or ammonium addition, TORC1 upregulation enables Npr1 inhibition and Amu1/Par32 dephosphorylation. In these conditions, as in Npr1-lacking cells, hypophosphorylated Amu1/Par32 accumulates at the cell surface and mediates the inhibition of specific ammonium transport proteins. We show that the integrity of a conserved repeated motif of Amu1/Par32 is required for the interaction with these transport proteins. This study underscores the diversity of strategies enabling TORC1-Npr1 to selectively monitor cell permeability to nutrients by discriminating between transporters to be degraded or transiently inactivated and kept stable at the plasma membrane. This study further identifies the function of Amu1/Par32 in acute control of ammonium transport in response to variations in nitrogen availability. PMID:26172854

Intramolecular cation-π interactions in protonated phenylalanine derivatives.

PubMed

Fu, Weiqiang; Carr, Patrick J J; Lecours, Michael J; Burt, Michael; Marta, Rick A; Steinmetz, Vincent; Fillion, Eric; McMahon, Terrance B; Hopkins, W Scott

2016-12-21

The structures and properties of a series of phenylalanine (Phe) derivatives have been investigated in a joint computational and experimental infrared multiple photon dissociation (IRMPD) study. IRMPD spectra in the 1000-2000 cm -1 region show that protonation is localized on the amine group in all cases. Intramolecular cation-π interactions between the ammonium group and the phenyl ring heavily influence molecular geometries and properties such as gas phase basicity and proton affinity. By varying substituents on the phenyl ring, one can sensitively tune the cation-π interaction and, therefore, the molecular structure and properties. Variations in molecular structures and properties as a function of phenyl ring substitution are shown to correlate with substituent Hammett parameters.

Impaired cerebral microcirculation induced by ammonium chloride in rats is due to cortical adenosine release.

PubMed

Bjerring, Peter Nissen; Bjerrum, Esben Jannik; Larsen, Fin Stolze

2018-06-01

Liver failure results in hyperammonaemia, impaired regulation of cerebral microcirculation, encephalopathy, and death. However, the key mediator that alters cerebral microcirculation remains unidentified. In this study we show that topically applied ammonium significantly increases periarteriolar adenosine tone on the brain surface of healthy rats and is associated with a disturbed microcirculation. Cranial windows were prepared in anaesthetized Wistar rats. The flow velocities were measured by speckle contrast imaging and compared before and after 30 min of exposure to 10 mM ammonium chloride applied on the brain surface. These flow velocities were compared with those for control groups exposed to artificial cerebrospinal fluid or ammonium plus an adenosine receptor antagonist. A flow preservation curve was obtained by analysis of flow responses to a haemorrhagic hypotensive challenge and during stepwise exsanguination. The periarteriolar adenosine concentration was measured with enzymatic biosensors inserted in the cortex. After ammonium exposure the arteriolar flow velocity increased by a median (interquartile range) of 21.7% (23.4%) vs. 7.2% (10.2%) in controls (n = 10 and n = 6, respectively, p <0.05), and the arteriolar surface area increased. There was a profound rise in the periarteriolar adenosine concentration. During the hypotensive challenge the flow decreased by 27.8% (14.9%) vs. 9.2% (14.9%) in controls (p <0.05). The lower limit of flow preservation remained unaffected, 27.7 (3.9) mmHg vs. 27.6 (6.4) mmHg, whereas the autoregulatory index increased, 0.29 (0.33) flow units per millimetre of mercury vs. 0.03 (0.21) flow units per millimetre of mercury (p <0.05). When ammonium exposure was combined with topical application of an adenosine receptor antagonist, the autoregulatory index was normalized. Vasodilation of the cerebral microcirculation during exposure to ammonium chloride is associated with an increase in the adenosine tone. Application of a specific adenosine receptor antagonist restores the regulation of the microcirculation. This indicates that adenosine could be a key mediator of the brain dysfunction seen during hyperammonaemia and is a potential therapeutic target. In patients with liver failure, disturbances in brain function are caused in part by ammonium toxicity. In our project we studied how ammonia, through adenosine release, affects the blood flow in the brain of rats. In our experimental model we demonstrated that the detrimental effect of ammonia on blood flow regulation was counteracted by blocking the adenosine receptors in the brain. With this observation we identified a novel potential treatment target. If we can confirm our findings in a future clinical study, this might help patients with liver failure and the severe condition called hepatic encephalopathy. Copyright © 2018 European Association for the Study of the Liver. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Phase diagram of crystallization of Aspergillus niger acid proteinase A, a non-pepsin-type acid proteinase

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kudo, Norio; Ataka, Mitsuo; Sasaki, Hiroshi; Muramatsu, Tomonari; Katsura, Tatsuo; Tanokura, Masaru

1996-10-01

Proteinase A from Aspergillus niger var. macrosporus is a non-pepsin-type acid proteinase with an extremely low isoelectric point (pI 3.3). The protein is crystallized from ammonium sulfate solutions of pH lower than 4. The crystallization is affected by the presence of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). We have studied the phase diagram of the crystallization of proteinase A in the absence and presence of DMSO, to clarify crystallization at such an extremely low pH and to study the effects of DMSO. The results indicate that the logarithm of protein solubility is a rectilinear function of ammonium sulfate concentration in both the absence and presence of DMSO. DMSO definitely lowers the solubility at relatively low concentrations of ammonium sulfate, but had little effect on protein solubility at higher concentrations of ammonium sulfate.

Solid-State Synthesis and Structure of the Enigmatic Ammonium Octaborate: (NH4)2[B7O9(OH)5]·3/4B(OH)3·5/4H2O.

PubMed

Neiner, Doinita; Sevryugina, Yulia V; Schubert, David M

2016-09-06

The compound known since the 19th century as ammonium octaborate was structurally characterized revealing the ammonium salt of the ribbon isomer of the heptaborate anion, [B7O9(OH)5](2-), with boric acid and water molecules. Of composition (NH4)2B7.75O12.63·4.88H2O, it approximates the classical ammonium octaborate composition (NH4)2B8O13·6H2O and has the structural formula {(NH4)2[B7O9(OH)5]}4·3B(OH)3·5H2O. It spontaneously forms at room temperature in solid-state mixtures of ammonium tetraborate and ammonium pentaborate. It crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c with a = 11.4137(2) Å, b = 11.8877(2) Å, c = 23.4459(3) Å, β = 90.092(1)°, V = 3181.19(8) Å(3), and Z = 2 and contains well-ordered ammonium cations and [B7O9(OH)5](2-) anions and disordered B(OH)3 and H2O molecules linked by extensive H bonding. Expeditious solid-state formation of the heptaborate anion under ambient conditions has important implications for development of practical syntheses of industrially useful borates.

Evaluation of autotrophic growth of ammonia-oxidizers associated with granular activated carbon used for drinking water purification by DNA-stable isotope probing.

PubMed

Niu, Jia; Kasuga, Ikuro; Kurisu, Futoshi; Furumai, Hiroaki; Shigeeda, Takaaki

2013-12-01

Nitrification is an important biological function of granular activated carbon (GAC) used in advanced drinking water purification processes. Newly discovered ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) have challenged the traditional understanding of ammonia oxidation, which considered ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) as the sole ammonia-oxidizers. Previous studies demonstrated the predominance of AOA on GAC, but the contributions of AOA and AOB to ammonia oxidation remain unclear. In the present study, DNA-stable isotope probing (DNA-SIP) was used to investigate the autotrophic growth of AOA and AOB associated with GAC at two different ammonium concentrations (0.14 mg N/L and 1.4 mg N/L). GAC samples collected from three full-scale drinking water purification plants in Tokyo, Japan, had different abundance of AOA and AOB. These samples were fed continuously with ammonium and (13)C-bicarbonate for 14 days. The DNA-SIP analysis demonstrated that only AOA assimilated (13)C-bicarbonate at low ammonium concentration, whereas AOA and AOB exhibited autotrophic growth at high ammonium concentration. This indicates that a lower ammonium concentration is preferable for AOA growth. Since AOA could not grow without ammonium, their autotrophic growth was coupled with ammonia oxidation. Overall, our results point towards an important role of AOA in nitrification in GAC filters treating low concentration of ammonium. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Grafting of antibacterial polymers on stainless steel via surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization for inhibiting biocorrosion by Desulfovibrio desulfuricans.

PubMed

Yuan, S J; Xu, F J; Pehkonen, S O; Ting, Y P; Neoh, K G; Kang, E T

2009-06-01

To enhance the biocorrosion resistance of stainless steel (SS) and to impart its surface with bactericidal function for inhibiting bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation, well-defined functional polymer brushes were grafted via surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) from SS substrates. The trichlorosilane coupling agent, containing the alkyl halide ATRP initiator, was first immobilized on the hydroxylated SS (SS-OH) substrates for surface-initiated ATRP of (2-dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA). The tertiary amino groups of covalently immobilized DMAEMA polymer or P(DMAEMA), brushes on the SS substrates were quaternized with benzyl halide to produce the biocidal functionality. Alternatively, covalent coupling of viologen moieties to the tertiary amino groups of P(DMAEMA) brushes on the SS surface resulted in an increase in surface concentration of quaternary ammonium groups, accompanied by substantially enhanced antibacterial and anticorrosion capabilities against Desulfovibrio desulfuricans in anaerobic seawater, as revealed by antibacterial assay and electrochemical studies. With the inherent advantages of high corrosion resistance of SS, and the good antibacterial and anticorrosion capabilities of the viologen-quaternized P(DMAEMA) brushes, the functionalized SS is potentially useful in harsh seawater environments and for desalination plants. Copyright 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Functional characterization of the water-soluble organic carbon of size fractionated aerosol in the Southern Mississippi Valley

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chalbot, M.-C. G.; Brown, J.; Chitranshi, P.; Gamboa da Costa, G.; Pollock, E. D.; Kavouras, I. G.

2014-02-01

The chemical content of the water soluble organic carbon (WSOC) as a function of particle size was characterized in Little Rock, Arkansas in winter and spring 2013. The objectives of this study were to: (i) compare the functional characteristics of coarse, fine and ultrafine WSOC and (ii) reconcile the sources of WSOC for the period when carbonaceous aerosol was the most abundant particulate component. The WSOC accounted for 5% of particle mass for particles with dp > 0.96 μm and 10% of particle mass for particles with dp < 0.96 μm. Non-exchangeable aliphatic (H-C), unsaturated aliphatic (H-C-C=), oxygenated saturated aliphatic (H-C-O), acetalic (O-CH-O) and aromatic (Ar-H) protons were determined by proton nuclear magnetic resonance. The total non-exchangeable organic hydrogen concentrations varied from 4.1 ± 0.1 nmol m-3 for particles with 0.96 < dp < 1.5 μm to 73.9 ± 12.3 nmol m-3 for particles with dp < 0.49 μm, resulting in molar H / C ratios of 0.48 ± 0.05 to 0.92 ± 0.09 observed in combustion-related organic aerosol. The R-H was the most abundant group representing about 45% of measured total non-exchangeable organic hydrogen concentration followed by H-C-O (27%) and H-C-C= (26%). Levoglucosan, amines, ammonium and methanosulfonate were tentatively identified in NMR fingerprints of fine particles. Sucrose, fructose, glucose, formate and acetate were associated with coarse particles. These qualitative differences of 1H-NMR profiles for different particle sizes indicated the possible contribution of biological aerosol and a mixture of aliphatic and oxygenated compounds from biomass burning and traffic exhausts. The concurrent presence of ammonium and amines also suggested the presence of ammonium/aminium nitrate and sulfate secondary aerosol. The size-dependent origin of WSOC was further corroborated by the increasing δ13C abundance from -26.81 ± 0.18‰ for the smallest particles to -25.93 ± 0.31‰ for the largest particles and the relative distribution of the functional groups as compared to those previously observed for marine, biomass burning and secondary organic aerosol. The latter also allowed for the differentiation of urban combustion-related aerosol and biological particles. The five types of organic hydrogen accounted for the majority of WSOC for particles with dp > 3.0 μm and dp < 0.96 μm.

Functional characterization of the water-soluble organic carbon of size-fractionated aerosol in the southern Mississippi Valley

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chalbot, M.-C. G.; Brown, J.; Chitranshi, P.; Gamboa da Costa, G.; Pollock, E. D.; Kavouras, I. G.

2014-06-01

The chemical content of water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC) as a function of particle size was characterized in Little Rock, Arkansas in winter and spring 2013. The objectives of this study were to (i) compare the functional characteristics of coarse, fine and ultrafine WSOC and (ii) reconcile the sources of WSOC for periods when carbonaceous aerosol was the most abundant particulate component. The WSOC accounted for 5% of particle mass for particles with dp > 0.96 μm and 10% of particle mass for particles with dp < 0.96 μm. Non-exchangeable aliphatic (H-C), unsaturated aliphatic (H-C-C=), oxygenated saturated aliphatic (H-C-O), acetalic (O-CH-O) and aromatic (Ar-H) protons were determined by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR). The total non-exchangeable organic hydrogen concentrations varied from 4.1 ± 0.1 nmol m-3 for particles with 1.5 < dp < 3.0 μm to 73.9 ± 12.3 nmol m-3 for particles with dp < 0.49 μm. The molar H / C ratios varied from 0.48 ± 0.05 to 0.92 ± 0.09, which were comparable to those observed for combustion-related organic aerosol. The R-H was the most abundant group, representing about 45% of measured total non-exchangeable organic hydrogen concentrations, followed by H-C-O (27%) and H-C-C= (26%). Levoglucosan, amines, ammonium and methanesulfonate were identified in NMR fingerprints of fine particles. Sucrose, fructose, glucose, formate and acetate were associated with coarse particles. These qualitative differences of 1H-NMR profiles for different particle sizes indicated the possible contribution of biological aerosols and a mixture of aliphatic and oxygenated compounds from biomass burning and traffic exhausts. The concurrent presence of ammonium and amines also suggested the presence of ammonium/aminium nitrate and sulfate secondary aerosol. The size-dependent origin of WSOC was further corroborated by the increasing δ13C abundance from -26.81 ± 0.18‰ for the smallest particles to -25.93 ± 0.31‰ for the largest particles and the relative distribution of the functional groups as compared to those previously observed for marine, biomass burning and secondary organic aerosol. The latter also allowed for the differentiation of urban combustion-related aerosol and biological particles. The five types of organic hydrogen accounted for the majority of WSOC for particles with dp > 3.0 μm and dp < 0.96 μm.

Preparation and characterization of maleoylagarose/PNIPAAm graft copolymers and formation of polyelectrolyte complexes with chitosan.

PubMed

Ortiz, J Andrés; Matsuhiro, Betty; Zapata, Paula A; Corrales, Teresa; Catalina, Fernando

2018-02-15

A water soluble derivative in 98% yield with 23.1% incorporation of maleoyl groups was obtained by esterification of agarose with maleic anhydride. Graft copolymers were synthesized through vinyl groups of maleoylagarose with N-isopropylacrylamide using ceric ammonium nitrate or ammonium persulfate as initiator, by conventional method or microwave irradiation. High nitrogen content (4.6%) was obtained in the grafting process using ceric ammonium nitrate as initiator without microwave irradiation. Copolymers were characterized by FT-IR and NMR spectroscopies, TGA, DSC and morphological analysis by AFM and SEM microscopy, confirming the grafting of PNIPAAm onto polysaccharide backbone. Hydrogel films were obtained by ionic complexation between opposite charged groups of maleoylagarose-g-poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) and chitosan. The swelling of 1:1w/v maleoylagarose-g-PNIPAAm:chitosan film was higher than 2:1w/v film at 25 and 37°C. 53% release in vitro of diclofenac sodium from 1:1w/v maleoylagarose-g-PNIPAAm:chitosan was obtained at 37°C and pH 6.0 with <0.5 diffusional constant values. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Crystal structure of ammonium/potassium trans-bis­(N-methyl­iminodi­acetato-κ3 O,N,O′)chromate(III) from synchrotron data

PubMed Central

Moon, Dohyun; Choi, Jong-Ha

2016-01-01

The structure of the title compound, [(NH4)0.8K0.2][Cr(C5H7NO4)2] (C5H7NO4 is methyl­iminodi­acetate; mida), has been determined from synchrotron data. The CrIII atom is located on a centre of symmetry and is coordinated by two N atoms and four O atoms of two facially arranged tridentate mida ligands, displaying a slightly distorted octa­hedral coordination environment. The Cr—N and mean Cr—O bond lengths are 2.0792 (14) and 1.958 (14) Å, respectively. The cation site is located on a twofold rotation axis and shows occupational disorder, being occupied by ammonium and potassium cations in a 0.8:0.2 ratio. In the crystal, inter­molecular hydrogen bonds involving the N—H groups of the ammonium cation as donor and the two non-coordinating O atoms of the carboxyl­ate group as acceptor groups consolidate the three-dimensional packing. PMID:27536411

Antimicrobial activity of chemically modified dextran derivatives.

PubMed

Tuchilus, Cristina G; Nichifor, Marieta; Mocanu, Georgeta; Stanciu, Magdalena C

2017-04-01

Cationic amphiphilic dextran derivatives with a long alkyl group attached to the reductive end of the polysaccharide chain and quaternary ammonium groups attached as pendent groups to the main dextran backbone were synthesized and tested for their antimicrobial properties against several bacteria and fungi strains. Dependence of antimicrobial activity on both polymer chemical composition (dextran molar mass, length of end alkyl group and chemical structure of ammonium groups) and type of microbes was highlighted by disc-diffusion method (diameter of inhibition zone) and broth microdilution method (minimum inhibitory concentrations). Polymers had antimicrobial activity for all strains studied, except for Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853. The best activity against Staphylococcus aureus (Minimun Inhibitory Concentration 60μg/mL) was provided by polymers obtained from dextran with lower molecular mass (Mn=4500), C 12 H 25 or C 18 H 37 end groups, and N,N-dimethyl-N-benzylammonium pendent groups. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Purge-and-trap ion chromatography for the determination of trace ammonium ion in high-salinity water samples.

PubMed

Wang, Po-Yen; Wu, Jing-Yi; Chen, Hung-Jhen; Lin, Tzung-Yi; Wu, Chien-Hou

2008-04-25

It has always been assumed that purge-and-trap (P&T) method is only used for the analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in aqueous samples. In this paper, a novel P&T preconcentrator has been developed for the determination of trace amounts of ammonium ion in high-salinity water samples by ion chromatography (IC). Method performance is evaluated as a function of concentration of assistant purging material, purging time, and flow rate. Under the optimum P&T conditions with the purified nitrogen gas at flow rate 40 mL/min for 15.0 min at 40 degrees C, the overall collection efficiency is independent of the concentration of ammonium over the range 1.2-5.9 microM. The enrichment factor (EF) of ammonium correlates the ratio of the sample volume to the acceptor solution volume in the trap vessel, providing potentially unlimited increase of the ammonium signal. Our results indicate that environmental samples with low levels of ammonium in matrices with high concentrations of sodium can be easily analyzed and the detection limit down to 75 nM (1.35 ppb) level, corresponding to picomole of ammonia in the injected sample. Calibration graph was constructed with ammonium standards ranging from 0.05 to 6.0 microM and the linearity of the present method was good as suggested by the square of correlation coefficients being better than 0.997. Thus, we have demonstrated that the P&T-IC method allows the routine determination of ammonium ion in seawater samples without cation interferences.

Effect of Hydration on the Mechanical Properties of Anion Exchange Membranes

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-01-19

trimethylbenzyl ammonium (PFTMBA), c.) ethyl ammonium (PFEA). ...............26! Figure 3.3: a.) Full IR spectra of the 3M sulfonyl precursor, methyl...with the cation group. ............................................................................................30! Figure 3.4: IR spectra of all...is modified from a paper published in Journal of Polymer Science, Part B: Polymer Physics1 Melissa A. Vandiver2, James L. Horan3, Yuan Yang4, Emily T

Sodium and potassium content and their ratio in meatballs in tomato sauce produced with lower amounts of sodium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lilić, S.; Nikolić, D.; Pejkovski, Z.; Velebit, B.; Lakićević, B.; Korićanac, V.; Vranić, D.

2017-09-01

The goal of this study was to examine the possibility of partial replacement of sodium chloride with potassium chloride and ammonium chloride, with the target of achieving less sodium content in meatballs and tomato sauce as well as achieving a better Na:K ratio. The trial consisted of five groups. In the control group of meatballs and sauce, only sodium chloride was added. In group 1, half of the sodium chloride was replaced with potassium chloride related to control group while in group 2 one third of the sodium chloride was replaced with potassium chloride. In group 3, one third of the sodium chloride was replaced with ammonium chloride, and in group 4, sodium chloride was reduced to half the amount in the control group, and 1 g (0.25%) of ammonium chloride was also added. All products were acceptable according to sensory analyses. The largest reductions of sodium content were 44.64%, achieved in meatballs from group 1 and 50.62% in tomato sauce from group 4 in relation to meatballs and tomato sauce from control group. The highest Na:K ratio was calculated in meatballs and tomato sauce from control group, 2.88 and 4.39, respectively. The best Na:K ratio was in meatballs and tomato sauce from group 1, 0.60 and 0.92, respectively, in which half of sodium chloride was replaced with potassium chloride. However, in meatballs and tomato sauce from group 4, with only half the amount of sodium chloride related to control group, the Na:K ratio was worse because in these products, potassium chloride was not added.

Optical constants of concentrated aqueous ammonium sulfate.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Remsberg, E. E.

1973-01-01

Using experimental data obtained from applying spectroscopy to a 39-wt-% aqueous ammonium sulfate solution, it is shown that, even though specific aerosol optical constants appear quite accurate, spectral variations may exist as functions of material composition or concentration or both. Prudent users of optical constant data must then include liberal data error estimates when performing calculations or in interpreting spectroscopic surveys of collected aerosol material.

Effects of Polymer Structure and Relaxations on Ionic Conductivity in Anion Exchange Membranes with Quaternary Ammonium Functional Groups

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maes, Ashley M.

Anion exchange membranes (AEMs) are of considerable interest to developers and researchers of electrochemical conversion and storage devices such as anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AAEMFCs), alkaline polymer electrolyte electrolysers, redox flow batteries and bioelectrochemical devices. AEMs are generally in competition with more established proton exchange membranes (PEMs), but offer the potential for reduction of materials costs and greater fuel flexibility across these applications. This work includes an introduction to AEMs in the context of fuel cell technologies and some key techniques for AEM characterization. There are many synthetic strategies to incorporate cationic functional groups, which promote anion transport, into a polymer matrix. Two membrane chemistries are investigated in the following chapters. The first is based on a simple synthesis procedure that produced a membrane consisting of random, crosslinked polypropylene- ran-polyethyleneimine with quaternary ammonium functional groups. This membrane had moderate chloride ionic conductivity of 0.03 S cm -1 at 95 °C and high water uptake with minimal dimensional swelling. However, the lack of control of crosslink location and density during synthesis produced a material with a very random nature, making it a poor candidate for more fundamental transport studies. The second membrane chemistry is a block copolymer with a hydrophobic and hydrophilic block. The hydrophobic block was selected to provide favorable mechanical and barrier characteristics while a hydrophilic block was selected to provide water uptake and anion conducting functionalities. Poly(vinyl benzyl trimethyl ammonium bromide)-b-poly(methylbutylene) ([PVBTMA][Br]- b-PMB) was synthesized by partners at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst with varied degrees of functionalization (DF) along the hydrophilic block, resulting in ion exchange capacities ranging from 0.77 to 2.20 mmol g -1. Water uptake, in-plane ionic conductivity and membrane morphology were measured across a series of membranes with the original bromide (Br -) counter-ion. These bulk materials characterization experiments demonstrated that this polymer structure produces well-ordered lamellar morphology with moderate water uptake and competitive ionic conductivity (ca. 40 mS cm-1 at 90 °C and 95% relative humidity). These characteristics make it an appropriate candidate for the following more fundamental investigations of ionic conductivity mechanisms. Broadband electrical spectroscopy (BES) was conducted on one [PVBTMA][Br]- b-PMB sample in the Br- form and analyzed in conjunction with thermal stability and relaxation experiments in Chapter 4. We were able to propose two separate ionic conductivity mechanisms and relate each to physical attributes of the polymer structure. A significant thermal transition was observed at Tdelta , which resulted in a dramatic drop in conductivity. In a continued effort to characterize the ionic conductivity of these block-copolymer membranes, another BES study was conducted on three samples with varying DFs. Samples were converted to hydroxide (OH- ) form so we could contrast the Br- conductivity mechanisms to those in a more relevant counter-ion form. After analysis of the electric response of the material, combined with the thermal analysis by TGA, MDSC and DMA, conductivity mechanisms were described. As in the Br- study, conductivity involves two distinct conduction pathways, sigmaEP and sigmaIP,1. Importantly, we again observed a drop in conductivity at Tdelta in each of these samples, with Tdelta decreasing as the density of functional groups along the hydrophilic block increased. It is undesirable for this transition to occur during operation in a fuel cell or other electrochemical device, so future work to investigate strategies for inhibition are recommended.

Functional copolymer/organo-MMT nanoarchitectures. VI. Synthesis and characterization of novel nanocomposites by interlamellar controlled/living radical copolymerization via preintercalated RAFT-agent/organoclay complexes.

PubMed

Rzayev, Zakir M O; Söylemez, A Ernur

2011-04-01

We have developed a new approach for the synthesis of polymer nanocomposites using a bifunctional reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) agent, two types of organo-montmorillonites, such as a non-reactive dimethyldodecyl ammonium (DMDA)-MMT and a reactive octadecylamine (ODA)-MMT organoclays, and a radical initiator. The method includes the following stages: (1) synthesis of RAFT intercalated O-MMTs by a physical or chemical interaction of the RAFT agent having two pendant carboxylic groups [S,S-bis(alpha,alpha'-dimethyl-alpha"-acetic acid)trithiocarbonate] with surface alkyl amines of O-MMT containing tertiary ammonium cation or primary amine groups through strong H-bonding and complexing/amidization reactions, respectively, and (2) utilization of these well-dispersed and intercalated RAFT ... O-MMT complexes and their amide derivatives as new modified RAFT agents in radical-initiated interlamellar controlled/living copolymerization of itaconic acid (IA)-n-butylmethacrylate (BMA) monomer pair. The structure and compositions of the synthesized RAFT ... O-MMT complexes and functional copolymer/O-MMT hybrids were confirmed by FTIR, XRD, thermal (DSC-TGA), SEM and TEM morphology analyses. It was demonstrated that the degree of interaction/exfoliation, morphology and thermal behavior of nanocomposites significantly depended on the type of organoclay and in situ interaction, as well as on the content of flexible butyl-ester linkages as a internal plasticizer. The results of the comparative analysis of the nanocomposites structure-composition-property relations show that the functional copolymer-organoclay hybrids prepared with reactive RAFT ... ODA-MMT complex and containing a combination of partially intercalated and predominantly exfoliated nano-structures exhibit relatively higher thermal stability and fine dispersed morphology. These effects were explained by in situ interfacial chemical reactions through amidization of RAFT with surface alkyl amine of MMT clay in interlamellar copolymerization. This simple and versatile method can be applied to a wide range of functional monomer/comonomer systems and mono- and bifunctional RAFT compounds for preparation new generation of nanomaterials.

Bioassays and field immersion tests: a comparison of the antifouling activity of copper-free poly(methacrylic)-based coatings containing tertiary amines and ammonium salt groups.

PubMed

Bressy, C; Hellio, C; Marechal, J P; Tanguy, B; Margaillan, A

2010-10-01

This paper focuses on the activity spectrum of three dimethylalkyl tertiary amines as potential active molecules and the corresponding ammonium salt-based antifouling (AF) paints. Bioassays (using marine bacteria, microalgae and barnacles) and field tests were combined to assess the AF activity of coatings. Bioassay results demonstrated that the ammonium salt-based paints did not inhibit the growth of microorganisms (except the dimethyldodecylammonium-based coatings) and that the tertiary amines were potent towards bacteria, diatoms, and barnacle larvae at non-toxic concentrations (therapeutic ratio, LC50/EC50, <1). The results from field tests indicated that the ammonium salt-based coatings inhibited the settlement of macrofouling and the dimethylhexadecylammonium-based coatings provided protection against slime in comparison with PVC blank panels. Thus, results from laboratory assays did not fully concur with the AF activity of the paints in the field trial.

The hunt for the most-wanted chemolithoautotrophic spookmicrobes

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

ABSTRACT Microorganisms are the drivers of biogeochemical methane and nitrogen cycles. Essential roles of chemolithoautotrophic microorganisms in these cycles were predicted long before their identification. Dedicated enrichment procedures, metagenomics surveys and single-cell technologies have enabled the identification of several new groups of most-wanted spookmicrobes, including novel methoxydotrophic methanogens that produce methane from methylated coal compounds and acetoclastic ‘Candidatus Methanothrix paradoxum’, which is active in oxic soils. The resultant energy-rich methane can be oxidized via a suite of electron acceptors. Recently, ‘Candidatus Methanoperedens nitroreducens’ ANME-2d archaea and ‘Candidatus Methylomirabilis oxyfera’ bacteria were enriched on nitrate and nitrite under anoxic conditions with methane as an electron donor. Although ‘Candidatus Methanoperedens nitroreducens’ and other ANME archaea can use iron citrate as an electron acceptor in batch experiments, the quest for anaerobic methane oxidizers that grow via iron reduction continues. In recent years, the nitrogen cycle has been expanded by the discovery of various ammonium-oxidizing prokaryotes, including ammonium-oxidizing archaea, versatile anaerobic ammonium-oxidizing (anammox) bacteria and complete ammonium-oxidizing (comammox) Nitrospira bacteria. Several biogeochemical studies have indicated that ammonium conversion occurs under iron-reducing conditions, but thus far no microorganism has been identified. Ultimately, iron-reducing and sulfate-dependent ammonium-oxidizing microorganisms await discovery. PMID:29873717

Phosphonium carbosilane dendrimers - interaction with a simple biological membrane model.

PubMed

Wrobel, Dominika; Kubikova, Radka; Müllerová, Monika; Strašák, Tomas; RůŽička, Květoslav; Fulem, Michal; Maly, Jan

2018-05-30

The influence of three generations of five different phosphonium carbosilane dendrimers and one ammonium carbosilane dendrimer as a reference (PMe3, PBu3, P(Et2)2(CH2)3OH, PPh3, P(MeOPh)3 and NMe3, peripheral functional groups) on dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) or a lipid mixture dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine/dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol (DMPC/DMPG) of liposomes was studied by fluorescence polarization measurements and differential scanning calorimetry. All types of dendrimers interacted with neutral as well as negatively charged liposomes, but the strength and observed influence were different. Concentration, type of peripheral functional group modification and dendrimer generation were the main factors influencing the interaction. Generally, weak interactions as well as destabilization of the lipid membranes at low concentrations, regardless of liposome type, were observed in the case of DmPMe3, DmNMe3, DmPBu3 and DmP(Et2)2(CH2)3OH. Dendrimers with PPh3 and P(MeOPh)3 peripheral functional groups interacted much more strongly and increased the rigidity of liposomes. Electrostatic interactions, the hydrophobicity of substituents and charge shielding on the peripheral phosphonium group are important factors in the interaction. We suggest that, among the other types of dendrimers, the dendrimer with the P(MeOPh)3 peripheral functional group is a highly promising candidate for the design of a drug delivery system due to its positive charge, efficient interaction with lipidic membranes and low cytotoxicity.

Environmental drivers of heterogeneity in the trophic-functional structure of protozoan communities during an annual cycle in a coastal ecosystem.

PubMed

Xu, Guangjian; Yang, Eun Jin; Xu, Henglong

2017-08-15

Trophic-functional groupings are an important biological trait to summarize community structure in functional space. The heterogeneity of the tropic-functional pattern of protozoan communities and its environmental drivers were studied in coastal waters of the Yellow Sea during a 1-year cycle. Samples were collected using the glass slide method at four stations within a water pollution gradient. A second-stage matrix-based analysis was used to summarize spatial variation in the annual pattern of the functional structure. A clustering analysis revealed significant variability in the trophic-functional pattern among the four stations during the 1-year cycle. The heterogeneity in the trophic-functional pattern of the communities was significantly related to changes in environmental variables, particularly ammonium-nitrogen and nitrates, alone or in combination with dissolved oxygen. These results suggest that the heterogeneity in annual patterns of protozoan trophic-functional structure may reflect water quality status in coastal ecosystems. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

The nature of electron acceptor (MnIV/NO3) triggers differential expression of genes associated with stress and ammonium limitation responses in Shewanella algae C6G3.

PubMed

Aigle, Axel; Bonin, Patricia; -Nunez, Nicolas Fernandez; Loriod, Béatrice; Guasco, Sophie; Bergon, Aurélie; Armougom, Fabrice; Iobbi-Nivol, Chantal; Imbert, Jean; Michotey, Valérie

2018-03-16

Shewanella algae C6G3 can reduce dissimilatively nitrate into ammonium and manganese-oxide (MnIV) into MnII. It has the unusual ability to produce anaerobically nitrite from ammonium in the presence of MnIV. To gain insight into their metabolic capabilities, global mRNA expression patterns were investigated by RNA-seq and qRT-PCR in cells growing with lactate and ammonium as carbon and nitrogen sources and with either MnIV or nitrate as electron acceptors. Gene exhibiting higher expression levels in the presence of MnIV belonged to functional categories of carbohydrate, coenzyme, lipid metabolisms and inorganic ion transport. Comparative transcriptomic pattern between MnIV and NO3 revealed that the strain presented an ammonium limitation status with MnIV, despite the presence of non-limiting concentration of ammonium under both culture conditions. In addition, in presence of MnIV, ntrB/nrtC regulators, ammonium channel, nitrogen regulatory protein P-II, glutamine synthetase and asparagine synthetase glutamine dependent genes were over-represented. Under nitrate condition, the expression of genes involved in the synthesis of several amino acids was increased. Finally, expression level of genes associated with the general stress response was also amplified and among them, katE, a putative catalase/peroxidase present on several Shewanella genomes, was highly expressed with a relative median value higher in MnIV condition.

Modelling the interactions between ammonium and nitrate uptake in marine phytoplankton

PubMed Central

Flynn, K. J.; Fasham, M. J. R.; Hipkin, C. R.

1997-01-01

An empirically based mathematical model is presented which can simulate the major features of the interactions between ammonium and nitrate transport and assimilation in phytoplankton. The model (ammonium-nitrate interaction model), which is configured to simulate a generic microalga rather than a specified species, is constructed on simplified biochemical bases. A major requirement for parametrization is that the N:C ratio of the algae must be known and that transport and internal pool sizes need to be expressed per unit of cell C. The model uses the size of an internal pool of an early organic product of N assimilation (glutamine) to regulate rapid responses in ammonium-nitrate interactions. The synthesis of enzymes for the reduction of nitrate through to ammonium is induced by the size of the internal nitrate pool and repressed by the size of the glutamine pool. The assimilation of intracellular ammonium (into glutamine) is considered to be a constitutive process subjected to regulation by the size of the glutamine pool. Longer term responses have been linked to the nutrient history of the cell using the N:C cell quota. N assimilation in darkness is made a function of the amount of surplus C present and thus only occurs at low values of N:C. The model can simulate both qualitative and quantitative temporal shifts in the ammonium-nitrate interaction, while inclusion of a derivation of the standard quota model enables a concurrent simulation of cell growth and changes in nutrient status.

Crystallization of Chicken Egg White Lysozyme from Assorted Sulfate Salts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Forsythe, Elizabeth L.; Snell, Edward H.; Malone, Christine C.; Pusey, Marc L.

1999-01-01

Chicken egg white lysozyme has been found to crystallize from ammonium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, magnesium, and manganese sulfates at acidic and basic pH, with protein concentrations from 60 to 190 mg/ml. Crystals have also been grown at 4 C in the absence of any other added salts using isoionic lysozyme which was titrated to pH 4.6 with dilute sulfuric acid. Four different crystal forms have been obtained, depending upon the temperature, protein concentration, and precipitating salt employed. Crystals grown at 15 C were generally tetragonal, with space group P4(sub 3)2(sub 1)2. Crystallization at 20 C typically resulted in the formation of orthorhombic crystals, space group P2(sub 1)2(sub 1)2(sub 1). The tetragonal reversible reaction orthorhombic transition appeared to be a function of both the temperature and protein concentration, occurring between 15 and 20 C and between 100 and 125 mg/ml protein concentration. Crystallization from 1.2 M magnesium sulfate at pH 7.8 gave a trigonal crystal, space group P3(sub 1)2(sub 1), a = b = 87.4, c = 73.7, gamma = 120 deg, which diffracted to 2.8 A. Crystallization from ammonium sulfate at pH 4.6, generally at lower temperatures, was also found to result in a monoclinic form. space group C2, a = 65.6, b = 95.0, c = 41.2, beta = 119.2 deg. A crystal of approximately 0.2 x 0.2 x 0.5 mm grown from bulk solution diffracted to approximately 3.5 A.

Flocculation and antimicrobial properties of a cationized starch.

PubMed

Liu, Zhouzhou; Huang, Mu; Li, Aimin; Yang, Hu

2017-08-01

In this study, a series of cationized starch-based flocculants (starch-3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl triethyl ammonium chloride, St-CTA) containing various quaternary ammonium salt groups on the starch backbone were prepared using a simple etherification reaction. All of the prepared starch-based flocculants show effective performance for the flocculation of kaolin suspension, two bacterial (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) suspensions, and two contaminant mixtures (kaolin and each bacterium) under most pH conditions. St-CTA with a high substitution degree of CTA demonstrates improved contaminant removal efficiency because of the strong cationic nature of the grafted quaternary ammonium salt groups and the charge naturalization flocculation effect. The antibacterial effects of St-CTA were also evaluated, considering that many quaternary ammonium salt compounds elicit bactericidal effects. Three-dimensional excitation-emission matrix spectra and direct cell morphological observation under scanning electron microscopy reveal that the starch-based flocculants exhibit better antibacterial effects on the Gram-negative bacterium E. coli than on the Gram-positive bacterium S. aureus. The thicker cell wall due to the presence of abundant peptidoglycan and teichoic acids of S. aureus than E. coli explains the uneasy breakage of S. aureus cell wall after being attacked by the cationized starch-based flocculants. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Observational and modeling studies of chemical species concentrations as a function of raindrop size

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wai, K. M.; Tam, C. W. F.; Tanner, P. A.

The Guttalgor method has been used to determine the chemical species concentrations in size-selected raindrops in nine rain events at Hong Kong from 1999 to 2001. The curve (concentration against raindrop radius) patterns for all the species are similar but depend on the starting time of sampling within a rain event. In these plots, the maximum concentration occurs at the same range of droplet radius, irrespective of the species, and this indicates the importance of coalescence and breakup processes. The maximum is located at a smaller droplet radius than was found in previous studies in Germany. All results show almost constant concentrations with size for large raindrops, and these indicate the in-cloud contributions. The pH of raindrops of similar size is linearly correlated with a function of the sulfate, nitrate, acetate, formate, calcium and ammonium ion species concentrations. Within a single raindrop, chloride depletion is not significant, and sulfate, ammonium and hydrogen ions are found in ratios compatible with the precursor solid-phase mixture of ammonium sulfate and ammonium bisulphate. When simulated by a below-cloud model, good agreement between the modeled and measured sodium and sulfate concentrations has been found. Below-cloud sulfur dioxide scavenging contributes at most 60% of the sulfate concentration in a single raindrop.

The AMT1 family genes from Malus robusta display differential transcription features and ammonium transport abilities.

PubMed

Li, Hui; Yang, Qing-Song; Liu, Wei; Lin, Jing; Chang, You-Hong

2017-10-01

Ammonium is an important nitrogen sources for plant growth. In this study, we report on the gene characterization of the ammonium transporter AMT1 subfamily in the apple rootstock Malus robusta Rehd. Thirteen AMT genes were comprehensively evaluated from the apple genome (version 1.0). Then the gene features and expression patterns of five AMT1 members from M. robusta were analyzed. These genes fell into four clusters in the AMT phylogenetic tree: clade I (MrAMT1;1 and MrAMT1;3), clade II (MrAMT1;4), clade III (MrAMT1;2), and clade IV (MrAMT1;5). All the AMT1s, apart from MrAMT1;4, were expressed in vegetative organs and strongly responded to nitrogen concentration changes. For example, MrAMT1;2 and MrAMT1;3 had high transcript accumulation levels in the leaves and roots, respectively. Finally, the functions of these AMT1s were studied in detail by heterologous expression in yeast. These genes allowed strain 31019b to assimilate nitrogen, but their 15 NH 4 + uptake kinetics varied. These results revealed the functional roles of AMT1 during ammonium absorption in the AMT-defective mutant yeast system.

Inorganic salt mixtures as electrolyte media in fuel cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Angell, Charles Austen (Inventor); Francis-Gervasio, Dominic (Inventor); Belieres, Jean-Philippe (Inventor)

2012-01-01

Fuel cell designs and techniques for converting chemical energy into electrical energy uses a fuel cell are disclosed. The designs and techniques include an anode to receive fuel, a cathode to receive oxygen, and an electrolyte chamber in the fuel cell, including an electrolyte medium, where the electrolyte medium includes an inorganic salt mixture in the fuel cell. The salt mixture includes pre-determined quantities of at least two salts chosen from a group consisting of ammonium trifluoromethanesulfonate, ammonium trifluoroacetate, and ammonium nitrate, to conduct charge from the anode to the cathode. The fuel cell includes an electrical circuit operatively coupled to the fuel cell to transport electrons from the cathode.

Endowing hexaphenylsilole with chemical sensory and biological probing properties by attaching amino pendants to the silolyl core

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Yongqiang; Lam, Jacky W. Y.; Qin, Anjun; Li, Zhen; Liu, Jianzhao; Sun, Jingzhi; Dong, Yuping; Tang, Ben Zhong

2007-09-01

Hexaphenylsilole (HPS) was functionalized by two amino (A 2) groups, giving a new silole derivative of 1,1-bis[4-(diethylaminomethyl)phenyl]-2,3,4,5-tetraphenylsilole (A 2HPS) that is capable of detecting explosives, biomacromolecules and pH changes. A 2HPS is nonemissive when molecularly dissolved but becomes highly luminescent when aggregated. The emission of its nanoaggregates is quenched by picric acid with a high Ksv value (˜1.7 × 10 5 M -1). A 2HPS can dissolve in acidic aqueous media, due to the transformation of its amino groups to ammonium-salts. The resultant nonemissive aqueous solution is turned on by increasing its pH value or adding protein or DNA.

Separation and characterization of acetyl and non-acetyl hemicelluloses of Arundo donax by ammonium sulfate precipitation.

PubMed

Peng, Feng; Bian, Jing; Peng, Pai; Xiao, Huan; Ren, Jun-Li; Xu, Feng; Sun, Run-Cang

2012-04-25

Delignified Arundo donax was sequentially extracted with DMSO, saturated barium hydroxide, and 1.0 M aqueous NaOH solution. The yields of the soluble fractions were 10.2, 6.7, and 10.0% (w/w), respectively, of the dry Arundo donax materials. The DMSO-, Ba(OH)(2)- and NaOH-soluble hemicellulosic fractions were further fractionated into two subfractions by gradient 50% and 80% saturation ammonium sulfate precipitation, respectively. Monosaccharide, molecular weight, FT-IR, and 1D ((1)H and (13)C) and 2D (HSQC) NMR analysis revealed the differences in structural characteristics and physicochemical properties among the subfractions. The subfractions precipitated with 50% saturation ammonium sulfate had lower arabinose/xylose and glucuronic acid/xylose ratios but had higher molecular weight than those of the subfractions precipitated by 80% saturation ammonium sulfate. FT-IR and NMR analysis revealed that the highly acetylated DMSO-soluble hemicellulosic subfraction (H(D50)) could be precipitated with a relatively lower concentration of 50% saturated ammonium sulfate, and thus the gradient ammonium sulfate precipitation technique could discriminate acetyl and non-acetyl hemicelluloses. It was found that the DMSO-soluble subfraction H(D50) precipitated by 50% saturated ammonium sulfate mainly consisted of poorly substituted O-acetyl arabino-4-O-methylglucurono xylan with terminal units of arabinose linked on position 3 of xylose, 4-O-methylglucuronic acid residues linked on position 2 of the xylan bone, and the acetyl groups (degree of acetylation, 37%) linked on position 2 or 3. The DMSO-soluble subfraction H(D80) precipitated by 80% saturated ammonium sulfate was mainly composed of highly substituted arabino-4-O-methylglucurono xylan and β-d-glucan.

Nature of phase transitions in ammonium oxofluorovanadates, a vibrational spectroscopy study of (NH4)3VO2F4 and (NH4)3VOF5.

PubMed

Gerasimova, Yu V; Oreshonkov, A S; Laptash, N M; Vtyurin, A N; Krylov, A S; Shestakov, N P; Ershov, A A; Kocharova, A G

2017-04-05

Two ammonium oxofluorovanadates, (NH 4 ) 3 VO 2 F 4 and (NH 4 ) 3 VOF 5 , have been investigated by temperature-dependent infrared and Raman spectroscopy methods to determine the nature of phase transitions (PT) in these compounds. Dynamics of quasioctahedral groups was simulated within the framework of semi-empirical approach, which justified the cis-conformation of VO 2 F 4 3- (C 2v ) and the C 4v geometry of VOF 5 3- . The observed infrared and Raman spectra of both compounds at room temperature (RT) revealed the presence at least of two crystallographically independent octahedral groups. The first order PT at elevated temperatures is connected with a complete dynamic disordering of these groups with only single octahedral state. At lower temperatures, the octahedra are ordered and several octahedral states appear. This PT is the most pronounced in the case of (NH 4 ) 3 VOF 5 , when at least seven independent VOF 5 3- octahedra are present in the structure below 50K, in accordance with the Raman spectra. Ammonium groups do not take part in PTs at higher and room temperatures but their reorientational motion freezes at lower temperatures. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Phase transitions in (NH4)2MoO2F4 crystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krylov, Alexander; Laptash, Natalia; Vtyurin, Alexander; Krylova, Svetlana

2016-11-01

The mechanisms of temperature and high pressure phase transitions have been studied by Raman spectroscopy. Room temperature (295 K) experiments under high hydrostatic pressure up to 3.6 GPa for (NH4)2 MoO2 F4 have been carried out. Experimental data indicates a phase transition into a new high-pressure phase for (NH4)2 MoO2 F4 at 1.2 GPa. This phase transition is related to the ordering anion octahedron groups [MoO2 F4]2- and is not associated with ammonium group. Raman spectra of small non-oriented crystals ranging from 10 to 350 K have been observed. The experiment shows anion groups [MoO2 F4]2- and ammonium in high temperature phase are disordered. The phase transition at T1 = 269.8 K is of the first-order, close to the tricritical point. The first temperature phase transition is related to the ordering anion octahedron groups [MoO2 F4]2-. Second phase transitions T2 = 180 K are associated with the ordering of ammonium. The data presented within this study demonstrate that 2D correlation analysis combined with traditional Raman spectroscopy are powerful tool to study phase transitions in the crystals.

The Dionaea muscipula ammonium channel DmAMT1 provides NH₄⁺ uptake associated with Venus flytrap's prey digestion.

PubMed

Scherzer, Sönke; Krol, Elzbieta; Kreuzer, Ines; Kruse, Jörg; Karl, Franziska; von Rüden, Martin; Escalante-Perez, Maria; Müller, Thomas; Rennenberg, Heinz; Al-Rasheid, Khaled A S; Neher, Erwin; Hedrich, Rainer

2013-09-09

Ammonium transporter (AMT/MEP/Rh) superfamily members mediate ammonium uptake and retrieval. This pivotal transport system is conserved among all living organisms. For plants, nitrogen represents a macronutrient available in the soil as ammonium, nitrate, and organic nitrogen compounds. Plants living on extremely nutrient-poor soils have developed a number of adaptation mechanisms, including a carnivorous lifestyle. This study addresses the molecular nature, function, and regulation of prey-derived ammonium uptake in the Venus flytrap, Dionaea muscipula, one of the fastest active carnivores. The Dionaea muscipula ammonium transporter DmAMT1 was localized in gland complexes where its expression was upregulated upon secretion. These clusters of cells decorating the inner trap surface are engaged in (1) secretion of an acidic digestive enzyme cocktail and (2) uptake of prey-derived nutrients. Voltage clamp of Xenopus oocytes expressing DmAMT1 and membrane potential recordings with DmAMT1-expressing Dionaea glands were used to monitor and compare electrophysiological properties of DmAMT1 in vitro and in planta. DmAMT1 exhibited the hallmark biophysical properties of a NH4(+)-selective channel. At depolarized membrane potentials (Vm = 0), the Km (3.2 ± 0.3 mM) indicated a low affinity of DmAMT1 for ammonium that increased systematically with negative going voltages. Upon hyperpolarization to, e.g., -200 mV, a Km of 0.14 ± 0.015 mM documents the voltage-dependent shift of DmAMT1 into a NH4(+) transport system of high affinity. We suggest that regulation of glandular DmAMT1 and membrane potential readjustments of the endocrine cells provide for effective adaptation to varying, prey-derived ammonium sources. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Separation of aromatic carboxylic acids using quaternary ammonium salts on reversed-phase HPLC. 1. Separation behavior of aromatic carboxylic acids

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kawamura, K.; Okuwaki, A.; Verheyen, T.

In order to develop separation processes and analytical methods for aromatic carboxylic acids for the coal oxidation products, the separation behavior of aromatic carboxylic acids on a reversed-phase HPLC using eluent containing quaternary ammonium salt has been investigated. The retention mechanism of aromatic carboxylic acids was discussed on the basis of both ion-pair partition model and ion-exchange model. The retention behavior of aromatic carboxylic acids possessing one (or two) carboxylic acid group(s) followed the ion-pair partition model, where linear free energy relationship was observed between the capacity factor and the extraction equilibrium constants of benzoic acid and naphthalene carboxylic acid.more » Besides, the retention behavior followed ion-exchange model with increasing the number of carboxylic acids, where the capacity factor of benzene polycarboxylic acids is proportional to the association constants between aromatic acids and quaternary ammonium ions calculated on the basis of an electrostatic interaction model.« less

Investigations on synthesis, growth and physicochemical properties of semi-organic NLO crystal bis(thiourea) ammonium nitrate for nonlinear frequency conversion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anbarasi, A.; Ravi Kumar, S. M.; Sundar, G. J. Shanmuga; Mosses, M. Allen; Raj, M. Packiya; Prabhakaran, M.; Ravisankar, R.; Gunaseelan, R.

2017-10-01

Bis(thiourea) ammonium nitrate (BTAN), a new nonlinear optical crystal was grown successfully by slow evaporation technique using water as solvent at room temperature. The grown crystals were optically good quality with dimensions upto 10 × 6 × 3 mm3. Single crystal X-Ray diffraction analysis reveals that the crystal lattice is orthorhombic. From Powder X-ray diffraction analysis the diffraction planes have been indexed. The presence of the various functional groups of BTAN was identified through FTIR spectroscopic analysis. UV cut-off wavelength was observed from optical absorbance spectrum and it was found to be 240 nm. Second harmonic efficiency was determined using Kurtz powder method in comparison with KDP to confirm the nonlinearity of the material. Thermal analysis confirmed that grown crystal is thermally stable upto 184 °C. Microhardness studies show that hardness number (Hv) increases with load. Conductivity measurements such as dielectric, ac and photoconductivity were studied. Growth mechanism and surface features of the as grown single crystal was analysed by chemical etching analysis.

Ammonia fixation by humic substances: A nitrogen-15 and carbon-13 NMR study

USGS Publications Warehouse

Thorn, K.A.; Mikita, M.A.

1992-01-01

The process of ammonia fixation has been studied in three well characterized and structurally diverse fulvic and humic acid samples. The Suwannee River fulvic acid, and the IHSS peat and leonardite humic acids, were reacted with 15N-labelled ammonium hydroxide, and analyzed by liquid phase 15N NMR spectrometry. Elemental analyses and liquid phase 13C NMR spectra also were recorded on the samples before and after reaction with ammonium hydroxide. The largest increase in percent nitrogen occurred with the Suwannee River fulvic acid, which had a nitrogen content of 0.88% before fixation and 3.17% after fixation. The 15N NMR spectra revealed that ammonia reacted similarly with all three samples, indicating that the functional groups which react with ammonia exist in structural configurations common to all three samples. The majority of nitrogcn incorporated into the samples appears to be in the form of indole and pyrrole nitrogen, followed by pyridine, pyrazine, amide and aminohydroquinone nitrogen. Chemical changes in the individual samples upon fixation could not be discerned from the 13C NMR spectra.

Effects of surface chemical properties of activated carbon modified by amino-fluorination for electric double-layer capacitor.

PubMed

Jung, Min-Jung; Jeong, Euigyung; Cho, Seho; Yeo, Sang Young; Lee, Young-Seak

2012-09-01

The surface of phenol-based activated carbon (AC) was seriatim amino-fluorinated with solution of ammonium hydroxide and hydrofluoric acid in varying ratio to fabricate electrode materials for use in an electric double-layer capacitor (EDLC). The specific capacitance of the amino-fluorinated AC-based EDLC was measured in a 1 M H(2)SO(4) electrolyte, in which it was observed that the specific capacitances increased from 215 to 389 Fg(-1) and 119 and 250 Fg(-1) with the current densities of 0.1 and 1.0 Ag(-1), respectively, in comparison with those of an untreated AC-based EDLC when the amino-fluorination was optimized via seriatim mixed solution of 7.43 mol L(-1) ammonium hydroxide and 2.06 mol L(-1) hydrofluoric acid. This enhancement of capacitance was attributed to the synergistic effects of an increased electrochemical activity due to the formation of surface N- and F-functional groups and increased, specific surface area, and mesopore volumes, all of which resulted from the amino-fluorination of the electrode material. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

High-capacity cation-exchange column for enhanced resolution of adjacent peaks of cations in ion chromatography.

PubMed

Rey, M A

2001-06-22

One of the advantages of ion chromatography [Anal Chem. 47 (1975) 1801] as compared to other analytical techniques is that several ions may be analyzed simultaneously. One of the most important contributions of cation-exchange chromatography is its sensitivity to ammonium ion, which is difficult to analyze by other techniques [J. Weiss, in: E.L. Johnson (Ed.), Handbook of Ion Chromatography, Dionex, Sunnyvale, CA, USA]. The determination of low concentrations of ammonium ion in the presence of high concentrations of sodium poses a challenge in cation-exchange chromatography [J. Weiss, Ion Chromatography, VCH, 2nd Edition, Weinheim, 1995], as both cations have similar selectivities for the common stationary phases containing either sulfonate or carboxylate functional groups. The task was to develop a new cation-exchange stationary phase (for diverse concentration ratios of adjacent peaks) to overcome limitations experienced in previous trails. Various cation-exchange capacities and column body formats were investigated to optimize this application and others. The advantages and disadvantages of two carboxylic acid columns of different cation-exchange capacities and different column formats will be discussed.

Development of crosslinked methylcellulose hydrogels for soft tissue augmentation using an ammonium persulfate-ascorbic acid redox system.

PubMed

Gold, Gittel T; Varma, Devika M; Taub, Peter J; Nicoll, Steven B

2015-12-10

Hydrogels composed of methylcellulose are candidate materials for soft tissue reconstruction. Although photocrosslinked methylcellulose hydrogels have shown promise for such applications, gels crosslinked using reduction-oxidation (redox) initiators may be more clinically viable. In this study, methylcellulose modified with functional methacrylate groups was polymerized using an ammonium persulfate (APS)-ascorbic acid (AA) redox initiation system to produce injectable hydrogels with tunable properties. By varying macromer concentration from 2% to 4% (w/v), the equilibrium moduli of the hydrogels ranged from 1.47 ± 0.33 to 5.31 ± 0.71 kPa, on par with human adipose tissue. Gelation time was found to conform to the ISO standard for injectable materials. Cellulase treatment resulted in complete degradation of the hydrogels within 24h, providing a reversible corrective feature. Co-culture with human dermal fibroblasts confirmed the cytocompatibility of the gels based on DNA measurements and Live/Dead imaging. Taken together, this evidence indicates that APS-AA redox-polymerized methylcellulose hydrogels possess properties beneficial for use as soft tissue fillers. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Metagenomics Transect into the Deepest Point of the Baltic Sea Reveals Clear Stratification of Microbial Functional Capacities

PubMed Central

Poole, Anthony M.; Sjöberg, Britt-Marie; Sjöling, Sara

2013-01-01

The Baltic Sea is characterized by hyposaline surface waters, hypoxic and anoxic deep waters and sediments. These conditions, which in turn lead to a steep oxygen gradient, are particularly evident at Landsort Deep in the Baltic Proper. Given these substantial differences in environmental parameters at Landsort Deep, we performed a metagenomic census spanning surface to sediment to establish whether the microbial communities at this site are as stratified as the physical environment. We report strong stratification across a depth transect for both functional capacity and taxonomic affiliation, with functional capacity corresponding most closely to key environmental parameters of oxygen, salinity and temperature. We report similarities in functional capacity between the hypoxic community and hadal zone communities, underscoring the substantial degree of eutrophication in the Baltic Proper. Reconstruction of the nitrogen cycle at Landsort deep shows potential for syntrophy between archaeal ammonium oxidizers and bacterial denitrification at anoxic depths, while anaerobic ammonium oxidation genes are absent, despite substantial ammonium levels below the chemocline. Our census also reveals enrichment in genetic prerequisites for a copiotrophic lifestyle and resistance mechanisms reflecting adaptation to prevalent eutrophic conditions and the accumulation of environmental pollutants resulting from ongoing anthropogenic pressures in the Baltic Sea. PMID:24086414

Intramolecular, Exciplex-Mediated, Proton-Coupled, Charge-Transfer Processes in N,N-Dimethyl-3-(1-pyrenyl)propan-1-ammonium Cations: Influence of Anion, Solvent Polarity, and Temperature.

PubMed

Safko, Trevor M; Faleiros, Marcelo M; Atvars, Teresa D Z; Weiss, Richard G

2016-06-16

An intramolecular exciplex-mediated, proton-coupled, charge-transfer (PCCT) process has been investigated for a series of N,N-dimethyl-3-(1-pyrenyl)propan-1-ammonium cations with different anions (PyS) in solvents of low to intermediate polarity over a wide temperature range. Solvent mediates both the equilibrium between conformations of the cation that place the pyrenyl and ammonium groups in proximity (conformation C) or far from each other (conformation O) and the ability of the ammonium group to transfer a proton adiabatically in the PyS excited singlet state. Thus, exciplex emission, concurrent with the PCCT process, was observed only in hydrogen-bond accepting solvents of relatively low polarity (tetrahydrofuran, ethyl acetate, and 1,4-dioxane) and not in dichloromethane. From the exciplex emission and other spectroscopic and thermodynamic data, the acidity of the ammonium group in conformation C of the excited singlet state of PyS (pKa*) has been estimated to be ca. -3.4 in tetrahydrofuran. The ratios between the intensities of emission from the exciplex and the locally excited state (IEx/ILE) appear to be much more dependent on the nature of the anion than are the rates of exciplex formation and decay, although the excited state data do not provide a quantitative measure of the anion effect on the C-O equilibrium. The activation energies associated with exciplex formation in THF are calculated to be 0.08 to 0.15 eV lower than for the neutral amine, N,N-dimethyl-3-(1-pyrenyl)propan-1-amine. Decay of the exciplexes formed from the deprotonation of PyS is hypothesized to occur through charge-recombination processes. To our knowledge, this is the first example in which photoacidity and intramolecular exciplex formation (i.e., a PCCT reaction) are coupled.

Method and apparatus for chromatographic quantitative analysis

DOEpatents

Fritz, James S.; Gjerde, Douglas T.; Schmuckler, Gabriella

1981-06-09

An improved apparatus and method for the quantitative analysis of a solution containing a plurality of anion species by ion exchange chromatography which utilizes a single eluent and a single ion exchange bed which does not require periodic regeneration. The solution containing the anions is added to an anion exchange resin bed which is a low capacity macroreticular polystyrene-divinylbenzene resin containing quarternary ammonium functional groups, and is eluted therefrom with a dilute solution of a low electrical conductance organic acid salt. As each anion species is eluted from the bed, it is quantitatively sensed by conventional detection means such as a conductivity cell.

Solid-Phase Spectrophotometric Analysis of 1-Naphthol Using Silica Functionalized with m-Diazophenylarsonic Acid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaitseva, Nataliya; Alekseev, Sergei; Zaitsev, Vladimir; Raks, Viktoria

2016-03-01

The m-aminophenylarsonic acid (m-APAA) was immobilized onto the silica gel surface with covalently grafted quaternary ammonium groups via ion exchange. The diazotization of ion-bonded m-APAA resulted in a new solid-phase spectrophotometric reagent for detection of 1-naphtol in environmental water samples. The procedure of solid-phase spectrophotometric analysis is characterized by 20 μg L-1 limit of detection (LOD) of 1-naphtol, up to 2000 concentration factor, and insensitivity to the presence of natural water components as well as to 30-fold excess of phenol, resorcinol, and catechol.

Role of glutamine in cobinamide biosynthesis in Propionibacterium shermanii

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Eliseev, A.A.; Pushkin, A.V.; Belozerova, E.V.

1987-01-10

The role of glutamine as a possible donor of amide groups in the biosynthesis of vitamin B/sub 12/ was investigated. In the incubation of P. shermanii cells preliminarily exhausted with respect to nitrogen on media containing ammonium sulfate or asparagine, the glutamine synthetase inhibitor methionine sulfoximine suppressed the formation of cobinamide (factor B) from the monoamide of cobiric acid (by 75 and 59%, respectively). At the same time, the inhibitor did not affect cobinamide synthesis on a medium with glutamine. The amide group of glutamine, labeled with /sup 13/N, was used for the amidation of corrinoids four times as efficientlymore » as the amine group. It was concluded that a glutamine-dependent synthetase, which catalyzes the amidation of cobiric acids with the formation of cobinamide, functions in cells of propionic acid bacteria.« less

Quaternary ammonium-functionalized silica sorbents for the solid-phase extraction of aromatic amines under normal phase conditions.

PubMed

Vidal, Lorena; Robin, Orlane; Parshintsev, Jevgeni; Mikkola, Jyri-Pekka; Riekkola, Marja-Liisa

2013-04-12

Quaternary ammonium-functionalized silica materials were synthesized and applied for solid-phase extraction (SPE) of aromatic amines, which are classified as priority pollutants by US Environmental Protection Agency. Hexamethylenetetramine used for silica surface modification for the first time was employed as SPE sorbent under normal phase conditions. Hexaminium-functionalized silica demonstrated excellent extraction efficiencies for o-toluidine, 4-ethylaniline and quinoline (recoveries 101-107%), while for N,N-dimethylaniline and N-isopropylaniline recoveries were from low to moderate (14-46%). In addition, the suitability of 1-alkyl-3-(propyl-3-sulfonate) imidazolium-functionalized silica as SPE sorbent was tested under normal phase conditions. The recoveries achieved for the five aromatic amines ranged from 89 to 99%. The stability of the sorbent was evaluated during and after 150 extractions. Coefficients of variation between 4.5 and 10.2% proved a high stability of the synthesized sorbent. Elution was carried out using acetonitrile in the case of hexaminium-functionalized silica and water for 1-alkyl-3-(propyl-3-sulfonate) imidazolium-functionalized silica sorbent. After the extraction the analytes were separated and detected by liquid chromatography ultraviolet detection (LC-UV). The retention mechanism of the materials was primarily based on polar hydrogen bonding and π-π interactions. Comparison made with activated silica proved the quaternary ammonium-functionalized materials to offer different selectivity and better extraction efficiencies for aromatic amines. Finally, 1-alkyl-3-(propyl-3-sulfonate) imidazolium-functionalized silica sorbent was successfully tested for the extraction of wastewater and soil samples. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Antibacterial polymer coatings.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wilson, Mollye C.; Allen, Ashley N.; Barnhart, Meghan

2009-09-01

A series of poly(sulfone)s with quaternary ammonium groups and another series with aldehyde groups are synthesized and tested for biocidal activity against vegetative bacteria and spores, respectively. The polymers are sprayed onto substrates as coatings which are then exposed to aqueous suspensions of organisms. The coatings are inherently biocidal and do not release any agents into the environment. The coatings adhere well to both glass and CARC-coated coupons and they exhibit significant biotoxicity. The most effective quaternary ammonium polymers kills 99.9% of both gram negative and gram positive bacteria and the best aldehyde coating kills 81% of the spores onmore » its surface.« less

A facile synthesis of highly stable multiblock poly(arylene ether)s based alkaline membranes for fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jasti, Amaranadh; Shahi, Vinod K.

2014-12-01

Herein, we are disclosing simple route for the preparation of alkaline membranes (AMs) based on aminated multiblock poly(arylene ether)s (AMPEs) synthesized by nucleophilic substitution-poly condensation followed by quaternization and alkalization reactions. In this procedure, four quaternary ammonium groups are successfully introduced without use of carcinogenic reagents such as chloromethylmethyl ether (CMME). Hydrophilic/hydrophobic phase separation is responsible for their high hydroxide conductivity (∼150 mS cm-1 at 80 °C) due to development of interconnected ion transport pathway. AMs are exhibiting good alkaline stability due to the presence of two vicinal quaternary ammonium groups and avoid degradation such as Sommelet-Hauser rearrangement and Hofmann elimination. Vicinal quaternary ammonium groups also resist nucleophilic (OH-) attack and suppress the Stevens rearrangement as well as SN2 substitution reaction due to stearic hindrance. Optimized AM (AMPE-M20N15 (55% DCM)) exhibits about 0.95 V open circuit voltage (OCV) and 48.8 mW cm-2 power density at 65 °C in alkaline direct methanol fuel cell (ADMFC) operation. These results suggest promising begin for the preparation of stable and conductive AMs for ADMFC applications and useful for developing hydroxide conductive materials.

Oxidation of ferrocene by thiocyanic acid in the presence of ammonium oxalate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruslin, Farah bt; Yamin, Bohari M.

2014-09-01

A flake-like crystalline salt was obtained from the reaction of ferrocene, oxalic acid and ammonium thiocyanate in ethanol The elemental analysis and spectroscopic data were in agreement with the preliminary X-ray molecular structure. The compound consists of four ferrocenium moieties and a counter anion consisting of two (tetraisothiocyanato)iron(III) linked by an oxalato bridging group in such a way that both iron central atoms adopt octahedral geometries.

Brown Carbon Production in Aldehyde + Ammonium Sulfate Mixtures: Effects of Formaldehyde and Amines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Powelson, M.; De Haan, D. O.

2012-12-01

The formation of light-absorbing 'brown carbon,' or HULIS (humic- like substances), in atmospheric aerosol has an important impact on climate. However, the precursors responsible for brown carbon formation have not been identified. Several aldehydes present in clouds (methylglyoxal, glycolaldehyde, hydroxyacetone, glyoxal, and acetaldehyde) have the potential to create brown products when reacted with ammonium sulfate or primary amines such as methylamine or glycine. The formation of light-absorbing products from these reactions was characterized as a function of cloud-relevant pH (from 3- 6) using UV-Visible spectroscopy. Of the different aldehydes teste, the largest production rates of light-absorbing compounds were observed in reactions of glycolaldehyde and methylglyoxal. Primary amines produced more light- absorbing products than ammonium sulfate at lower concentrations. The addition of formaldehyde to any reaction with other aldehydes decreased the formation of light-absorbing products, while the addition of a small amount (1:5 mole ratio) of glycine to aldehyde + ammonium sulfate reactions can increase the production of light-absorbing products. These results suggest that the presence of primary amines significantly influence atmospheric brown carbon production by aldehydes even when much greater quantities of ammonium sulfate are present.

Microbial Population Dynamics and Ecosystem Functions of Anoxic/Aerobic Granular Sludge in Sequencing Batch Reactors Operated at Different Organic Loading Rates

PubMed Central

Szabó, Enikö; Liébana, Raquel; Hermansson, Malte; Modin, Oskar; Persson, Frank; Wilén, Britt-Marie

2017-01-01

The granular sludge process is an effective, low-footprint alternative to conventional activated sludge wastewater treatment. The architecture of the microbial granules allows the co-existence of different functional groups, e.g., nitrifying and denitrifying communities, which permits compact reactor design. However, little is known about the factors influencing community assembly in granular sludge, such as the effects of reactor operation strategies and influent wastewater composition. Here, we analyze the development of the microbiomes in parallel laboratory-scale anoxic/aerobic granular sludge reactors operated at low (0.9 kg m-3d-1), moderate (1.9 kg m-3d-1) and high (3.7 kg m-3d-1) organic loading rates (OLRs) and the same ammonium loading rate (0.2 kg NH4-N m-3d-1) for 84 days. Complete removal of organic carbon and ammonium was achieved in all three reactors after start-up, while the nitrogen removal (denitrification) efficiency increased with the OLR: 0% at low, 38% at moderate, and 66% at high loading rate. The bacterial communities at different loading rates diverged rapidly after start-up and showed less than 50% similarity after 6 days, and below 40% similarity after 84 days. The three reactor microbiomes were dominated by different genera (mainly Meganema, Thauera, Paracoccus, and Zoogloea), but these genera have similar ecosystem functions of EPS production, denitrification and polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) storage. Many less abundant but persistent taxa were also detected within these functional groups. The bacterial communities were functionally redundant irrespective of the loading rate applied. At steady-state reactor operation, the identity of the core community members was rather stable, but their relative abundances changed considerably over time. Furthermore, nitrifying bacteria were low in relative abundance and diversity in all reactors, despite their large contribution to nitrogen turnover. The results suggest that the OLR has considerable impact on the composition of the granular sludge communities, but also that the granule communities can be dynamic even at steady-state reactor operation due to high functional redundancy of several key guilds. Knowledge about microbial diversity with specific functional guilds under different operating conditions can be important for engineers to predict the stability of reactor functions during the start-up and continued reactor operation. PMID:28507540

Molecular insights into shellac film coats from different aqueous shellac salt solutions and effect on disintegration of enteric-coated soft gelatin capsules.

PubMed

Al-Gousous, J; Penning, M; Langguth, P

2015-04-30

The purpose of this investigation was to study the effect of using different salts of shellac on the disintegration properties of shellac-based enteric coatings. In the last two decades, shellac has been increasingly used as an aqueous solution for enteric coating purposes, with the ammonium salt being the form typically used. Little investigation has been performed on using other salts, and therefore, this was the focus of our work. Enteric coatings, based on different shellac salts (ammonium, sodium, potassium and composite ammonium-sodium), were applied onto soft gelatin capsules. Disintegration testing of the coated soft gelatin capsules showed that alkali metal salts promote faster disintegration than ammonium salts. In order to determine the causes behind these differences, the solubility, thermal and spectroscopic properties of films cast from the different salts were investigated. The results show that films cast from ammonium-based salts of shellac are, unlike those cast from alkali metal-based salts, water-insoluble. Spectroscopic evidence suggests that this might be due to partial salt dissociation resulting in loss of ammonium as ammonia and reduced degree of shellac ionization during drying. In addition, oxidation of shellac aldehyde groups of the ammonium-based shellac salts could also play a role. And possible higher extent of shellac hydrolysis during the preparation of alkali metal salts might also be a factor. Therefore, the nature of the shellac salt used in the preparation of shellac-based aqueous coating solutions is a significant formulation factor affecting product performance. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Smart Biointerface with Photoswitched Functions between Bactericidal Activity and Bacteria-Releasing Ability.

PubMed

Wei, Ting; Zhan, Wenjun; Yu, Qian; Chen, Hong

2017-08-09

Smart biointerfaces with capability to regulate cell-surface interactions in response to external stimuli are of great interest for both fundamental research and practical applications. Smart surfaces with "ON/OFF" switchability for a single function such as cell attachment/detachment are well-known and useful, but the ability to switch between two different functions may be seen as the next level of "smart". In this work reported, a smart supramolecular surface capable of switching functions reversibly between bactericidal activity and bacteria-releasing ability in response to UV-visible light is developed. This platform is composed of surface-containing azobenzene (Azo) groups and a biocidal β-cyclodextrin derivative conjugated with seven quaternary ammonium salt groups (CD-QAS). The surface-immobilized Azo groups in trans form can specially incorporate CD-QAS to achieve a strongly bactericidal surface that kill more than 90% attached bacteria. On irradiation with UV light, the Azo groups switch to cis form, resulting in the dissociation of the Azo/CD-QAS inclusion complex and release of dead bacteria from the surface. After the kill-and-release cycle, the surface can be easily regenerated for reuse by irradiation with visible light and reincorporation of fresh CD-QAS. The use of supramolecular chemistry represents a promising approach to the realization of smart, multifunctional surfaces, and has the potential to be applied to diverse materials and devices in the biomedical field.

Exploring ammonium tolerance in a large panel of Arabidopsis thaliana natural accessions

PubMed Central

Sarasketa, Asier; González-Moro, María Begoña; González-Murua, Carmen; Marino, Daniel

2014-01-01

Plants are dependent on exogenous nitrogen (N) supply. Ammonium (NH4 +), together with nitrate (NO3 –), is one of the main nitrogenous compounds available in the soil. Paradoxically, although NH4 + assimilation requires less energy than that of NO3 –, many plants display toxicity symptoms when grown with NH4 + as the sole N source. However, in addition to species-specific ammonium toxicity, intraspecific variability has also been shown. Thus, the aim of this work was to study the intraspecific ammonium tolerance in a large panel of Arabidopsis thaliana natural accessions. Plants were grown with either 1mM NO3 – or NH4 + as the N source, and several parameters related to ammonium tolerance and assimilation were determined. Overall, high variability was observed in A. thaliana shoot growth under both forms of N nutrition. From the parameters determined, tissue ammonium content was the one with the highest impact on shoot biomass, and interestingly this was also the case when N was supplied as NO3 –. Enzymes of nitrogen assimilation did not have an impact on A. thaliana biomass variation, but the N source affected their activity. Glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) aminating activity was, in general, higher in NH4 +-fed plants. In contrast, GDH deaminating activity was higher in NO3 –-fed plants, suggesting a differential role for this enzyme as a function of the N form supplied. Overall, NH4 + accumulation seems to be an important player in Arabidopsis natural variability in ammonium tolerance rather than the cell NH4 + assimilation capacity. PMID:25205573

Increased serum triglycerides and reduced HDL cholesterol in male rats after intake of ammonium chloride for 3 weeks

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Previous data suggested that intake of sodas and other acid beverages might be associated with increased levels of serum triglycerides, lowered HDL cholesterol, and increased formation of mono unsaturated fatty acids, which are the preferred ones for triglyceride synthesis. The present work is an extension of these studies. Methods Thirty male rats were divided into 3 groups. All groups were given the same food, but various beverages: water (W), ammonium chloride, 200 mmol/L (AC), or sodium bicarbonate, 200 mmol/L (SB). Serum triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, and the fatty acid distribution in total serum lipids were determined. Delta9-desaturase in serum lipids was estimated by the ratio of palmitoleic to palmitic acid, and by the oleic/stearic acid ratio. Correlation and ANOVA were used to study associations and group differences. Results After 3 weeks, the AC group had higher triglyceride concentration and higher Delta9 desaturase indexes, but lower serum HDL and body weight as compared with the SB and W groups. In each of the groups, the oleic acid/stearic acid ratio correlated positively with serum triglycerides; in the pooled group the correlation coefficient was r = 0.963, p<0.01. Conclusions Rats ingesting ammonium chloride as compared with sodium bicarbonate responded with increased desaturase indexes, increased serum triglycerides, and lowered HDL cholesterol concentration, thereby possibly contributing to explain the increased triglyceride concentration previously observed in subjects with a frequent intake of acid beverages, such as sodas containing carbonic acid, citric acid, and phosphoric acid. PMID:23800210

Microtitration of various anions with quaternary ammonium halides using solid-state electrodes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Selig, W.

1980-01-01

Many solid-state electrodes were found to respond as endpoint detectors in the potentiometric titration of large inorganic and organic anions with quaternary ammonium halides. The best response was obtained with the iodide and cyanide electrodes although practically any electrode can function as endpoint sensor. The titrants were hexadecylpyridinium chloride and hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride; hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide and Hyamine 1622 may also be used. Some inorganic anions thus titratable are perrhenate, persulfate, ferricyanide, hexafluorophosphate, and hexachloroplatinate. Examples of organic anions titratable are nitroform, tetraphenylborate, cyanotriphenylborate, picrate, long-chain sulfates and sulfonates, and some soaps. The reverse titration of quaternary ammonium halides vs dodecylsulfate ismore » also feasible. Some titrations are feasible in a partially nonaqueous medium.« less

Condensation Reactions and Formation of Amides, Esters, and Nitriles Under Hydrothermal Conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rushdi, Ahmed I.; Simoneit, Bernd R. T.

2004-06-01

Hydrothermal pyrolysis experiments were performed to assess condensation (dehydration) reactions to amide, ester, and nitrile functionalities from lipid precursors. Beside product formation, organic compound alteration and stability were also evaluated. Mixtures of nonadecanoic acid, hexadecanedioic acid, or hexadecanamide with water, ammonium bicarbonate, and oxalic acid were heated at 300°C for 72 h. In addition, mixtures of ammonium bicarbonate and oxalic acid solutions were used to test the abiotic formation of organic nitrogen compounds at the same temperature. The resulting products were condensation compounds such as amides, nitriles, and minor quantities of N-methylalkyl amides, alkanols, and esters. Mixtures of alkyl amide in water or oxalic acid yielded mainly hydrolysis and dehydration products, and with ammonium bicarbonate and oxalic acid the yield of condensation products was enhanced. The synthesis experiments with oxalic acid and ammonium bicarbonate solutions yielded homologous series of alkyl amides, alkyl amines, alkanes, and alkanoic acids, all with no carbon number predominances. These organic nitrogen compounds are stable and survive under the elevated temperatures of hydrothermal fluids.

Probing Supramolecular Interactions between a Crown Ether Appended Zinc Phthalocyanine and an Ammonium Group Appended to a C60 Derivative.

PubMed

Lederer, Marcus; Hahn, Uwe; Strub, Jean-Marc; Cianférani, Sarah; Van Dorsselaer, Alain; Nierengarten, Jean-François; Torres, Tomas; Guldi, Dirk M

2016-02-01

Self-assembly driven by crown ether complexation of zinc phthalocyanines equipped with one 18-crown-6 moiety and fullerenes bearing an ammonium head group afforded a novel donor-acceptor hybrid. In reference experiments, fullerenes containing a Boc-protected amine functionality have been probed. The circumvention of zinc phthalocyanine aggregation is important for the self-assembly, which required the addition of pyridine. From absorption and fluorescence titration assays, which provided sound and unambiguous evidence for mutual interactions between the electron donor and the electron acceptor within the hybrids, association constants in the order of 8.0×10 5  m -1 have been derived. The aforementioned is based on 1:1 stoichiometries, which have been independently confirmed by Job's plot measurements. In the excited state, which has been examined by transient absorption experiments, intermolecular charge separation evolves from the photoexcited zinc phthalocyanine to the fullerene subunit and leads to short-lived charge-separated states. Interestingly, photoexcitation of zinc phthalocyanine dimers/aggregates can also be followed by an intermolecular charge separation between vicinal phthalocyanines. These multicomponent supramolecular ensembles have also been shown by in-depth electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) studies, giving rise to the formation and detection of a variety of non-covalently linked species. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Construction of Well-Defined Redox-Responsive CO2 -Based Polycarbonates: Combination of Immortal Copolymerization and Prereaction Approach.

PubMed

Liu, Shunjie; Zhao, Xun; Guo, Hongchen; Qin, Yusheng; Wang, Xianhong; Wang, Fosong

2017-05-01

Due to the axial group initiation in traditional (salen)CoX/quaternary ammonium catalyst system, it is difficult to construct single active center propagating polycarbonates for copolymerization of CO 2 /epoxides. Here a redox-responsive poly(vinyl cyclohexene carbonate) (PVCHC) with detachable disulfide-bond backbone is synthesized in a controllable manner using (salen)CoTFA/[bis(triphenylphosphine)iminium, [PPN]TFA binary catalyst, where the axial group initiation is depressed by judiciously choosing 3,3'-dithiodipropionic acid as starter. While for those comonomers failing to obtain polycarbonate with unimodal gel permeation chromatography (GPC) curve, a versatile method is developed by combination of immortal copolymerization and prereaction approach, and functional aliphatic polycarbonates having well-defined architecture and narrow polydispersity can be prepared. The resulting PVCHC can be further functionalized with alkenes by versatile cross-metathesis reaction to tune the physicochemical properties. The combination of immortal polymerization and prereaction approach creates a powerful platform for controllable synthesis of functional CO 2 -based polycarbonates. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Polyester with Pendent Acetylcholine-Mimicking Functionalities Promotes Neurite Growth.

PubMed

Wang, Shaofei; Jeffries, Eric; Gao, Jin; Sun, Lijie; You, Zhengwei; Wang, Yadong

2016-04-20

Successful regeneration of nerves can benefit from biomaterials that provide a supportive biochemical and mechanical environment while also degrading with controlled inflammation and minimal scar formation. Herein, we report a neuroactive polymer functionalized by covalent attachment of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (Ach). The polymer was readily synthesized in two steps from poly(sebacoyl diglyceride) (PSeD), which previously demonstrated biocompatibility and biodegradation in vivo. Distinct from prior acetylcholine-biomimetic polymers, PSeD-Ach contains both quaternary ammonium and free acetyl moieties, closely resembling native acetylcholine structure. The polymer structure was confirmed via (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Hydrophilicity, charge, and thermal properties of PSeD-Ach were determined by tensiometer, zetasizer, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermal gravimetric analysis, respectively. PC12 cells exhibited the greatest proliferation and neurite outgrowth on PSeD-Ach and laminin substrates, with no significant difference between these groups. PSeD-Ach yielded much longer neurite outgrowth than the control polymer containing ammonium but no the acetyl group, confirming the importance of the entire acetylcholine-like moiety. Furthermore, PSeD-Ach supports adhesion of primary rat dorsal root ganglions and subsequent neurite sprouting and extension. The sprouting rate is comparable to the best conditions from previous report. Our findings are significant in that they were obtained with acetylcholine-like functionalities in 100% repeating units, a condition shown to yield significant toxicity in prior publications. Moreover, PSeD-Ach exhibited favorable mechanical and degradation properties for nerve tissue engineering application. Humidified PSeD-Ach had an elastic modulus of 76.9 kPa, close to native neural tissue, and could well recover from cyclic dynamic compression. PSeD-Ach showed a gradual in vitro degradation under physiologic conditions with a mass loss of 60% within 4 weeks. Overall, this simple and versatile synthesis provides a useful tool to produce biomaterials for creating the appropriate stimulatory environment for nerve regeneration.

Temperature- and pH-dependent aqueous-phase kinetics of the reactions of glyoxal and methylglyoxal with atmospheric amines and ammonium sulfate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sedehi, Nahzaneen; Takano, Hiromi; Blasic, Vanessa A.; Sullivan, Kristin A.; De Haan, David O.

2013-10-01

Reactions of glyoxal (Glx) and methylglyoxal (MG) with primary amines and ammonium salts may produce brown carbon and N-containing oligomers in aqueous aerosol. 1H NMR monitoring of reactant losses and product appearance in bulk aqueous reactions were used to derive rate constants and quantify competing reaction pathways as a function of pH and temperature. Glx + ammonium sulfate (AS) and amine reactions generate products containing C-N bonds, with rates depending directly on pH: rate = (70 ± 60) M-1 s-1fAld [Glx]totfAm [Am]tot, where fAld is the fraction of aldehyde with a dehydrated aldehyde functional group, and fAm is the fraction of amine or ammonia that is deprotonated at a given pH. MG + amine reactions generate mostly aldol condensation products and exhibit less pH dependence: rate = 10[(0.36 ± 0.06) × pH - (3.6 ± 0.3)] M-1 s-1fAld [MG]tot [Am]tot. Aldehyde + AS reactions are less temperature-dependent (Ea = 18 ± 8 kJ mol-1) than corresponding amine reactions (Ea = 50 ± 11 kJ mol-1). Using aerosol concentrations of [OH] = 10-12 M, [amine]tot = [AS] = 0.1 M, fGlx = 0.046 and fMG = 0.09, we estimate that OH radical reactions are normally the major aerosol-phase sink for both dicarbonyl compounds. However, reactions with AS and amines together can account for up to 12 and 45% of daytime aerosol-phase glyoxal and methylglyoxal reactivity, respectively, in marine aerosol at pH 5.5. Reactions with AS and amines become less important in acidic or non-marine aerosol, but may still be significant atmospheric sources of brown carbon, imidazoles, and nitrogen-containing oligomers.

Overcoming double-step CO2 adsorption and minimizing water co-adsorption in bulky diamine-appended variants of Mg2(dobpdc).

PubMed

Milner, Phillip J; Martell, Jeffrey D; Siegelman, Rebecca L; Gygi, David; Weston, Simon C; Long, Jeffrey R

2018-01-07

Alkyldiamine-functionalized variants of the metal-organic framework Mg 2 (dobpdc) (dobpdc 4- = 4,4'-dioxidobiphenyl-3,3'-dicarboxylate) are promising for CO 2 capture applications owing to their unique step-shaped CO 2 adsorption profiles resulting from the cooperative formation of ammonium carbamate chains. Primary , secondary (1°,2°) alkylethylenediamine-appended variants are of particular interest because of their low CO 2 step pressures (≤1 mbar at 40 °C), minimal adsorption/desorption hysteresis, and high thermal stability. Herein, we demonstrate that further increasing the size of the alkyl group on the secondary amine affords enhanced stability against diamine volatilization, but also leads to surprising two-step CO 2 adsorption/desorption profiles. This two-step behavior likely results from steric interactions between ammonium carbamate chains induced by the asymmetrical hexagonal pores of Mg 2 (dobpdc) and leads to decreased CO 2 working capacities and increased water co-adsorption under humid conditions. To minimize these unfavorable steric interactions, we targeted diamine-appended variants of the isoreticularly expanded framework Mg 2 (dotpdc) (dotpdc 4- = 4,4''-dioxido-[1,1':4',1''-terphenyl]-3,3''-dicarboxylate), reported here for the first time, and the previously reported isomeric framework Mg-IRMOF-74-II or Mg 2 (pc-dobpdc) (pc-dobpdc 4- = 3,3'-dioxidobiphenyl-4,4'-dicarboxylate, pc = para -carboxylate), which, in contrast to Mg 2 (dobpdc), possesses uniformally hexagonal pores. By minimizing the steric interactions between ammonium carbamate chains, these frameworks enable a single CO 2 adsorption/desorption step in all cases, as well as decreased water co-adsorption and increased stability to diamine loss. Functionalization of Mg 2 (pc-dobpdc) with large diamines such as N -( n -heptyl)ethylenediamine results in optimal adsorption behavior, highlighting the advantage of tuning both the pore shape and the diamine size for the development of new adsorbents for carbon capture applications.

Overcoming double-step CO 2 adsorption and minimizing water co-adsorption in bulky diamine-appended variants of Mg 2(dobpdc)

DOE PAGES

Milner, Phillip J.; Martell, Jeffrey D.; Siegelman, Rebecca L.; ...

2017-10-26

Alkyldiamine-functionalized variants of the metal–organic framework Mg 2(dobpdc) (dobpdc 4- = 4,4'-dioxidobiphenyl-3,3'-dicarboxylate) are promising for CO 2 capture applications owing to their unique step-shaped CO 2 adsorption profiles resulting from the cooperative formation of ammonium carbamate chains. Primary,secondary (1°,2°) alkylethylenediamine-appended variants are of particular interest because of their low CO 2 step pressures (≤1 mbar at 40 °C), minimal adsorption/desorption hysteresis, and high thermal stability. Herein, we demonstrate that further increasing the size of the alkyl group on the secondary amine affords enhanced stability against diamine volatilization, but also leads to surprising two-step CO 2 adsorption/desorption profiles. This two-step behaviormore » likely results from steric interactions between ammonium carbamate chains induced by the asymmetrical hexagonal pores of Mg 2(dobpdc) and leads to decreased CO 2 working capacities and increased water co-adsorption under humid conditions. To minimize these unfavorable steric interactions, we targeted diamine-appended variants of the isoreticularly expanded framework Mg 2(dotpdc) (dotpdc 4- = 4,4''-dioxido-[1,1':4',1''-terphenyl]-3,3''-dicarboxylate), reported here for the first time, and the previously reported isomeric framework Mg-IRMOF-74-II or Mg 2(pc-dobpdc) (pc-dobpdc 4- = 3,3'-dioxidobiphenyl-4,4'-dicarboxylate, pc = para-carboxylate), which, in contrast to Mg 2(dobpdc), possesses uniformally hexagonal pores. By minimizing the steric interactions between ammonium carbamate chains, these frameworks enable a single CO 2 adsorption/desorption step in all cases, as well as decreased water co-adsorption and increased stability to diamine loss. Functionalization of Mg 2(pc-dobpdc) with large diamines such as N-(n-heptyl)ethylenediamine results in optimal adsorption behavior, highlighting the advantage of tuning both the pore shape and the diamine size for the development of new adsorbents for carbon capture applications.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Milner, Phillip J.; Martell, Jeffrey D.; Siegelman, Rebecca L.

Alkyldiamine-functionalized variants of the metal–organic framework Mg 2(dobpdc) (dobpdc 4- = 4,4'-dioxidobiphenyl-3,3'-dicarboxylate) are promising for CO 2 capture applications owing to their unique step-shaped CO 2 adsorption profiles resulting from the cooperative formation of ammonium carbamate chains. Primary,secondary (1°,2°) alkylethylenediamine-appended variants are of particular interest because of their low CO 2 step pressures (≤1 mbar at 40 °C), minimal adsorption/desorption hysteresis, and high thermal stability. Herein, we demonstrate that further increasing the size of the alkyl group on the secondary amine affords enhanced stability against diamine volatilization, but also leads to surprising two-step CO 2 adsorption/desorption profiles. This two-step behaviormore » likely results from steric interactions between ammonium carbamate chains induced by the asymmetrical hexagonal pores of Mg 2(dobpdc) and leads to decreased CO 2 working capacities and increased water co-adsorption under humid conditions. To minimize these unfavorable steric interactions, we targeted diamine-appended variants of the isoreticularly expanded framework Mg 2(dotpdc) (dotpdc 4- = 4,4''-dioxido-[1,1':4',1''-terphenyl]-3,3''-dicarboxylate), reported here for the first time, and the previously reported isomeric framework Mg-IRMOF-74-II or Mg 2(pc-dobpdc) (pc-dobpdc 4- = 3,3'-dioxidobiphenyl-4,4'-dicarboxylate, pc = para-carboxylate), which, in contrast to Mg 2(dobpdc), possesses uniformally hexagonal pores. By minimizing the steric interactions between ammonium carbamate chains, these frameworks enable a single CO 2 adsorption/desorption step in all cases, as well as decreased water co-adsorption and increased stability to diamine loss. Functionalization of Mg 2(pc-dobpdc) with large diamines such as N-(n-heptyl)ethylenediamine results in optimal adsorption behavior, highlighting the advantage of tuning both the pore shape and the diamine size for the development of new adsorbents for carbon capture applications.« less

Property Relationship in Organosilanes and Nanotubes Filled Polypropylene Hybrid Composites

PubMed Central

Monsiváis-Barrón, Alejandra J.; Bonilla-Rios, Jaime; Sánchez-Fernández, Antonio

2014-01-01

Polypropylene composites with different filler contents were prepared by creating a masterbatch containing 3 wt%. filler. A variety of silanol groups were used to synthetized three compounds in different media trough a sol-gel process with acetic acid, formic acid and ammonium hydroxide as catalysts. Besides, four different nanotubular fillers were also used to analyze their behavior and compare it with the effect caused by the silanol groups. These tubular structures comprise: unmodified halloysite, carbon nanotubes and functionalized halloysite and carbon nanotubes. Morphological characterization in SEM and STEM/TEM showed dispersion in the polypropylene matrix. According to TGA and DSC measurements thermal behavior remain similar for all the composites. Mechanical test in tension demonstrate that modulus of the composites increases for all samples with a major impact for materials containing silanol groups synthetized in formic acid. Rheological measurements show a significantly increment in viscosity for samples containing unmodified and modified carbon nanotubes. No difference was found for samples containing silanol groups and halloysite when compared to neat polypropylene. Finally, the oxygen transmission rate increased for all samples showing high barrier properties only for samples containing natural and functionalized halloysite nanotubes. PMID:28788233

Property Relationship in Organosilanes and Nanotubes Filled Polypropylene Hybrid Composites.

PubMed

Monsiváis-Barrón, Alejandra J; Bonilla-Rios, Jaime; Sánchez-Fernández, Antonio

2014-10-20

Polypropylene composites with different filler contents were prepared by creating a masterbatch containing 3 wt%. filler. A variety of silanol groups were used to synthetized three compounds in different media trough a sol-gel process with acetic acid, formic acid and ammonium hydroxide as catalysts. Besides, four different nanotubular fillers were also used to analyze their behavior and compare it with the effect caused by the silanol groups. These tubular structures comprise: unmodified halloysite, carbon nanotubes and functionalized halloysite and carbon nanotubes. Morphological characterization in SEM and STEM/TEM showed dispersion in the polypropylene matrix. According to TGA and DSC measurements thermal behavior remain similar for all the composites. Mechanical test in tension demonstrate that modulus of the composites increases for all samples with a major impact for materials containing silanol groups synthetized in formic acid. Rheological measurements show a significantly increment in viscosity for samples containing unmodified and modified carbon nanotubes. No difference was found for samples containing silanol groups and halloysite when compared to neat polypropylene. Finally, the oxygen transmission rate increased for all samples showing high barrier properties only for samples containing natural and functionalized halloysite nanotubes.

All-inorganic Germanium nanocrystal films by cationic ligand exchange

DOE PAGES

Wheeler, Lance M.; Nichols, Asa W.; Chernomordik, Boris D.; ...

2016-01-21

In this study, we introduce a new paradigm for group IV nanocrystal surface chemistry based on room temperature surface activation that enables ionic ligand exchange. Germanium nanocrystals synthesized in a gas-phase plasma reactor are functionalized with labile, cationic alkylammonium ligands rather than with traditional covalently bound groups. We employ Fourier transform infrared and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopies to demonstrate the alkylammonium ligands are freely exchanged on the germanium nanocrystal surface with a variety of cationic ligands, including short inorganic ligands such as ammonium and alkali metal cations. This ionic ligand exchange chemistry is used to demonstrate enhanced transport inmore » germanium nanocrystal films following ligand exchange as well as the first photovoltaic device based on an all-inorganic germanium nanocrystal absorber layer cast from solution. This new ligand chemistry should accelerate progress in utilizing germanium and other group IV nanocrystals for optoelectronic applications.« less

Antimocrobial Polymer

DOEpatents

McDonald, William F.; Huang, Zhi-Heng; Wright, Stacy C.

2005-09-06

A polymeric composition having antimicrobial properties and a process for rendering the surface of a substrate antimicrobial are disclosed. The composition comprises a crosslinked chemical combination of (i) a polymer having amino group-containing side chains along a backbone forming the polymer, (ii) an antimicrobial agent selected from quaternary ammonium compounds, gentian violet compounds, substituted or unsubstituted phenols, biguanide compounds, iodine compounds, and mixtures thereof, and (iii) a crosslinking agent containing functional groups capable of reacting with the amino groups. In one embodiment, the polymer is a polyamide formed from a maleic anhydride or maleic acid ester monomer and alkylamines thereby producing a polyamide having amino substituted alkyl chains on one side of the polyamide backbone; the crosslinking agent is a phosphine having the general formula (A)3P wherein A is hydroxyalkyl; and the antimicrobial agent is chlorhexidine, dimethylchlorophenol, cetyl pyridinium chloride, gentian violet, triclosan, thymol, iodine, and mixtures thereof.

Methods for treating hydrocarbon recovery operations and industrial waters

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Thompson, N.E.S.; Asperger, R.G.

1989-05-02

This patent describes a method for consisting adding to the emulsion an effective demulsifying amount of a composition comprising a compound containing: an alkane triyl group of 1 to 30 carbon atoms; an alkylene group of 1 to 30 carbon atoms; and an alkali or alkaline earth metal group or an ammonium group.

Changes in wet nitrogen deposition in the United States between 1985 and 2012

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Enzai; de Vries, Wim; Galloway, James N.; Hu, Xueyang; Fang, Jingyun

2014-09-01

The United States (US) is among the global hotspots of nitrogen (N) deposition and assessing the temporal trends of wet N deposition is relevant to quantify the effectiveness of existing N regulation policies and its consequent environmental effects. This study analyzed changes in observed wet deposition of dissolved inorganic N (DIN = ammonium + nitrate) in the US between 1985 and 2012 by applying a Mann-Kendall test and Regional Kendall test. Current wet DIN deposition (2011-2012) data were used to gain insight in the current pattern of N deposition. Wet DIN deposition generally decreased going from Midwest > Northeast > South > West region with a national mean rate of 3.5 kg N ha-1 yr-1. Ammonium dominated wet DIN deposition in the Midwest, South and West regions, whereas nitrate and ammonium both contributed a half in the Northeast region. Wet DIN deposition showed no significant change at the national scale between 1985 and 2012, but profound changes occurred in its components. Wet ammonium deposition showed a significant increasing trend at national scale (0.013 kg N ha-1 yr-2), with the highest increase in the Midwest and eastern part of the South region. Inversely, wet nitrate deposition decreased significantly at national scale (-0.014 kg N ha-1 yr-2), with the largest reduction in the Northeast region. Overall, ratios of ammonium versus nitrate in wet deposition showed a significant increase in all the four regions, resulting in a transition of the dominant N species from nitrate to ammonium. Distinct magnitudes, trends and patterns of wet ammonium and nitrate deposition suggest the needs to control N emissions by species and regions to avoid negative effects of N deposition on ecosystem health and function in the US.

Identification and functional analysis of an ammonium transporter in Streptococcus mutans.

PubMed

Ardin, Arifah Chieko; Fujita, Kazuyo; Nagayama, Kayoko; Takashima, Yukiko; Nomura, Ryota; Nakano, Kazuhiko; Ooshima, Takashi; Matsumoto-Nakano, Michiyo

2014-01-01

Streptococcus mutans, a Gram-positive bacterium, is considered to be a major etiologic agent of human dental caries and reported to form biofilms known as dental plaque on tooth surfaces. This organism is also known to possess a large number of transport proteins in the cell membrane for export and import of molecules. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for Gram-positive bacteria, though alternative sources such as ammonium can also be utilized. In order to obtain nitrogen for macromolecular synthesis, nitrogen-containing compounds must be transported into the cell. However, the ammonium transporter in S. mutans remains to be characterized. The present study focused on characterizing the ammonium transporter gene of S. mutans and its operon, while related regulatory genes were also analyzed. The SMU.1658 gene corresponding to nrgA in S. mutans is homologous to the ammonium transporter gene in Bacillus subtilis and SMU.1657, located upstream of the nrgA gene and predicted to be glnB, is a member of the PII protein family. Using a nrgA-deficient mutant strain (NRGD), we examined bacterial growth in the presence of ammonium, calcium chloride, and manganese sulfate. Fluorescent efflux assays were also performed to reveal export molecules associated with the ammonium transporter. The growth rate of NRGD was lower, while its fluorescent intensity was much higher as compared to the parental strain. In addition, confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed that the structure of biofilms formed by NRGD was drastically different than that of the parental strain. Furthermore, transcriptional analysis showed that the nrgA gene was co-transcribed with the glnB gene. These results suggest that the nrgA gene in S. mutans is essential for export of molecules and biofilm formation.

Identification and Functional Analysis of an Ammonium Transporter in Streptococcus mutans

PubMed Central

Ardin, Arifah Chieko; Fujita, Kazuyo; Nagayama, Kayoko; Takashima, Yukiko; Nomura, Ryota; Nakano, Kazuhiko; Ooshima, Takashi; Matsumoto-Nakano, Michiyo

2014-01-01

Streptococcus mutans, a Gram-positive bacterium, is considered to be a major etiologic agent of human dental caries and reported to form biofilms known as dental plaque on tooth surfaces. This organism is also known to possess a large number of transport proteins in the cell membrane for export and import of molecules. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for Gram-positive bacteria, though alternative sources such as ammonium can also be utilized. In order to obtain nitrogen for macromolecular synthesis, nitrogen-containing compounds must be transported into the cell. However, the ammonium transporter in S. mutans remains to be characterized. The present study focused on characterizing the ammonium transporter gene of S. mutans and its operon, while related regulatory genes were also analyzed. The SMU.1658 gene corresponding to nrgA in S. mutans is homologous to the ammonium transporter gene in Bacillus subtilis and SMU.1657, located upstream of the nrgA gene and predicted to be glnB, is a member of the PII protein family. Using a nrgA-deficient mutant strain (NRGD), we examined bacterial growth in the presence of ammonium, calcium chloride, and manganese sulfate. Fluorescent efflux assays were also performed to reveal export molecules associated with the ammonium transporter. The growth rate of NRGD was lower, while its fluorescent intensity was much higher as compared to the parental strain. In addition, confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed that the structure of biofilms formed by NRGD was drastically different than that of the parental strain. Furthermore, transcriptional analysis showed that the nrgA gene was co-transcribed with the glnB gene. These results suggest that the nrgA gene in S. mutans is essential for export of molecules and biofilm formation. PMID:25229891

Impact of organic coating on growth of ammonium sulfate particles: light extinction measurements relevant for the direct effect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robinson, C. B.; Zarzana, K. J.; Hasenkopf, C. A.; Tolbert, M. A.

2012-12-01

Light extinction by particles is strongly dependent on chemical composition, particle size, and water uptake. Relative humidity affects extinction by causing changes in refractive index and particle size due to hygroscopic growth. The ability of particles to take up water depends on their composition and structure. In both laboratory and field studies, inorganic salts completely covered by an organic coating have been observed. The impact of this coating on water uptake is uncertain, and a systematic study that examines water uptake as a function of relative humidity is highly desirable. These data are critical to evaluate the aerosol direct effect on climate, which is one of the most uncertain aspects of future climate change. In this study, we probe the connection between aerosol composition, size and light extinction directly by measuring fRHext, the ratio of the extinction coefficient for humidified particles to the extinction coefficient for dry particles. Particles were composed of 1,2,6-hexanetriol and ammonium sulfate, a system that forms organic coatings around the inorganic core. A cavity ring-down aerosol extinction spectrometer at 532 nm is used to measure the optical growth factor as a function of relative humidity. The fRHext values for a range of %RH for pure ammonium sulfate, pure 1,2,6-hexanetriol, and ammonium sulfate particles with 1,2,6-hexanetriol coatings were measured. The coated particles are created using a method of liquid-liquid separation, where the particles are exposed to water vapor creating a RH% above their deliquescence RH%. The particles are then dried with a Nafion dryer to a RH% that is below the point where liquid-liquid phase separation is observed, but above the efflorescence RH%. Pure 1,2,6-hexanetriol takes up little water over the observed RH range of 45-65%, and therefore fRHext ~ 1. With pure ammonium sulfate for the same RH% range, the fRHext varied from 1.5 - 2, depending on the RH% and the particle size. For the coated particles, at each RH%, the fRHext values fall between those for pure ammonium sulfate and pure 1,2,6-hexanetriol values. This suggests that the organic coating does not prevent water uptake by the ammonium sulfate cores.

Interactions between Thaumarchaea, Nitrospira and methanotrophs modulate autotrophic nitrification in volcanic grassland soil

PubMed Central

Daebeler, Anne; Bodelier, Paul LE; Yan, Zheng; Hefting, Mariet M; Jia, Zhongjun; Laanbroek, Hendrikus J

2014-01-01

Ammonium/ammonia is the sole energy substrate of ammonia oxidizers, and is also an essential nitrogen source for other microorganisms. Ammonia oxidizers therefore must compete with other soil microorganisms such as methane-oxidizing bacteria (MOB) in terrestrial ecosystems when ammonium concentrations are limiting. Here we report on the interactions between nitrifying communities dominated by ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) and Nitrospira-like nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB), and communities of MOB in controlled microcosm experiments with two levels of ammonium and methane availability. We observed strong stimulatory effects of elevated ammonium concentration on the processes of nitrification and methane oxidation as well as on the abundances of autotrophically growing nitrifiers. However, the key players in nitrification and methane oxidation, identified by stable-isotope labeling using 13CO2 and 13CH4, were the same under both ammonium levels, namely type 1.1a AOA, sublineage I and II Nitrospira-like NOB and Methylomicrobium-/Methylosarcina-like MOB, respectively. Ammonia-oxidizing bacteria were nearly absent, and ammonia oxidation could almost exclusively be attributed to AOA. Interestingly, although AOA functional gene abundance increased 10-fold during incubation, there was very limited evidence of autotrophic growth, suggesting a partly mixotrophic lifestyle. Furthermore, autotrophic growth of AOA and NOB was inhibited by active MOB at both ammonium levels. Our results suggest the existence of a previously overlooked competition for nitrogen between nitrifiers and methane oxidizers in soil, thus linking two of the most important biogeochemical cycles in nature. PMID:24858784

Synthesis of acid addition salt of delta-aminolevulinic acid from 5-bromo levulinic acid esters

DOEpatents

Moens, Luc

2003-06-24

A process of preparing an acid addition salt of delta-aminolevulinc acid comprising: a) dissolving a lower alkyl 5-bromolevulinate and hexamethylenetetramine in a solvent selected from the group consisting of water, ethyl acetate, chloroform, acetone, ethanol, tetrahydrofuran and acetonitrile, to form a quaternary ammonium salt of the lower alkyl 5-bromolevulinate; and b) hydrolyzing the quaternary ammonium salt with an inorganic acid to form an acid addition salt of delta-aminolevulinic acid.

Time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy for chemical sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Draxler, Sonja; Lippitsch, Max E.

1996-07-01

A family of sensors is presented with fluorescence decay-time measurements used as the sensing technique. The concept is to take a single fluorophore with a suitably long fluorescence decay time as the basic building block for numerous different sensors. Analyte recognition can be performed by different functional groups that are necessary for selective interaction with the analyte. To achieve this, the principle of excited-state electron transfer is applied with pyrene as the fluorophore. Therefore the same instrumentation based on a small, ambient air-nitrogen laser and solid-state electronics can be used to measure different analytes, for example, oxygen, pH, carbon dioxide, potassium, ammonium, lead, cadmium, zinc, and phosphate.

Improved method and apparatus for chromatographic quantitative analysis

DOEpatents

Fritz, J.S.; Gjerde, D.T.; Schmuckler, G.

An improved apparatus and method are described for the quantitative analysis of a solution containing a plurality of anion species by ion exchange chromatography which utilizes a single element and a single ion exchange bed which does not require periodic regeneration. The solution containing the anions is added to an anion exchange resin bed which is a low capacity macroreticular polystyrene-divinylbenzene resin containing quarternary ammonium functional groups, and is eluted therefrom with a dilute solution of a low electrical conductance organic acid salt. As each anion species is eluted from the bed, it is quantitatively sensed by conventional detection means such as a conductivity cell.

Effect of thiomolybdate and ammonium molybdate in pregnant guinea pigs and their offspring.

PubMed

Howell, J M; Shunxiang, Y; Gawthorne, J M

1993-09-01

Groups of eight guinea pigs and their offspring were given drinking water containing molybdenum as ammonium molybdate (AM) or thiomolybdate (TM) throughout and subsequent to pregnancy. All adult females had oestrous cycles and conception rates were unaffected. Fetal death was common in groups given the high dose of TM. The concentration of copper in liver was reduced in all groups at all ages except for pups killed at birth from animals given AM. The concentration of molybdenum was elevated in liver and kidney of all groups and was statistically significant in the majority. The concentration in plasma of copper, molybdenum and copper insoluble in trichloroacetic acid was elevated in all groups. Superoxide dismutase activity was significantly reduced in dams and six-week-old pups in which TM administration commenced before mating. Histological damage occurred in the pancreas of animals given AM or TM. The effects on the fetus and pancreas were considered to result from copper deficiency rather than molybdenum toxicity.

Crystal structure of (NH4)2[Fe(II) 5(HPO3)6], a new open-framework phosphite.

PubMed

Berrocal, Teresa; Mesa, Jose Luis; Larrea, Edurne; Arrieta, Juan Manuel

2014-11-01

Di-ammonium hexa-phosphito-penta-ferrate(II), (NH4)2[Fe5(HPO3)6], was synthesized under mild hydro-thermal conditions and autogeneous pressure, yielding twinned crystals. The crystal structure exhibits an [Fe(II) 5(HPO3)6](2-) open framework with NH4 (+) groups as counter-cations. The anionic skeleton is based on (001) sheets of [FeO6] octa-hedra (one with point-group symmetry 3.. and one with .2.) linked along [001] through [HPO3](2-) oxoanions. Each sheet is constructed from 12-membered rings of edge-sharing [FeO6] octa-hedra, giving rise to channels with a radius of ca 3.1 Å in which the disordered NH4 (+) cations are located. The IR spectrum shows vibrational bands typical for phosphite and ammonium groups.

Elemental source attribution signatures for calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) fertilizers used in homemade explosives

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fraga, Carlos G.; Mitroshkov, Alexander V.; Mirjankar, Nikhil S.

Calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) is a widely available fertilizer composed of ammonium nitrate mixed with some form of calcium carbonate such as limestone or dolomite. CAN is also frequently used to make homemade explosives. The potential of using elemental profiling and chemometrics to match both pristine and reprocessed CAN fertilizers to their factories for use in future forensic investigations was examined. Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analysis was performed on 64 elements in 125 samples from 11 CAN stocks from 6 different CAN factories. Fisher ratio, degree-of-class-separation, and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLSDA) were used to develop a modelmore » using the concentrations of Na, V, Mn, Cu, Ga, Sr, Ba and U to classify a validation set of CAN samples into 5 factory groups; one group was two factories from the same fertilizer company. In terms of the pristine CAN samples, i.e., unadulterated prills, 64% of the test samples were matched to their correct factory group with zero false positives. The same PLSDA model was used to correctly match 100% of the CAN samples that were reprocessed by crushing and mixing the CAN with powdered sugar. In the case of crushed CAN samples mixed with aluminum powder, correct matches were made for zero to 100% of the samples depending on the factory the CAN originated. Remarkably, for one factory, 100% of the ammonium nitrate samples that were extracted from CAN using tap or bottled water were matched to the correct CAN factory group. Lastly, the water-insoluble (calcium carbonate) portions of CAN provided a greater degree of discrimination between factories than the water-soluble portions of CAN. In summary, this work illustrates that sourcing unadulterated CAN fertilizer can potentially be done with high frequency and high confidence using elemental profiling and chemometrics while the sourcing of reprocessed CAN is dependent on how much an adulterant alters the recovered elemental profile of CAN.« less

The development of an SC1 removable si-anti-reflective-coating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamada, Shintaro; Ke, Iou-Sheng; Cutler, Charlotte; Cui, Li; LaBeaume, Paul; Greene, Daniel; Popere, Bhooshan; Sullivan, Chris; Leonard, JoAnne; Coley, Suzanne; Wong, Sabrina; Ongayi, Owendi; Cameron, Jim; Clark, Michael B.; Fitzgibbons, Thomas C.

2018-03-01

A trilayer stack of spin-on-carbon (SOC), silicon anti-reflective coating (SiARC) and photoresist (PR) is often used to enable high resolution implant layers for integrated circuit manufacturing. Damage to substrates from SiARC removal using dry etching or aqueous hydrogen fluoride has increased the demand for innovative SiARC materials for implant lithography process. Wet strippable SiARCs (WS-SiARCs) capable of stripping under mild conditions such as SC1 (ammonium hydroxide/hydrogen peroxide/water) while maintaining key performance metrics of standard SiARCs is highly desirable. Minimizing the formation of Si-O-Si linkages by introducing organic crosslink sites was effective to impart SC1 solubility particularly after O2 dry etching. Incorporation of acidic groups onto the crosslinking site further improved SC1 solubility. A new siloxane polymer architecture that has SC1 active functionality in the polymer backbone was developed to further enhance SC1 solubility. A new SiARC formulation based on the new siloxane polymer achieved equivalent lithographic performances to a classic SiARC and SC1 strip rate >240Å/min under a relatively low concentration SC1 condition such as ammonium hydroxide/hydrogen peroxide/water=1/1/40.

Anion exchange composite membrane based on octa quaternary ammonium Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane for alkaline fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elumalai, Vijayakumar; Sangeetha, Dharmalingam

2018-01-01

A series of novel composite anion exchange membranes were prepared via simple solution casting method using synthesized quaternary ammonium functionalized Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane (QA-POSS) with Quaternary polysulfone (QPSU). QA-POSS was synthesized from prepared Cl-POSS and well characterized by FT-IR, NMR, SEM and TEM analyses to confirm the chemical modifications and cubic morphologies. The QA-POSS nano particles have dual role in the membrane providing additional ion conducting groups and reinforcing the membrane in molecular level for the overall improvement of composite membrane. Additionally, the composite membranes were characterized by XRD, SEM, Ion exchange capacity (IEC), water uptake and conductivity to ensure the suitability of its use as an electrolyte in alkaline fuel cell. Finally, membrane electrode assembly (MEA) was fabricated using Pt anode (0.25 mg/cm2), Ag cathode (0.375 mg/cm2) and various synthesized composite membranes, and then it was tested in real time fuel cell setup. The membrane with 15% QA-POSS showed the maximum power density of 321 mW/cm2. The results showed that QA-POSS possess the ability to enhance the performance of the anion exchange membrane significantly.

Structural basis for Mep2 ammonium transceptor activation by phosphorylation

PubMed Central

van den Berg, Bert; Chembath, Anupama; Jefferies, Damien; Basle, Arnaud; Khalid, Syma; Rutherford, Julian C.

2016-01-01

Mep2 proteins are fungal transceptors that play an important role as ammonium sensors in fungal development. Mep2 activity is tightly regulated by phosphorylation, but how this is achieved at the molecular level is not clear. Here we report X-ray crystal structures of the Mep2 orthologues from Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida albicans and show that under nitrogen-sufficient conditions the transporters are not phosphorylated and present in closed, inactive conformations. Relative to the open bacterial ammonium transporters, non-phosphorylated Mep2 exhibits shifts in cytoplasmic loops and the C-terminal region (CTR) to occlude the cytoplasmic exit of the channel and to interact with His2 of the twin-His motif. The phosphorylation site in the CTR is solvent accessible and located in a negatively charged pocket ∼30 Å away from the channel exit. The crystal structure of phosphorylation-mimicking Mep2 variants from C. albicans show large conformational changes in a conserved and functionally important region of the CTR. The results allow us to propose a model for regulation of eukaryotic ammonium transport by phosphorylation. PMID:27088325

[Species diversity and ecological distribution of anaerobic ammonium-oxidizing bacteria].

PubMed

Chen, Ting-Ting; Zheng, Ping; Hu, Bao-Lan

2009-05-01

Anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) is an important discovery in microbiology and environmental sciences, which can simultaneously remove NH4(+) -N and NO3(-) -N, being valuable in environmental engineering. However, anaerobic ammonium oxidizers are extremely slow-growing, and their population's doubling time is longer than 11 days, which seriously restricts the application of anammox process. Therefore, the study of anammox bacteria is of significance. It has been proved that besides planctomycetes, the first recognized anammox bacteria, both nitrifying bacteria and denitrifying bacteria are also capable of anaerobic ammonium oxidation. These anammox bacteria have wide-spread habitats, which offered a chance to exploit new bacterial resources for anammox. Nitrifying bacteria and denitrifying bacteria have the function of anammox, and their metabolic diversity provides a basis to speed up the start-up of anammox reactor. It was revealed that anaerobic digestion sludge can present anammox activity, with sulphate as electron acceptor. The new bioreaction lays a foundation for the development of novel N-removal biotechnology, being conducive to the development and application of anammox to get more bacterial resources for anammox and to make clear the ecological distribution of anammox bacteria.

A nitrogen response pathway regulates virulence in plant pathogenic fungi: role of TOR and the bZIP protein MeaB.

PubMed

López-Berges, Manuel S; Rispail, Nicolas; Prados-Rosales, Rafael C; Di Pietro, Antonio

2010-12-01

Virulence in plant pathogenic fungi is controlled through a variety of cellular pathways in response to the host environment. Nitrogen limitation has been proposed to act as a key signal to trigger the in planta expression of virulence genes. Moreover, a conserved Pathogenicity mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade is strictly required for plant infection in a wide range of pathogens. We investigated the relationship between nitrogen signaling and the Pathogenicity MAPK cascade in controlling infectious growth of the vascular wilt fungus Fusarium oxysporum. Several MAPK-activated virulence functions such as invasive growth, vegetative hyphal fusion and host adhesion were strongly repressed in the presence of the preferred nitrogen source ammonium. Repression of these functions by ammonium was abolished by L-Methionine sulfoximine (MSX) or rapamycin, two specific inhibitors of Gln synthetase and the protein kinase TOR (Target Of Rapamycin), respectively, and was dependent on the bZIP protein MeaB. Supplying tomato plants with ammonium rather than nitrate resulted in a significant delay of vascular wilt symptoms caused by the F. oxysporum wild type strain, but not by the ΔmeaB mutant. Ammonium also repressed invasive growth in two other pathogens, the rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae and the wheat head blight pathogen Fusarium graminearum. Our results suggest the presence of a conserved nitrogen-responsive pathway that operates via TOR and MeaB to control infectious growth in plant pathogenic fungi.

FTIR Analysis of Functional Groups in Aerosol Particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shokri, S. M.; McKenzie, G.; Dransfield, T. J.

2012-12-01

Secondary organic aerosols (SOA) are suspensions of particulate matter composed of compounds formed from chemical reactions of organic species in the atmosphere. Atmospheric particulate matter can have impacts on climate, the environment and human health. Standardized techniques to analyze the characteristics and composition of complex secondary organic aerosols are necessary to further investigate the formation of SOA and provide a better understanding of the reaction pathways of organic species in the atmosphere. While Aerosol Mass Spectrometry (AMS) can provide detailed information about the elemental composition of a sample, it reveals little about the chemical moieties which make up the particles. This work probes aerosol particles deposited on Teflon filters using FTIR, based on the protocols of Russell, et al. (Journal of Geophysical Research - Atmospheres, 114, 2009) and the spectral fitting algorithm of Takahama, et al (submitted, 2012). To validate the necessary calibration curves for the analysis of complex samples, primary aerosols of key compounds (e.g., citric acid, ammonium sulfate, sodium benzoate) were generated, and the accumulated masses of the aerosol samples were related to their IR absorption intensity. These validated calibration curves were then used to classify and quantify functional groups in SOA samples generated in chamber studies by MIT's Kroll group. The fitting algorithm currently quantifies the following functionalities: alcohols, alkanes, alkenes, amines, aromatics, carbonyls and carboxylic acids.

Evaluation of Antimicrobial Efficiency of New Polymers Comprised by Covalently Attached and/or Electrostatically Bound Bacteriostatic Species, Based on Quaternary Ammonium Compounds.

PubMed

Kougia, Efstathia; Tselepi, Maria; Vasilopoulos, Gavriil; Lainioti, Georgia Ch; Koromilas, Nikos D; Druvari, Denisa; Bokias, Georgios; Vantarakis, Apostolos; Kallitsis, Joannis K

2015-12-01

In the present work a detailed study of new bacteriostatic copolymers with quaternized ammonium groups introduced in the polymer chain through covalent attachment or electrostatic interaction, was performed. Different copolymers have been considered since beside the active species, the hydrophobic/hydrophilic nature of the co-monomer was also evaluated in the case of covalently attached bacteriostatic groups, aiming at achieving permanent antibacterial activity. Homopolymers with quaternized ammonium/phosphonium groups were also tested for comparison reasons. The antimicrobial activity of the synthesized polymers after 3 and 24 h of exposure at 4 and 22 °C was investigated on cultures of Gram-negative (P. aeruginosa, E. coli) and Gram-positive (S. aureus, E. faecalis) bacteria. It was found that the combination of the hydrophilic monomer acrylic acid (AA), at low contents, with the covalently attached bacteriostatic group vinyl benzyl dimethylhexadecylammonium chloride (VBCHAM) in the copolymer P(AA-co-VBCHAM88), resulted in a high bacteriostatic activity against P. aeruginosa and E. faecalis (6 log reduction in certain cases). Moreover, the combination of covalently attached VBCHAM units with electrostatically bound cetyltrimethylammonium 4-styrene sulfonate (SSAmC16) units in the P(SSAmC16-co-VBCHAMx) copolymers led to efficient antimicrobial materials, especially against Gram-positive bacteria, where a log reduction between 4.9 and 6.2 was verified. These materials remain remarkably efficient even when they are incorporated in polysulfone membranes.

Influence of immobilized quaternary ammonium group surface density on antimicrobial efficacy and cytotoxicity.

PubMed

Cavallaro, Alex; Mierczynska, Agnieszka; Barton, Mary; Majewski, Peter; Vasilev, Krasimir

2016-01-01

Bacterial colonization of medical devices causes infections and is a significant problem in healthcare. The use of antibacterial coatings is considered as a potential solution to this problem and has attracted a great deal of attention. Using concentration density gradients of immobilized quaternary ammonium compounds it was demonstrated that a specific threshold of surface concentration is required to induce significant bacterial death. It was determined that this threshold was 4.18% NR4(+) bonded nitrogen with a surface potential of + 120.4 mV. Furthermore, it is shown for the first time that adhesion of constituents of the culture medium to the quaternary ammonium modified surface eliminated any cytotoxicity towards eukaryotic cells such as primary human fibroblasts. The implications of this type of surface fouling on the antimicrobial efficacy of surface coatings are also discussed.

Kagomé lattices as cathode: Effect of particle size and fluoride substitution on electrochemical lithium insertion in sodium- and ammonium Jarosites

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sandineni, Prashanth; Yaghoobnejad Asl, Hooman; Choudhury, Amitava, E-mail: choudhurya@mst.edu

Highly crystalline sodium and ammonium Jarosites, NaFe{sub 3}(SO{sub 4}){sub 2}(OH){sub 6} and NH{sub 4}Fe{sub 3}(SO{sub 4}){sub 2}(OH){sub 6}, have been synthesized employing hydrothermal synthesis routes. The structures consist of anionic layers of vertex-sharing FeO{sub 6} octahedra and SO{sub 4} tetrahedral units with interlayer space occupied by Na and ammonium ions, respectively. The corner-sharing FeO{sub 6} octahedral units form six and three rings similar to hexagonal tungsten bronze sheets also known as kagomé lattice. These sodium and ammonium Jarosites are thermally stable up to 400 °C and undergo facile electrochemical lithium insertion through the reduction of Fe{sup 3+} to Fe{sup 2+}.more » Galvanostatic charge–discharge indicates that up to 2.25 and 2 lithium ions per formula unit can be inserted at an average voltage of 2.49 and 2.26 V to the sodium and the ammonium Jarosites, respectively, under slow discharge rate of C/50. The cycle-life and experimental achievable capacity show strong dependence on particle sizes and synthesis conditions. A small amount of fluoride substitution improves both achievable capacity and average voltage. - Graphical abstract: Discharge capacity of jarosite phases as a function of particle size and fluoride substitution. - Highlights: • Synthesis of natro- and ammonium Jarosites. • Jarosites as cathodes for lithium ion batteries. • Li-ion electrochemistry of Jarosites. • Mössbauer spectroscopy of Jarosites.« less

Elucidating the correlation between morphology and ion dynamics in polymerized ionic liquids.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heres, Maximilian; Cosby, Tyler; Iacob, Ciprian; Runt, James; Benson, Roberto; Liu, Hongjun; Paddison, Stephen; Sangoro, Joshua

Charge transport and dynamics are investigated for a series of poly-ammonium and poly-imidazolium-based polymerized ionic liquids (polyIL) with a common bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide anion using broadband dielectric spectroscopy and temperature modulated differential scanning calorimetry. A significant enhancement of the Tg independent ionic conductivity is observed for ammonium based polyIL with shorter pendant groups, in comparison to imidazolium based systems. These results emphasize the importance of polymer backbone spacing as well as counter-ion size on ionic conductivity in polymerized ionic liquids. NSF DMR 1508394.

Comparison of plasma generated nitrogen fertilizer to conventional fertilizers ammonium nitrate and sodium nitrate for pre-emergent and seedling growth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andhavarapu, A.; King, W.; Lindsay, A.; Byrns, B.; Knappe, D.; Fonteno, W.; Shannon, S.

2014-10-01

Plasma source generated nitrogen fertilizer is compared to conventional nitrogen fertilizers in water for plant growth. Root, shoot sizes, and weights are used to examine differences between plant treatment groups. With a simple coaxial structure creating a large-volume atmospheric glow discharge, a 162 MHz generator drives the air plasma. The VHF plasma source emits a steady state glow; the high drive frequency is believed to inhibit the glow-to-arc transition for non-thermal discharge generation. To create the plasma activated water (PAW) solutions used for plant treatment, the discharge is held over distilled water until a 100 ppm nitrate aqueous concentration is achieved. The discharge is used to incorporate nitrogen species into aqueous solution, which is used to fertilize radishes, marigolds, and tomatoes. In a four week experiment, these plants are watered with four different solutions: tap water, dissolved ammonium nitrate DI water, dissolved sodium nitrate DI water, and PAW. Ammonium nitrate solution has the same amount of total nitrogen as PAW; sodium nitrate solution has the same amount of nitrate as PAW. T-tests are used to determine statistical significance in plant group growth differences. PAW fertilization chemical mechanisms are presented.

Synthesis and characterization of poly(vinyl alcohol) membranes with quaternary ammonium groups for wound dressing.

PubMed

Chen, Kuo-Yu; Lin, Yu-Sheng; Yao, Chun-Hsu; Li, Ming-Hsien; Lin, Jui-Che

2010-01-01

2-[(acryloyloxy)ethyl]Trimethylammonium chloride (AETMAC) was grafted onto poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) using ceric ammonium nitrate (CAN) as a redox initiator. A series of graft co-polymer (PVA-g-PAETMAC) membranes with different contents of AETMAC were prepared with a casting method. The incorporation of AETMAC into PVA chains was confirmed by element analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The effects of grafting on the thermal properties, water take, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), contact angle, antibacterial activity and cytotoxicity of PVA-g-PAETMAC membranes were investigated. The experiment results showed that PVA-g-PAETMAC membrane has a higher equilibrium swelling ratio, surface hydrophilicity and WVTR than pure PVA membrane. Moreover, the higher the content of AETMAC, the higher were equilibrium swelling ratio, surface hydrophilicity and WVTR. In vitro bacterial adhesion study demonstrated a significantly reduced number of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli on PVA-g-PAETMAC surfaces when compared to PVA surface. In addition, no significant difference in the in vitro cytotoxicity was observed between PVA and PVA-g-PAETMAC membranes. The presence of quaternary ammonium groups did not reduce L929 cell growth. Therefore, the PVA-g-PAETMAC membranes have the potential for wound-dressing application.

Doxycycline and its quaternary ammonium derivative for adjuvant therapies of chondrosarcoma.

PubMed

Miladi, Imen; Vivier, Magali; Dauplat, Marie-Mélanie; Chatard, Morgane; Besse, Sophie; Vidal, Aurélien; Chassain, Karine; Jean, Betty; Forestier, Christiane; Chezal, Jean-Michel; Rédini, Francoise; Degoul, Francoise; Miot-Noirault, Elisabeth

2017-09-01

This study was conducted during the development of innovative treatment targeting the microenvironment of chondrosarcoma. In this context, MMP inhibitors were conjugated with a quaternary ammonium (QA) function as a targeting ligand to proteoglycans of chondrosarcoma extracellular matrix. Here we report the proof of concept of this strategy applied to the MMP13 inhibitor, doxycycline (Dox). A quaternary ammonium derivative of the MMP13 inhibitor doxycycline (QA-Dox) was synthesized, and its anticancer activity was evaluated in the Swarm rat chondrosarcoma (SRC) model compared with the parent drug doxycycline, in vitro and in vivo. In vivo, dox and QA-Dox efficiency was assessed at equimolar doses according to a q4dx4 schedule by monitoring tumour volume by MRI and PG-targeted scintigraphy. Molecular mechanism (MMP13 expression, proteoglycan level) and histology studies were performed on tumours. The link of QA targeting function to Dox maintained the MMP13 inhibitory activity in vitro. Interestingly, the bacteriostatic activity was lost. SRC cells incubated with both drugs were blocked in S and G2 M phases. Tumour growth inhibition (confirmed by histology) was observed for both Dox and QA-Dox. Undesirable blood effects (leukocyte decrease) were reduced when Dox was targeted to tumour tissue using the QA function. In the SRC model, the MMP13 inhibitor Dox and its QA derivative are promising as adjuvant therapies for chondrosarcoma management.

Ecological Physiology of Synechococcus sp. Strain SH-94-5, a Naturally Occurring Cyanobacterium Deficient in Nitrate Assimilation

PubMed Central

Miller, Scott R.; Castenholz, Richard W.

2001-01-01

Synechococcus sp. strain SH-94-5 is a nitrate assimilation-deficient cyanobacterium which was isolated from an ammonium-replete hot spring in central Oregon. While this clone could grow on ammonium and some forms of organic nitrogen as sole nitrogen sources, it could not grow on either nitrate or nitrite, even under conditions favoring passive diffusion. It was determined that this clone does not express functional nitrate reductase or nitrite reductase and that the lack of activity of either enzyme is not due to inactivation of the cyanobacterial nitrogen control protein NtcA. A few other naturally occurring cyanobacterial strains are also nitrate assimilation deficient, and phylogenetic analyses indicated that the ability to utilize nitrate has been independently lost at least four times during the evolutionary history of the cyanobacteria. This phenotype is associated with the presence of environmental ammonium, a negative regulator of nitrate assimilation gene expression, which may indicate that natural selection to maintain functional copies of nitrate assimilation genes has been relaxed in these habitats. These results suggest how the evolutionary fates of conditionally expressed genes might differ between environments and thereby effect ecological divergence and biogeographical structure in the microbial world. PMID:11425713

Ecological physiology of Synechococcus sp. strain SH-94-5, a naturally occurring cyanobacterium deficient in nitrate assimilation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, S. R.; Castenholz, R. W.

2001-01-01

Synechococcus sp. strain SH-94-5 is a nitrate assimilation-deficient cyanobacterium which was isolated from an ammonium-replete hot spring in central Oregon. While this clone could grow on ammonium and some forms of organic nitrogen as sole nitrogen sources, it could not grow on either nitrate or nitrite, even under conditions favoring passive diffusion. It was determined that this clone does not express functional nitrate reductase or nitrite reductase and that the lack of activity of either enzyme is not due to inactivation of the cyanobacterial nitrogen control protein NtcA. A few other naturally occurring cyanobacterial strains are also nitrate assimilation deficient, and phylogenetic analyses indicated that the ability to utilize nitrate has been independently lost at least four times during the evolutionary history of the cyanobacteria. This phenotype is associated with the presence of environmental ammonium, a negative regulator of nitrate assimilation gene expression, which may indicate that natural selection to maintain functional copies of nitrate assimilation genes has been relaxed in these habitats. These results suggest how the evolutionary fates of conditionally expressed genes might differ between environments and thereby effect ecological divergence and biogeographical structure in the microbial world.

Molecular dynamics simulation of the ionic liquid N-ethyl-N,N-dimethyl-N-(2-methoxyethyl)ammonium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide.

PubMed

Siqueira, Leonardo J A; Ribeiro, Mauro C C

2007-10-11

Thermodynamics, structure, and dynamics of an ionic liquid based on a quaternary ammonium salt with ether side chain, namely, N-ethyl-N,N-dimethyl-N-(2-methoxyethyl)ammonium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide, MOENM2E TFSI, are investigated by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Average density and configurational energy of simulated MOENM2E TFSI are interpreted with models that take into account empirical ionic volumes. A throughout comparison of the equilibrium structure of MOENM2E TFSI with previous results for the more common ionic liquids based on imidazolium cations is provided. Several time correlation functions are used to reveal the microscopic dynamics of MOENM2E TFSI. Structural relaxation is discussed by the calculation of simultaneous space-time correlation functions. Temperature effects on transport coefficients (diffusion, conductivity, and viscosity) are investigated. The ratio between the actual conductivity and the estimate from ionic diffusion by the Nernst-Einstein equation indicates that correlated motion of neighboring ions in MOENM2E TFSI is similar to imidazolium ionic liquids. In line with experiment, Walden plot of conductivity and viscosity indicates that simulated MOENM2E TFSI should be classified as a poor ionic liquid.

Properties of planetary ices in the NH3 + CO2 ± H2O ternary system using neutron diffraction and ab initio calculations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Howard, C. M.; Wood, I. G.; Fortes, A. D.; Vocadlo, L.

2016-12-01

BackgroundInteractions between simple molecules are of fundamental interest across diverse areas of the physical sciences, and the ternary system NH3 + CO2 ± H2O is no exception. In the outer solar system, interaction of CO2 with aqueous ammonia is likely to occur, synthesizing `rock-forming' minerals [1], with CO2 perhaps playing a role in ammonia-water oceans and cryomagmas inside icy planetary bodies - the discovery of ammonium carbonates in a crater of Pluto's moon Charon [2] adds weight to CO2 occuring in these planetary environments. In the same context, ammonium carbonates may have some astrobiological relevance, since removal of water leads to the formation of urea. On Earth, combination of CO2 with aqueous ammonia has relevance to carbon capture schemes [3], and there is interest in using such materials for hydrogen storage in fuel cells [4]. Consequently, from earthly matters of climate change to the study of extraterrestrial ices, understanding the structures and properties of ammonium carbonates are important. Despite this, our knowledge of ammonium carbonates is limited under ambient conditions of pressure and temperature and is entirely absent at the higher pressures, severely limiting our ability to model the behaviour of NH3 + CO2 ± H2O solids and fluids in planetary environments. ResultsWe report the results of several experiments using variable pressure and temperature neutron diffraction work on ammonium carbonate monohydrate, ammonium bicarbonate and ammonium carbamate, with complementary Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. The excellent agreement between experiments and DFT calculations obtained so far adds weight to the accuracy of calculated material properties of ammonium sesquicarbonate monohydrate and several polymorphs of urea where little empirical data exists. These experimental and computational studies provide the structural, thermoelastic and vibrational information required for accurate planetary modelling and remote identification of these material on planetary surfaces. [1] Kargel (1991) Icarus 94 , 368-390. [2] De Sanctis et al. (2016) Nature Letters, 1-4. [3] Han et al. (2013) Int. J. Greenhouse Gas Control 14 , 270-281. [4] Lan et al. (2012) Int. J. Hydrogen Energy 37 (2), 1482-1494.

Chemical modification of corn fiber with ion-exchanging groups

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Pretreated corn fiber was chemically modified with quaternary ammonium group or/and sulfonated with 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropanesulfonic acid under vacuum or at ambient pressure. The soluble fraction was dialyzed through 1 kDa MWCO dialysis tubing and the material retained inside the tubing was filtere...

Crystallization and X-ray diffraction analysis of 6-­aminohexanoate-dimer hydrolase from Arthrobacter sp. KI72

PubMed Central

Ohki, Taku; Mizuno, Nobuhiro; Shibata, Naoki; Takeo, Masahiro; Negoro, Seiji; Higuchi, Yoshiki

2005-01-01

To investigate the structure–function relationship between 6-aminohexanoate-dimer hydrolase (EII) from Arthrobacter sp. and a cryptic protein (EII′) which shows 88% sequence identity to EII, a hybrid protein (named Hyb-24) of EII and EII′ was overexpressed, purified and crystallized using the sitting-drop vapour-diffusion method with ammonium sulfate as a precipitant in MES buffer pH 6.5. The crystal belongs to space group P3121 or P3221, with unit-cell parameters a = b = 96.37, c = 113.09 Å. Diffraction data were collected from native and methylmercuric chloride derivative crystals to resolutions of 1.75 and 1.80 Å, respectively. PMID:16511198

Highly sensitive, colorimetric detection of mercury(II) in aqueous media by quaternary ammonium group-capped gold nanoparticles at room temperature.

PubMed

Liu, Dingbin; Qu, Weisi; Chen, Wenwen; Zhang, Wei; Wang, Zhuo; Jiang, Xingyu

2010-12-01

We provide a highly sensitive and selective assay to detect Hg(2+) in aqueous solutions using gold nanoparticles modified with quaternary ammonium group-terminated thiols at room temperature. The mechanism is the abstraction of thiols by Hg(2+) that led to the aggregation of nanoparticles. With the assistance of solar light irradiation, the detection limit can be as low as 30 nM, which satisfies the guideline concentration of Hg(2+) in drinking water set by the WHO. In addition, the dynamic range of detection is wide (3 × 10(-8)-1 × 10(-2) M). This range, to our best knowledge, is the widest one that has been reported so far in gold nanoparticle (AuNP)-based assays for Hg(2+).

The smallest quaternary ammonium salts with ether groups for high-performance electrochemical double layer capacitors† †Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c5sc02755a Click here for additional data file.

PubMed Central

Han, Taihee; Park, Min-Sik; Kim, Jeonghun; Kim, Jung Ho

2016-01-01

Electrochemical double layer capacitors (EDLCs) are energy storage devices that have been used for a wide range of electronic applications. In particular, the electrolyte is one of the important components, directly related to the capacitance and stability. Herein, we first report a series of the smallest quaternary ammonium salts (QASs), with ether groups on tails and tetrafluoroborate (BF4) as an anion, for use in EDLCs. To find the optimal structure, various QASs with different sized head groups and ether-containing tail groups were systematically compared. Comparing two nearly identical structures with and without ether groups, QASs with oxygen atoms showed improved capacitance, proving that ions with oxygen atoms move more easily than their counterparts at lower electric fields. Moreover, the ether containing QASs showed low activation energy values of conductivities, leading to smaller IR drops during the charge and discharge processes, resulting in an overall higher capacitance. PMID:28959391

Final report on the safety assessment of sodium sulfite, potassium sulfite, ammonium sulfite, sodium bisulfite, ammonium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite and potassium metabisulfite.

PubMed

Nair, Bindu; Elmore, Amy R

2003-01-01

Sodium Sulfite, Ammonium Sulfite, Sodium Bisulfite, Potassium Bisulfite, Ammonium Bisulfite, Sodium Metabisulfite, and Potassium Metabisulfite are inorganic salts that function as reducing agents in cosmetic formulations. All except Sodium Metabisulfite also function as hair-waving/straightening agents. In addition, Sodium Sulfite, Potassium Sulfite, Sodium Bisulfite, and Sodium Metabisulfite function as antioxidants. Although Ammonium Sulfite is not in current use, the others are widely used in hair care products. Sulfites that enter mammals via ingestion, inhalation, or injection are metabolized by sulfite oxidase to sulfate. In oral-dose animal toxicity studies, hyperplastic changes in the gastric mucosa were the most common findings at high doses. Ammonium Sulfite aerosol had an acute LC(50) of >400 mg/m(3) in guinea pigs. A single exposure to low concentrations of a Sodium Sulfite fine aerosol produced dose-related changes in the lung capacity parameters of guinea pigs. A 3-day exposure of rats to a Sodium Sulfite fine aerosol produced mild pulmonary edema and irritation of the tracheal epithelium. Severe epithelial changes were observed in dogs exposed for 290 days to 1 mg/m(3) of a Sodium Metabisulfite fine aerosol. These fine aerosols contained fine respirable particle sizes that are not found in cosmetic aerosols or pump sprays. None of the cosmetic product types, however, in which these ingredients are used are aerosolized. Sodium Bisulfite (tested at 38%) and Sodium Metabisulfite (undiluted) were not irritants to rabbits following occlusive exposures. Sodium Metabisulfite (tested at 50%) was irritating to guinea pigs following repeated exposure. In rats, Sodium Sulfite heptahydrate at large doses (up to 3.3 g/kg) produced fetal toxicity but not teratogenicity. Sodium Bisulfite, Sodium Metabisulfite, and Potassium Metabisulfite were not teratogenic for mice, rats, hamsters, or rabbits at doses up to 160 mg/kg. Generally, Sodium Sulfite, Sodium Metabisulfite, and Potassium Metabisulfite were negative in mutagenicity studies. Sodium Bisulfite produced both positive and negative results. Clinical oral and ocular-exposure studies reported no adverse effects. Sodium Sulfite was not irritating or sensitizing in clinical tests. These ingredients, however, may produce positive reactions in dermatologic patients under patch test. In evaluating the positive genotoxicity data found with Sodium Bisulfite, the equilibrium chemistry of sulfurous acid, sulfur dioxide, bisulfite, sulfite, and metabisulfite was considered. This information, however, suggests that some bisulfite may have been present in genotoxicity tests involving the other ingredients and vice versa. On that basis, the genotoxicity data did not give a clear, consistent picture. In cosmetics, however, the bisulfite form is used at very low concentrations (0.03% to 0.7%) in most products except wave sets. In wave sets, the pH ranges from 8 to 9 where the sulfite form would predominate. Skin penetration would be low due to the highly charged nature of these particles and any sulfite that did penetrate would be converted to sulfate by the enzyme sulfate oxidase. As used in cosmetics, therefore, these ingredients would not present a genotoxicity risk. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded that Sodium Sulfite, Potassium Sulfite, Ammonium Sulfite, Sodium Bisulfite, Ammonium Bisulfite, Sodium Metabisulfite, and Potassium Metabisulfite are safe as used in cosmetic formulations.

Structural effect of quaternary ammonium chitin derivatives on their bactericidal activity and specificity.

PubMed

Morkaew, Tirut; Pinyakong, Onruthai; Tachaboonyakiat, Wanpen

2017-08-01

The effect of the quaternary ammonium chitin structure on the bactericidal activity and specificity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus was investigated. Quaternary ammonium chitins were synthesized by the separate acylation of chitin (CT) with carboxymethyl trimethylammonium chloride (CMA), 3-carboxypropyl trimethylammonium chloride (CPA) and N-dodecyl-N,N-(dimethylammonio)butyrate (DDMAB). The successful acylation was confirmed by newly formed ester linkage. All three derivatives had a higher surface charge than chitin due to the additional positively charged quaternary ammonium groups. The N-short alkyl substituent (methyl) of CTCMA and CTCPA increased the hydrophilicity whilst the N-long alkyl substituent (dodecyl) of CTDDMAB increased the hydrophobicity compared to chitin. Chitin did not exhibit any bactericidal activity, while CTCMA and CTCPA completely killed E. coli and S. aureus in 30 and 60min, respectively, and CTDDMAB completely killed S. aureus in 10min but did not kill E. coli after a 2-h exposure. Therefore, the N-short alkyl substituent was more effective for killing E. coli and the N-long alkyl substituent conferred specific bactericidal activity against S. aureus. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

New hydrogen-rich ammonium metal borohydrides, NH4[M(BH4)4], M = Y, Sc, Al, as potential H2 sources.

PubMed

Starobrat, A; Jaroń, T; Grochala, W

2018-03-26

Three metal-ammonium borohydrides, NH4[M(BH4)4] M = Y, Sc, Al, denoted 1, 2, 3, respectively, were prepared via a low temperature mechanochemical synthesis and characterized using PXRD, FTIR and TGA/DSC/MS. The compounds 1 and 2 adopt the P21/c space group while the compound 3 crystallizes in an orthorhombic unit cell (Fddd). The first decomposition step of all three derivatives of ammonium borohydride has the maximum rate at 48 °C, 53 °C and 35 °C for 1, 2 and 3, respectively, which are comparable to that for NH4BH4 (53 °C). The thermal decomposition of these metal-ammonium borohydrides is a multistep process, with predominantly exothermic low-temperature stages. The compound 1 decomposes via known Y(BH4)3, however, some of the solid decomposition products of the other two compounds have not been fully identified. In the system containing compound 2, a new, more dense polymorph of the previously reported LiSc(BH4)4 has been detected as the intermediate of slow decomposition at room temperature.

The Onium Compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsarevsky, Nicolay V.; Slaveykova, Vera; Manev, Stefan; Lazarov, Dobri

1997-06-01

The onium salts are of a big interest for theoretical and structural chemistry, and for organic synthesis. Some representatives of the group (e.g. ammonium salts) were known from the oldest times. Many onium salts are met the nature: ammonium salts (either as inorganic salts, and organic derivatives, e.g. aminoacids, salts of biogenic amines and alkaloids, etc.); oxonium salts (plant pigments as anthocyans are organic oxonium compounds), etc. In 1894 C. Hartmann and V. Meyer prepared the first iodonium salts - 4-iododiphenyliodonium hydrogensulfate and diphenyliodonium salts, and suggested the ending -onium for all compounds with properties similar to those of ammonium salts. Nowadays onium compounds of almost all nonmetals are synthesised and studied. A great variety of physical methods: diffraction (e.g. XRD) and spectral methods (IR-, NMR-, and UV-spectra), as well as the chemical properties and methods of preparation of onium salts have been used in determination of the structure of these compounds. The application of different onium salts is immense. Ammonium, phosphonium and sulfonium salts are used as phase-transfer catalysts; diazonium salts - for the preparation of dyes, metalochromic and pH-indicators. All the onium salts and especially diazonium and iodonium salts are very useful reagents in organic synthesis.

Molecular dynamics simulation of the local concentration and structure in multicomponent aerosol nanoparticles under atmospheric conditions.

PubMed

Karadima, Katerina S; Mavrantzas, Vlasis G; Pandis, Spyros N

2017-06-28

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were employed to investigate the local structure and local concentration in atmospheric nanoparticles consisting of an organic compound (cis-pinonic acid or n-C 30 H 62 ), sulfate and ammonium ions, and water. Simulations in the isothermal-isobaric (NPT) statistical ensemble under atmospheric conditions with a prespecified number of molecules of the abovementioned compounds led to the formation of a nanoparticle. Calculations of the density profiles of all the chemical species in the nanoparticle, the corresponding radial pair distribution functions, and their mobility inside the nanoparticle revealed strong interactions developing between sulfate and ammonium ions. However, sulfate and ammonium ions prefer to populate the central part of the nanoparticle under the simulated conditions, whereas organic molecules like to reside at its outer surface. Sulfate and ammonium ions were practically immobile; in contrast, the organic molecules exhibited appreciable mobility at the outer surface of the nanoparticle. When the organic compound was a normal alkane (e.g. n-C 30 H 62 ), a well-organized (crystalline-like) phase was rapidly formed at the free surface of the nanoparticle and remained separate from the rest of the species.

Antibacterial inorganic-organic hybrid coatings on stainless steel via consecutive surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization for biocorrosion prevention.

PubMed

Yuan, S J; Pehkonen, S O; Ting, Y P; Neoh, K G; Kang, E T

2010-05-04

To enhance the corrosion resistance of stainless steel (SS) and to impart its surface with antibacterial functionality for inhibiting biofilm formation and biocorrosion, well-defined inorganic-organic hybrid coatings, consisting of a polysilsesquioxane inner layer and quaternized poly(2-(dimethyamino)ethyl methacrylate) (P(DMAEMA)) outer blocks, were prepared via successive surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of 3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate (TMSPMA) and 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA). The cross-linked P(TMASPMA), or polysilsesquioxane, inner layer provided a durable and resistant coating to electrolytes. The pendant tertiary amino groups of the P(DMAEMA) outer block were quaternized with alkyl halide to produce a high concentration of quaternary ammonium groups with biocidal functionality. The so-synthesized inorganic-organic hybrid coatings on the SS substrates exhibited good anticorrosion and antibacterial effects and inhibited biocorrosion induced by sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) in seawater media, as revealed by antibacterial assay and electrochemical analyses, and they are potentially useful to steel-based equipment under harsh industrial and marine environments.

Bio-Based Nano Composites from Plant Oil and Nano Clay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Jue; Hong, Chang K.; Wool, Richard P.

2003-03-01

We explored the combination of nanoclay with new chemically functionalized, amphiphilic, plant oil resins to form bio-based nanocomposites with improved physical and mechanical properties. These can be used in many new applications, including the development of self-healing nanocomposites through controlled reversible exfoliation/intercalation, and self-assembled nano-structures. Several chemically modified triglyceride monomers of varying polarity, combined with styrene (ca 30include acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO), maleated acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (MAESO) and soybean oil pentaerythritol glyceride maleates (SOPERMA), containing either hydroxyl group or acid functionality or both. The clay used is a natural montmorillonite modified with methyl tallow bis-2-hydroxyethyl quaternary ammonium chloride, which has hydroxyl groups. Both XRD and TEM showed a completely exfoliated structure at 3 wtwhen the clay content is above 5 wtconsidered a mix of intercalated and partially exfoliated structure. The controlled polarity of the monomer has a major effect on the reversible dispersion of clay in the polymer matrix. The bio-based nanocomposites showed a significant increase in flexural modulus and strength. Supported by EPA and DoE

46 CFR 148.205 - Ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate fertilizers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 5 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate fertilizers. 148... Materials § 148.205 Ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate fertilizers. (a) This section applies to the stowage and transportation in bulk of ammonium nitrate and the following fertilizers composed of uniform...

46 CFR 148.205 - Ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate fertilizers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 5 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate fertilizers. 148... Materials § 148.205 Ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate fertilizers. (a) This section applies to the stowage and transportation in bulk of ammonium nitrate and the following fertilizers composed of uniform...

46 CFR 148.205 - Ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate fertilizers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 5 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate fertilizers. 148... Materials § 148.205 Ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate fertilizers. (a) This section applies to the stowage and transportation in bulk of ammonium nitrate and the following fertilizers composed of uniform...

46 CFR 148.205 - Ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate fertilizers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 5 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate fertilizers. 148... Materials § 148.205 Ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate fertilizers. (a) This section applies to the stowage and transportation in bulk of ammonium nitrate and the following fertilizers composed of uniform...

Effects of plant diversity, N fertilization, and elevated carbon dioxide on grassland soil N cycling in a long-term experiment.

PubMed

Mueller, Kevin E; Hobbie, Sarah E; Tilman, David; Reich, Peter B

2013-04-01

The effects of global environmental changes on soil nitrogen (N) pools and fluxes have consequences for ecosystem functions such as plant productivity and N retention. In a 13-year grassland experiment, we evaluated how elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2 ), N fertilization, and plant species richness alter soil N cycling. We focused on soil inorganic N pools, including ammonium and nitrate, and two N fluxes, net N mineralization and net nitrification. In contrast with existing hypotheses, such as progressive N limitation, and with observations from other, often shorter, studies, elevated CO2 had relatively static and small, or insignificant, effects on soil inorganic N pools and fluxes. Nitrogen fertilization had inconsistent effects on soil N transformations, but increased soil nitrate and ammonium concentrations. Plant species richness had increasingly positive effects on soil N transformations over time, likely because in diverse subplots the concentrations of N in roots increased over time. Species richness also had increasingly positive effects on concentrations of ammonium in soil, perhaps because more carbon accumulated in soils of diverse subplots, providing exchange sites for ammonium. By contrast, subplots planted with 16 species had lower soil nitrate concentrations than less diverse subplots, especially when fertilized, probably due to greater N uptake capacity of subplots with 16 species. Monocultures of different plant functional types had distinct effects on N transformations and nitrate concentrations, such that not all monocultures differed from diverse subplots in the same manner. The first few years of data would not have adequately forecast the effects of N fertilization and diversity on soil N cycling in later years; therefore, the dearth of long-term manipulations of plant species richness and N inputs is a hindrance to forecasting the state of the soil N cycle and ecosystem functions in extant plant communities. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Ion-exchange selectivity of diclofenac, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, and naproxen in ureolyzed human urine.

PubMed

Landry, Kelly A; Sun, Peizhe; Huang, Ching-Hua; Boyer, Treavor H

2015-01-01

This research advances the knowledge of ion-exchange of four non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - diclofenac (DCF), ibuprofen (IBP), ketoprofen (KTP), and naproxen (NPX) - and one analgesic drug-paracetamol (PCM) - by strong-base anion exchange resin (AER) in synthetic ureolyzed urine. Freundlich, Langmuir, Dubinin-Astakhov, and Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherm models were fit to experimental equilibrium data using nonlinear least squares method. Favorable ion-exchange was observed for DCF, KTP, and NPX, whereas unfavorable ion-exchange was observed for IBP and PCM. The ion-exchange selectivity of the AER was enhanced by van der Waals interactions between the pharmaceutical and AER as well as the hydrophobicity of the pharmaceutical. For instance, the high selectivity of the AER for DCF was due to the combination of Coulombic interactions between quaternary ammonium functional group of resin and carboxylate functional group of DCF, van der Waals interactions between polystyrene resin matrix and benzene rings of DCF, and possibly hydrogen bonding between dimethylethanol amine functional group side chain and carboxylate and amine functional groups of DCF. Based on analysis of covariance, the presence of multiple pharmaceuticals did not have a significant effect on ion-exchange removal when the NSAIDs were combined in solution. The AER reached saturation of the pharmaceuticals in a continuous-flow column at varying bed volumes following a decreasing order of DCF > NPX ≈ KTP > IBP. Complete regeneration of the column was achieved using a 5% (m/m) NaCl, equal-volume water-methanol solution. Results from multiple treatment and regeneration cycles provide insight into the practical application of pharmaceutical ion-exchange in ureolyzed urine using AER.

Improved Steroids Detection and Evidence for Their Regiospecific Decompositions Using Anion Attachment Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Dumont, Quentin; Bárcenas, Mariana; Dossmann, Héloïse; Bailloux, Isabelle; Buisson, Corinne; Mechin, Nathalie; Molina, Adeline; Lasne, Françoise; Rannulu, Nalaka S; Cole, Richard B

2016-04-05

Nonpolar anabolic steroids are doping agents that typically do not provide strong signals by electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) owing especially to the low polarity of the functional groups present. We have investigated the addition of anions, in ammonium salt form, to anabolic steroid samples as ionization enhancers and have confirmed that lower instrumental limits of detection (as low as 10 ng/mL for fluoxymesterone-M) are obtained by fluoride anion attachment mass spectrometry, as compared to ESI(+)/(-) or atmospheric pressure photoionization (APPI)(+). Moreover, collision-induced decomposition (CID) spectra of precursor fluoride adducts of the bifunctional steroid "reduced pregnenolone" (containing two hydroxyl groups) and its d4-analogue provide evidence of regiospecific decompositions after attachment of fluoride anion to a specific hydroxyl group of the steroid. This type of charting of specific CID reaction pathways can offer value to selected reaction monitoring experiments (SRM) as it may result in a gain in selectivity in detection as well as in improvements in quantification.

Ultrasound-aided formation of gold nanoparticles on multi-walled carbon nanotubes functionalized with mercaptobenzene moieties.

PubMed

Park, Gle; Lee, Kyung G; Lee, Seok Jae; Park, Tae Jung; Wi, Ringbok; Wang, Kye Won; Kim, Do Hyun

2011-07-01

A hybrid of multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) and gold nanoparticle (Au NP) was prepared under ultrasound irradiation. The approach starts with the functionalization of the walls of MWCNTs with mercaptobenzene moieties for the subsequent immobilization of Au NPs. From the Raman spectra, mercaptobenzene was proven to exist on the MWCNTs. Gold ions were added to the aqueous dispersion of functionalized MWCNTs (f-MWCNTs), and were reduced with the aid of ultrasound and ammonium hydroxide. The reduced gold nanoparticles were examined from the TEM images. Au NPs adhered specifically on the thiol groups of mercaptobenzene to be deposited uniformly on the outer walls of the f-MWCNTs. The application of ultrasound led to a high yield of MWCNT-Au nanocomposites and to the dense distribution of the Au NPs. Moreover, the synthesis reaction rate of the hybrid was considerably enhanced relative to synthesis with mechanical agitation. Through an adsorption test using gold-binding-peptide-(GBP)-modified biomolecules, the hybrid's potential for biological diagnosis was verified.

49 CFR 176.415 - Permit requirements for Division 1.5, ammonium nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers. 176.415 Section 176.415 Transportation Other... requirements for Division 1.5, ammonium nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers. (a) Except as... Captain of the Port (COTP). (1) Ammonium nitrate UN1942, ammonium nitrate fertilizers containing more than...

49 CFR 176.415 - Permit requirements for Division 1.5, ammonium nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers. 176.415 Section 176.415 Transportation Other... requirements for Division 1.5, ammonium nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers. (a) Except as... Captain of the Port (COTP). (1) Ammonium nitrate UN1942, ammonium nitrate fertilizers containing more than...

49 CFR 176.415 - Permit requirements for Division 1.5, ammonium nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers. 176.415 Section 176.415 Transportation Other... requirements for Division 1.5, ammonium nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers. (a) Except as... Captain of the Port (COTP). (1) Ammonium nitrate UN1942, ammonium nitrate fertilizers containing more than...

49 CFR 176.415 - Permit requirements for Division 1.5, ammonium nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers. 176.415 Section 176.415 Transportation Other... requirements for Division 1.5, ammonium nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers. (a) Except as... Captain of the Port (COTP). (1) Ammonium nitrate UN1942, ammonium nitrate fertilizers containing more than...

The protective effects of taurine on acute ammonia toxicity in grass carp Ctenopharynodon idellus.

PubMed

Xing, Xiaodan; Li, Ming; Yuan, Lixia; Song, Meize; Ren, Qianyan; Shi, Ge; Meng, Fanxing; Wang, Rixin

2016-09-01

The four experimental groups were carried out to test the response of grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella to ammonia toxicity and taurine: group 1 was injected with NaCl, group 2 was injected with ammonium acetate, group 3 was injected with ammonium acetate and taurine, and group 4 was injected taurine. Fish in group 2 had the highest ammonia content in the liver and brain, and alanine, arginine, glutamine, glutamate and glycine contents in liver. Brain alanine and glutamate of fish in group 2 were significantly higher than those of fish in group 1. Malondialdehyde content of fish in group 2 was the highest, but superoxide dismutase and glutathione activities were the lowest. Although fish in group 2 had the lowest red cell count and hemoglobin, the highest alkaline phosphatase, complement C3, C4 and total immunoglobulin contents appeared in this group. In addition, superoxide dismutase and glutathione activities, red cell count and hemoglobin of fish in group 3 were significantly higher than those of fish in group 2, but malondialdehyde content is the opposite. This study indicates that ammonia exerts its toxic effects by interfering with amino acid transport, inducing reactive oxygen species generation and malondialdehyde accumulation, leading to blood deterioration and over-activation of immune response. The exogenous taurine could mitigate the adverse effect of high ammonia level on fish physiological disorder. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of phonon broadening on x-ray near-edge spectra in molecular crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vinson, John; Jach, Terrence; Elam, Tim; Denlinger, Jonathon

2014-03-01

Calculations of near-edge x-ray spectra are often carried out using the average atomic coordinates from x-ray or neutron scattering experiments or from density functional theory (DFT) energy minimization. This neglects disorder from thermal and zero-point vibrations. Here we look at the nitrogen K-edge of ammonium chloride and ammonium nitrate, comparing Bethe-Salpeter calculations of absorption and fluorescence to experiment. We find that intra-molecular vibrational effects lead to significant, non-uniform broadening of the spectra, and that for some features zero-point motion is the primary source of the observed shape.

Cell surface acid-base properties of Escherichia coli and Bacillus brevis and variation as a function of growth phase, nitrogen source and C:N ratio.

PubMed

Hong, Yongsuk; Brown, Derick G

2006-07-01

Potentiometric titration has been conducted to systematically examine the acid-base properties of the cell surfaces of Escherichia coli K-12 and Bacillus brevis as a function of growth phase, nitrogen source (ammonium or nitrate), and carbon to nitrogen (C:N) ratio of the growth substrate. The two bacterial species revealed four distinct proton binding sites, with pK(a) values in the range of 3.08-4.05 (pK(1)), 4.62-5.57 (pK(2)), 6.47-7.30 (pK(3)), and 9.68-10.89 (pK(4)) corresponding to phosphoric/carboxylic, carboxylic, phosphoric, and hydroxyl/amine groups, respectively. Two general observations in the data are that for B. brevis the first site concentration (N(1)), corresponding to phosphoric/carboxylic groups (pK(1)), varied as a function of nitrogen source, while for E. coli the fourth site concentration (N(4)), corresponding to hydroxyl/amine groups (pK(4)), varied as a function of C:N ratio. Correspondingly, it was found that N(1) was the highest of the four site concentrations for B. brevis and N(4) was the highest for E. coli. The concentrations of the remaining sites showed little variation. Finally, comparison between the titration data and a number of cell surface compositional studies in the literature indicates one distinct difference between the two bacteria is that pK(4) of the Gram-negative E. coli can be attributed to hydroxyl groups while that of the Gram-positive B. brevis can be attributed to amine groups.

Structural characterization of tartrate dehydrogenase: a versatile enzyme catalyzing multiple reactions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Malik, Radhika; Viola, Ronald E.

2010-10-28

The first structure of an NAD-dependent tartrate dehydrogenase (TDH) has been solved to 2 {angstrom} resolution by single anomalous diffraction (SAD) phasing as a complex with the intermediate analog oxalate, Mg{sup 2+} and NADH. This TDH structure from Pseudomonas putida has a similar overall fold and domain organization to other structurally characterized members of the hydroxy-acid dehydrogenase family. However, there are considerable differences between TDH and these functionally related enzymes in the regions connecting the core secondary structure and in the relative positioning of important loops and helices. The active site in these complexes is highly ordered, allowing the identificationmore » of the substrate-binding and cofactor-binding groups and the ligands to the metal ions. Residues from the adjacent subunit are involved in both the substrate and divalent metal ion binding sites, establishing a dimer as the functional unit and providing structural support for an alternating-site reaction mechanism. The divalent metal ion plays a prominent role in substrate binding and orientation, together with several active-site arginines. Functional groups from both subunits form the cofactor-binding site and the ammonium ion aids in the orientation of the nicotinamide ring of the cofactor. A lysyl amino group (Lys192) is the base responsible for the water-mediated proton abstraction from the C2 hydroxyl group of the substrate that begins the catalytic reaction, followed by hydride transfer to NAD. A tyrosyl hydroxyl group (Tyr141) functions as a general acid to protonate the enolate intermediate. Each substrate undergoes the initial hydride transfer, but differences in substrate orientation are proposed to account for the different reactions catalyzed by TDH.« less

Surface functionalization of Cu-Ni alloys via grafting of a bactericidal polymer for inhibiting biocorrosion by Desulfovibrio desulfuricans in anaerobic seawater.

PubMed

Yuan, S J; Liu, C K; Pehkonen, S O; Bai, R B; Neoh, K G; Ting, Y P; Kang, E T

2009-01-01

A novel surface modification technique was developed to provide a copper nickel alloy (M) surface with bactericidal and anticorrosion properties for inhibiting biocorrosion. 4-(chloromethyl)-phenyl tricholorosilane (CTS) was first coupled to the hydroxylated alloy surface to form a compact silane layer, as well as to confer the surface with chloromethyl functional groups. The latter allowed the coupling of 4-vinylpyridine (4VP) to generate the M-CTS-4VP surface with biocidal functionality. Subsequent surface graft polymerization of 4VP, in the presence of benzoyl peroxide (BPO) initiator, from the M-CTS-4VP surface produced the poly(4-vinylpyridine) (P(4VP)) grafted surface, or the M-CTS-P(4VP) surface. The pyridine nitrogen moieties on the M-CTS-P(4VP) surface were quaternized with hexylbromide to produce a high concentration of quaternary ammonium groups. Each surface functionalization step was ascertained by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and static water contact angle measurements. The alloy with surface-quaternized pyridinium cation groups (N+) exhibited good bactericidal efficiency in a Desulfovibrio desulfuricans-inoculated seawater-based modified Barr's medium, as indicated by viable cell counts and fluorescence microscopy (FM) images of the surface. The anticorrosion capability of the organic layers was verified by the polarization curve and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements. In comparison, the pristine (surface hydroxylated) Cu-Ni alloy was found to be readily susceptible to biocorrosion under the same environment.

Formation of Oxidized Organic Aerosol (OOA) through Fog Processing in the Po Valley

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gilardoni, S.; Paglione, M.; Rinaldi, M.; Giulianelli, L.; Massoli, P.; Hillamo, R. E.; Carbone, S.; Lanconelli, C.; Laaksonen, A. J.; Russell, L. M.; Poluzzi, V.; Fuzzi, S.; Facchini, C.

2014-12-01

Aqueous phase chemistry might be responsible for the formation of a significant fraction of the organic aerosol (OA) observed in the atmosphere, and could explain some of the discrepancies between OA concentration and properties predicted by models and observed in the environment. Aerosol - fog interaction and its effect on submicron aerosol properties were investigated in the Po Valley (northern Italy) during fall 2011, in the framework of the Supersite project (ARPA Emilia Romagna). Composition and physical properties of submicron aerosol were measured online by a High Resolution- Time of Flight - Aerosol Mass Spectrometer (HR-TOF-AMS), a Soot Photometer - Aerosol Mass Spectrometer (SP-AMS), and a Tandem Differential Mobility Particle Sizer (TDMPS). Organic functional group analysis was performed off-line by Hydrogen - Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (H-NMR) spectrometry and by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometry. Aerosol absorption, scattering, and total extinction were measured simultaneously with a Particle Soot Absorption Photometer (PSAP), a Nephelometer, and a Cavity Attenuated Phase Shift Spectrometer particle extinction monitor (CAPS PMex), respectively. Water-soluble organic carbon in fog-water was characterized off-line by HR-TOF-AMS. Fourteen distinct fog events were observed. Fog dissipation left behind an aerosol enriched in particles larger than 400 nm, typical of fog and cloud processing, and dominated by secondary species, including ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate and oxidized OA (OOA). Source apportionment of OA allowed us to identify OOA as the difference between total OA and primary OA (hydrocarbon like OA and biomass burning OA). The formation of OOA through fog processing is proved by the correlation of OOA concentration with hydroxyl methyl sulfonate signal and by the similarity of OOA spectra with organic mass spectra obtained by re-aerosolization of fog water samples. The oxygen to carbon ratio and the hydrogen to carbon ratio of this OOA fraction was about 0.6 and 1.3, respectively. Organic functional group analysis showed that OOA observed after fog dissipation was characterized by organic-sulfur and organic-nitrogen species.

A simple and convenient method to synthesize N-[(2-hydroxyl)-propyl-3-trimethylammonium] chitosan chloride in an ionic liquid.

PubMed

Yang, Xiaodeng; Zhang, Chuanguang; Qiao, Congde; Mu, Xueli; Li, Tianduo; Xu, Jinku; Shi, Lei; Zhang, Dongju

2015-10-05

N-[(2-Hydroxyl)-propyl-3-trimethyl ammonium] chitosan chloride (HTCC) was synthesized through nucleophilic substitution of 2,3-epoxypropyltrimethyl ammonium chloride (EPTAC) onto chitosan using ionic liquid of 1-allyl-3-methylimidazole chloride (AmimCl) as a homogeneous and green reaction media. The chemical structure of HTCC was confirmed by FTIR, (1)H NMR and (13)C NMR. The FTIR peak intensity of amino group at 1595 cm(-1) decreased and that of [Formula: see text] at 1475 cm(-1) increased with the increase of reaction time, confirming the substitution of EPTAC on CS. The degree of substitutions (DS) were calculated from the integral area of (1)H NMR, and the optimum reaction condition was obtained, namely, reaction time of 8h, temperature of 80°C and [Formula: see text] of 3/1. The degree of crystallinity and thermal properties of HTCC were characterized by XRD, TG, DSC, and DMA methods. Data from XRD, TG, DSC and DMA show that the degree of crystallinity, thermal stability, as well as glass transition temperature of HTCC decreased with the increase of DS. The reaction mechanism of chitosan with EPTAC in AmimCl was elucidated by performing density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Electricity production coupled to ammonium in a microbial fuel cell.

PubMed

He, Zhen; Kan, Jinjun; Wang, Yanbing; Huang, Yuelong; Mansfeld, Florian; Nealson, Kenneth H

2009-05-01

The production of electricity from ammonium was examined using a rotating-cathode microbial fuel cell (MFC). The addition of ammonium chloride, ammonium sulfate, or ammonium phosphate (monobasic) resulted in electricity generation, while adding sodium chloride, nitrate, or nitrite did not cause any increase in current production. The peak current increased with increasing amount of ammonium addition up to 62.3 mM of ammonium chloride, suggesting that ammonium was involved in electricity generation either directly as the anodic fuel or indirectly as substrates for nitrifiers to produce organic compounds for heterotrophs. Adding nitrate or nitrite with ammonium increased current production compared to solely ammonium addition. Using 16S rRNA-linked molecular analyses, we found ammonium-oxidizing bacteria and denitrifying bacteria on both the anode and cathode electrodes, whereas no anammox bacteria were detected. The dominant ammonium-oxidizing bacteria were closely related to Nitrosomonas europaea. The present MFC achieved an ammonium removal efficiency of 49.2 +/- 5.9 or 69.7 +/- 3.6%, depending on hydraulic retention time, but exhibited a very low Coulombic efficiency.

Haematolohical profile of subacute oral toxicity of molybdenum and ameliorative efficacy of copper salt in goats.

PubMed

Kusum; Raina, R; Verma, P K; Pankaj, N K; Kant, V; Kumar, J; Srivastava, A K

2010-07-01

Molybdenum toxicity produces a state of secondary hypocuprosis, resulting into alterations in normal hematological profile. In the present study, ammonium molybdate alone and with copper sulfate (II) pentahydrate (ameliorative agent) was administered orally for 30 consecutive days in healthy goats of group 1 and 2, respectively, to access the effect on the hematological profile on different predetermined days of dosing. Administration of ammonium molybdate alone produced significant decline in the mean values of hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), total leukocyte count (TLC), total erythrocyte count (TEC), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), with a significant increase in neutrophil level and mean corpuscular volume (MCV). However, values of erythrocyte sedimentation rate, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and differential leukocyte count were not significantly altered. On comparing observations of ameliorative group with the group 1 goats, it is concluded that the ameliorative copper salt has beneficial effects in alleviating the alterations in the values of Hb, PCV, TLC, TEC, MCV, MCHC, and neutrophils.

Haematolohical Profile of Subacute Oral Toxicity of Molybdenum and Ameliorative Efficacy of Copper Salt in Goats

PubMed Central

Kusum; Raina, R.; Verma, P. K.; Pankaj, N. K.; Kant, V.; Kumar, J.; Srivastava, A. K.

2010-01-01

Molybdenum toxicity produces a state of secondary hypocuprosis, resulting into alterations in normal hematological profile. In the present study, ammonium molybdate alone and with copper sulfate (II) pentahydrate (ameliorative agent) was administered orally for 30 consecutive days in healthy goats of group 1 and 2, respectively, to access the effect on the hematological profile on different predetermined days of dosing. Administration of ammonium molybdate alone produced significant decline in the mean values of hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), total leukocyte count (TLC), total erythrocyte count (TEC), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), with a significant increase in neutrophil level and mean corpuscular volume (MCV). However, values of erythrocyte sedimentation rate, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and differential leukocyte count were not significantly altered. On comparing observations of ameliorative group with the group 1 goats, it is concluded that the ameliorative copper salt has beneficial effects in alleviating the alterations in the values of Hb, PCV, TLC, TEC, MCV, MCHC, and neutrophils. PMID:21170251

Critical biogeochemical functions in the subsurface are associated with bacteria from new phyla and little studied lineages

DOE PAGES

Hug, Laura A.; Thomas, Brian C.; Sharon, Itai; ...

2015-07-22

Nitrogen, sulfur and carbon fluxes in the terrestrial subsurface are determined by the intersecting activities of microbial community members, yet the organisms responsible are largely unknown. Metagenomic methods can identify organisms and functions, but genome recovery is often precluded by data complexity. To address this limitation, we developed subsampling assembly methods to re-construct high-quality draft genomes from complex samples. Here, we applied these methods to evaluate the interlinked roles of the most abundant organisms in biogeochemical cycling in the aquifer sediment. Community proteomics confirmed these activities. The eight most abundant organisms belong to novel lineages, and two represent phyla withmore » no previously sequenced genome. Four organisms are predicted to fix carbon via the Calvin Benson Bassham, Wood Ljungdahl or 3-hydroxyproprionate/4-hydroxybutarate pathways. The profiled organisms are involved in the network of denitrification, dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonia, ammonia oxidation and sulfate reduction/oxidation, and require substrates supplied by other community members. An ammonium-oxidizing Thaumarchaeote is the most abundant community member, despite low ammonium concentrations in the groundwater. Finally, this organism likely benefits from two other relatively abundant organisms capable of producing ammonium from nitrate, which is abundant in the groundwater. Overall, dominant members of the microbial community are interconnected through exchange of geochemical resources.« less

Gauze Impregnated With Quaternary Ammonium Salt Reduces Bacterial Colonization of Surgical Drains After Breast Reconstruction.

PubMed

Strong, Amy L; Wolfe, Emily T; Shank, Nina; Chaffin, Abigail E; Jansen, David A

2018-06-01

Surgical site infection after breast reconstruction is associated with increased length of hospital stay, readmission rates, cost, morbidity, and mortality. Identifying methods to reduce surgical site infection without the use of antibiotics may be beneficial at reducing antimicrobial resistance, reserving the use of antibiotics for more severe cases. Quaternary ammonium salts have previously been shown to be a safe and effective antimicrobial agent in the setting of in vitro and in vivo animal experiments. A retrospective study was conducted to investigate the antimicrobial properties of a quaternary ammonium salt, 3-trimethoxysilyl propyldimethyloctadecyl ammonium chloride (QAS-3PAC; Bio-spear), at reducing surgical drain site colonization and infection after breast reconstruction (deep inferior epigastric perforator flap reconstruction or tissue expander placement). Twenty patients were enrolled, with 14 surgical drains covered with nonimpregnated gauze and 17 surgical drains covered with QAS-3PAC impregnated gauze, for the purposes of investigating bacterial colonization. Antibiotic sensitivity analysis was also conducted when bacterial cultures were positive. The overall incidence of bacterial colonization of surgical drains was lower in the treatment group compared with the control group (17.6% vs 64.3%, respectively; P = 0.008). QAS-3PAC impregnated gauze reduced the incidence of bacterial colonization of surgical drains during the first (0.0% vs 33.3%) and second (33.3% vs 87.5%; P = 0.04) postoperative week. Furthermore, no enhanced antibiotic resistance was noted on drains treated with QAS-3PAC impregnated gauze. The results of this study suggest that QAS-3PAC impregnated gauze applied over surgical drains may be an effective method for reducing the incidence of bacterial colonization.

Poly(ortho-phenylenediamine-co-aniline) based copolymer with improved capacitance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olmedo-Martínez, Jorge L.; Farías-Mancilla, Bárbara I.; Vega-Rios, Alejandro; Zaragoza-Contreras, E. Armando

2017-10-01

A poly(ortho-phenylenediamine-co-aniline) copolymer is synthesized via the oxidative route, using a 1:1 M ratio of aniline to ortho-phenylenediamine (oPDA) and ammonium persulfate as the oxidizing agent. Infrared spectroscopy indicates that the copolymer contains the functional groups typically present in polyaniline and poly(ortho-phenylenediamine); whereas UV-vis-NIR spectroscopy shows that the copolymer adopts a phenazine-type structure. Cyclic voltammetry evidences the copolymer synthesis, as a redox peak at -65 mV, different from those exhibited by polyaniline (160 mV and 600 mV) or poly(o-phenylenediamine) (-240 mV) is observed. Finally, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and the charge/discharge test provide support to propose the copolymer application in electrodes for supercapacitors.

Synthesis, characterization, in vitro anti-proliferative and hemolytic activity of hydroxyapatite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palanivelu, R.; Ruban Kumar, A.

2014-06-01

Hydroxyapatite (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2, HAP) nanoparticles are widely used in several biomedical applications due to its compositional similarities to bone mineral, excellent biocompatibility and bioactivity, osteoconductivity. In this present investigation, HAP nanoparticles synthesized by precipitation technique using calcium nitrate and di-ammonium phosphate. The crystalline nature and the functional group analysis are confirmed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy (FT-Raman) respectively. The morphological observations are ascertained from field emission electron scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). In vitro anti-proliferative and hemolytic activities are carried out on the synthesized HAP samples and the studies reveals that HAP have mild activity against erythrocytes.

Synthesis of interlocked molecules by olefin metathesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clark, Paul Gregory

A large body of work in the Grubbs group has focused on the development of functional-group tolerant ruthenium alkylidene catalysts that perform a number of olefin metathesis reactions. These catalysts have seen application in a wide range of fields, including classic total synthesis as well as polymer and materials chemistry. One particular family of compounds, interlocked molecules, has benefitted greatly from these advances in catalyst stability and activity. This thesis describes several elusive and challenging interlocked architectures whose syntheses have been realized through the utilization of different types of ruthenium-catalyzed olefin metathesis reactions. Ring-closing olefin metathesis has enabled the synthesis of a [c2]daisy-chain dimer with the ammonium binding site near the cap of the dimer. A deprotonated DCD possessing such a structural attribute will more forcefully seek to restore coordinating interactions upon reprotonation, enhancing its utility as a synthetic molecular actuator. Dimer functionalization facilitated incorporation into linear polymers, with a 48% size increase of an unbound, extended analogue of the polymer demonstrating slippage of the dimer units. Ongoing work is directed at further materials studies, in particular, exploring the synthesis of macroscopic networks containing the DCD units and analyzing the correlation between molecular-scale extension-contraction manipulations and resulting macro-scale changes. A "clipping" approach to a polycatenated cyclic polymer, a structure that resembles a molecular "charm bracelet", has been described. The use of ring-opening metathesis polymerization of a carbamate monomer in the presence of a chain transfer agent allowed for the synthesis of a linear polymer that was subsequently functionalized and cyclized to the corresponding cyclic analogue. This cyclic polymer was characterized through a variety of techniques, and subjected to further functionalization reactions, affording a cyclic polyammonium scaffold. Diolefin polyether fragments were coordinated and "clipped" around the ammonium sites within the polymer backbone using ring-closing olefin metathesis, giving the molecular "charm bracelet". Confirmation of the interlocked nature of the product was achieved via 1H NMR spectroscopy and two-dimensional diffusion ordered NMR spectroscopy. A simple strategy for a one-pot, multi-component synthesis of polyrotaxanes using acyclic diene metathesis polymerization was developed. The polyrotaxanes were characterized by traditional 1H NMR spectroscopy as well as size exclusion chromatography, and the interlocked topology was confirmed using two-dimension diffusion-ordered NMR spectroscopy. The dynamic, self-correcting nature of the ADMET polymerization was also explored through the equilibration of a capped polyammonium polymer in the presence of dibenzo-24-crown-8 ether and olefin metathesis catalysts. The efficiency and ease with which these mechanically interlocked macromolecules can be assembled should facilitate rapid modulation to achieve versatile polyrotaxane architectures. Flexible, switchable [c2]daisy-chain dimers (DCDs) were synthesized, where the macromer ammonium binding site was adjacent to the crown-type recognition structure and separated from the cap by an alkyl chain. A DCD of this topology is expected to have an extended structure in the bound conformation (when the ammonium was coordinated to the crown). Several different macromer candidates were designed to allow access to DCDs with flexible alkyl chains between the ammonium binding site and the cap, and a number of synthetic routes were explored in an effort to access these challenging materials. While the first generation DCD structure proved to be unstable due to a labile ester linkage, work is continuing toward the development of several cap structures in an effort to replace the ester linkage with an ether linkage, which, in the second generation model systems, has proven much more stable to the acidic and basic conditions necessary to induce switching of the dimeric architecture. One of the efforts in our lab is directed at the synthesis of 18F-labeled nanoparticles to be used as tumor imaging agents in positron emission tomography. We have been working to optimize fluorine incorporation while minimizing NP crosslinking. Because of evidence of NP side-reactions with the potassium carbonate base, we have begun to use potassium benzoate solid-state beads. To analyze the fluorinated NPs, various sorbents were explored. It was found that silica sorbents rapidly reacted and bound to the NPs, while the NPs remained unreactive and mobile on alumina. Further analysis of the NPs has been accomplished using 2D-DOSY NMR spectroscopy. Future work with the NPs will involve a systematic evaluation of the role of water on the extent of fluorination, as well as functionalization of the NPs with Cy5.5 dye for use in studies on eyes to be done in collaboration with researchers at the Mayo Clinic.

Tailoring Pore Size and Chemical Interior of near 1 nm Sized Pores in a Nanoporous Polymer Based on a Discotic Liquid Crystal

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

A triazine based disc shaped molecule with two hydrolyzable units, imine and ester groups, was polymerized via acyclic diene metathesis in the columnar hexagonal (Colhex) LC phase. Fabrication of a cationic nanoporous polymer (pore diameter ∼1.3 nm) lined with ammonium groups at the pore surface was achieved by hydrolysis of the imine linkage. Size selective aldehyde uptake by the cationic porous polymer was demonstrated. The anilinium groups in the pores were converted to azide as well as phenyl groups by further chemical treatment, leading to porous polymers with neutral functional groups in the pores. The pores were enlarged by further hydrolysis of the ester groups to create ∼2.6 nm pores lined with −COONa surface groups. The same pores could be obtained in a single step without first hydrolyzing the imine linkage. XRD studies demonstrated that the Colhex order of the monomer was preserved after polymerization as well as in both the nanoporous polymers. The porous anionic polymer lined with −COOH groups was further converted to the −COOLi, −COONa, −COOK, −COOCs, and −COONH4 salts. The porous polymer lined with −COONa groups selectively adsorbs a cationic dye, methylene blue, over an anionic dye. PMID:28416888

Biotransformation of acyclovir by an enriched nitrifying culture.

PubMed

Xu, Yifeng; Yuan, Zhiguo; Ni, Bing-Jie

2017-03-01

This work evaluates the biodegradation of the antiviral drug acyclovir by an enriched nitrifying culture during ammonia oxidation and without the addition of ammonium. The study on kinetics was accompanied with the structural elucidation of biotransformation products through batch biodegradation experiments at two different initial levels of acyclovir (15 mg L -1 and 15 μg L -1 ). The pseudo first order kinetic studies of acyclovir in the presence of ammonium indicated the higher degradation rates under higher ammonia oxidation rates than those constant degradation rates in the absence of ammonium. The positive correlation was found between acyclovir degradation rate and ammonia oxidation rate, confirming the cometabolism of acyclovir by the enriched nitrifying culture in the presence of ammonium. Formation of the product carboxy-acyclovir (P239) indicated the main biotransformation pathway was aerobic oxidation of the terminal hydroxyl group, which was independent on the metabolic type (i.e. cometabolism or metabolism). This enzyme-linked reaction might be catalyzed by monooxygenase from ammonia oxidizing bacteria or heterotrophs. The formation of carboxy-acyclovir was demonstrated to be irrelevant to the acyclovir concentrations applied, indicating the revealed biotransformation pathway might be the dominant removal pathway of acyclovir in wastewater treatment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Enhanced Formation of Methylglyoxal-Derived Advanced Glycation End Products in Arabidopsis Under Ammonium Nutrition

PubMed Central

Borysiuk, Klaudia; Ostaszewska-Bugajska, Monika; Vaultier, Marie-Noëlle; Hasenfratz-Sauder, Marie-Paule; Szal, Bożena

2018-01-01

Nitrate (NO3–) and ammonium (NH4+) are prevalent nitrogen (N) sources for plants. Although NH4+ should be the preferred form of N from the energetic point of view, ammonium nutrition often exhibits adverse effects on plant physiological functions and induces an important growth-limiting stress referred as ammonium syndrome. The effective incorporation of NH4+ into amino acid structures requires high activity of the mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid cycle and the glycolytic pathway. An unavoidable consequence of glycolytic metabolism is the production of methylglyoxal (MG), which is very toxic and inhibits cell growth in all types of organisms. Here, we aimed to investigate MG metabolism in Arabidopsis thaliana plants grown on NH4+ as a sole N source. We found that changes in activities of glycolytic enzymes enhanced MG production and that markedly elevated MG levels superseded the detoxification capability of the glyoxalase pathway. Consequently, the excessive accumulation of MG was directly involved in the induction of dicarbonyl stress by introducing MG-derived advanced glycation end products (MAGEs) to proteins. The severe damage to proteins was not within the repair capacity of proteolytic enzymes. Collectively, our results suggest the impact of MG (mediated by MAGEs formation in proteins) in the contribution to NH4+ toxicity symptoms in Arabidopsis. PMID:29881392

Ammonium supply rate influences archaeal and bacterial ammonia oxidizers in a wetland soil vertical profile.

PubMed

Höfferle, Špela; Nicol, Graeme W; Pal, Levin; Hacin, Janez; Prosser, James I; Mandić-Mulec, Ines

2010-11-01

Oxidation of ammonia, the first step in nitrification, is carried out in soil by bacterial and archaeal ammonia oxidizers and recent studies suggest possible selection for the latter in low-ammonium environments. In this study, we investigated the selection of ammonia-oxidizing archaea and bacteria in wetland soil vertical profiles at two sites differing in terms of the ammonium supply rate, but not significantly in terms of the groundwater level. One site received ammonium through decomposition of organic matter, while the second, polluted site received a greater supply, through constant leakage of an underground septic tank. Soil nitrification potential was significantly greater at the polluted site. Quantification of amoA genes demonstrated greater abundance of bacterial than archaeal amoA genes throughout the soil profile at the polluted site, whereas bacterial amoA genes at the unpolluted site were below the detection limit. At both sites, archaeal, but not the bacterial community structure was clearly stratified with depth, with regard to the soil redox potential imposed by groundwater level. However, depth-related changes in the archaeal community structure may also be associated with physiological functions other than ammonia oxidation. © 2010 Federation of European Microbiological Societies. Published by Blackwell Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sulfide-Induced Dissimilatory Nitrate Reduction to Ammonium Supports Anaerobic Ammonium Oxidation (Anammox) in an Open-Water Unit Process Wetland

PubMed Central

Jones, Zackary L.; Jasper, Justin T.; Sedlak, David L.

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Open-water unit process wetlands host a benthic diatomaceous and bacterial assemblage capable of nitrate removal from treated municipal wastewater with unexpected contributions from anammox processes. In exploring mechanistic drivers of anammox, 16S rRNA gene sequencing profiles of the biomat revealed significant microbial community shifts along the flow path and with depth. Notably, there was an increasing abundance of sulfate reducers (Desulfococcus and other Deltaproteobacteria) and anammox microorganisms (Brocadiaceae) with depth. Pore water profiles demonstrated that nitrate and sulfate concentrations exhibited a commensurate decrease with biomat depth accompanied by the accumulation of ammonium. Quantitative PCR targeting the anammox hydrazine synthase gene, hzsA, revealed a 3-fold increase in abundance with biomat depth as well as a 2-fold increase in the sulfate reductase gene, dsrA. These microbial and geochemical trends were most pronounced in proximity to the influent region of the wetland where the biomat was thickest and influent nitrate concentrations were highest. While direct genetic queries for dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA) microorganisms proved unsuccessful, an increasing depth-dependent dominance of Gammaproteobacteria and diatoms that have previously been functionally linked to DNRA was observed. To further explore this potential, a series of microcosms containing field-derived biomat material confirmed the ability of the community to produce sulfide and reduce nitrate; however, significant ammonium production was observed only in the presence of hydrogen sulfide. Collectively, these results suggest that biogenic sulfide induces DNRA, which in turn can explain the requisite coproduction of ammonium and nitrite from nitrified effluent necessary to sustain the anammox community. IMPORTANCE This study aims to increase understanding of why and how anammox is occurring in an engineered wetland with limited exogenous contributions of ammonium and nitrite. In doing so, the study has implications for how geochemical parameters could potentially be leveraged to impact nutrient cycling and attenuation during the operation of treatment wetlands. The work also contributes to ongoing discussions about biogeochemical signatures surrounding anammox processes and enhances our understanding of the contributions of anammox processes in freshwater environments. PMID:28526796

Synthesis and characterization of chitosan quaternary ammonium salt and its application as drug carrier for ribavirin.

PubMed

Li, Si-Dong; Li, Pu-Wang; Yang, Zi-Ming; Peng, Zheng; Quan, Wei-Yan; Yang, Xi-Hong; Yang, Lei; Dong, Jing-Jing

2014-11-01

N-(2-hydroxyl) propyl-3-trimethyl ammonium chitosan chloride (HTCC) is hydro-soluble chitosan (CS) derivative, which can be obtained by the reaction between epoxypropyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (ETA) and CS. The preparation parameters for the synthesis of HTCC were optimized by orthogonal experimental design. ETA was successfully grafted into the free amino group of CS. Grafting of ETA with CS had great effect on the crystal structure of HTCC, which was confirmed by the XRD results. HTCC displayed higher capability to form nanoparticles by crosslinking with negatively charged sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP). Ribavrin- (RIV-) loaded HTCC nanoparticles were positively charged and were spherical in shape with average particle size of 200 nm. More efficient drug encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity were obtained for HTCC in comparison with CS, however, HTCC nanoparticles displayed faster release rate due to its hydro-soluble properties. The results suggest that HTCC is a promising CS derivative for the encapsulation of hydrophilic drugs in obtaining sustained release of drugs.

Hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) degradation by Acetobacterium paludosum.

PubMed

Sherburne, Leslie A; Shrout, Joshua D; Alvarez, Pedro J J

2005-12-01

Substrates and nutrients are often added to contaminated soil or groundwater to enhance bioremediation. Nevertheless, this practice may be counterproductive in some cases where nutrient addition might relieve selective pressure for pollutant biodegradation. Batch experiments with a homoacetogenic pure culture of Acetobacterium paludosum showed that anaerobic RDX degradation is the fastest when auxiliary growth substrates (yeast extract plus fructose) and nitrogen sources (ammonium) are not added. This bacterium degraded RDX faster under autotrophic (H2-fed) than under heterotrophic conditions, even though heterotrophic growth was faster. The inhibitory effect of ammonium is postulated to be due to the repression of enzymes that initiate RDX degradation by reducing its nitro groups, based on the known fact that ammonia represses nitrate and nitrite reductases. This observation suggests that the absence of easily assimilated nitrogen sources, such as ammonium, enhances RDX degradation. Although specific end products of RDX degradation were not determined, the production of nitrous oxide (N2O) suggests that A. paludosum cleaved the triazine ring.

Quaternary ammonium isobaric tag for a relative and absolute quantification of peptides.

PubMed

Setner, Bartosz; Stefanowicz, Piotr; Szewczuk, Zbigniew

2018-02-01

Isobaric labeling quantification of peptides has become a method of choice for mass spectrometry-based proteomics studies. However, despite of wide variety of commercially available isobaric tags, none of the currently available methods offers significant improvement of sensitivity of detection during MS experiment. Recently, many strategies were applied to increase the ionization efficiency of peptides involving chemical modifications introducing quaternary ammonium fixed charge. Here, we present a novel quaternary ammonium-based isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantification of peptides (QAS-iTRAQ 2-plex). Upon collisional activation, the new stable benzylic-type cationic reporter ion is liberated from the tag. Deuterium atoms were used to offset the differential masses of a reporter group. We tested the applicability of QAS-iTRAQ 2-plex reagent on a series of model peptides as well as bovine serum albumin tryptic digest. Obtained results suggest usefulness of this isobaric ionization tag for relative and absolute quantification of peptides. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The competition of charge remote and charge directed fragmentation mechanisms in quaternary ammonium salt derivatized peptides--an isotopic exchange study.

PubMed

Cydzik, Marzena; Rudowska, Magdalena; Stefanowicz, Piotr; Szewczuk, Zbigniew

2011-12-01

Derivatization of peptides as quaternary ammonium salts (QAS) is a promising method for sensitive detection by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (Cydzik et al. J. Pept. Sci. 2011, 17, 445-453). The peptides derivatized by QAS at their N-termini undergo fragmentation according to the two competing mechanisms - charge remote (ChR) and charge directed (ChD). The absence of mobile proton in the quaternary salt ion results in ChR dissociation of a peptide bond. However, Hofmann elimination of quaternary salt creates an ion with one mobile proton leading to the ChD fragmentation. The experiments on the quaternary ammonium salts with deuterated N-alkyl groups or amide NH bonds revealed that QAS derivatized peptides dissociate according to the mixed ChR-ChD mechanism. The isotopic labeling allows differentiation of fragments formed according to ChR and ChD mechanisms. © The Author(s) 2011. This article is published with open access at Springerlink.com

Rapid synthesis of maleimide functionalized fluorine-18 labeled prosthetic group using "radio-fluorination on the Sep-Pak" method.

PubMed

Basuli, Falguni; Zhang, Xiang; Jagoda, Elaine M; Choyke, Peter L; Swenson, Rolf E

2018-06-30

Following our recently published fluorine-18 labeling method, "Radio-fluorination on the Sep-Pak", we have successfully synthesized 6-[ 18 F]fluoronicotinaldehyde by passing a solution (1:4 acetonitrile: t-butanol) of its quaternary ammonium salt precursor, 6-(N,N,N-trimethylamino)nicotinaldehyde trifluoromethanesulfonate (2), through a fluorine-18 containing anion exchange cartridge (PS-HCO 3 ). Over 80% radiochemical conversion was observed using 10 mg of precursor within 1 minute. The [ 18 F]fluoronicotinaldehyde ([ 18 F]5) was then conjugated with 1-(6-(aminooxy)hexyl)-1H-pyrrole-2,5-dione to prepare the fluorine-18 labeled maleimide functionalized prosthetic group, 6-[ 18 F]fluoronicotinaldehyde O-(6-(2,5-dioxo-2,5-dihydro-1H-pyrrol-1-yl)hexyl) oxime, 6-[ 18 F]FPyMHO ([ 18 F]6). The current Sep-Pak method not only improves the overall radiochemical yield (50 ± 9%, decay-corrected, n = 9) but also significantly reduces the synthesis time (from 60-90 minutes to 30 minutes) when compared with literature methods for the synthesis of similar prosthetic groups. Published 2018. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Mixotrophy in Heterocapsa rotundata: A Mechanism for Dominating the Winter Phytoplankton Community

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Millette, N.; Pierson, J. J.; Aceves, A.; Stoecker, D.

2016-02-01

Heterocapsa rotundata is a dinoflagellate that forms large winter blooms in estuaries and coastal ecosystems. Past research has focused on the mechanisms necessary for these winter blooms to form but it is unknown why H. rotundata consistently forms these blooms. H. rotundata is a known mixotroph, and we conducted grazing experiments with a non-axenic culture of H. rotundata containing bacteria to test what environmental conditions increase H. rotundata's community grazing rate. We used microspheres to confirm that H. rotundata was grazing. We measured the change of bacterial abundance in control (without grazers) and experimental groups over 24 hours to estimate H. rotundata's community grazing rate on bacteria at different irradiance levels and ammonium concentrations. There was a significant interaction between the effect of ammonium concentration and irradiance levels. As irradiance levels decreased, the effect of ammonium concentrations on H. rotundata grazing rates became less pronounced. At lower irradiance levels H. rotundata grazing rates remained high, regardless of the ammonium concentration. Overall, changes in irradiance levels had a larger impact on H. rotundata grazing rates than changes in ammonium concentration. The findings will be discussed in light of ongoing lab and field research. The winter season is known for limiting light levels that most likely have a negative impact on phytoplankton growth rates. Heterocapsa rotundata has adapted to low light levels by increasing grazing on bacteria to consume enough carbon to maintain growth. Heterocapsa rotundata's response to low light levels is likely the mechanism that provides the competitive advantage to form winter blooms under the right conditions over other phytoplankton species.

Resolution Mechanism and Characterization of an Ammonium Chloride-Tolerant, High-Thermostable, and Salt-Tolerant Phenylalanine Dehydrogenase from Bacillus halodurans.

PubMed

Jiang, Wei; Wang, Ya-Li; Fang, Bai-Shan

2018-05-09

As phenylalanine dehydrogenase (PheDH) plays an important role in the synthesis of chiral drug intermediates and detection of phenylketonuria, it is significant to obtain a PheDH with specific and high activity. Here, a PheDH gene, pdh, encoding a novel BhPheDH with 61.0% similarity to the known PheDH from Microbacterium sp., was obtained. The BhPheDH showed optimal activity at 60 °C and pH 7.0, and it showed better stability in hot environment (40-70 °C) than the PheDH from Nocardia sp. And its activity and thermostability could be significantly increased by sodium salt. After incubation for 2 h in 3 M NaCl at 60 °C, the residual activity of the BhPheDH was found to be 1.8-fold higher than that of the control group (without NaCl). The BhPheDH could tolerate high concentration of ammonium chloride and its activity could be also enhanced by the high concentration of ammonium salts. These characteristics indicate that the BhPheDH possesses better thermostability, ammonium chloride tolerance, halophilic mechanism, and high salt activation. The mechanism of thermostability and high salt tolerance of the BhPheDH was analyzed by molecular dynamics simulation. These results provide useful information about the enzyme with high-temperature activity, thermostability, halophilic mechanism, tolerance to high concentration of ammonium chloride, higher salt activation and enantio-selectivity, and the application of molecular dynamics simulation in analyzing the mechanism of these distinctive characteristics.

Origins of extreme broadening mechanisms in near-edge x-ray spectra of nitrogen compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vinson, John; Jach, Terrence; Elam, W. T.; Denlinger, J. D.

2014-11-01

We demonstrate the observation of many-body lifetime effects in valence-band x-ray emission. A comparison of the N K α emission of crystalline ammonium nitrate to molecular-orbital calculations revealed an unexpected, extreme broadening of the NO σ recombination—so extensively as to virtually disappear. GW calculations establish that this disappearance is due to a large imaginary component of the self-energy associated with the NO σ orbitals. Building upon density-functional theory, we have calculated radiative transitions from the nitrogen 1 s level of ammonium nitrate and ammonium chloride using a Bethe-Salpeter method to include electron-hole interactions. The absorption and emission spectra of both crystals evince large, orbital-dependent sensitivity to molecular dynamics. We demonstrate that many-body effects as well as thermal and zero-point motion are vital for understanding observed spectra. A computational approach using average atomic positions and uniform broadening to account for lifetime and phonon effects is unsatisfactory.

Segregation in like-charged polyelectrolyte-surfactant mixtures can be precisely tuned via manipulation of the surfactant mass ratio.

PubMed

Wills, Peter W; Lopez, Sonia G; Burr, Jocelyn; Taboada, Pablo; Yeates, Stephen G

2013-04-09

In this study, we consider segregative phase separation in aqueous mixtures of quaternary ammonium surfactants didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDQ) and alkyl (C12, 70%; C14 30%) dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride (BAC) upon the addition of poly(diallyldimethylammonium) chloride (pDADMAC) as a function of both concentration and molecular weight. The nature of the surfactant type is dominant in determining the concentration at which separation into an upper essentially surfactant-rich phase and lower polyelectrolyte-rich phase is observed. However, for high-molecular-weight pDADMAC there is a clear indication of an additional depletion flocculation effect. When the BAC/DDQ ratio is tuned, the segregative phase separation point can be precisely controlled. We propose a phase separation mechanism for like-charged quaternary ammonium polyelectrolyte/surfactant/water mixtures induced by a reduction in the ionic atmosphere around the surfactant headgroup and possible ion pair formation. An additional polyelectrolyte-induced depletion flocculation effect was also observed.

Leaves play a central role in the adaptation of nitrogen and sulfur metabolism to ammonium nutrition in oilseed rape (Brassica napus).

PubMed

Coleto, Inmaculada; de la Peña, Marlon; Rodríguez-Escalante, Jon; Bejarano, Iraide; Glauser, Gaëtan; Aparicio-Tejo, Pedro M; González-Moro, M Begoña; Marino, Daniel

2017-09-20

The coordination between nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) assimilation is required to suitably provide plants with organic compounds essential for their development and growth. The N source induces the adaptation of many metabolic processes in plants; however, there is scarce information about the influence that it may exert on the functioning of S metabolism. The aim of this work was to provide an overview of N and S metabolism in oilseed rape (Brassica napus) when exposed to different N sources. To do so, plants were grown in hydroponic conditions with nitrate or ammonium as N source at two concentrations (0.5 and 1 mM). Metabolic changes mainly occurred in leaves, where ammonium caused the up-regulation of enzymes involved in the primary assimilation of N and a general increase in the concentration of N-compounds (NH 4 + , amino acids and proteins). Similarly, the activity of key enzymes of primary S assimilation and the content of S-compounds (glutathione and glucosinolates) were also higher in leaves of ammonium-fed plants. Interestingly, sulfate level was lower in leaves of ammonium-fed plants, which was accompanied by the down-regulation of SULTR1 transporters gene expression. The results highlight the impact of the N source on different steps of N and S metabolism in oilseed rape, notably inducing N and S assimilation in leaves, and put forward the potential of N source management to modulate the synthesis of compounds with biotechnological interest, such as glucosinolates.

Nitrification Processes, Conversion Kinetics, Physical Substrate Preferences and Source Function Analysis for an Aquatic Nitrification Model System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zimmer, J.; O'Connor, B.; Halmo, K.; Xiong, A.

2016-02-01

Nitrification is one of the processes that prevents accumulation of ammonium in aerobic near-bottom water of almost any basin-type ecosystem. Ammonium arises in part from digestive excretion as well as decomposition and diagenesis of organic matter. Ammonium inputs are especially pronounced near abundant benthic invertebrate communities (e.g., mussel or oyster beds) and where fish congregate en masse. Recent basin-scale changes in ecology of Lake Michigan have resulted in several zones of high excretion that are not accompanied by ammonium accumulation. A roller-bottle simulation of the sediment-water interface, using sand as the solid phase, is used with natural enrichments of nitrifier communities to measure empirical values for key terms in a mathematical model to describe the N-cycle process components of our closed model system. The maximum velocity of transformation is directly proportional to solid phase material in a mature system, with half-saturation values for ammonium and nitrite transformation of 207.3 and 10.8 µM respectively. These are significantly higher than ambient concentrations of 2-5 and 0.2-1.0 µM respectively for dense invertebrate communities but in line with observed values for dense fish aggregations. Thus regulation of reduced nitrogenous compounds can be very effective in these communities when there is sufficient interaction of the solid substrate with the source water. Further analysis of rate parameters and controls in the model system, and assessment of different natural and artificial solid phases for biofilm establishment and nitrification parameters is underway.

49 CFR 176.410 - Division 1.5 materials, ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate mixtures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... (Oxidizers and Organic Peroxides), and Division 1.5 Materials § 176.410 Division 1.5 materials, ammonium...) Ammonium nitrate, Division 5.1 (oxidizer), UN1942. (3) Ammonium nitrate fertilizer, Division 5.1 (oxidizer), UN 2067. (b) This section does not apply to Ammonium nitrate fertilizer, Class 9, UN 2071 or to any...

Infrared laboratory studies of synthetic planetary atmospheres

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, D.

1977-01-01

Topics covered include: the broadening of individual lines in the CO fundamental by various gases; total band absorptance as a function of absorber thickness and total effect pressure at various temperatures for bands of CO and N2O; nitric acid vapor content in the region of the ozone layer; optical properties of solid NH3; HSO4 concentration in Venus clouds; Burch's law of multiplicative transmittance for mixing absorbing gases when their lines are broadened by helium and hydrogen; ling strength and self-broadening parameters in the v3 fundamental of CO2 and N2O; optical constants of liquid ammonia, liquid methane, saturated hydrocarbons, ammonium hydride and ammonium salts.

Determination of trace quaternary ammonium surfactants in water by combining solid-phase extraction with surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Chen, Y C; Sun, M C

2001-01-01

This study demonstrates the feasibility of combining solid-phase extraction (SPE) with surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization (SALDI) mass spectrometry to determine trace quaternary ammonium surfactants in water. The trace surfactants in water were directly concentrated on the surface of activated carbon sorbent in SPE. The activated carbon sorbent was then mixed with the SALDI liquid for SALDI analysis. No SPE elution procedure was necessary. Experimental results indicate that the surfactants with longer chain alkyl groups exhibit higher sensitivities than those with shorter chain alkyl groups in SPE-SALDI analysis. The detection limit for hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide is around 10 ppt in SPE-SALDI analysis by sampling 100 mL of aqueous solution, while that of tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide is about 100 ppt. The detection limit for decyltrimethylammonium bromide and dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide is in the low-ppb range. Copyright 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Method of uranium reclamation from aqueous systems by reactive ion exchange. [US DOE patent application; anion exchange resin of copolymerized divinyl-benzene and styrene having quarternary ammonium groups and bicarbonate ligands

DOEpatents

Maya, L.

1981-11-05

A reactive ion exchange method for separation and recovery of values of uranium, neptunium, plutonium, or americium from substantially neutral aqueous systems of said metals comprises contacting said system with an effective amount of a basic anion exchange resin of copolymerized divinyl-benzene and styrene having quarternary ammonium groups and bicarbonate ligands to achieve nearly 100% sorption of said actinyl ion onto said resin and an aqueous system practically free of said actinyl ions. The method is operational over an extensive range of concentrations from about 10/sup -6/ M to 1.0 M actinyl ion and a pH range of about 4 to 7. The method has particulr application to treatment of waste streams from Purex-type nuclear fuel reprocessing facilities and hydrometallurgical processes involving U, Np, P, or Am.

Quaternary ammonium silane-functionalized, methacrylate resin composition with antimicrobial activities and self-repair potential

PubMed Central

Gong, Shi-qiang; Niu, Li-na; Kemp, Lisa K.; Yiu, Cynthia K.Y.; Ryou, Heonjune; Qi, Yi-pin; Blizzard, John D.; Nikonov, Sergey; Brackett, Martha G.; Messer, Regina L.W.; Wu, Christine D.; Mao, Jing; Brister, L. Bryan; Rueggeberg, Frederick A.; Arola, Dwayne D.; Pashley, David H.; Tay, Franklin R.

2012-01-01

Design of antimicrobial polymers for enhancing healthcare issues and minimizing environmental problems is an important endeavor with both fundamental and practical implications. Quaternary ammonium silane-functionalized methacrylate (QAMS) represents an example of antimicrobial macromonomers synthesized by a sol-gel chemical route; these compounds possess flexible Si-O-Si bonds. In present work, a partially-hydrolyzed QAMS copolymerized with bis-GMA is introduced. This methacrylate resin was shown to possess desirable mechanical properties with both a high degree of conversion and minimal polymerization shrinkage. Kill-on-contact microbiocidal activities of this resin were demonstrated using single-species biofilms of Streptococcus mutans (ATCC 36558), Actinomyces naeslundii (ATCC 12104) and Candida albicans (ATCC 90028). Improved mechanical properties after hydration provided the proof-of-concept that QAMS-incorporated resin exhibits self-repair potential via water-induced condensation of organic modified silicate (ormosil) phases within the polymerized resin matrix. PMID:22659173

[Achievement of Sulfate-Reducing Anaerobic Ammonium Oxidation Reactor Started with Nitrate-Reducting Anaerobic Ammonium Oxidation].

PubMed

Liu, Zheng-chuan; Yuan, Lin-jiang; Zhou, Guo-biao; Li, Jing

2015-09-01

The transformation of nitrite-reducing anaerobic ammonium oxidation to sulfate-reducing anaerobic ammonium oxidation in an UASB was performed and the changes in microbial community were studied. The result showed that the sulfate reducing anaerobic ammonium oxidation process was successfully accomplished after 177 days' operation. The removal rate of ammonium nitrogen and sulfate were up to 58. 9% and 15. 7%, the removing load of ammonium nitrogen and sulfate were 74. 3 mg.(L.d)-1 and 77. 5 mg.(L.d)-1 while concentration of ammonium nitrogen and sulfate of influent were 130 mg.(L.d)-1 and 500 mg.(L.d)-1, respectively. The lost nitrogen and sulphur was around 2 in molar ratio. The pH value of the effluent was lower than that of the influent. Instead of Candidatus brocadia in nitrite reducing anaerobic ammonium oxidation granular sludge, Bacillus benzoevorans became the dominant species in sulfate reducing anaerobic ammonium oxidation sludge. The dominant bacterium in the two kinds of anaerobic ammonium oxidation process is different. Our results imply that the two anaerobic ammonium oxidation processes are carried out by different kind of bacterium.

Effects of ammonium-based ionic liquids and 2,4-dichlorophenol on the phospholipid fatty acid composition of zebrafish embryos.

PubMed

Piotrowska, Aleksandra; Syguda, Anna; Wyrwas, Bogdan; Chrzanowski, Lukasz; Luckenbach, Till; Heipieper, Hermann J

2018-01-01

Ionic liquids consisting of a combination of herbicidal anions with a quaternary ammonium cation act as efficient herbicides, which are under consideration to be used in the agriculture. In the present study, we used embryos of the zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a model to assess the toxic potential of ammonium-based ionic liquids for aquatic organisms. As we assumed interference of the partially hydrophobic ionic liquid cation with lipids, we investigated the adaptation response in the lipid composition of the zebrafish embryos, triggered by the ionic compound. Therefore, the impact of ammonium-based ionic liquids with different lengths of the alkyl chain ([C6,C6,C1,C1N][Br], [C8,C8,C1,C1N][Br]) on the phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) profile of zebrafish embryos up to 72 hours post fertilization (hpf) was examined. Furthermore, the changes in the unsaturation index (UI) of PLFAs, as the sum parameter of membrane fluidity in eukaryotic cells, were presented. The PLFA's UI in the zebrafish embryos upon exposure to quaternary ammonium salts was compared to the UI of the embryos upon exposure to nonionic 2,4-dichlorophenol, which has a similar hydrophobicity but is structurally different to [C8,C8,C1,C1N][Br]. It was shown that for ammonium-based ionic liquid precursors non-specific mode of action occurs and the toxic effect on lipid composition of zebrafish embryos can be well predicted based on chemical properties, like hydrophobicity. Furthermore, the changes in PLFAs, expressed by the UI, can be useful to study toxic effects of organic contamination. However, for zebrafish embryos, after ionic liquids and 2,4-DCP exposure, the changes were observed at high lethal concentrations, which caused the incidence of lethality of 30 and 50% of a group of test animals.

Effects of ammonium-based ionic liquids and 2,4-dichlorophenol on the phospholipid fatty acid composition of zebrafish embryos

PubMed Central

Piotrowska, Aleksandra; Syguda, Anna; Wyrwas, Bogdan; Chrzanowski, Lukasz; Luckenbach, Till

2018-01-01

Ionic liquids consisting of a combination of herbicidal anions with a quaternary ammonium cation act as efficient herbicides, which are under consideration to be used in the agriculture. In the present study, we used embryos of the zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a model to assess the toxic potential of ammonium-based ionic liquids for aquatic organisms. As we assumed interference of the partially hydrophobic ionic liquid cation with lipids, we investigated the adaptation response in the lipid composition of the zebrafish embryos, triggered by the ionic compound. Therefore, the impact of ammonium-based ionic liquids with different lengths of the alkyl chain ([C6,C6,C1,C1N][Br], [C8,C8,C1,C1N][Br]) on the phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) profile of zebrafish embryos up to 72 hours post fertilization (hpf) was examined. Furthermore, the changes in the unsaturation index (UI) of PLFAs, as the sum parameter of membrane fluidity in eukaryotic cells, were presented. The PLFA’s UI in the zebrafish embryos upon exposure to quaternary ammonium salts was compared to the UI of the embryos upon exposure to nonionic 2,4-dichlorophenol, which has a similar hydrophobicity but is structurally different to [C8,C8,C1,C1N][Br]. It was shown that for ammonium-based ionic liquid precursors non-specific mode of action occurs and the toxic effect on lipid composition of zebrafish embryos can be well predicted based on chemical properties, like hydrophobicity. Furthermore, the changes in PLFAs, expressed by the UI, can be useful to study toxic effects of organic contamination. However, for zebrafish embryos, after ionic liquids and 2,4-DCP exposure, the changes were observed at high lethal concentrations, which caused the incidence of lethality of 30 and 50% of a group of test animals. PMID:29342167

Augmenting Laboratory Rearing of Stable Fly (Diptera: Muscidae) Larvae With Ammoniacal Salts

PubMed Central

Friesen, Kristina; Berkebile, Dennis R.; Zhu, Jerry J.

2017-01-01

Stable flies are blood feeding parasites and serious pests of livestock. The immature stages develop in decaying materials which frequently have high ammonium content. We added various ammonium salts to our laboratory stable fly rearing medium and measured their effect on size and survival as well as the physical properties of the used media. The addition of ammonium hydroxide, ammonium phosphate and ammonium sulfate reduced larval survival. These compounds decreased pH and increased ammonium content of the used media. Ammonium bicarbonate had no effect on pH and marginally increased ammonium while increasing survival twofold. The optimal level of ammonium bicarbonate was 50 g (0.63 mol) per pan. Larval survival decreased when pH was outside the range of 8.5 to 9.0. PMID:28130462

Nitrogen use strategies of seedlings from neotropical tree species of distinct successional groups.

PubMed

Oliveira, Halley Caixeta; da Silva, Ligia Maria Inocêncio; de Freitas, Letícia Dias; Debiasi, Tatiane Viegas; Marchiori, Nidia Mara; Aidar, Marcos Pereira Marinho; Bianchini, Edmilson; Pimenta, José Antonio; Stolf-Moreira, Renata

2017-05-01

Few studies have analyzed the strategies of neotropical tree seedlings for absorbing, translocating and assimilating the nitrogen. Here, we compared the nitrogen use strategies of seedlings from six tree species that are native to the Brazilian Atlantic Forest and that belong to different successional groups: Trema micrantha, Heliocarpus popayanensis and Cecropia pachystachya (pioneers), Cariniana estrellensis, Eugenia brasiliensis and Guarea kunthiana (non-pioneers). The effects of cultivating seedlings with nitrate or ammonium on the growth, physiology and nitrogen metabolism were analyzed. Nitrate-grown pioneer species had much higher leaf nitrate reductase activity than non-pioneer ones, but non-pioneer seedlings were also able to use nitrate as a nitrogen source. In addition to this remarkable difference between the groups in the capacity for leaf nitrate assimilation, substantial variations in the nitrogen use strategies were observed within the successional classes. Differently from the other non-pioneers, the canopy species C. estrellensis seemed to assimilate nitrate mainly in the leaves. Morphophysiological analyses showed a gradient of ammonium toxicity response, with E. brasiliensis as the most tolerant species, and T. micrantha and H. popayanensis as the most sensitive ones. Guarea kunthiana showed a relatively low tolerance to ammonium and an unusual high translocation of this cation in the xylem sap. In contrast to the other pioneers, C. pachystachya had a high plasticity in the use of nitrogen sources. Overall, these results suggest that nitrogen use strategies of neotropical tree seedlings were not determined solely by their successional position. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Crystallization of aqueous inorganic-malonic acid particles: nucleation rates, dependence on size, and dependence on the ammonium-to-sulfate ratio.

PubMed

Parsons, Matthew T; Riffell, Jenna L; Bertram, Allan K

2006-07-06

Using an electrodynamic balance, we determined the relative humidity (RH) at which aqueous inorganic-malonic acid particles crystallized, with ammonium sulfate ((NH(4))(2)SO(4)), letovicite ((NH(4))(3)H(SO(4))(2)), or ammonium bisulfate (NH(4)HSO(4)) as the inorganic component. The results for (NH(4))(2)SO(4)-malonic acid particles and (NH(4))(3)H(SO(4))(2)-malonic acid particles show that malonic acid decreases the crystallization RH of the inorganic particles by less than 7% RH when the dry malonic acid mole fraction is less than 0.25. At a dry malonic acid mole fraction of about 0.5, the presence of malonic acid can decrease the crystallization RH of the inorganic particles by up to 35% RH. For the NH(4)HSO(4)-malonic acid particles, the presence of malonic acid does not significantly modify the crystallization RH of the inorganic particles for the entire range of dry malonic acid mole fractions studied; in all cases, either the particles did not crystallize or the crystallization RH was close to 0% RH. Size dependent measurements show that the crystallization RH of aqueous (NH(4))(2)SO(4) particles is not a strong function of particle volume. However, for aqueous (NH(4))(2)SO(4)-malonic acid particles (with dry malonic acid mole fraction = 0.36), the crystallization RH is a stronger function of particle volume, with the crystallization RH decreasing by 6 +/- 3% RH when the particle volume decreases by an order of magnitude. To our knowledge, these are the first size dependent measurements of the crystallization RH of atmospherically relevant inorganic-organic particles. These results suggest that for certain organic mole fractions the particle size and observation time need to be considered when extrapolating laboratory crystallization results to atmospheric scenarios. For aqueous (NH(4))(2)SO(4) particles, the homogeneous nucleation rate data are a strong function of RH, but for aqueous (NH(4))(2)SO(4)-malonic acid particles (with dry organic mole fraction = 0.36), the rates are not as dependent on RH. The homogeneous nucleation rates for aqueous (NH(4))(2)SO(4) particles were parametrized using classical nucleation theory, and from this analysis we determined that the interfacial surface tension between the crystalline ammonium sulfate critical nucleus and an aqueous ammonium sulfate solution is between 0.053 and 0.070 J m(-2).

Characterization of a Mutant Deficient for Ammonium and Nitric Oxide Signalling in the Model System Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

PubMed Central

Sanz-Luque, Emanuel; Ocaña-Calahorro, Francisco; Galván, Aurora; Fernández, Emilio; de Montaigu, Amaury

2016-01-01

The ubiquitous signalling molecule Nitric Oxide (NO) is characterized not only by the variety of organisms in which it has been described, but also by the wealth of biological processes that it regulates. In contrast to the expanding repertoire of functions assigned to NO, however, the mechanisms of NO action usually remain unresolved, and genes that work within NO signalling cascades are seldom identified. A recent addition to the list of known NO functions is the regulation of the nitrogen assimilation pathway in the unicellular alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a well-established model organism for genetic and molecular studies that offers new possibilities in the search for mediators of NO signalling. By further exploiting a collection of Chlamydomonas insertional mutant strains originally isolated for their insensitivity to the ammonium (NH4+) nitrogen source, we found a mutant which, in addition to its ammonium insensitive (AI) phenotype, was not capable of correctly sensing the NO signal. Similarly to what had previously been described in the AI strain cyg56, the expression of nitrogen assimilation genes in the mutant did not properly respond to treatments with various NO donors. Complementation experiments showed that NON1 (NO Nitrate 1), a gene that encodes a protein containing no known functional domain, was the gene underlying the mutant phenotype. Beyond the identification of NON1, our findings broadly demonstrate the potential for Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to be used as a model system in the search for novel components of gene networks that mediate physiological responses to NO. PMID:27149516

Acid-base interactions and secondary structures of poly-L-lysine probed by 15N and 13C solid state NMR and Ab initio model calculations.

PubMed

Dos, Alexandra; Schimming, Volkmar; Tosoni, Sergio; Limbach, Hans-Heinrich

2008-12-11

The interactions of the 15N-labeled amino groups of dry solid poly-L-lysine (PLL) with various halogen and oxygen acids HX and the relation to the secondary structure have been studied using solid-state 15N and 13C CPMAS NMR spectroscopy (CP = cross polarization and MAS = magic angle spinning). For comparison, 15N NMR spectra of an aqueous solution of PLL were measured as a function of pH. In order to understand the effects of protonation and hydration on the 15N chemical shifts of the amino groups, DFT and chemical shielding calculations were performed on isolated methylamine-acid complexes and on periodic halide clusters of the type (CH3NH3(+)X(-))n. The combined experimental and computational results reveal low-field shifts of the amino nitrogens upon interaction with the oxygen acids HX = HF, H2SO4, CH3COOH, (CH3)2POOH, H3PO4, HNO3, and internal carbamic acid formed by reaction of the amino groups with gaseous CO2. Evidence is obtained that only hydrogen-bonded species of the type (Lys-NH2***H-X)n are formed in the absence of water. 15N chemical shifts are maximum when H is located in the hydrogen bond center and then decrease again upon full protonation, as found for aqueous solution at low pH. By contrast, halogen acids interact in a different way. They form internal salts of the type (Lys-NH3(+)X(-))n via the interaction of many acid-base pairs. This salt formation is possible only in the beta-sheet conformation. By contrast, the formation of hydrogen-bonded complexes can occur both in beta-sheet domains as well as in alpha-helical domains. The 15N chemical shifts of the protonated ammonium groups increase when the size of the interacting halogen anions is increased from chloride to iodide and when the number of the interacting anions is increased. Thus, the observed high-field 15N shift of ammonium groups upon hydration is the consequence of replacing interacting halogen atoms by oxygen atoms.

Renal stone composition does not affect the outcome of percutaneous nephrolithotomy in children.

PubMed

Kaygısız, Onur; Türegün, Fethi Ahmet; Satar, Nihat; Özen, Ender; Toksöz, Serdar; Doğan, Hasan Serkan; Pişkin, Mehmet Mesut; İzol, Volkan; Sarıkaya, Şaban; Kılıçarslan, Hakan; Çiçek, Tufan; Öztürk, Ahmet; Tekgül, Serdar; Önal, Bülent

2018-05-14

We sought to investigate the association between renal stone composition and percutaneous nephrolithotomy outcomes in pediatric patients and define the characterization of the stone composition. The data of 1157 children who underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy between 1991 and 2012 were retrieved from the multicenter database of the Turkish Pediatric Urology Society. The study population comprised 359 children (160 girls, 199 boys) with stone analyses. Patients were divided into five groups according to the stone composition [group 1: calcium oxalate; group 2: calcium phosphate; group 3: infection stones (magnesium ammonium phosphate, ammonium urate); group 4: cystine; group 5: uric acid, xanthine stones]. Patient characteristics, perioperative, postoperative, and stone characteristics were compared considering the stone composition. There were no significant differences between the groups concerning age, sex, side involved, preoperative hematocrit levels, and solitary renal unit. Patients with cystine stones were more likely to have a history of stone treatment. Groups 2 and 5 had mostly solitary stones. However, group 3 had staghorn stone more often, and group 4 frequently had multiple stones. Overall stone-free rate (79.4%) was similar among the groups. Although stone composition was related to blood transfusion and prolonged operative and fluoroscopy screening times on univariate analysis, it was not a significant predictor of them on multivariate analysis. Stone composition was not a predictor of outcomes of pediatric percutaneous nephrolithotomy. However, cystine and infection stones, which are larger and filled multiple calyxes due to the nature of stone forming, were more challenging cases that need multiple tracts.

40 CFR 418.40 - Applicability; description of the ammonium nitrate subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... ammonium nitrate subcategory. 418.40 Section 418.40 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION... Ammonium Nitrate Subcategory § 418.40 Applicability; description of the ammonium nitrate subcategory. The provisions of this subpart are applicable to discharges resulting from the manufacture of ammonium nitrate...

40 CFR 418.40 - Applicability; description of the ammonium nitrate subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... ammonium nitrate subcategory. 418.40 Section 418.40 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION... Ammonium Nitrate Subcategory § 418.40 Applicability; description of the ammonium nitrate subcategory. The provisions of this subpart are applicable to discharges resulting from the manufacture of ammonium nitrate...

40 CFR 418.40 - Applicability; description of the ammonium nitrate subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... ammonium nitrate subcategory. 418.40 Section 418.40 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION... Ammonium Nitrate Subcategory § 418.40 Applicability; description of the ammonium nitrate subcategory. The provisions of this subpart are applicable to discharges resulting from the manufacture of ammonium nitrate...

40 CFR 418.40 - Applicability; description of the ammonium nitrate subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... ammonium nitrate subcategory. 418.40 Section 418.40 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION... Ammonium Nitrate Subcategory § 418.40 Applicability; description of the ammonium nitrate subcategory. The provisions of this subpart are applicable to discharges resulting from the manufacture of ammonium nitrate...

Prevalence and Correlates of Metabolic Acidosis among Patients with Homozygous Sickle Cell Disease

PubMed Central

Maurel, Stéphane; Stankovic Stojanovic, Katia; Avellino, Virginie; Girshovich, Alexey; Letavernier, Emmanuel; Grateau, Gilles; Baud, Laurent; Girot, Robert; Lionnet, Francois

2014-01-01

Background and objectives Very few studies report acid base disorders in homozygous patients with sickle cell anemia (SCA) and describe incomplete renal acidosis rather than true metabolic acidosis, the prevalence of which is unknown and presumably low. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of metabolic acidosis and to identify its risk factors and mechanisms. Design, setting, participants, & measurements This study retrospectively analyzed 411 homozygous patients with SCA with a GFR≥60 ml/min per 1.73 m2, referred in a single center between 2007 and 2012. Acidosis and nonacidosis groups were compared for clinical and biologic data including SCA complications and hemolytic parameters. A subgroup of 65 patients with SCA, referred for a measured GFR evaluation in the setting of sickle cell–associated nephropathy, was further analyzed in order to better characterize metabolic acidosis. Results Metabolic acidosis was encountered in 42% of patients with SCA, with a higher prevalence in women (52% versus 27% in men; P<0.001). Several hemolytic biomarkers, such as lactate dehydrogenase, were different between the acidosis and nonacidosis groups (P=0.02 and P=0.03 in men and women, respectively), suggesting higher hemolytic activity in the former group. To note, fasting urine osmolality was low in the whole study population and was significantly lower in men with SCA in the acidosis group (392 versus 427 mOsm/kg; P=0.01). SCA subgroup analysis confirmed metabolic acidosis with a normal anion gap in 14 patients, characterized by a lower urinary pH (P<0.02) and no increase in urinary ammonium. Serum potassium, plasma renin, and aldosterone were similar between the two groups and thus could not explain impaired urinary ammonium excretion. Conclusions These results suggest that the prevalence of metabolic acidosis in patients with SCA is underestimated and related to impaired ammonium availability possibly due to an altered corticopapillary gradient. Future studies should evaluate whether chronic metabolic acidosis correction may be beneficial in this population, especially in bone remodeling. PMID:24458070

Rapid and sensitive Nitrosomonas europaea biosensor assay for quantification of bioavailable ammonium sensu strictu in soil.

PubMed

Nguyen, Minh Dong; Risgaard-Petersen, Nils; Sørensen, Jan; Brandt, Kristian K

2011-02-01

Knowledge on bioavailable ammonium sensu strictu (i.e., immediately available for cellular uptake) in soil is required to understand nutrient uptake processes in microorganisms and thus of vital importance for plant production. We here present a novel ammonium biosensor approach based on the lithoautotrophic ammonia-oxidizing bacterium Nitrosomonas europaea transformed with a luxAB sensor plasmid. Bioluminescence-based ammonium detection was achieved within 10 min with a quantification limit in liquid samples of ∼20 μM and a linear response range up to 400 μM. Biosensor and conventional chemical quantification of ammonium in soil solutions agreed well across a range of sample and assay conditions. The biosensor was subsequently applied for a solid phase-contact assay allowing for direct interaction of biosensor cells with soil particle-associated (i.e., exchangeable plus fixed) ammonium. The assay successfully quantified bioavailable ammonium even in unfertilized soil and demonstrated markedly higher ratios of bioavailable ammonium to water- or 2 M KCl-exchangeable ammonium in anoxic soil than in corresponding oxic soil. Particle-associated ammonium contributed by at least 74% and 93% of the total bioavailable pool in oxic and anoxic soil, respectively. The N. europaea biosensor should have broad relevance for environmental monitoring of bioavailable ammonium and processes depending on ammonium bioavailability.

Molecular dynamics of β-hairpin models of epigenetic recognition motifs.

PubMed

Zheng, Xiange; Wu, Chuanjie; Ponder, Jay W; Marshall, Garland R

2012-09-26

The conformations and stabilities of the β-hairpin model peptides of Waters (Riemen, A. J.; Waters, M. L. Biochemistry 2009, 48, 1525; Hughes, R. M.; Benshoff, M. L.; Waters, M. L. Chemistry 2007, 13, 5753) have been experimentally characterized as a function of lysine ε-methylation. These models were developed to explore molecular recognition of known epigenetic recognition motifs. This system offered an opportunity to computationally examine the role of cation-π interactions, desolvation of the ε-methylated ammonium groups, and aromatic/aromatic interactions on the observed differences in NMR spectra. AMOEBA, a second-generation force field (Ponder, J. W.; Wu, C.; Ren, P.; Pande, V. S.; Chodera, J. D.; Schnieders, M. J.; Haque, I.; Mobley, D. L.; Lambrecht, D. S.; DiStasio, R. A., Jr.; Head-Gordon, M.; Clark, G. N.; Johnson, M. E.; Head-Gordon, T. J. Phys. Chem. B 2010, 114, 2549), was chosen as it includes both multipole electrostatics and polarizability thought to be essential to accurately characterize such interactions. Independent parametrization of ε-methylated amines was required from which aqueous solvation free energies were estimated and shown to agree with literature values. Molecular dynamics simulations (100 ns) using the derived parameters with model peptides, such as Ac-R-W-V-W-V-N-G-Orn-K(Me)(n)-I-L-Q-NH(2), where n = 0, 1, 2, or 3, were conducted in explicit solvent. Distances between the centers of the indole rings of the two-tryptophan residues, 2 and 4, and the ε-methylated ammonium group on Lys-9 as well as the distance between the N- and C-termini were monitored to estimate the strength and orientation of the cation-π and aromatic/aromatic interactions. In agreement with the experimental data, the stability of the β-hairpin increased significantly with lysine ε-methylation. The ability of MD simulations to reproduce the observed NOEs for the four peptides was further estimated for the monopole-based force fields, AMBER, CHARMM, and OPLSAA. AMOEBA correctly predicted over 80% of the observed NOEs for all 4 peptides, while the three-monopole force fields were 40-50% predictive in only 2 cases and approximately 10% in the other 10 examples. Preliminary analysis suggests that the decreased cost of desolvation of the substituted ammonium group significantly compensated for the reduced cation-π interaction resulting from the increased separation due to steric bulk of the ε-methylated amines.

To Break or to Brake Neuronal Network Accelerated by Ammonium Ions?

PubMed Central

Dynnik, Vladimir V.; Kononov, Alexey V.; Sergeev, Alexander I.; Teplov, Iliya Y.; Tankanag, Arina V.; Zinchenko, Valery P.

2015-01-01

Purpose The aim of present study was to investigate the effects of ammonium ions on in vitro neuronal network activity and to search alternative methods of acute ammonia neurotoxicity prevention. Methods Rat hippocampal neuronal and astrocytes co-cultures in vitro, fluorescent microscopy and perforated patch clamp were used to monitor the changes in intracellular Ca2+- and membrane potential produced by ammonium ions and various modulators in the cells implicated in neural networks. Results Low concentrations of NH4Cl (0.1–4 mM) produce short temporal effects on network activity. Application of 5–8 mM NH4Cl: invariably transforms diverse network firing regimen to identical burst patterns, characterized by substantial neuronal membrane depolarization at plateau phase of potential and high-amplitude Ca2+-oscillations; raises frequency and average for period of oscillations Ca2+-level in all cells implicated in network; results in the appearance of group of «run out» cells with high intracellular Ca2+ and steadily diminished amplitudes of oscillations; increases astrocyte Ca2+-signalling, characterized by the appearance of groups of cells with increased intracellular Ca2+-level and/or chaotic Ca2+-oscillations. Accelerated network activity may be suppressed by the blockade of NMDA or AMPA/kainate-receptors or by overactivation of AMPA/kainite-receptors. Ammonia still activate neuronal firing in the presence of GABA(A) receptors antagonist bicuculline, indicating that «disinhibition phenomenon» is not implicated in the mechanisms of networks acceleration. Network activity may also be slowed down by glycine, agonists of metabotropic inhibitory receptors, betaine, L-carnitine, L-arginine, etc. Conclusions Obtained results demonstrate that ammonium ions accelerate neuronal networks firing, implicating ionotropic glutamate receptors, having preserved the activities of group of inhibitory ionotropic and metabotropic receptors. This may mean, that ammonia neurotoxicity might be prevented by the activation of various inhibitory receptors (i.e. by the reinforcement of negative feedback control), instead of application of various enzyme inhibitors and receptor antagonists (breaking of neural, metabolic and signaling systems). PMID:26217943

Competing Insertion and External Binding Motifs in Hydrated Neurotransmitters: Infrared Spectra of Protonated Phenylethylamine Monohydrate.

PubMed

Bouchet, Aude; Schütz, Markus; Dopfer, Otto

2016-01-18

Hydration has a drastic impact on the structure and function of flexible biomolecules, such as aromatic ethylamino neurotransmitters. The structure of monohydrated protonated phenylethylamine (H(+) PEA-H2 O) is investigated by infrared photodissociation (IRPD) spectroscopy of cold cluster ions by using rare-gas (Rg=Ne and Ar) tagging and dispersion-corrected density functional theory calculations at the B3LYP-D3/aug-cc-pVTZ level. Monohydration of this prototypical neurotransmitter gives an insight into the first step of the formation of its solvation shell, especially regarding the competition between intra- and intermolecular interactions. The spectra of Rg-tagged H(+) PEA-H2 O reveal the presence of a stable insertion structure in which the water molecule is located between the positively charged ammonium group and the phenyl ring of H(+) PEA, acting both as a hydrogen bond acceptor (NH(+) ⋅⋅⋅O) and donor (OH⋅⋅⋅π). Two other nearly equivalent isomers, in which water is externally H bonded to one of the free NH groups, are also identified. The balance between insertion and external hydration strongly depends on temperature. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Effect of shrimp ( Litopenaeus vannamei) farming waste on the growth, digestion, ammonium-nitrogen excretion of sea cucumber ( Stichopus monotuberculatus)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yanfeng; Luo, Peng; Hu, Chaoqun; Ren, Chunhua

2015-06-01

In this study, specific growth rate (SGR), ingestion rate (IR), food conversion ratio (FCR), apparent digestion ratio (ADR) and ammonium-nitrogen excretion were determined for sea cucumber ( Stichopus monotuberculatus) reared in plastic containers (70 L; 4 containers each diet treatment). Sea cucumbers were fed with five diets containing different amounts of farming waste from shrimp ( Litopenaeus vannamei) (100%, 75%, 50%, 25% and 0) and a formulated compound (20% sea mud and 80% powdered algae). Sea cucumbers grew faster when they were fed with diet D (25% shrimp waste and 75% formulated compound) than those fed with other diets. Although IR value of sea cucumber fed with diet A (shrimp waste) was higher than those fed with other diets, both the lowest SGR and the highest FCR occurred in this diet group. The highest and the lowest ADR occurred in diet E (formulated compound) and diet A group, respectively, and the same to ammonium-nitrogen excretion. The contents of crude protein, crude lipid and total organic matter (TOM) in feces decreased in comparison with corresponding diets. In the feces from different diet treatments, the contents of crude protein and TOM increased gradually as the contents of crude protein and TOM in diets increased, while crude lipid content decreased gradually as the crude lipid content in diets increased.

Crystallization of aqueous ammonium sulfate particles internally mixed with soot and kaolinite: crystallization relative humidities and nucleation rates.

PubMed

Pant, Atul; Parsons, Matthew T; Bertram, Allan K

2006-07-20

Using optical microscopy, we investigated the crystallization of aqueous ammonium sulfate droplets containing soot and kaolinite, as well as the crystallization of aqueous ammonium sulfate droplets free of solid material. Our results show that soot did not influence the crystallization RH of aqueous ammonium sulfate particles under our experimental conditions. In contrast, kaolinite increased the crystallization RH of the aqueous ammonium sulfate droplets by approximately 10%. In addition, our results show that the crystallization RH of aqueous ammonium sulfate droplets free of solid material does not depend strongly on particle size. This is consistent with conclusions made previously in the literature, based on comparisons of results from different laboratories. From the crystallization results we determined the homogeneous nucleation rates of crystalline ammonium sulfate in aqueous ammonium sulfate droplets and the heterogeneous nucleation rates of crystalline ammonium sulfate in aqueous ammonium sulfate particles containing kaolinite. Using classical nucleation theory and our experimental data, we determined that the interfacial tension between an ammonium sulfate critical nucleus and an aqueous ammonium sulfate solution is 0.064 +/- 0.003 J m(-2) (in agreement with our previous measurements), and the contact angle between an ammonium sulfate critical nucleus and a kaolinite surface is 59 +/- 2 degrees. On the basis of our results, we argue that soot will not influence the crystallization RH of aqueous ammonium sulfate droplets in the atmosphere, but kaolinite can significantly modify the crystallization RH of atmospheric ammonium sulfate droplets. As an example, the CRH50 (the relative humidity at which 50% of the droplets crystallize) ranges from about 41 to 51% RH when the diameter of the kaolinite inclusion ranges from 0.1 to 5 microm. For comparison, the CRH50 of aqueous ammonium sulfate droplets (0.5 microm diameter) free of solid material is approximately 34.3% RH under atmospheric conditions.

21 CFR 184.1135 - Ammonium bicarbonate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Ammonium bicarbonate. 184.1135 Section 184.1135... Listing of Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1135 Ammonium bicarbonate. (a) Ammonium bicarbonate.... Crystals of ammonium bicarbonate are precipitated from solution and subsequently washed and dried. (b) The...

21 CFR 184.1135 - Ammonium bicarbonate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Ammonium bicarbonate. 184.1135 Section 184.1135... Listing of Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1135 Ammonium bicarbonate. (a) Ammonium bicarbonate.... Crystals of ammonium bicarbonate are precipitated from solution and subsequently washed and dried. (b) The...

21 CFR 184.1135 - Ammonium bicarbonate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Ammonium bicarbonate. 184.1135 Section 184.1135... Listing of Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1135 Ammonium bicarbonate. (a) Ammonium bicarbonate.... Crystals of ammonium bicarbonate are precipitated from solution and subsequently washed and dried. (b) The...

Nitrate and ammonium lead to distinct global dynamic phosphorylation patterns when resupplied to nitrogen-starved Arabidopsis seedlings.

PubMed

Engelsberger, Wolfgang R; Schulze, Waltraud X

2012-03-01

Nitrogen is an essential macronutrient for plant growth and development. Inorganic nitrogen and its assimilation products control various metabolic, physiological and developmental processes. Although the transcriptional responses induced by nitrogen have been extensively studied in the past, our work here focused on the discovery of candidate proteins for regulatory events that are complementary to transcriptional changes. Most signaling pathways involve modulation of protein abundance and/or activity by protein phosphorylation. Therefore, we analyzed the dynamic changes in protein phosphorylation in membrane and soluble proteins from plants exposed to rapid changes in nutrient availability over a time course of 30 min. Plants were starved of nitrogen and subsequently resupplied with nitrogen in the form of nitrate or ammonium. Proteins with maximum change in their phosphorylation level at up to 5 min after nitrogen resupply (fast responses) included GPI-anchored proteins, receptor kinases and transcription factors, while proteins with maximum change in their phosphorylation level after 10 min of nitrogen resupply (late responses) included proteins involved in protein synthesis and degradation, as well as proteins with functions in central metabolism and hormone metabolism. Resupply of nitrogen in the form of nitrate or ammonium resulted in distinct phosphorylation patterns, mainly of proteins with signaling functions, transcription factors and transporters. © 2011 The Authors. The Plant Journal © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

33 CFR 126.28 - Ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate; general provisions. 126.28 Section 126..., ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate; general provisions. (a) When any item of ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate...

21 CFR 184.1135 - Ammonium bicarbonate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Ammonium bicarbonate. 184.1135 Section 184.1135... GRAS § 184.1135 Ammonium bicarbonate. (a) Ammonium bicarbonate (NH4HCO3, CAS Reg. No. 1066-33-7) is prepared by reacting gaseous carbon dioxide with aqueous ammonia. Crystals of ammonium bicarbonate are...

33 CFR 126.28 - Ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate; general provisions. 126.28 Section 126..., ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate; general provisions. (a) When any item of ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate...

33 CFR 126.28 - Ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate; general provisions. 126.28 Section 126..., ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate; general provisions. (a) When any item of ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate...

33 CFR 126.28 - Ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate; general provisions. 126.28 Section 126..., ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate; general provisions. (a) When any item of ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate...

33 CFR 126.28 - Ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate; general provisions. 126.28 Section 126..., ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate; general provisions. (a) When any item of ammonium nitrate, ammonium nitrate fertilizers, fertilizer mixtures, or nitro carbo nitrate...

49 CFR 176.410 - Division 1.5 materials, ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate mixtures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Division 1.5 materials, ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate mixtures. 176.410 Section 176.410 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to... nitrate and ammonium nitrate mixtures. (a) This section prescribes requirements to be observed with...

49 CFR 176.410 - Division 1.5 materials, ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate mixtures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Division 1.5 materials, ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate mixtures. 176.410 Section 176.410 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to... nitrate and ammonium nitrate mixtures. (a) This section prescribes requirements to be observed with...

49 CFR 176.410 - Division 1.5 materials, ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate mixtures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Division 1.5 materials, ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate mixtures. 176.410 Section 176.410 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to... nitrate and ammonium nitrate mixtures. (a) This section prescribes requirements to be observed with...

49 CFR 176.410 - Division 1.5 materials, ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate mixtures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Division 1.5 materials, ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate mixtures. 176.410 Section 176.410 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to... nitrate and ammonium nitrate mixtures. (a) This section prescribes requirements to be observed with...

Urine Anion Gap to Predict Urine Ammonium and Related Outcomes in Kidney Disease.

PubMed

Raphael, Kalani L; Gilligan, Sarah; Ix, Joachim H

2018-02-07

Low urine ammonium excretion is associated with ESRD in CKD. Few laboratories measure urine ammonium, limiting clinical application. We determined correlations between urine ammonium, the standard urine anion gap, and a modified urine anion gap that includes sulfate and phosphate and compared risks of ESRD or death between these ammonium estimates and directly measured ammonium. We measured ammonium, sodium, potassium, chloride, phosphate, and sulfate from baseline 24-hour urine collections in 1044 African-American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension participants. We evaluated the cross-sectional correlations between urine ammonium, the standard urine anion gap (sodium + potassium - chloride), and a modified urine anion gap that includes urine phosphate and sulfate in the calculation. Multivariable-adjusted Cox models determined the associations of the standard urine anion gap and the modified urine anion gap with the composite end point of death or ESRD; these results were compared with results using urine ammonium as the predictor of interest. The standard urine anion gap had a weak and direct correlation with urine ammonium ( r =0.18), whereas the modified urine anion gap had a modest inverse relationship with urine ammonium ( r =-0.58). Compared with the highest tertile of urine ammonium, those in the lowest urine ammonium tertile had higher risk of ESRD or death (hazard ratio, 1.46; 95% confidence interval, 1.13 to 1.87) after adjusting for demographics, GFR, proteinuria, and other confounders. In comparison, participants in the corresponding standard urine anion gap tertile did not have higher risk of ESRD or death (hazard ratio, 0.82; 95% confidence interval, 0.64 to 1.07), whereas the risk for those in the corresponding modified urine anion gap tertile (hazard ratio, 1.32; 95% confidence interval, 1.03 to 1.68) approximated that of directly measured urine ammonium. Urine anion gap is a poor surrogate of urine ammonium in CKD unless phosphate and sulfate are included in the calculation. Because the modified urine anion gap merely estimates urine ammonium and requires five measurements, direct measurements of urine ammonium are preferable in CKD. Copyright © 2018 by the American Society of Nephrology.

Effect of Quaternary Ammonium Salt on Shear Bond Strength of Orthodontic Brackets to Enamel

PubMed Central

Ghadirian, Hannaneh; Geramy, Allahyar; Najafi, Farhood; Heidari, Soolmaz

2017-01-01

Objectives: This study sought to assess the effect of quaternary ammonium salt (QAS) on shear bond strength of orthodontic brackets to enamel. Materials and Methods: In this in vitro experimental study, 0, 10, 20 and 30% concentrations of QAS were added to Transbond XT primer. Brackets were bonded to 60 premolar teeth using the afore-mentioned adhesive mixtures, and the shear bond strength of the four groups (n=15) was measured using a universal testing machine. After debonding, the adhesive remnant index (ARI) score was determined under a stereomicroscope. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Results: The mean and standard deviation of shear bond strength of the control and 10%, 20% and 30% groups were 23.54±6.31, 21.81±2.82, 20.83±8.35 and 22.91±5.66 MPa, respectively. No significant difference was noted in shear bond strength of the groups (P=0.83). Study groups were not different in terms of ARI scores (P=0.80). Conclusions: The results showed that addition of QAS to Transbond XT primer had no adverse effect on shear bond strength of orthodontic brackets. PMID:29167688

Photochemically-induced acid generation from 18-molybdodiphosphate and 18-tungstodiphosphate within poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) films.

PubMed

Douvas, Antonios M; Kapella, Anna; Dimotikali, Dimitra; Argitis, Panagiotis

2009-06-01

The capability of ammonium 18-molybdodiphosphate, (NH(4))(6)P(2)Mo(18)O(62) (Mo(18)(6-)), and ammonium 18-tungstodiphosphate, (NH(4))(6)P(2)W(18)O(62) (W(18)(6-)), to photochemically generate acid within films of a polymer with hydroxylic functional groups (namely, within poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) films) is demonstrated. Upon UV irradiation, both 2:18 polyoxometalates (POMs) investigated are reduced with concomitant oxidation of PHEMA and generation of acid, which subsequently catalyzes the cross-linking of PHEMA. The photoacid generation is mainly evidenced by monitoring the protonation of an appropriate acid indicator (4-dimethylamino-4'-nitrostilbene) with UV spectroscopy and by photolithographic imaging experiments. By comparing the efficiency of both POMs to induce acid-catalyzed cross-linking of PHEMA under similar conditions, the W(18)(6-) ion is found to be more efficient in photoacid generation than the Mo(18)(6-) ion. Imaging of the POM-containing PHEMA films through UV photolithographic processing is demonstrated. In that process, both POMs can be entirely leached during the development step by using pure water as a developer, resulting in patterned PHEMA films. This characteristic renders the investigated POMs attractive materials for applications, especially in the area of biomaterials, where removal of the photoacid generator from the film at the end of the process is desirable.

Low-ammonia niche of ammonia-oxidizing archaea in rotating biological contactors of a municipal wastewater treatment plant

PubMed Central

Sauder, Laura A; Peterse, Francien; Schouten, Stefan; Neufeld, Josh D

2012-01-01

The first step of nitrification is catalysed by both ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and archaea (AOA), but physicochemical controls on the relative abundance and function of these two groups are not yet fully understood, especially in freshwater environments. This study investigated ammonia-oxidizing populations in nitrifying rotating biological contactors (RBCs) from a municipal wastewater treatment plant. Individual RBC stages are arranged in series, with nitrification at each stage creating an ammonia gradient along the flowpath. This RBC system provides a valuable experimental system for testing the hypothesis that ammonia concentration determines the relative abundance of AOA and AOB. The results demonstrate that AOA increased as ammonium decreased across the RBC flowpath, as indicated by qPCR for thaumarchaeal amoA and 16S rRNA genes, and core lipid (CL) and intact polar lipid (IPL) crenarchaeol abundances. Overall, there was a negative logarithmic relationship (R2 = 0.51) between ammonium concentration and the relative abundance of AOA amoA genes. A single AOA population was detected in the RBC biofilms; this phylotype shared low amoA and 16S rRNA gene homology with existing AOA cultures and enrichments. These results provide evidence that ammonia availability influences the relative abundances of AOA and AOB, and that AOA are abundant in some municipal wastewater treatment systems. PMID:22639927

Bacteria of the Candidate Phylum TM7 are Prevalent in Acidophilic Nitrifying Sequencing-Batch Reactors

PubMed Central

Hanada, Akiko; Kurogi, Takashi; Giang, Nguyen Minh; Yamada, Takeshi; Kamimoto, Yuki; Kiso, Yoshiaki; Hiraishi, Akira

2014-01-01

Laboratory-scale acidophilic nitrifying sequencing-batch reactors (ANSBRs) were constructed by seeding with sewage-activated sludge and cultivating with ammonium-containing acidic mineral medium (pH 4.0) with or without a trace amount of yeast extract. In every batch cycle, the pH varied between 2.7 and 4.0, and ammonium was completely converted to nitrate. Attempts to detect nitrifying functional genes in the fully acclimated ANSBRs by PCR with previously designed primers mostly gave negative results. 16S rRNA gene-targeted PCR and a subsequent denaturating gradient gel electrophoresis analysis revealed that a marked change occurred in the bacterial community during the overall period of operation, in which members of the candidate phylum TM7 and the class Gammaproteobacteria became predominant at the fully acclimated stage. This result was fully supported by a 16S rRNA gene clone library analysis, as the major phylogenetic groups of clones detected (>5% of the total) were TM7 (33%), Gammaproteobacteria (37%), Actinobacteria (10%), and Alphaproteobacteria (8%). Fluorescence in situ hybridization with specific probes also demonstrated the prevalence of TM7 bacteria and Gammaproteobacteria. These results suggest that previously unknown nitrifying microorganisms may play a major role in ANSBRs; however, the ecophysiological significance of the TM7 bacteria predominating in this process remains unclear. PMID:25241805

Ion chromatography with the indirect ultraviolet detection of alkali metal ions and ammonium using imidazolium ionic liquid as ultraviolet absorption reagent and eluent.

PubMed

Liu, Yong-Qiang; Yu, Hong

2016-08-01

Indirect ultraviolet detection was conducted in ultraviolet-absorption-agent-added mobile phase to complete the detection of the absence of ultraviolet absorption functional group in analytes. Compared with precolumn derivatization or postcolumn derivatization, this method can be widely used, has the advantages of simple operation and good linear relationship. Chromatographic separation of Li(+) , Na(+) , K(+) , and NH4 (+) was performed on a carboxylic acid base cation exchange column using imidazolium ionic liquid/acid/organic solvent as the mobile phase, in which imidazolium ionic liquids acted as ultraviolet absorption reagent and eluting agent. The retention behaviors of four kinds of cations are discussed, and the mechanism of separation and detection are described. The main factors influencing the separation and detection were the background ultraviolet absorption reagent and the concentration of hydrogen ion in the ion chromatography-indirect ultraviolet detection. The successful separation and detection of Li(+) , Na(+) , K(+) , and NH4 (+) within 13 min was achieved using the selected chromatographic conditions, and the detection limits (S/N = 3) were 0.02, 0.11, 0.30, and 0.06 mg/L, respectively. A new separation and analysis method of alkali metal ions and ammonium by ion chromatography with indirect ultraviolet detection method was developed, and the application range of ionic liquid was expanded. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Mineral and organic growing media have distinct community structure, stability and functionality in soilless culture systems.

PubMed

Grunert, Oliver; Hernandez-Sanabria, Emma; Vilchez-Vargas, Ramiro; Jauregui, Ruy; Pieper, Dietmar H; Perneel, Maaike; Van Labeke, Marie-Christine; Reheul, Dirk; Boon, Nico

2016-01-05

The choice of soilless growing medium for plant nutrition, growth and support is crucial for improving the eco-sustainability of the production in horticultural systems. As our current understanding of the functional microbial communities inhabiting this ecosystem is still limited, we examined the microbial community development of the two most important growing media (organic and mineral) used in open soilless horticultural systems. We aimed to identify factors that influence community composition over time, and to compare the distribution of individual taxa across growing media, and their potential functionality. High throughput sequencing analysis revealed a distinctive and stable microbial community in the organic growing medium. Humidity, pH, nitrate-N, ammonium-N and conductivity were uncovered as the main factors associated with the resident bacterial communities. Ammonium-N was correlated with Rhizobiaceae abundance, while potential competitive interactions among both Methylophilaceae and Actinobacteridae with Rhizobiaceae were suggested. Our results revealed that soilless growing media are unique niches for diverse bacterial communities with temporal functional stability, which may possibly impact the resistance to external forces. These differences in communities can be used to develop strategies to move towards a sustainable horticulture with increased productivity and quality.

Ammonium and arsenic trioxide are potent facilitators of oligonucleotide function when delivered by gymnosis

PubMed Central

Zhang, Xiaowei; Castanotto, Daniela; Liu, Xueli; Shemi, Amotz; Stein, Cy A

2018-01-01

Abstract Oligonucleotide (ON) concentrations employed for therapeutic applications vary widely, but in general are high enough to raise significant concerns for off target effects and cellular toxicity. However, lowering ON concentrations reduces the chances of a therapeutic response, since typically relatively small amounts of ON are taken up by targeted cells in tissue culture. It is therefore imperative to identify new strategies to improve the concentration dependence of ON function. In this work, we have identified ammonium ion (NH4+) as a non-toxic potent enhancer of ON activity in the nucleus and cytoplasm following delivery by gymnosis. NH4+ is a metabolite that has been extensively employed as diuretic, expectorant, for the treatment of renal calculi and in a variety of other diseases. Enhancement of function can be found in attached and suspension cells, including in difficult-to-transfect Jurkat T and CEM T cells. We have also demonstrated that NH4+ can synergistically interact with arsenic trioxide (arsenite) to further promote ON function without producing any apparent increased cellular toxicity. These small, inexpensive, widely distributed molecules could be useful not only in laboratory experiments but potentially in therapeutic ON-based combinatorial strategy for clinical applications. PMID:29522198

Quaternary ammonium salts substituted by 5-phenyl-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-thiol as novel antibacterial agents with low cytotoxicity.

PubMed

Wang, Chun-Hua; Xie, Xian-Rui; Liu, Wen-Shuai; Hou, Gui-Ge; Sun, Ju-Feng; Zhao, Feng; Cong, Wei; Li, Hong-Juan; Xin, Wen-Yu

2017-11-01

Twenty-one novel 5-phenyl-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-thiol (POT) substituted N-hydroxyethyl quaternary ammonium salts (6a-g, 7a-g, 8a-g) were prepared and characterized by FTIR, NMR, and elemental analysis. Compounds 6a, 6c, and 8a were confirmed by X-ray single-crystal diffraction. They display the unsurpassed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, α-H-tococcus, Escherichia coli, P. aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Canidia Albicans, especially 6g, 7g, 8g with dodecyl group. Compounds 8a-d with N,N-dihydroxyethyl and POT groups display unsurpassed antibacterial activity and non-toxicity. The structure-activity relationships indicate that POT and flexible dihydroxyethyl group in QAS are necessary for antibacterial activity and cytotoxicity. SEM and TEM images of E. coli morphologies of 8d show the antibacterial agents can adhere to membrane surfaces to inhibit bacterial growth by disrupting peptidoglycan formation and releasing bacterial cytoplasm from cell membranes. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Measuring the remineralization potential of different agents with quantitative light-induced fluorescence digital Biluminator.

PubMed

Kucukyilmaz, Ebru; Savas, Selcuk

2017-01-26

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of different remineralization agents by quantitative light-induced fluorescence digital BiluminatorTM (QLF-D). Artificial caries lesions were created, and the teeth were divided according to the tested materials: (i) distilled water, (ii) acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF), (iii) Curodont Repair (CR), (iv) ammonium hexafluorosilicate (SiF) and (v) ammonium hexafluorosilicate plus cetylpyridinium chloride (SiF + CPC). After treatment procedures, each of the samples was placed in artificial saliva. After demineralization and 1 and 4 weeks of remineralization procedures, fluorescence loss and lesion areas were measured with QLF-D. Data were statistically analyzed (α = 0.05). The fluorescence values of the demineralized enamel specimens treated with the various agents differed significantly compared with pretreatment values for both 1 and 4 weeks (p<0.05). At 4 weeks, the highest fluorescence gain was calculated in the CR, APF and SiF groups compared with the control (p<0.05). APF, SiF and CR groups yielded greater remineralization ability than SiF + CPC and control groups.

Behavior of neutral solutes in pressurized flow driven electrochromatography using a mixed stationary phase of ODS and anion-exchange.

PubMed

Kitagawa, Shinya; Tsuda, Takao

2003-05-02

The behavior of neutral sample solutes in pressurized flow driven electrochromatography using a mixed stationary phase, which consisted of ODS and anion-exchange (ODS-SAX), was studied. Applications of both positive and negative voltage on a column induced increases in retention factors of sample solutes. The direction of an electroosmotic flow under applications of positive and negative voltage were the same, therefore, the sign of the surface charge density under positive and negative voltage was opposite. We proposed a new equation for the relationship between applied voltage and surface charge density, and the practical electroosmotic flow conformed to this equation. Studying the electroosmotic flow using our proposed equation revealed that the applied negative voltage accelerates the protonation of the quaternary ammonium group and dissociation of the silanol group on packing materials. The retention behavior of a neutral solute was affected by the existence of the charged functional groups. We propose that this phenomenon is applicable to the control of the retention behavior of a sample solute using an electric field.

Microscopic insight into the DNA condensation process of a zwitterion-functionalized polycation.

PubMed

Sun, Hui; Zhou, Li; Chen, Xiaolu; Han, Xia; Wang, Rui; Liu, Honglai

2016-11-01

Zwitterion-functionalized polycations are ideal gene carriers with long circulation, high cellular uptaking and low cell viability. However, the trade-off between the DNA condensation efficiency and the cell viability must be addressed. The purpose of this study is to provide a microscopic insight into the DNA condensation process and to explore the effect of a zwitterionic block of zwitterion-functionalized polycation, which is of great significance in designing novel gene delivery systems. Poly[2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate-b-(sulfobetaine methacrylate)] (PDMAEMA-b-PSBMA) copolymers were synthesized and used as the model systems. Different from the conventional concept that the PSBMA zwitterionic block act only as the "stealthy" groups, the subtle differences in physical and colloidal characteristics between the polycation/DNA polyplexes show that the PSBMA segment is capable of wrapping DNA attributed to the quaternary ammonium cations, without compromising the DNA condensation capability. On the other hand, the incorporation of PSBMA block reduces the surface charge of the polyplexes, which substantially result in the inefficient transfection and the reduced cytotoxicity. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Inhaled ammonium persulphate inhibits non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic relaxations in the guinea pig isolated trachea.

PubMed

Dellabianca, A; Faniglione, M; De Angelis, S; Colucci, M; Cervio, M; Balestra, B; Tonini, S; Candura, S M

2010-01-01

Persulphates can act both as irritants and sensitizers in inducing occupational asthma. A dysfunction of nervous control regulating the airway tone has been hypothesized as a mechanism underlying bronchoconstriction in asthma. It was the aim of this study to investigate whether inhaled ammonium persulphate affects the non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic (NANC) inhibitory innervation, the cholinergic nerve-mediated contraction or the muscular response to the spasmogens, carbachol or histamine, in the guinea pig epithelium-free, isolated trachea. Male guinea pigs inhaled aerosols containing ammonium persulphate (10 mg/m(3) for 30 min for 5 days during 3 weeks). Control animals inhaled saline aerosol. NANC relaxations to electrical field stimulation at 3 Hz were evaluated in whole tracheal segments as intraluminal pressure changes. Drugs inactivating peptide transmission, nitric oxide synthase, carbon monoxide production by haem oxygenase-2 and soluble guanylyl cyclase were used to assess the involvement of various inhibitory neurotransmitters. Carbachol and histamine cumulative concentration-response curves were obtained. In both groups, nitric oxide and carbon monoxide participated to the same extent as inhibitory neurotransmitters. In exposed animals, the tracheal NANC relaxations were reduced to 45.9 +/- 12.1% (p < 0.01). The cholinergic nerve-mediated contractions to electrical field stimulation and the muscular response to histamine were not modified by ammonium persulphate exposure. The muscular response to carbachol was unaffected up to 1 microM. Conversely, the response to the maximal concentration of carbachol (3 microM) was increased (p < 0.01). Ammonium persulphate inhalation at high concentrations impairs the nervous NANC inhibitory control in the guinea pig airways. This may represent a novel mechanism contributing to persulphate-induced asthma. Copyright 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Studying of drug solubility in water and alcohols using drug-ammonium ionic liquid-compounds.

PubMed

Halayqa, Mohammad; Pobudkowska, Aneta; Domańska, Urszula; Zawadzki, Maciej

2018-01-01

Synthesis of three mefenamic acid (MEF) derivatives - ionic liquid compounds composed of MEF in an anionic form and ammonium cation (choline, MEF1), or {di(2-hydroxyethyl)dimethyl ammonium (MEF2)}, or {tri(2-hydroxyethyl)methyl ammonium compound (MEF3)} is presented. The basic thermal properties of pure compounds i.e. fusion temperatures, and the enthalpy of fusion of these compounds have been measured with differential scanning microcalorimetry technique (DSC). Molar volumes have been calculated with the Barton group contribution method. The solubilities of MEF1, MEF2 and MEF3 using the dynamic method were measured at constant pH in a range of temperature from (290 to 370) K in three solvents: water, ethanol and 1-octanol. The experimental solubility data have been correlated by means of three commonly known G E equations: the Wilson, NRTL and UNIQUAC with the assumption that the systems studied here present simple eutectic behaviour. The activity coefficients of pharmaceuticals at saturated solutions in each binary mixture were calculated from the experimental data. The formation of MEF-ionic liquid compounds greatly increases the solubility in water in comparison with pure MEF or complexes with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin. The development of these compounds formulations will assist in medication taking into account oral solid or gel medicines. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Generation of Perfluoroalkyl Acids from Aerobic Biotransformation of Quaternary Ammonium Polyfluoroalkyl Surfactants.

PubMed

Mejia-Avendaño, Sandra; Vo Duy, Sung; Sauvé, Sébastien; Liu, Jinxia

2016-09-20

The aerobic biotransformation over 180 days of two cationic quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) with perfluoroalkyl chains was determined in soil microcosms, and biotransformation pathways were proposed. This is the first time that polyfluoroalkyl cationic surfactants used in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) formulations were studied for their environmental fate. The biotransformation of perfluorooctaneamido quaternary ammonium salt (PFOAAmS) was characterized by a DT50 value (time necessary to consume half of the initial mass) of 142 days and significant generation of perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acid (PFOA) at a yield of 30 mol % by day 180. The biotransformation of perfluorooctane sulfonamide quaternary ammonium salt (PFOSAmS) was very slow with unobservable change of the spiked mass; yet the generation of perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) at a yield of 0.3 mol % confirmed the biotransformation of PFOSAmS. Three novel biotransformation intermediates were identified for PFOAAmS and three products including perfluorooctane sulfonamide (FOSA) for PFOSAmS through high-resolution mass spectrometry (MS) analysis and t-MS(2) fragmentation. The significantly slower PFOSAmS biotransformation is hypothesized to be due to its stronger sorption to soil owing to a longer perfluoroalkyl chain and a bulkier sulfonyl group, when compared to PFOAAmS. This study has demonstrated that despite overall high stability of QACs and their biocide nature, the ones with perfluoroalkyl chains can be substantially biotransformed into perfluoroalkyl acids in aerobic soil.

Removing ammonium from water and wastewater using cost-effective adsorbents: A review.

PubMed

Huang, Jianyin; Kankanamge, Nadeeka Rathnayake; Chow, Christopher; Welsh, David T; Li, Tianling; Teasdale, Peter R

2018-01-01

Ammonium is an important nutrient in primary production; however, high ammonium loads can cause eutrophication of natural waterways, contributing to undesirable changes in water quality and ecosystem structure. While ammonium pollution comes from diffuse agricultural sources, making control difficult, industrial or municipal point sources such as wastewater treatment plants also contribute significantly to overall ammonium pollution. These latter sources can be targeted more readily to control ammonium release into water systems. To assist policy makers and researchers in understanding the diversity of treatment options and the best option for their circumstance, this paper produces a comprehensive review of existing treatment options for ammonium removal with a particular focus on those technologies which offer the highest rates of removal and cost-effectiveness. Ion exchange and adsorption material methods are simple to apply, cost-effective, environmentally friendly technologies which are quite efficient at removing ammonium from treated water. The review presents a list of adsorbents from the literature, their adsorption capacities and other parameters needed for ammonium removal. Further, the preparation of adsorbents with high ammonium removal capacities and new adsorbents is discussed in the context of their relative cost, removal efficiencies, and limitations. Efficient, cost-effective, and environmental friendly adsorbents for the removal of ammonium on a large scale for commercial or water treatment plants are provided. In addition, future perspectives on removing ammonium using adsorbents are presented. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Aluminum ammonium sulfate dodecahydrate purified from traditional Chinese medicinal herb Korean monkshood root is a potent matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor.

PubMed

Shen, Yehua; Liu, Sen; Jin, Fenghai; Mu, Tianyang; Li, Cong; Jiang, Kun; Tian, Weihua; Yu, Dahai; Zhang, Yingqi; Fang, Xuexun

2012-06-01

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc-dependent endopeptidases and key regulators for many physiological and pathological functions. The MMP inhibitors have been shown to modulate diseases such as cancer, inflammation, and cardiovascular diseases. In this paper we tracked the MMP inhibitory activities of the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Korean Monkshood Root. The purified active ingredient was identified by the elemental analysis, infrared spectrum (IR) and X-ray diffraction as aluminum ammonium sulfate dodecahydrate. This inorganic compound showed inhibitory activities toward a number of MMP family members. In particular, it has a strong inhibitory effect toward MMP-2 and MMP-9, with IC50 values of 0.54 and 0.50 μM, respectively. Further analysis suggested that the MMP inhibitory activity is mainly due to Al(3+). Cell viability assays using human fibrosarcoma HT1080 cells showed aluminum ammonium sulfate had minimal cyto-toxicity with a concentration up to 500 μM. However, within 50 μM, it exhibited significant inhibition of cell invasion. To our knowledge, there has been no previous report of inorganic form of the MMP inhibitor with strong inhibitory activity. Our results for the first time showed that aluminum ammonium sulfate is an inorganic form of MMP inhibitor with high potency, and can be used to interfere with MMP related cellular processes.

49 CFR 176.415 - Permit requirements for Division 1.5, ammonium nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers. 176.415 Section 176.415 Transportation Other... Solids), Class 5 (Oxidizers and Organic Peroxides), and Division 1.5 Materials § 176.415 Permit requirements for Division 1.5, ammonium nitrates, and certain ammonium nitrate fertilizers. (a) Except as...

21 CFR 184.1137 - Ammonium carbonate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

...). It is prepared by the sublimation of a mixture of ammonium sulfate and calcium carbonate and occurs... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Ammonium carbonate. 184.1137 Section 184.1137 Food... Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1137 Ammonium carbonate. (a) Ammonium carbonate ((NH4)2CO3, CAS...

21 CFR 184.1137 - Ammonium carbonate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

...). It is prepared by the sublimation of a mixture of ammonium sulfate and calcium carbonate and occurs... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Ammonium carbonate. 184.1137 Section 184.1137 Food... Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1137 Ammonium carbonate. (a) Ammonium carbonate ((NH4)2CO3, CAS...

21 CFR 184.1137 - Ammonium carbonate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

...). It is prepared by the sublimation of a mixture of ammonium sulfate and calcium carbonate and occurs... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Ammonium carbonate. 184.1137 Section 184.1137 Food... Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1137 Ammonium carbonate. (a) Ammonium carbonate ((NH4)2CO3, CAS...

EFFECTS OF AMMONIUM AND NITRATE ON NUTRIENT UPTAKE AND ACTIVITY OF NITROGEN ASSIMILATING ENZYMES IN WESTERN HEMLOCK

EPA Science Inventory

Western hemlock seedlings were grown in nutrient solutions with ammonium, nitrate or ammonium plus nitrate as nitrogen sources. he objectives were to examine (1) possible selectivity for ammonium or nitrate as an N source, (2) the maintenance of charge balance during ammonium and...

21 CFR 184.1138 - Ammonium chloride.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Ammonium chloride. 184.1138 Section 184.1138 Food... Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1138 Ammonium chloride. (a) Ammonium chloride (NH4Cl, CAS Reg. No. 12125-02-9) is produced by the reaction of sodium chloride and an ammonium salt in solution. The...

77 FR 65532 - Solid Fertilizer Grade Ammonium Nitrate From the Russian Federation: Notice of Rescission of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-29

... Ammonium Nitrate From the Russian Federation: Notice of Rescission of Antidumping Duty Administrative... grade ammonium nitrate (ammonium nitrate) from the Russian Federation (Russia) for the period of review... administrative review of the antidumping duty order on ammonium nitrate from Russia. On May 29, 2012, the...

Differences in the ribosomes prepared from lactating and non-lactating bovine mammary gland

PubMed Central

Herrington, M. D.; Hawtrey, A. O.

1971-01-01

1. Ribosomes prepared from bovine lactating mammary gland are able to synthesize protein, whereas similar preparations from non-lactating glands are not. Washing the ribosome suspensions through a medium containing 0.5m-ammonium chloride enhanced their ability to incorporate phenylalanine into polyphenylalanine. 2. Ribosomes isolated from non-lactating bovine mammary gland, in contrast with those from rat liver and lactating mammary gland, contained significant amounts of extraneous nucleases. These enzymes could be removed by washing with a medium A buffer containing 0.5m-ammonium chloride. 3. Only those ribosomes from functionally active tissues were able to bind polyuridylic acid and phenylalanyl-tRNA. PMID:5165653

Unsteady growth of ammonium chloride dendrites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martyushev, L. M.; Terentiev, P. S.; Soboleva, A. S.

2016-02-01

Growth of ammonium chloride dendrites from aqueous solution is experimentally investigated. The growth rate υ and the radius ρ of curvature of branches are measured as a function of the relative supersaturation Δ for steady and unsteady growth conditions. It is shown that the experimental results are quantitatively described by the dependences ρ=a/Δ+b, υ=сΔ2, where the factors for primary branches are a=(1.3±0.2)·10-7 m, b=(2.5±0.4)·10-7 m, and c=(2.2±0.3)·10-4 m/s. The factor c is found to be approximately 7 times smaller for the side branches than that for the primary branches.

Synthesis, characterization, in vitro anti-proliferative and hemolytic activity of hydroxyapatite.

PubMed

Palanivelu, R; Ruban Kumar, A

2014-06-05

Hydroxyapatite (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2, HAP) nanoparticles are widely used in several biomedical applications due to its compositional similarities to bone mineral, excellent biocompatibility and bioactivity, osteoconductivity. In this present investigation, HAP nanoparticles synthesized by precipitation technique using calcium nitrate and di-ammonium phosphate. The crystalline nature and the functional group analysis are confirmed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy (FT-Raman) respectively. The morphological observations are ascertained from field emission electron scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). In vitro anti-proliferative and hemolytic activities are carried out on the synthesized HAP samples and the studies reveals that HAP have mild activity against erythrocytes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dissociative electron attachment to DNA-diamine thin films: Impact of the DNA close environment on the OH− and O− decay channels

PubMed Central

Boulanouar, Omar; Fromm, Michel; Mavon, Christophe; Cloutier, Pierre; Sanche, Léon

2013-01-01

We measure the desorption of anions stimulated by the impact of 0–20 eV electrons on highly uniform thin films of plasmid DNA-diaminopropane. The results are accurately correlated with film thickness and composition by AFM and XPS measurements, respectively. Resonant structures in the H−, O−, and OH− yield functions are attributed to the decay of transient anions into the dissociative electron attachment (DEA) channel. The diamine induces ammonium-phosphate bridges along the DNA backbone, which suppresses the DEA O− channel and in counter-part increases considerably the desorption of OH−. The close environment of the phosphate groups may therefore play an important role in modulating the rate and type of DNA damages induced by low energy electrons. PMID:23927286

Effect of carbon spacer length on zwitterionic carboxybetaines.

PubMed

Shao, Qing; Jiang, Shaoyi

2013-02-07

Zwitterionic carboxybetaines (CBs) are ubiquitous in nature and considered promising materials for biological and chemical applications. A thorough understanding of the effect of carbon spacer length (CSL) on molecular properties is important. In this work, using molecular dynamics simulation and quantum chemical calculation, we investigated the effect of CSL on the molecular properties of CB molecules. The hydration number, structure, and dynamics of carboxylic and trimethyl ammonium groups were investigated and found to present different behaviors in regards to the variation of CSL. The simulation results with partial charges developed from quantum chemical calculations were compared with those with partial charges from the OPLS all atom (OPLSAA) force field. The hydration free energy of CB molecules and CB-Na(+) association was also studied as a function of CSL.

Adsorption of ammonium ion by coconut shell-activated carbon from aqueous solution: kinetic, isotherm, and thermodynamic studies.

PubMed

Boopathy, Ramasamy; Karthikeyan, Sekar; Mandal, Asit Baran; Sekaran, Ganesan

2013-01-01

Ammonium ions are one of the most encountered nitrogen species in polluted water bodies. High level of ammonium ion in aqueous solution imparts unpleasant taste and odor problems, which can interfere with the life of aquatics and human population when discharged. Many chemical methods are developed and being used for removal of ammonium ion from aqueous solution. Among various techniques, adsorption was found to be the most feasible and environmentally friendly with the use of natural-activated adsorbents. Hence, in this study, coconut shell-activated carbon (CSAC) was prepared and used for the removal of ammonium ion by adsorption techniques. Ammonium chloride (analytical grade) was purchased from Merck Chemicals for adsorption studies. The CSAC was used to adsorb ammonium ions under stirring at 100 rpm, using orbital shaker in batch experiments. The concentration of ammonium ion was estimated by ammonia distillate, using a Buchi distillation unit. The influence of process parameters such as pH, temperature, and contact time was studied for adsorption of ammonium ion, and kinetic, isotherm models were validated to understand the mechanism of adsorption of ammonium ion by CSAC. Thermodynamic properties such as ∆G, ∆H, and ∆S were determined for the ammonium adsorption, using van't Hoff equation. Further, the adsorption of ammonium ion was confirmed through instrumental analyses such as SEM, XRD, and FTIR. The optimum conditions for the effective adsorption of ammonium ion onto CSAC were found to be pH 9.0, temperature 283 K, and contact time 120 min. The experimental data was best followed by pseudosecond order equation, and the adsorption isotherm model obeyed the Freundlich isotherm. This explains the ammonium ion adsorption onto CSAC which was a multilayer adsorption with intraparticle diffusion. Negative enthalpy confirmed that this adsorption process was exothermic. The instrumental analyses confirmed the adsorption of ammonium ion onto CSAC.

Functional divergence in nitrogen uptake rates explains diversity-productivity relationship in microalgal communities

DOE PAGES

Mandal, Shovon; Shurin, Jonathan B.; Efroymson, Rebecca A.; ...

2018-05-23

The relationship between biodiversity and productivity has emerged as a central theme in ecology. Mechanistic explanations for this relationship suggest that the role organisms play in the ecosystem (i.e., niches or functional traits) is a better predictor of ecosystem stability and productivity than taxonomic richness. Here, we tested the capacity of functional diversity in nitrogen uptake in experimental microalgal communities to predict the complementarity effect (CE) and selection effect (SE) of biodiversity on productivity. We grew five algal species as monocultures and as polycultures in pairwise combinations in homogeneous (ammonium, nitrate, or urea alone) and heterogeneous nitrogen (mixed nitrogen) environmentsmore » to determine whether complementarity between species may be enhanced in heterogeneous environments. We show that the positive diversity effects on productivity in heterogeneous environments resulted from complementarity effects with no positive contribution by species–specific SEs. Positive biodiversity effects in homogeneous environments, when present (nitrate and urea treatments but not ammonium), were driven both by CE and SE. Our results suggest that functional diversity increases species complementarity and productivity mainly in heterogeneous resource environments. Furthermore, these results provide evidence that the positive effect of functional diversity on community productivity depends on the diversity of resources present in the environment.« less

Functional divergence in nitrogen uptake rates explains diversity-productivity relationship in microalgal communities

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mandal, Shovon; Shurin, Jonathan B.; Efroymson, Rebecca A.

The relationship between biodiversity and productivity has emerged as a central theme in ecology. Mechanistic explanations for this relationship suggest that the role organisms play in the ecosystem (i.e., niches or functional traits) is a better predictor of ecosystem stability and productivity than taxonomic richness. Here, we tested the capacity of functional diversity in nitrogen uptake in experimental microalgal communities to predict the complementarity effect (CE) and selection effect (SE) of biodiversity on productivity. We grew five algal species as monocultures and as polycultures in pairwise combinations in homogeneous (ammonium, nitrate, or urea alone) and heterogeneous nitrogen (mixed nitrogen) environmentsmore » to determine whether complementarity between species may be enhanced in heterogeneous environments. We show that the positive diversity effects on productivity in heterogeneous environments resulted from complementarity effects with no positive contribution by species–specific SEs. Positive biodiversity effects in homogeneous environments, when present (nitrate and urea treatments but not ammonium), were driven both by CE and SE. Our results suggest that functional diversity increases species complementarity and productivity mainly in heterogeneous resource environments. Furthermore, these results provide evidence that the positive effect of functional diversity on community productivity depends on the diversity of resources present in the environment.« less

Effect of Water Chemistry and Hydrodynamics on Nitrogen Transformation Activity and Microbial Community Functional Potential in Hyporheic Zone Sediment Columns

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Yuanyuan; Liu, Chongxuan; Nelson, William C.

Nitrogen (N) transformation in hyporheic zone (HZ) is an important component in N-cycling in ecosystems. A column study was conducted to investigate N transformation in a HZ sediment with a focus on how characteristic HZ properties including water chemistry, fluid residence time, and dynamic groundwater and surface water exchange affect on N transformation. Metagenomic and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analyses were performed to evaluate the dynamic changes in microbial community structure and its function in response to N transformation. The results indicated that N transformation in the HZ sediment was collectively controlled by microbial community functions including: denitrification, dissimilatorymore » nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA), nitrification, and anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox). However, the spatial distribution of the microbial community functions and associated biogeochemical reaction rates and products changed quickly in response to experimental perturbation, and was influenced by various factors including water chemistry (dissolved O2 and N species), desorption of sediment associated organic carbon, ion exchange reactions of NH4+, and fluid residence time. The results of this study implied that the microbial community in the HZ would exhibit strong function zonation along N and O gradients, which in turn would control the rates and products of N transformation.« less

Start-up of simultaneous removal of ammonium and sulfate from an anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) process in an anaerobic up-flow bioreactor.

PubMed

Yang, Zhiquan; Zhou, Shaoqi; Sun, Yanbo

2009-09-30

A laboratory testing of simultaneous removal of ammonium and sulfate (SRAS) was studied from an anammox process in an anaerobic bioreactor filled with granular activated carbon. Two different phases of experiment were investigated to start up the SRAS process, and final batch tests were performed to analyze the SRAS process. The experiment included an anammox process and an SRAS process. During the anammox process, the highest removal efficiency of ammonium and nitrite was up to 97 and 98%, respectively. After 160 days in the stationary phase of anammox process, the ratio of ammonium to nitrite consumption was approximately 1:1.15, which is much higher than 1:1.32 in the traditional anammox process. The extra electron acceptor, such as sulfate, was thought to react with ammonium by bacteria. Synthetic wastewater containing ammonium chlorine and sodium sulfate was used as the feed for the bioreactor in the second phase of experiment. During the SRAS process, the influent concentrations of ammonium and sulfate were controlled to be 50-60 and 210-240 mg L(-1) respectively. After start-up and acclimatization of this process for 60 days, the average effluent concentrations of ammonium and sulfate were 30 and 160 mg L(-1), respectively. The simultaneous ammonium and sulfate removal was detected in the reactor. In order to further validate the biochemical interaction between ammonium and sulfate, batch tests was carried out. Abiotic tests were carried out to demonstrate that the pure chemical action between ammonium and sulfate without microorganism was not possible. Biotic assays with different ammonium and sulfate concentrations were further investigated that high concentrations of ammonium and sulfate could promote simultaneous removal of ammonium and sulfate. And elemental sulfur and nitrogen gas as the products measured in the SRAS process helped to demonstrate the occurrence of new interaction between nitrogen and sulfur. The new process of SRAS in the inorganic condition, including simultaneous removal of ammonium and sulfate, and the appearance of elemental sulfur and nitrogen gas as the terminal products, widened the cycle approach between nitrogen and sulfur.

Overcoming double-step CO2 adsorption and minimizing water co-adsorption in bulky diamine-appended variants of Mg2(dobpdc)† †Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Additional experimental details, and full characterization (powder X-ray diffraction, infrared spectra, diamine loadings, dry N2 decomposition profiles, and CO2 adsorption data) for all new adsorbents. CCDC 1577354. For ESI and crystallographic data in CIF or other electronic format see DOI: 10.1039/c7sc04266c

PubMed Central

Milner, Phillip J.; Martell, Jeffrey D.; Siegelman, Rebecca L.; Gygi, David; Weston, Simon C.

2017-01-01

Alkyldiamine-functionalized variants of the metal–organic framework Mg2(dobpdc) (dobpdc4– = 4,4′-dioxidobiphenyl-3,3′-dicarboxylate) are promising for CO2 capture applications owing to their unique step-shaped CO2 adsorption profiles resulting from the cooperative formation of ammonium carbamate chains. Primary,secondary (1°,2°) alkylethylenediamine-appended variants are of particular interest because of their low CO2 step pressures (≤1 mbar at 40 °C), minimal adsorption/desorption hysteresis, and high thermal stability. Herein, we demonstrate that further increasing the size of the alkyl group on the secondary amine affords enhanced stability against diamine volatilization, but also leads to surprising two-step CO2 adsorption/desorption profiles. This two-step behavior likely results from steric interactions between ammonium carbamate chains induced by the asymmetrical hexagonal pores of Mg2(dobpdc) and leads to decreased CO2 working capacities and increased water co-adsorption under humid conditions. To minimize these unfavorable steric interactions, we targeted diamine-appended variants of the isoreticularly expanded framework Mg2(dotpdc) (dotpdc4– = 4,4′′-dioxido-[1,1′:4′,1′′-terphenyl]-3,3′′-dicarboxylate), reported here for the first time, and the previously reported isomeric framework Mg-IRMOF-74-II or Mg2(pc-dobpdc) (pc-dobpdc4– = 3,3′-dioxidobiphenyl-4,4′-dicarboxylate, pc = para-carboxylate), which, in contrast to Mg2(dobpdc), possesses uniformally hexagonal pores. By minimizing the steric interactions between ammonium carbamate chains, these frameworks enable a single CO2 adsorption/desorption step in all cases, as well as decreased water co-adsorption and increased stability to diamine loss. Functionalization of Mg2(pc-dobpdc) with large diamines such as N-(n-heptyl)ethylenediamine results in optimal adsorption behavior, highlighting the advantage of tuning both the pore shape and the diamine size for the development of new adsorbents for carbon capture applications. PMID:29629084

Sorption/Desorption Behavior and Mechanism of NH4(+) by Biochar as a Nitrogen Fertilizer Sustained-Release Material.

PubMed

Cai, Yanxue; Qi, Hejinyan; Liu, Yujia; He, Xiaowei

2016-06-22

Biochar, the pyrolysis product of biomass material with limited oxygen, has the potential to increase crop production and sustained-release fertilizer, but the understanding of the reason for improving soil fertility is insufficient, especially the behavior and mechanism of ammonium sulfate. In this study, the sorption/desorption effect of NH4(+) by biochar deriving from common agricultural wastes under different preparation temperatures from 200 to 500 °C was studied and its mechanism was discussed. The results showed that biochar displayed excellent retention ability in holding NH4(+) above 90% after 21 days under 200 °C preparation temperature, and it can be deduced that the oxygen functional groups, such as carboxyl and keto group, played the primary role in adsorbing NH4(+) due to hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interaction. The sorption/desorption effect and mechanism were studied for providing an optional way to dispose of agricultural residues into biochar as a nitrogen fertilizer sustained-release material under suitable preparation temperature.

The exchangeable fraction of selectively sorbed 137Cs in soils and natural sorbents as a function of the K+ and NH{4/+} concentrations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stepina, I. A.; Popov, V. E.

2011-06-01

The exchangeable portion of the selectively sorbed 137Cs extractable by a 1 M ammonium acetate solution (α Ex ) for soils, illite, bentonite, and tripolite was found to increase with the increasing concentration of the competitive cation M+ (K+ or NH{4/+}) and can be approximated by a logarithmic relationship. For clinoptilolite, the values of α Ex did not depend on the concentration of M+. The expression 1 - α Ex ( C M= n )/α Ex ( C M = 16) as a function of the M+ concentration (where α Ex ( C M= n ) is the α Ex value at the competitive cation concentration equal to 16 mmol/dm3) was proposed to compare the dependence of α Ex on the concentration of K+ or NH{4/+}in different sorbents. For soils and illite, these dependences almost coincided, which indicated that the selective sorption of 137Cs in soils is determined by the presence of illite-group minerals.

Phase Stabilization of Ammonium Nitrate

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-11-04

substance into the ammonium nitrate crystal structure. Salts containing ions larger or smaller than either ammonium or nitrate ions have been used...introducing another substance into the ammonium nitrate crystal structure. Salts containing ions larger or smaller than either ammonium or nitrate...two ionic attachment points should yield a nonmigrating salt due to difficulty of having simultaneous dissociation of two ionic structures

21 CFR 184.1137 - Ammonium carbonate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... sublimation of a mixture of ammonium sulfate and calcium carbonate and occurs as a white powder or a hard... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Ammonium carbonate. 184.1137 Section 184.1137 Food... GRAS § 184.1137 Ammonium carbonate. (a) Ammonium carbonate ((NH4)2CO3, CAS Reg. No. 8000-73-5) is a...

Augmenting Laboratory Rearing of Stable Fly (Diptera: Muscidae) Larvae With Ammoniacal Salts.

PubMed

Friesen, Kristina; Berkebile, Dennis R; Zhu, Jerry J; Taylor, David B

2017-01-01

Stable flies are blood feeding parasites and serious pests of livestock. The immature stages develop in decaying materials which frequently have high ammonium content. We added various ammonium salts to our laboratory stable fly rearing medium and measured their effect on size and survival as well as the physical properties of the used media. The addition of ammonium hydroxide, ammonium phosphate and ammonium sulfate reduced larval survival. These compounds decreased pH and increased ammonium content of the used media. Ammonium bicarbonate had no effect on pH and marginally increased ammonium while increasing survival twofold. The optimal level of ammonium bicarbonate was 50 g (0.63 mol) per pan. Larval survival decreased when pH was outside the range of 8.5 to 9.0. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Entomological Society of America 2017. This work is written by US Government employees and is in the public domain in the US.

Kinetics of N-Utilization By Natural Phytoplankton Assemblages During Upwelling Events At The NW Iberian Shelf

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brion, N.; Elskens, M.; Dehairs, F.; Baeyens, W.

2003-04-01

The concentration-dependent uptakes of nitrate, ammonium and the effect of ammo-nium on the f-ratio were surveyed in surface waters of the NW Iberian shelf during June 1997, July 1998 and September 1999. Because relationships between rates and substrate concentrations were quite variable, ranging from linear to convex shaped curves, they were fitted to rational functions. Stepwize regression analysis yielded subsequent model equations with reasonable statistical properties which allowed describing all but all a few cases. Differentiating these equations with respect to the concentration gave the slope of the tangent to the curve, i.e., the variation in rate expected for a given perturbation of the ambient substrate concentration. The initial slope value was then used as an index to gauge the "affinity" of the plankton community for the nitrogen substrate utilization. In June 1997, the situation at the Iberian shelf showed no upwelling except near Cape Finistère. Overall, the phytoplankton community displayed a high "affinity" for both nitrate and ammonium and low f-ratio values, which is indicative of a re-generated production regime. High ammonium regeneration rates supported furthermore these observations. It was also demonstrated that the new production rates is only marginally sensitive to changes of the ambient nitrate and/or ammonium concentrations. This indicates that the production regime is rather stable throughout. Only at Cape Finistère, nitrate concentrations were high reflecting the onset of an upwelling event. In this zone, the phytoplankton community, taking advantage of its high affinity for nitrate enhanced both total N-uptake rate and f-ratio. In July 1998, the situation evolved towards an extension to the south of the upwelling event starting at Cape Finistère. In this southern zone of the upwelling the phytoplankton community displayed generally a lower affinity for nitrate (but not for ammonium) than in 1997. In spite of this lower affinity, nitrate uptake rate was dominant resulting in f-ratio values greater than 0.5, a characteristic of a new production regime. The new production rate is only marginally sensitive to increases of the ambient nitrate, but is drastically inhibited by small increases of the ambient ammonium. The situation of September 1999 was very close to that observed in July 1998, with higher nitrate concentrations in the coastal northern part of the sampling area dominated by upwelling.

Functionalized Agarose Self-Healing Ionogels Suitable for Supercapacitors.

PubMed

Trivedi, Tushar J; Bhattacharjya, Dhrubajyoti; Yu, Jong-Sung; Kumar, Arvind

2015-10-12

Agarose has been functionalized (acetylated/carbanilated) in an ionic liquid (IL) medium of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate at ambient conditions. The acetylated agarose showed a highly hydrophobic nature, whereas the carbanilated agarose could be dissolved in water as well as in the IL medium. Thermoreversible ionogels were obtained by cooling the IL sols of carbanilated agarose at room temperature. The ionogel prepared from a protic-aprotic mixed-IL system (1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride and N-(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium formate) demonstrated a superior self-healing property, as confirmed from rheological measurements. The superior self-healing property of such an ionogel has been attributed to the unique inter-intra hydrogen-bonding network of functional groups inserted in the agarose. The ionogel was tested as a flexible solid electrolyte for an activated-carbon-based supercapacitor cell. The measured specific capacitance was found to be comparable with that of a liquid electrolyte system at room temperature and was maintained for up to 1000 charge-discharge cycles. Such novel functionalized-biopolymer self-healing ionogels with flexibility and good conductivity are desirable for energy-storage devices and electronic skins with superior lifespans and robustness. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

The quantum chemical causality of pMHC-TCR biological avidity: Peptide atomic coordination data and the electronic state of agonist N termini.

PubMed

Antipas, Georgios S E; Germenis, Anastasios E

2015-06-01

The quantum state of functional avidity of the synapse formed between a peptide-Major Histocompatibility Complex (pMHC) and a T cell receptor (TCR) is a subject not previously touched upon. Here we present atomic pair correlation meta-data based on crystalized tertiary structures of the Tax (HTLV-1) peptide along with three artificially altered variants, all of which were presented by the (Class I) HLA-A201 protein in complexation with the human (CD8(+)) A6TCR. The meta-data reveal the existence of a direct relationship between pMHC-TCR functional avidity (agonist/antagonist) and peptide pair distribution function (PDF). In this context, antagonist peptides are consistently under-coordinated in respect to Tax. Moreover, Density Functional Theory (DFT) datasets in the BLYP/TZ2P level of theory resulting from relaxation of the H species on peptide tertiary structures reveal that the coordination requirement of agonist peptides is also expressed as a physical observable of the protonation state of their N termini: agonistic peptides are always found to retain a stable ammonium (NH3 (+)) terminal group while antagonist peptides are not.

70. INTERIOR VIEW OF AMMONIUM NITRATE HOUSE, LOOKING AT AMMONIUM ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

70. INTERIOR VIEW OF AMMONIUM NITRATE HOUSE, LOOKING AT AMMONIUM NITRATE IN STORAGE. APRIL 18, 1919. - United States Nitrate Plant No. 2, Reservation Road, Muscle Shoals, Muscle Shoals, Colbert County, AL

Mechanism by which ammonium bicarbonate and ammonium sulfate inhibit mycotoxigenic fungi.

PubMed Central

DePasquale, D A; Montville, T J

1990-01-01

In this study we examined the mechanism by which ammonium bicarbonate inhibits mycotoxigenic fungi. Elevated extracellular pH, alone, was not responsible for the antifungal activity. Although conidia of Penicillium griseofulvum and Fusarium graminearum had internal pH (pHi) values as high as 8.0 in buffer at an external pH (pHo) of 9.5, their viability was not markedly affected. The pHi values from conidia equilibrated in glycine-NaOH-buffered treatments without ammonium bicarbonate or ammonium sulfate were similar to values obtained from buffered treatments containing the ammonium salts. Thus, inhibition did not appear to be directly related to increased pHi. Ammonium sulfate in buffered media at pH greater than or equal to 8.7 was as inhibitory as ammonium bicarbonate, but was completely ineffective at pH less than or equal to 7.8. The hypothesis that free ammonia caused the fungal inhibition was tested by using ammonium sulfate as a model for ammonium bicarbonate. Viability, expressed as log CFU/ml, and percent germination of P. griseofulvum and F. graminearum decreased dramatically as the free ammonia concentration increased. Germination rate ratios (the germination rate in buffered ammonium sulfate divided by the germination rate in buffer alone) decreased linearly as the free ammonia concentration increased, further establishing NH3 as the toxic agent. Ammonium bicarbonate inhibits fungi because the bicarbonate anion supplies the alkalinity necessary to establish an antifungal concentration of free ammonia. PMID:2082821

Impact of a high ammonia-ammonium-pH system on methane-producing archaea and sulfate-reducing bacteria in mesophilic anaerobic digestion.

PubMed

Dai, Xiaohu; Hu, Chongliang; Zhang, Dong; Dai, Lingling; Duan, Nina

2017-12-01

A novel strategy for acclimation to ammonia stress was implemented by stimulating a high ammonia-ammonium-pH environment in a high-solid anaerobic digestion (AD) system in this study. Three semi-continuously stirred anaerobic reactors performed well over the whole study period under mesophilic conditions, especially in experimental group (R-2) when accommodated from acclimation period which the maximum total ammonia nitrogen (TAN) and free ammonia nitrogen (FAN) increased to 4921 and 2996mg/L, respectively. Moreover, when it accommodated the high ammonia-ammonium-pH system, the daily biogas production and methane content were similar to those in R-1 (the blank control to R-2), but the hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) content lower than the blank control. Moreover, mechanistic studies showed that high ammonia stress enhanced the activity of coenzyme F 420 . The results of real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) showed that ammonia stress decreased the abundance of sulfate-reducing bacteria and increased the abundance of methane-producing archaea. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Formation and shape-control of hierarchical cobalt nanostructures using quaternary ammonium salts in aqueous media

PubMed Central

Deshmukh, Ruchi; Mehra, Anurag

2017-01-01

Aggregation and self-assembly are influenced by molecular interactions. With precise control of molecular interactions, in this study, a wide range of nanostructures ranging from zero-dimensional nanospheres to hierarchical nanoplates and spindles have been successfully synthesized at ambient temperature in aqueous solution. The nanostructures reported here are formed by aggregation of spherical seed particles (monomers) in presence of quaternary ammonium salts. Hydroxide ions and a magnetic moment of the monomers are essential to induce shape anisotropy in the nanostructures. The cobalt nanoplates are studied in detail, and a growth mechanism based on collision, aggregation, and crystal consolidation is proposed based on a electron microscopy studies. The growth mechanism is generalized for rods, spindles, and nearly spherical nanostructures, obtained by varying the cation group in the quaternary ammonium hydroxides. Electron diffraction shows different predominant lattice planes on the edge and on the surface of a nanoplate. The study explains, hereto unaddressed, the temporal evolution of complex magnetic nanostructures. These ferromagnetic nanostructures represent an interesting combination of shape anisotropy and magnetic characteristics. PMID:28326240

Ammonium Additives to Dissolve Lithium Sulfide through Hydrogen Binding for High-Energy Lithium-Sulfur Batteries.

PubMed

Pan, Huilin; Han, Kee Sung; Vijayakumar, M; Xiao, Jie; Cao, Ruiguo; Chen, Junzheng; Zhang, Jiguang; Mueller, Karl T; Shao, Yuyan; Liu, Jun

2017-02-08

In rechargeable Li-S batteries, the uncontrollable passivation of electrodes by highly insulating Li 2 S limits sulfur utilization, increases polarization, and decreases cycling stability. Dissolving Li 2 S in organic electrolyte is a facile solution to maintain the active reaction interface between electrolyte and sulfur cathode, and thus address the above issues. Herein, ammonium salts are demonstrated as effective additives to promote the dissolution of Li 2 S to 1.25 M in DMSO solvent at room temperature. NMR measurements show that the strong hydrogen binding effect of N-H groups plays a critical role in dissolving Li 2 S by forming complex ligands with S 2- anions coupled with the solvent's solvating surrounding. Ammonium additives in electrolyte can also significantly improve the oxidation kinetics of Li 2 S, and therefore enable the direct use of Li 2 S as cathode material in Li-S battery system in the future. This provides a new approach to manage the solubility of lithium sulfides through cation coordination with sulfide anion.

PM2.5 Exposure Suppresses Dendritic Maturation in Subgranular Zone in Aged Rats.

PubMed

Cheng, Lewis; Lau, Way K W; Fung, Timothy K H; Lau, Benson W M; Chau, Bolton K H; Liang, Yutong; Wang, Zhe; So, Kwok Fai; Wang, Tao; Chan, Chetwyn C H; Lee, Tatia M C

2017-07-01

Detrimental effects of long-term inhalation of fine particulate matter (PM 2.5 ) on the pulmonary and cardiovascular systems have been widely reported. Recent studies have shown that exposure to PM 2.5 also causes adverse neurocognitive effects. This study investigates the effects of inhaled ammonium sulfate, which is a major compound of inorganic air pollutants in PM 2.5 , on adult neurogenesis in aged Sprague-Dawley rats. A total of 20 rats were randomly assigned to experimental (n = 10) and control (n = 10) conditions, wherein they were exposed to either ammonium sulfate or sham air for 2 h per day and for 28 consecutive days. It was observed that ammonium sulfate inhibited the maturation process and diminished dendritic complexity of immature neurons in the subgranular zone (SGZ) of the hippocampus significantly, although the number of neural stem cells or the rates of differentiation were comparable between the two groups. Our findings provide clear evidence on the direct relationship between air quality and advantageous neurogenesis. Exposure to PM leads to specific adverse effects on the maturation process during neurogenesis.

Monitoring the nitrification and identifying the endpoint of ammonium oxidation by using a novel system of titrimetry.

PubMed

Zhang, Xin; Zhang, Daijun; Lu, Peili; Bai, Cui; Xiao, Pengying

2011-01-01

Based on the structure of the hybrid respirometer previously developed in our group, a novel implementation for titrimetry was developed, in which two pH electrodes were installed at the inlet and outlet of the measuring cell. The software capable of digital filtering and titration time delay correction was developed in LabVIEW. The hardware and software of the titrimeter and the respirometer were integrated to construct a novel system of respirometry-titrimetry. The system was applied to monitor a batch nitrification process. The obtained profiles of oxygen uptake rate (OUR) and hydrogen ion production rate (HPR) are consistent with each other and agree with the principle of the biological nitrification reaction. According to the OUR and HPR measurements, the oxidized ammonium concentrations were estimated accurately. Furthermore, the endpoint of ammonium oxidation was identified with much higher sensitivity by the HPR measurement. The system could be potentially used for on-line monitoring of biochemical reactions occurring in any kind of bioreactors because its measuring cell is completely independent of the bioreactor.

Photometric Determination of Ammonium and Phosphate in Seawater Medium Using a Microplate Reader.

PubMed

Ruppersberg, Hanna S; Goebel, Maren R; Kleinert, Svea I; Wünsch, Daniel; Trautwein, Kathleen; Rabus, Ralf

2017-01-01

To more efficiently process the large sample numbers for quantitative determination of ammonium (NH4+) and phosphate (orthophosphate, PO43-) generated during comprehensive growth experiments with the marine Roseobacter group member Phaeobacter inhibens DSM 17395, specific colorimetric assays employing a microplate reader (MPR) were established. The NH4+ assay is based on the reaction of NH4+ with hypochlorite and salicylate, yielding a limit of detection of 14 µM, a limit of quantitation of 36 µM, and a linear range for quantitative determination up to 200 µM. The PO43-assay is based on the complex formation of PO43- with ammonium molybdate in the presence of ascorbate and zinc acetate, yielding a limit of detection of 13 µM, a limit of quantitation of 50 µM, and a linear range for quantitative determination up to 1 mM. Both MPR-based assays allowed for fast (significantly lower than 1 h) analysis of 21 samples plus standards for calibration (all measured in triplicates) and showed only low variation across a large collection of biological samples. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Ammonium Additives to Dissolve Lithium Sulfide through Hydrogen Binding for High-Energy Lithium–Sulfur Batteries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pan, Huilin; Han, Kee Sung; Vijayakumar, M.

In rechargeable Li-S batteries, the uncontrollable passivation of electrodes by highly insulating Li2S limits sulfur utilization, increases polarization and decreases cycling stability. Dissolving Li2S in organic electrolyte is a facile solution to maintain the active reaction interface between electrolyte and sulfur cathode, and thus address the above issues. Herein, ammonium salts are demonstrated as effective additives to promote the dissolution of Li2S to 1.25 M in DMSO solvent at room temperature. NMR measurements show that the strong hydrogen binding effect of N-H groups plays a critical role in dissolving Li2S by forming complex ligands with S2- anions coupled with themore » solvent’s solvating surrounding. Ammonium additives in electrolyte can also significantly improve the oxidation kinetics of Li2S, therefore enables the direct use of Li2S as cathode material in Li-S battery system in the future. This provides a new approach to manage the solubility of lithium sulfides through cation coordination with sulfide anion.« less

Spatial and temporal small-scale variability of nitrogen mobilization in a forest ecosystem with high N deposition in NW-Germany.

PubMed

Lorz, Carsten; Eissner, Christel; Lethmate, Jürgen; Schneider, Birgit

2010-02-01

For conifer stands in NW-Germany with high DIN load (23-35 kg N ha(-1) a(-1)) and a long history of nitrogen export the risk of N mobilization were investigated. Ammonium is the most mobilized N species, pointing towards either conditions not favoring nitrification or, more likely - under the dominant aerobic conditions - a very high amount of ammonium in the forest floor. Independence of net nitrification and net ammonification from each other indicates the existence of two separate systems. The nitrifying system depends very much on biotic conditions - as a function of energy and moisture - and seems not to be directly related to N deposition. In contrast, for the ammonification system (Oe horizon) a correlation with the sum of ammonium deposition three months prior to sampling was found. However, the role of disturbance, i.e. nitrogen export, during the last centuries and the role of recovery of the N balance during the last 150 years is still not clear. Copyright (c) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Effect of gadolinium on the ESR response of alanine and ammonium tartrate exposed to thermal neutrons.

PubMed

Marrale, Maurizio; Brai, Maria; Gennaro, Gaetano; Bartolotta, Antonio; D'Oca, Maria Cristina

2008-02-01

Many efforts have been made to develop neutron capture therapy (NCT) for cancer treatment. Among the challenges in using NCT is the characterization of the features of the mixed radiation field and of its components. In this study, we examined the enhancement of the ESR response of pellets of alanine and ammonium tartrate with gadolinium oxide exposed to a thermal neutron beam. In particular, the ESR response of these dosimeters as a function of the gadolinium content inside the dosimeter was analyzed. We found that the addition of gadolinium improves the sensitivity of both alanine and ammonium tartrate. However, the use of gadolinium reduces or abolishes tissue equivalence because of its high atomic number (Z(Gd) = 64). Therefore, it is necessary to find the optimum compromise between the sensitivity to thermal neutrons and the reduction of tissue equivalence. Our analysis showed that a low concentration of gadolinium oxide (of the order of 5% of the total mass of the dosimeter) can enhance the thermal neutron sensitivity more than 13 times with an insignificant reduction of tissue equivalence.

A new route to the imidazole-2-thiones from 2-thiohydantoins. Implications in the study of ergothioneine

PubMed Central

Scott, J. E.; Henderson, Gillian

1968-01-01

1. 2-Thiohydantoins are reduced by borohydrides to 4(5)-hydroxyimidazolidine-2-thiones, which eliminate water in acid to form imidazole-2-thiones. Both steps take place in mild conditions, in high yield. A number of imidazole-2-thiones have been synthesized by this sequence of steps, with one, two or three substituents in the 1-, 3- and 4(5)-positions. 2. 4(5)-Hydroxyimidazolidine-2-thiones are ammonium pseudo-bases, giving rise to an equilibrium mixture of amino aldehyde, carbinolamine and mesomeric ammonium cationic forms. The elimination of water is suggested to be a property of the mesomeric ammonium cation. 3. The mild conditions in which imidazole-2-thiones are formed from 4(5)-hydroxyimidazolidine-2-thiones are similar to those in which ergothioneine, a naturally occurring imidazole-2-thione of uncertain function, is normally released and measured. It is suggested that the occurrence in vivo of a precursor to ergothioneine, in the form of a 4(5)-hydroxyimidazolidine-2-thione, would explain many otherwise conflicting published data. PMID:5679364

Sequential nitrification and denitrification in a novel palm shell granular activated carbon twin-chamber upflow bio-electrochemical reactor for treating ammonium-rich wastewater.

PubMed

Mousavi, Seyyedalireza; Ibrahim, Shaliza; Aroua, Mohamed Kheireddine

2012-12-01

In this study, a twin-chamber upflow bio-electrochemical reactor packed with palm shell granular activated carbon as biocarrier and third electrode was used for sequential nitrification and denitrification of nitrogen-rich wastewater under different operating conditions. The experiments were performed at a constant pH value for the denitrification compartment. The effect of variables, namely, electric current (I) and hydraulic retention time (HRT), on the pH was considered in the nitrification chamber. The response surface methodology was used based on three levels to develop empirical models for the study on the effects of HRT and current values as independent operating variables on NH(4)(+)-N removal. The results showed that ammonium was reduced within the function of an extensive operational range of electric intensity (20-50 mA) and HRT (6-24h). The optimum condition for ammonium oxidation (90%) was determined with an I of 32 mA and HRT of 19.2h. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ab-Initio Calculation of Electronic Structure of Lead Halide Perovskites with Formamidinium Cation as an Active Material for Perovskite Solar Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Indari, E. D.; Wungu, T. D. K.; Hidayat, R.

2017-07-01

Organic lead halide perovskite material based solar cells show impressive power conversion efficiencies, which can reach above 19 percent for perovskite solar cell with methyl-ammonium cations. These efficiencies are originated from efficient photoexcitation and charge carrier transport and not observed in conventional perovskite crystals. In this preliminary research work, we therefore performed Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculation of formamidinium lead iodide (FAPI), an alternative to methyl-ammonium lead iodide (MAPI), to predict their electronic structure and density of state (DOS). The calculation result at the most stable lattice parameters show a good agreement with the experiment results. The obtained band gap energy is 1.307 eV. The valence band is dominantly formed by the 5p orbitals of I- anions, while the conduction band is dominantly formed by the 6p orbitals of Pb2+ cations. The DOS of valence band of this perovskite seems smaller compared to the case of methyl-ammonium lead iodide perovskite, which then may explain the observation of smaller power conversion efficiencies in perovskite solar cells with this formamidinium cations.

Four novel antibacterial sesquiterpene-α-amino acid quaternary ammonium hybrids from the mycelium of mushroom Stereum hirsutum.

PubMed

Duan, Yuan-Chang; Feng, Jun; Bai, Na; Li, Guo-Hong; Zhang, Ke-Qin; Zhao, Pei-Ji

2018-05-21

The mushroom Stereum hirsutum is parasitized by Tremella aurantia to form a heterogeneous basidiocarp Jin'er, which has been used as food and folk medicine in Chinese society. In present work, the S. hirsutum was fermented in YMG broth, and four novel mixed terpenes, stereumamides A-D (1-4), which are sesquiterpenes combined with α-amino acids to form quaternary ammonium hybrids, were isolated from the Stereum hirsutum FP-91666 and their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic data analysis. Stereumamides A and D showed antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella typhimurium, with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 12.5-25.0 μg/mL. The stereumamides A-D should be apparently the first example of naturally occurring a quaternary ammonium compound (QAC) conjugated by sesquiterpene with an α-amino acid. QAC is a common antibacterial agent in food industry, which is found in the mycelium of Stereum hirsutum would suggest that the complex basidiocarp is a functional food and veritable folk medicine. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Reorganisation of a mesophilic biogas microbiome as response to a stepwise increase of ammonium nitrogen induced by poultry manure supply.

PubMed

Alsouleman, Khulud; Linke, Bernd; Klang, Johanna; Klocke, Michael; Krakat, Niclas; Theuerl, Susanne

2016-05-01

An anaerobic digestion experiment was investigated to evaluate the impact of increasing amounts of ammonium nitrogen due to poultry manure addition on the reactor performance, especially on the microbiome response. The microbial community structure was assessed by using a 16S rRNA gene approach, which was further correlated with the prevalent environmental conditions by using statistical analyses. The addition of 50% poultry manure led to a process disturbance indicated by a high VFA content (almost 10 g(HAc-Eq) L(-1)) in combination with elevated concentrations of ammonium nitrogen (5.9 g NH4(+)-N kg(FM)(-1)) and free ammonia (0.5 g NH3 kg(FM)(-1)). Simultaneously the microbiome, changed from a Bacteroidetes-dominated to a Clostridiales-dominated community accompanied by a shift from the acetoclastic to the hydrogenotrophic pathway. The "new" microbial community was functional redundant as the overall process rates were similar to the former one. A further increase of poultry manure resulted in a complete process failure. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Assessment and analysis of aged refuse as ammonium-removal media for the treatment of landfill leachate.

PubMed

He, Yan; Li, Dan; Zhao, Youcai; Huang, Minsheng; Zhou, Gongming

2017-11-01

This is the first attempt to explore the sustainability of aged refuse as ammonium-removal media. Batch experiments combined with the aged-refuse-based reactor were performed to examine how the adsorption and desorption processes are involved in the ammonia removal via aged refuse media in this research. The results showed that the adsorption of ammonium by aged refuse occurred instantly and the adsorbed ammonium was stable and less exchangeable. The adsorption data fit the Freundlich isotherms well and the n value of 0.1-0.5 indicated that the adsorption of ammonium occurred easily. The maximum adsorbed ammonium occupied less than 10% of the cation exchange capacity in aged-refuse-based reactors owing to the high solid/liquid ratios (50:1-120:1). The synergistic transformations of ammonium within the aged-refuse-based reactor indicated that the cation exchange sites only provide temporary storage of ammonium, and the subsequent nitrification process can be considered the predominant restoration pathway of ammonium adsorption capacity of the reactor. It seems reasonable to assume that there is no expiry for the aged-refuse-based reactor in terms of ammonium removal owing to its bioregeneration via nitrification.

Relations of ammonium minerals at several hydrothermal systems in the western U.S.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Krohn, M.D.; Kendall, C.; Evans, J.R.; Fries, T.L.

1993-01-01

Ammonium bound to silicate and sulfate minerals has recently been located at several major hydrothermal systems in the western U.S. utilizing newly-discovered near-infrared spectral properties. Knowledge of the origin and mineralogic relations of ammonium minerals at known hydrothermal systems is critical for the proper interpretation of remote sensing data and for testing of possible links to mineralization. Submicroscopic analysis of ammonium minerals from two mercury- and gold-bearing hot-springs deposits at Ivanhoe, Nevada and McLaughlin, California shows that the ammonium feldspar, buddingtonite, occurs as fine-grained euhedral crystals coating larger sulfide and quartz crystals. Ammonium feldspar seems to precipitate relatively late in the crystallization sequence and shows evidence for replacement of NH4+ by K+ or other monovalent cations. Some buddingtonite is observed in close association with mercury, but not with gold. Ammonioalunite is found in a variety of isolated crystal forms at both deposits. Nitrogen isotopic values for ammonium-bearing minerals show a 14??? range in composition, precluding assignment of a specific provenance to the nitrogen. The correlations of nitrogen isotopic values with depth and ammonium content suggest some loss of nitrogen in the oxidizing supergene environment, possibly as a metastable mineral. The high ammonium content in these hydrothermal systems, the close association to mercury, and the small crystal size of the ammonium-bearing minerals all suggest that ammonium may be transported in a late-stage vapor phase or as an organic volatile. Such a process could lead to the formation of a non-carbonaceous organic aureole above a buried geothermal source. The discovery of a 10-km outcrop of ammonium minerals confirms that significant substitution of ammonium in minerals is possible over an extensive area and that remote sensing is a feasible means to detect such aureoles. ?? 1993.

Effects of dynamic operating conditions on nitrification in biological rapid sand filters for drinking water treatment.

PubMed

Lee, Carson O; Boe-Hansen, Rasmus; Musovic, Sanin; Smets, Barth; Albrechtsen, Hans-Jørgen; Binning, Philip

2014-11-01

Biological rapid sand filters are often used to remove ammonium from groundwater for drinking water supply. They often operate under dynamic substrate and hydraulic loading conditions, which can lead to increased levels of ammonium and nitrite in the effluent. To determine the maximum nitrification rates and safe operating windows of rapid sand filters, a pilot scale rapid sand filter was used to test short-term increased ammonium loads, set by varying either influent ammonium concentrations or hydraulic loading rates. Ammonium and iron (flock) removal were consistent between the pilot and the full-scale filter. Nitrification rates and ammonia-oxidizing bacteria and archaea were quantified throughout the depth of the filter. The ammonium removal capacity of the filter was determined to be 3.4 g NH4-N m(-3) h(-1), which was 5 times greater than the average ammonium loading rate under reference operating conditions. The ammonium removal rate of the filter was determined by the ammonium loading rate, but was independent of both the flow and influent ammonium concentration individually. Ammonia-oxidizing bacteria and archaea were almost equally abundant in the filter. Both ammonium removal and ammonia-oxidizing bacteria density were strongly stratified, with the highest removal and ammonia-oxidizing bacteria densities at the top of the filter. Cell specific ammonium oxidation rates were on average 0.6 × 10(2) ± 0.2 × 10(2) fg NH4-N h(-1) cell(-1). Our findings indicate that these rapid sand filters can safely remove both nitrite and ammonium over a larger range of loading rates than previously assumed. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Unraveling the potential of a combined nitritation-anammox biomass towards the biodegradation of pharmaceutically active compounds.

PubMed

Kassotaki, Elissavet; Pijuan, Maite; Joss, Adriano; Borrego, Carles M; Rodriguez-Roda, Ignasi; Buttiglieri, Gianluigi

2018-05-15

In the past few years, anaerobic ammonium oxidation-based processes have attracted a lot of attention for their implementation at the mainstream line of wastewater treatment plants, due to the possibility of leading to energy autarky if combined with anaerobic digestion. However, little is known about the potential degradation of micropollutants by the microbial groups responsible of these processes and the few results available are inconclusive. This study aimed to assess the degradation capability of biomass withdrawn from a combined nitritation/anaerobic ammonium oxidation (combined N/A) pilot plant towards five pharmaceutically active compounds (ibuprofen, sulfamethoxazole, metoprolol, venlafaxine and carbamazepine). Batch experiments were performed under different conditions by selectively activating or inhibiting different microbial groups: i) regular combined N/A operation, ii) aerobic (optimal for nitrifying bacteria), iii) aerobic with allylthiourea (an inhibitor of ammonia monooxygenase, enzyme of ammonia oxidizing bacteria), iv) anoxic (optimal for anaerobic ammonium oxidizing bacteria), v) aerobic with acetate (optimal for heterotrophic bacteria) and vi) anoxic with acetate (optimal for heterotrophic denitrifying bacteria). Ibuprofen was the most biodegradable compound being significantly degraded (49-100%) under any condition except heterotrophic denitrification. Sulfamethoxazole, exhibited the highest removal (70%) under optimal conditions for nitrifying bacteria but in the rest of the experiments anoxic conditions were found to be slightly more favorable (up to 58%). For metoprolol the highest performance was obtained under anoxic conditions favoring anammox bacteria (62%). Finally, carbamazepine and venlafaxine were hardly removed (≤10% in the majority of cases). Taken together, these results suggest the specificity of different microbial groups that in combination with alternating operational parameters can lead to enhanced removal of some micropollutants. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Ammonia lowering reverses sarcopenia of cirrhosis by restoring skeletal muscle proteostasis

PubMed Central

Kumar, Avinash; Davuluri, Gangarao; deSilva, Rafaella Nasciemento; Engelen, Marielle PKJ; TenHave, Gabrie; Prayson, Richard; Deutz, Nicolaas EP; Dasarathy, Srinivasan

2017-01-01

Sarcopenia or skeletal muscle loss is a frequent, potentially reversible complication in cirrhosis that adversely affects clinical outcomes. Hyperammonemia is a consistent abnormality in cirrhosis that results in impaired skeletal muscle protein synthesis and breakdown (proteostasis). Despite availability of effective ammonia lowering therapies, whether lowering ammonia restores proteostasis and reverses muscle mass is unknown. Myotube diameter, protein synthesis and molecular responses in C2C12 murine myotubes to withdrawal of ammonium acetate following 24 h exposure to 10mM ammonium acetate were complemented by in vivo studies in the hyperammonemic portacaval anastomosis rat (PCA) and sham operated, pair-fed (SO) Sprague- Dawley rats treated with ammonia lowering therapy by L-ornithine L-aspartate and rifaximin orally for 4 weeks. We observed reduced myotube diameter, impaired protein synthesis and increased autophagy flux in response to hyperammonemia that were partially reversed following 24h and 48h withdrawal of ammonium acetate. Consistently, 4 weeks of ammonia lowering therapy resulted in significant lowering of blood and skeletal muscle ammonia, increase in lean body mass, improved grip strength and higher skeletal muscle mass, diameter and an increase in type II fibers in the treated compared to untreated PCA rats. Increased skeletal muscle myostatin expression, reduced mTORC1 function, and the hyperammonemic stress response including autophagy markers were also reversed in the PCA rats treated with ammonia lowering therapy. Despite significant improvement, molecular and functional readouts were not completely reversed by ammonia lowering measures. Conclusions Ammonia lowering therapy results in improvement in skeletal muscle phenotype, function and molecular perturbations of hyperammonemia. These preclinical studies complement previous studies on ammonia induced skeletal muscle loss and lay the foundation for prolonged ammonia lowering therapy to reverse sarcopenia of cirrhosis. PMID:28195332

PROCESS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF AMMONIUM URANIUM FLUORIDE

DOEpatents

Ellis, A.S.; Mooney, R.B.

1953-08-25

This patent relates to the preparation of ammonium uranium fluoride. The process comprises adding a water soluble fluoride to an aqueous solution of a uranous compound containing an ammonium salt, and isolating the resulting precipitate. This patent relates to the manufacture of uranium tetnafluoride from ammonium uranium fluoride, NH/sub 4/UF/sub 5/. Uranium tetrafluoride is prepared by heating the ammonium uranium fluoride to a temperature at which dissociation occurs with liberation of ammonium fluoride. Preferably the process is carried out under reduced pressure, or in a current of an inert gas.

Oleyl group-functionalized insulating gate transistors for measuring extracellular pH of floating cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Imaizumi, Yuki; Goda, Tatsuro; Toya, Yutaro; Matsumoto, Akira; Miyahara, Yuji

2016-01-01

The extracellular ionic microenvironment has a close relationship to biological activities such as by cellular respiration, cancer development, and immune response. A system composed of ion-sensitive field-effect transistors (ISFET), cells, and program-controlled fluidics has enabled the acquisition of real-time information about the integrity of the cell membrane via pH measurement. Here we aimed to extend this system toward floating cells such as T lymphocytes for investigating complement activation and pharmacokinetics through alternations in the plasma membrane integrity. We functionalized the surface of tantalum oxide gate insulator of ISFET with oleyl-tethered phosphonic acid for interacting with the plasma membranes of floating cells without affecting the cell signaling. The surface modification was characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and water contact angle measurements. The Nernst response of -37.8 mV/pH was obtained for the surface-modified ISFET at 37 °C. The oleyl group-functionalized gate insulator successfully captured Jurkat T cells in a fluidic condition without acute cytotoxicity. The system was able to record the time course of pH changes at the cells/ISFET interface during the process of instant addition and withdrawal of ammonium chloride. Further, the plasma membrane injury of floating cells after exposure by detergent Triton™ X-100 was successfully determined using the modified ISFET with enhanced sensitivity as compared with conventional hemolysis assays.

Oleyl group-functionalized insulating gate transistors for measuring extracellular pH of floating cells

PubMed Central

Imaizumi, Yuki; Goda, Tatsuro; Toya, Yutaro; Matsumoto, Akira; Miyahara, Yuji

2016-01-01

Abstract The extracellular ionic microenvironment has a close relationship to biological activities such as by cellular respiration, cancer development, and immune response. A system composed of ion-sensitive field-effect transistors (ISFET), cells, and program-controlled fluidics has enabled the acquisition of real-time information about the integrity of the cell membrane via pH measurement. Here we aimed to extend this system toward floating cells such as T lymphocytes for investigating complement activation and pharmacokinetics through alternations in the plasma membrane integrity. We functionalized the surface of tantalum oxide gate insulator of ISFET with oleyl-tethered phosphonic acid for interacting with the plasma membranes of floating cells without affecting the cell signaling. The surface modification was characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and water contact angle measurements. The Nernst response of −37.8 mV/pH was obtained for the surface-modified ISFET at 37 °C. The oleyl group-functionalized gate insulator successfully captured Jurkat T cells in a fluidic condition without acute cytotoxicity. The system was able to record the time course of pH changes at the cells/ISFET interface during the process of instant addition and withdrawal of ammonium chloride. Further, the plasma membrane injury of floating cells after exposure by detergent Triton™ X-100 was successfully determined using the modified ISFET with enhanced sensitivity as compared with conventional hemolysis assays. PMID:27877886

Crystallization of Chicken Egg-White Lysozyme from Ammonium Sulfate

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Forsythe, Elizabeth L.; Snell, Edward H.; Pusey, Marc L.

1997-01-01

Chicken egg-white lysozyme was crystallized from ammonium sulfate over the pH range 4.0-7.8, with protein concentrations from 100 to 150 mg/ml. Crystals were obtained by vapor-diffusion or batch-crystallization methods. The protein crystallized in two morphologies with an apparent morphology dependence on temperature and protein concentration. In general, tetragonal crystals could be grown by lowering the protein concentration or temperature. Increasing the temperature or protein concentration resulted in the growth of orthorhombic crystals. Representative crystals of each morphology were selected for X-ray analysis. The tetragonal crystals belonged to the P4(sub 3)2(sub 1)2 space group with crystals grown at ph 4.4 having unit-cell dimensions of a = b = 78.7 1, c=38.6 A and diffracting to beyond 2.0 A. The orthorhombic crystals, grown at pH 4.8, were of space group P2(sub 1)2(sub 1)2 and had unit-cell dimensions of a = 30.51, b = 56.51 and c = 73.62 A.

Infrared spectra of the ammonium ion in ammonium hexavanadate (NH 4) 2V 6O 16

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Waal, D.; Heyns, A. M.; Range, K.-J.; Eglmeier, C.

The infrared bands of the NH +4 and ND +4 groups in (NH 4) 2V 6O 16 and its deuterated analogue can be assigned with a fair amount of certainty at 90 K under the space group P2 1/ m( C22 h). The ND stretching modes of isotopically dilute NH 3D + ions in the crystal are in agreement with the predicted splitting into Cs, Cs and C1(2) components. The frequencies, shapes and temperature dependence of these modes suggest that both normal and bifurcated hydrogen bonds are formed. The latter closely resembles corresponding bonds in NH 4VO 3, but the normal hydrogen bonds are not as strong as the similar bonds in NH 4VO 3. This can be expected as NH +4 ions are dynamic in character in (NH 4) 2V 6O 16 and remain so down to temperatures of 90 K.

Dodecylbenzene sulfonate-coated magnetite nanoparticles as a new adsorbent for solid phase extraction-spectrophotometric determination of ultra trace amounts of ammonium in water samples.

PubMed

Eskandari, Habibollah; Shariati, Mohammad Reza

2011-10-17

A new method was proposed for the determination of ammonium based on the preconcentration with dodecylbenzene sulfonate modified magnetite nanoparticles. Ammonium was oxidized to nitrite by hypobromite and then the nitrite produced was determined spectrophotometrically, using sulfabenzamide and N-(1-naphthyl) ethylenediamine after solid phase extraction. The azo dye produced was desorbed by an appropriate small volume of sodium hydroxide prior to the absorbance measurement. The linear calibration graphs were obtained in the concentration range of 0.03-6.00 ng mL(-1) ammonium. The relative standard deviation and recovery percents were 1.0 and 99.0, respectively, for 1.0 ng mL(-1) ammonium, and the limit of detection was 3.2 ng L(-1) ammonium. The interfering effects of a large number of diverse ions on the determination of ammonium were studied. The method was applied to the determination of ammonium in various types of water resources. The results revealed a high efficiency for the recommended ammonium determination method. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Lung Function Changes in Mice Sensitized to Ammonium Hexachloroplatinate

EPA Science Inventory

Occupational exposure to halogenated platinum salts can trigger the development of asthma. The risk to the general population that may result from the use of platinum in catalytic converters and its emerging use as a diesel fuel additive is unclear. To investigate pulmonary respo...

Effects of sulfate aerosols upon cardiopulmonary function in squirrel monkeys (final report). (Second year final report: effects of nitrate and /or sulfate aerosols upon cardiopulmonary function)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Greenberg, H.L.; Avol, E.L.; Bailey, R.M.

1977-06-24

Squirrel monkeys were exposed to nominal concentrations of 2.5 mg/cu m of the following generated aerosols: zinc ammonium sulfate at both low (40%) and high (85%) nominal relative humidities, histamine diphosphate at low relative humidity, and ammonium bisulfate at low relative humidity. There were few statistically significant changes in oscillatory resistance, however, several trends toward increased resistance were present. Additional studies were performed using two different aerosol nebulizers to produce histamine diphosphate particles in two distinct size distributions, an order of magnitude different in size. These results, supported by data collected during sulfur dioxide exposures of squirrel monkeys, are usedmore » to discuss the suitability of Saimiri sciureus as a sensitive indicator species and oscillatory resistance as a valuable measurement of proximal airway changes. Development of the esophageal balloon technique as a means of measuring compliance and resistance in the unanesthetized squirrel monkey is discussed.« less

Raman Frequencies Calculated from the Volume Data as a Function of Temperature at High Pressures for the Disordered Phase II of NH4I

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yurtseven, H.; Kavruk, D.

In this study, we calculate the Raman frequencies as a function of temperature for the fixed pressures of 706, 1080 and 6355 bars using the volume data for phase II of ammonium iodide. The Raman frequencies calculated here are for the translational optic ν5 TOM (125 cm-1) lattice mode that is located at the zone boundary (M point) of the Brillouin zone of phase II for NH4I. For this calculation the volume data obtained at zero pressure, is used through the mode Grüneisen parameter for the disordered phase II (β phase) which has the CsCl structure of NH4I. Our predicted frequencies of the ν5 TOM (125 cm-1) mode can be compared when the Raman data for this lattice mode is available at various temperatures for fixed pressures of 706, 1080 and 6355 bars in the disordered phase II of ammonium iodide.

40 CFR 60.421 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... stream to the reactor/crystallizer for synthetic and coke oven by-product ammonium sulfate manufacturing...-product ammonium sulfate manufacturing plant means any plant which produces ammonium sulfate as a by-product from process streams generated during caprolactam manufacture. Coke oven by-product ammonium...

[(CH3)3NCH2CH2NH3]SnI4: a layered perovskite with quaternary/primary ammonium dications and short interlayer iodine-iodine contacts.

PubMed

Xu, Zhengtao; Mitzi, David B; Medeiros, David R

2003-03-10

The organic-inorganic hybrid [(CH(3))(3)NCH(2)CH(2)NH(3)]SnI(4) presents a layered perovskite structure, templated by an organic dication containing both a primary and a quaternary ammonium group. Due to the high charge density and small size of the organic cation, the separation of the perovskite layers is small and short iodine-iodine contacts of 4.19 A are formed between the layers. Optical thin-film measurements on this compound indicate a significant red shift of the exciton peak (630 nm) associated with the band gap, as compared with other SnI(4)(2)(-)-based layered perovskite structures.

Antibacterial activities effectuated by co-continuous epoxy-based polymer materials.

PubMed

Kubo, Takuya; Yasuda, Koji; Tominaga, Yuichi; Otsuka, Koji; Hosoya, Ken

2013-07-01

We report antibacterial activities of the epoxy-resin-based monolithic media (epoxy monoliths) having macroporous co-continuous structure as well as hydrophobic and/or hydrophilic surface. Utilizing epoxy monoliths containing ammonium groups, the antibacterial experiments were examined using Escherichia coli. As the results, the monolithic media prepared with an epoxy monomer having nitrogen atoms clearly showed antibacterial activities, while those prepared using the monomer without nitrogen atom showed less antibacterial activities. Additionally, the quaternization of the epoxy polymers were expressed significant antibacterial activities. Further studies elucidated that the observed antibacterial activities involved the steep effect based on pH changing of solution and hydrophobic interactions by the quaternary ammonium. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Solute-solvent contact by intermolecular cross relaxation. I. The nature of the water-hydrophobic interface.

PubMed

Nordstierna, Lars; Yushmanov, Pavel V; Furó, István

2006-08-21

Intermolecular cross-relaxation rates between solute and solvent were measured by {1H} 19F nuclear magnetic resonance experiments in aqueous molecular solutions of ammonium perfluoro-octanoate and sodium trifluoroacetate. The experiments performed at three different magnetic fields provide frequency-dependent cross-relaxation rates which demonstrate clearly the lack of extreme narrowing for nuclear spin relaxation by diffusionally modulated intermolecular interactions. Supplemented by suitable intramolecular cross-relaxation, longitudinal relaxation, and self-diffusion data, the obtained cross-relaxation rates are evaluated within the framework of recent relaxation models and provide information about the hydrophobic hydration. In particular, water dynamics around the trifluoromethyl group in ammonium perfluoro-octanoate are more retarded than that in the smaller trifluoroacetate.

The optical constants of several atmospheric aerosol species - Ammonium sulfate, aluminum oxide, and sodium chloride

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Toon, O. B.; Pollack, J. B.; Khare, B. N.

1976-01-01

An investigation is conducted of problems which are related to a use of measured optical constants in the simulation of the optical constants of real atmospheric aerosols. The techniques of measuring optical constants are discussed, taking into account transmission measurements through homogeneous and inhomogeneous materials, the immersion of a material in a liquid of a known refractive index, the consideration of the minimum deviation angle of prism measurement, the interference of multiply reflected light, reflectivity measurements, and aspects of mathematical analysis. Graphs show the real and the imaginary part of the refractive index as a function of wavelength for aluminum oxide, NaCl, and ammonium sulfate. Tables are provided for the dispersion parameters and the optical constants.

Glycosylation-related genes in NS0 cells are insensitive to moderately elevated ammonium concentrations

PubMed Central

Brodsky, Arthur Nathan; Caldwell, Mary; Bae, Sooneon; Harcum, Sarah W.

2014-01-01

NS0 and Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell lines are used to produce recombinant proteins for human therapeutics; however, ammonium accumulation can negatively impact cell growth, recombinant protein production, and protein glycosylation. To improve product quality and decrease costs, the relationship between ammonium and protein glycosylation needs to be elucidated. While ammonium has been shown to adversely affect glycosylation-related gene expression in CHO cells, NS0 studies have not been performed. Therefore, this study sought to determine if glycosylation in NS0 cells were ammonium-sensitive at the gene expression level. Using a DNA microarray that contained mouse glycosylation-related and housekeeping genes, the of these genes was analysed in response to various culture conditions – elevated ammonium, elevated salt, and elevated ammonium with proline. Surprisingly, no significant differences in gene expression levels were observed between the control and these conditions. Further, the elevated ammonium cultures were analysed using real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR) for key glycosylation genes, and the qRT-PCR results corroborated the DNA microarray results, demonstrating that NS0 cells are ammonium-insensitive at the gene expression level. Since NS0 are known to have elevated nucleotide sugar pools under ammonium stress, and none of the genes directly responsible for these metabolic pools were changed, consequently cellular control at the translational or substrate-level must be responsible for the universally observed decreased glycosylation quality under elevated ammonium. PMID:25062658

Quartz crystal microbalance sensor using ionophore for ammonium ion detection.

PubMed

Kosaki, Yasuhiro; Takano, Kosuke; Citterio, Daniel; Suzuki, Koji; Shiratori, Seimei

2012-01-01

Ionophore-based quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) ammonium ion sensors with a detection limit for ammonium ion concentrations as low as 2.2 microM were fabricated. Ionophores are molecules, which selectively bind a particular ion. In this study, one of the known ionophores for ammonium, nonactin, was used to detect ammonium ions for environmental in-situ monitoring of aquarium water for the first time. To fabricate the sensing films, poly(vinyl chloride) was used as the matrix for the immobilization of nonactin. Furthermore, the anionic additive, tetrakis (4-chlorophenyl) borate potassium salt and the plasticizer dioctyl sebacate were used to enhance the sensor properties. The sensor allowed detecting ammonium ions not only in static solution, but also in flowing water. The sensor showed a nearly linear response with the increase of the ammonium ion concentration. The QCM resonance frequency increased with the increase of ammonium ion concentration, suggesting a decreasing weight of the sensing film. The detailed response mechanism could not be verified yet. However, from the results obtained when using a different plasticizer, nitrophenyl octyl ether, it is considered that this effect is caused by the release of water molecules. Consequently, the newly fabricated sensor detects ammonium ions by discharge of water. It shows high selectivity over potassium and sodium ions. We conclude that the newly fabricated sensor can be applied for detecting ammonium ions in aquarium water, since it allows measuring low ammonium ion concentrations. This sensor will be usable for water quality monitoring and controlling.

Filamentous invasive growth of mutants of the genes encoding ammonia-metabolizing enzymes in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe.

PubMed

Sasaki, Yoshie; Kojima, Ayumi; Shibata, Yuriko; Mitsuzawa, Hiroshi

2017-01-01

The fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe undergoes a switch from yeast to filamentous invasive growth in response to certain environmental stimuli. Among them is ammonium limitation. Amt1, one of the three ammonium transporters in this yeast, is required for the ammonium limitation-induced morphological transition; however, the underlying molecular mechanism remains to be understood. Cells lacking Amt1 became capable of invasive growth upon increasing concentrations of ammonium in the medium, suggesting that the ammonium taken up into the cell or a metabolic intermediate in ammonium assimilation might serve as a signal for the ammonium limitation-induced morphological transition. To investigate the possible role of ammonium-metabolizing enzymes in the signaling process, deletion mutants were constructed for the gdh1, gdh2, gln1, and glt1 genes, which were demonstrated by enzyme assays to encode NADP-specific glutamate dehydrogenase, NAD-specific glutamate dehydrogenase, glutamine synthetase, and glutamate synthase, respectively. Growth tests on various nitrogen sources revealed that a gln1Δ mutant was a glutamine auxotroph and that a gdh1Δ mutant had a defect in growth on ammonium, particularly at high concentrations. The latter observation indicates that the NADP-specific glutamate dehydrogenase of S. pombe plays a major role in ammonium assimilation under high ammonium concentrations. Invasive growth assays showed that gdh1Δ and glt1Δ mutants underwent invasive growth to a lesser extent than did wild-type strains. Increasing the ammonium concentration in the medium suppressed the invasive growth defect of the glt1Δ mutant, but not the gdh1Δ mutant. These results suggest that the nitrogen status of the cell is important in the induction of filamentous invasive growth in S. pombe.

Sorption of uranyl ions from various acido systems by amphoteric epoxy amine ion-exchange resins

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rychkov, V.N.; Radionov, B.K.; Molochnikov, L.S.

1995-03-01

Sorption of uranyl ions by epoxy amine ampholytes with N-monomethylenephosphonic acid groups modified with pyridine or quaternary ammonium groups was studied under dynamic conditions. Heterocyclic nitrogen favors sorption of uranyl ion from fluoride, sulfate, and fluoride-sulfate solutions. The ESR studies of mono- and bimetallic forms of nitrogen-containing ampholytes with copper(II) as paramagnetic marker revealed the characteristics of uranium(VI) interaction with cation- and anion-exchange groups and its dependence on the fluoride content in solution.

Investigating uncultured microbes and their role in a deep subseafloor ammonium sink

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirkpatrick, J. B.; Spivack, A. J.; Smith, D. C.; D'Hondt, S. L.

2013-12-01

The marine deep biosphere is thought to hold a large reservoir of both microbial cells and untapped genetic diversity. One potential driving force behind the vast amount of uncultured organisms are unconventional redox pairs which may not be favorable at benchtop conditions, but can support life in other circumstances. One instance of this is the previously documented thermodynamic favorability of ammonium oxidation with sulfate in sediments such as those investigated here from the Indian Ocean. Using 454 tag sequencing of 16S DNA, we identified uncultured archaea and bacteria potentially playing key roles at the sulfate and ammonium interface. First, the phylogenetic identity of organisms potentially involved in this reaction is inferred, as well as thermodynamic considerations of potential pathways. Several novel phyla, as well as Clostridiales, appear over-represented at the reaction zone. Secondly, to understand the metabolic capability of these target organisms, these sequences have been cross-referenced with assemblies from metagenomic data sets, and connections to functional genes are being elucidated. Finally, we discuss parallels with near-shore coastal sediment from Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island, where geochemical similarities have been found. While the thermodynamic regime is similar to the Indian Ocean, suggesting the potential for a broad geographic distribution, accessibility provides the opportunity to construct bioreactors to test rates and pathways of ammonium and sulfate fluxes. Iron content may be a key factor in determining reaction favorability. We present ongoing work in this area and the pros and cons of different bioreactor designs.

A computational analysis of the three isoforms of glutamate dehydrogenase reveals structural features of the isoform EC 1.4.1.4 supporting a key role in ammonium assimilation by plants

PubMed Central

Jaspard, Emmanuel

2006-01-01

Background There are three isoforms of glutamate dehydrogenase. The isoform EC 1.4.1.4 (GDH4) catalyses glutamate synthesis from 2-oxoglutarate and ammonium, using NAD(P)H. Ammonium assimilation is critical for plant growth. Although GDH4 from animals and prokaryotes are well characterized, there are few data concerning plant GDH4, even from those whose genomes are well annotated. Results A large set of the three GDH isoforms was built resulting in 116 non-redundant full polypeptide sequences. A computational analysis was made to gain more information concerning the structure – function relationship of GDH4 from plants (Eukaryota, Viridiplantae). The tested plant GDH4 sequences were the two ones known to date, those of Chlorella sorokiniana. This analysis revealed several structural features specific of plant GDH4: (i) the lack of a structure called "antenna"; (ii) the NAD(P)-binding motif GAGNVA; and (iii) a second putative coenzyme-binding motif GVLTGKG together with four residues involved in the binding of the reduced form of NADP. Conclusion A number of structural features specific of plant GDH4 have been found. The results reinforce the probable key role of GDH4 in ammonium assimilation by plants. Reviewers This article was reviewed by Tina Bakolitsa (nominated by Eugene Koonin), Martin Jambon (nominated by Laura Landweber), Sandor Pangor and Franck Eisenhaber. PMID:17173671

Effects of Sodium Citrate on the Ammonium Sulfate Recycled Leaching of Low-Grade Zinc Oxide Ores

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Kun; Li, Shi-wei; Zhang, Li-bo; Peng, Jin-hui; Ma, Ai-yuan; Wang, Bao-bao

2016-03-01

The effects of sodium citrate on ammonium sulfate recycled leaching of low-grade zinc oxide ores were studied. By applying various kinds of detection and analysis techniques such as chemical composition analysis, chemical phase method, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectrum (SEM/EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transforming infrared spectrum (FT-IR), zinc raw ore, its leaching slag and the functional mechanism of sodium citrate were investigated. Based on a comprehensive analysis, it can be concluded that in contrast to hemimorphite (Zn4Si2O7(OH)2 · H2O), amorphous smithsonite (ZnCO3) and zinc silicate (Zn2SiO4) prove to be refractory phases under ammonium sulfate leaching, while sodium citrate has a better chelating action with the refractory phases, resulting in a higher zinc leaching rate. Under conditions of [NH3]/[NH3]T molar ratio being 0.5, [NH3]T being 7.5 mol/L, [Na3C6H5O7] being 0.2 mol/L, S/L ratio being 1:5, temperature being 303 K, holding time being 1 h in each of the two stages, and stirring rate being 300 rpm, the leaching rate of zinc reached 93.4%. In this article, sulfate ammonium recycled technology also reveals its unique advantage in processing low-grade zinc oxide ores accompanied by high silicon and high alkaline gangue.

Analysis of quaternary ammonium and phosphonium ionic liquids by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with charged aerosol detection and unified calibration.

PubMed

Stojanovic, Anja; Lämmerhofer, Michael; Kogelnig, Daniel; Schiesel, Simone; Sturm, Martin; Galanski, Markus; Krachler, Regina; Keppler, Bernhard K; Lindner, Wolfgang

2008-10-31

Several hydrophobic ionic liquids (ILs) based on long-chain aliphatic ammonium- and phosphonium cations and selected aromatic anions were analyzed by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) employing trifluoroacetic acid as ion-pairing additive to the acetonitrile-containing mobile phase and adopting a step-gradient elution mode. The coupling of charged aerosol detection (CAD) for the non-chromophoric aliphatic cations with diode array detection (DAD) for the aromatic anions allowed their simultaneous analysis in a set of new ILs derived from either tricaprylmethylammonium chloride (Aliquat 336) and trihexyltetradecylphosphonium chloride as precursors. Aliquat 336 is a mix of ammonium cations with distinct aliphatic chain lengths. In the course of the studies it turned out that CAD generates an identical detection response for all the distinct aliphatic cations. Due to lack of single component standards of the individual Aliquat 336 cation species, a unified calibration function was established for the quantitative analysis of the quaternary ammonium cations of the ILs. The developed method was validated according to ICH guidelines, which confirmed the validity of the unified calibration. The application of the method revealed molar ratios of cation to anion close to 1 indicating a quantitative exchange of the chloride ions of the precursors by the various aromatic anions in the course of the synthesis of new ILs. Anomalies of CAD observed for the detection of some aromatic anions (thiosalicylate and benzoate) are discussed.

Effect of vanadium on colonic aberrant crypt foci induced in rats by 1,2 Dimethyl hydrazine

PubMed Central

Kanna, P Suresh; Mahendrakumar, CB; Chakraborty, T; Hemalatha, P; Banerjee, Pratik; Chatterjee, M

2003-01-01

AIM: To investigate the chemo preventive effects of vanadium on rat colorectal carcinogenesis induced by 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH). METHODS: Male Sprague-Dawley Rats were randomly divided into four groups. Rats in Group A received saline vehicle alone for 16 weeks. Rats in Group B were given DMH injection once a week intraperitoneally for 16 weeks; rats in Group C, with the same DMH treatment as in the Group B, but received 0.5-ppm vanadium in the form ammonium monovanadate ad libitum in drinking water. Rats in the Group D received vanadium alone as in the Group C without DMH injection. RESULTS: Aberrant crypt foci (ACF) were formed in animals in DMH-treated groups at the end of week 16. Compared to DMH group, vanadium treated group had less ACF (P < 0.001). At the end of week 32, all rats in DMH group developed large intestinal tumors. Rats treated with vanadium contained significantly few colonic adenomas and carcinomas (P < 0.05) compared to rats administered DMH only. In addition, a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in colon tumor burden (sum of tumor sizes per animal) was also evident in animals of Group C when compared to those in rats of carcinogen control Group B. The results also showed that vanadium significantly lowered PCNA index in ACF (P < 0.005). Furthermore, vanadium supplementation also elevated liver GST and Cyt P-450 activities (P < 0.001 and P < 0.02, respectively). CONCLUSION: Vanadium in the form of ammonium monovanadate supplemented in drinking water ad libitum has been found to be highly effective in reducing tumor incidence and preneoplastic foci on DMH-induced colorectal carcinogenesis. These findings suggest that vanadium administration can suppress colon carcinogenesis in rats. PMID:12717849

A series of inorganic solid nitrogen sources for the synthesis of metal nitride clusterfullerenes: the dependence of production yield on the oxidation state of nitrogen and counter ion.

PubMed

Liu, Fupin; Guan, Jian; Wei, Tao; Wang, Song; Jiao, Mingzhi; Yang, Shangfeng

2013-04-01

A series of nitrogen-containing inorganic solid compounds with variable oxidation states of nitrogen and counter ions have been successfully applied as new inorganic solid nitrogen sources toward the synthesis of Sc-based metal nitride clusterfullerenes (Sc-NCFs), including ammonium salts [(NH4)xH(3-x)PO4 (x = 0-2), (NH4)2SO4, (NH4)2CO3, NH4X (X = F, Cl), NH4SCN], thiocyanate (KSCN), nitrates (Cu(NO3)2, NaNO3), and nitrite (NaNO2). Among them, ammonium phosphates ((NH4)xH(3-x)PO4, x = 1-3) and ammonium thiocyanate (NH4SCN) are revealed to behave as better nitrogen sources than others, and the highest yield of Sc-NCFs is achieved when NH4SCN was used as a nitrogen source. The optimum molar ratio of Sc2O3:(NH4)3PO4·3H2O:C and Sc2O3:NH4SCN:C has been determined to be 1:2:15 and 1:3:15, respectively. The thermal decomposition products of these 12 inorganic compounds have been discussed in order to understand their different performances toward the synthesis of Sc-NCFs, and accordingly the dependence of the production yield of Sc-NCFs on the oxidation state of nitrogen and counter ion is interpreted. The yield of Sc3N@C80 (I(h) + D(5h)) per gram Sc2O3 by using the N2-based group of nitrogen sources (thiocyanate, nitrates, and nitrite) is overall much lower than those by using gaseous N2 and NH4SCN, indicating the strong dependence of the yield of Sc-NCFs on the oxidation state of nitrogen, which is attributed to the "in-situ" redox reaction taking place for the N2-based group of nitrogen sources during discharging. For NH3-based group of nitrogen sources (ammonium salts) which exhibits a (-3) oxidation states of nitrogen, their performance as nitrogen sources is found to be sensitively dependent on the anion, and this is understood by considering their difference on the thermal stability and/or decomposition rate. Contrarily, for the N2-based group of nitrogen sources, the formation of Sc-NCFs is independent to both the oxidation state of nitrogen (+3 or +5) and the cation.

40 CFR 418.60 - Applicability; description of the ammonium sulfate production subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... ammonium sulfate production subcategory. 418.60 Section 418.60 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... CATEGORY Ammonium Sulfate Production Subcategory § 418.60 Applicability; description of the ammonium sulfate production subcategory. The provisions of this subpart apply to discharges resulting from the...

40 CFR 418.60 - Applicability; description of the ammonium sulfate production subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... ammonium sulfate production subcategory. 418.60 Section 418.60 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... CATEGORY Ammonium Sulfate Production Subcategory § 418.60 Applicability; description of the ammonium sulfate production subcategory. The provisions of this subpart apply to discharges resulting from the...

40 CFR 418.60 - Applicability; description of the ammonium sulfate production subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... ammonium sulfate production subcategory. 418.60 Section 418.60 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... CATEGORY Ammonium Sulfate Production Subcategory § 418.60 Applicability; description of the ammonium sulfate production subcategory. The provisions of this subpart apply to discharges resulting from the...

40 CFR 418.60 - Applicability; description of the ammonium sulfate production subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... ammonium sulfate production subcategory. 418.60 Section 418.60 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... CATEGORY Ammonium Sulfate Production Subcategory § 418.60 Applicability; description of the ammonium sulfate production subcategory. The provisions of this subpart apply to discharges resulting from the...

40 CFR 415.240 - Applicability; description of the ammonium chloride production subcategory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... resulting from the production of ammonium chloride by the reaction of anhydrous ammonia with hydrogen... ammonium chloride production subcategory. 415.240 Section 415.240 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... SOURCE CATEGORY Ammonium Chloride Production Subcategory § 415.240 Applicability; description of the...

21 CFR 556.375 - Maduramicin ammonium.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... residues of maduramicin ammonium in chickens as follows: (a) A tolerance for maduramicin ammonium (marker residue) in chickens is 0.38 parts per million in fat (target tissue). A tolerance refers to the... animals. (b) The safe concentrations for total maduramicin ammonium residues in uncooked edible chicken...

78 FR 32690 - Certain Ammonium Nitrate From Ukraine

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-31

... INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION [Investigation No. 731-TA-894 (Review)] Certain Ammonium Nitrate... certain ammonium nitrate from Ukraine would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of material... Ammonium Nitrate from Ukraine: Investigation No. 731-TA-894 (Second Review). By order of the Commission...

A nitrogen response pathway regulates virulence functions in Fusarium oxysporum via the protein kinase TOR and the bZIP protein MeaB.

PubMed

López-Berges, Manuel S; Rispail, Nicolas; Prados-Rosales, Rafael C; Di Pietro, Antonio

2010-07-01

During infection, fungal pathogens activate virulence mechanisms, such as host adhesion, penetration and invasive growth. In the vascular wilt fungus Fusarium oxysporum, the mitogen-activated protein kinase Fmk1 is required for plant infection and controls processes such as cellophane penetration, vegetative hyphal fusion, or root adhesion. Here, we show that these virulence-related functions are repressed by the preferred nitrogen source ammonium and restored by treatment with l-methionine sulfoximine or rapamycin, two specific inhibitors of Gln synthetase and the protein kinase TOR, respectively. Deletion of the bZIP protein MeaB also resulted in nitrogen source-independent activation of virulence mechanisms. Activation of these functions did not require the global nitrogen regulator AreA, suggesting that MeaB-mediated repression of virulence functions does not act through inhibition of AreA. Tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum) supplied with ammonium rather than nitrate showed a significant reduction in vascular wilt symptoms when infected with the wild type but not with the DeltameaB strain. Nitrogen source also affected invasive growth in the rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae and the wheat head blight pathogen Fusarium graminearum. We propose that a conserved nitrogen-responsive pathway might operate via TOR and MeaB to control virulence in plant pathogenic fungi.

40 CFR 721.10170 - Polyoxyethylene polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic). 721.10170 Section 721.10170 Protection of Environment... polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic). (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to... sulfate ammonium salt (PMN P-03-197) is subject to reporting under this section for the significant new...

21 CFR 182.1127 - Aluminum ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Aluminum ammonium sulfate. 182.1127 Section 182.1127 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED... Food Substances § 182.1127 Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (a) Product. Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (b...

21 CFR 182.1127 - Aluminum ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Aluminum ammonium sulfate. 182.1127 Section 182.1127 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED... Food Substances § 182.1127 Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (a) Product. Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (b...

21 CFR 182.1127 - Aluminum ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Aluminum ammonium sulfate. 182.1127 Section 182.1127 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED... Food Substances § 182.1127 Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (a) Product. Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (b...

40 CFR 721.10170 - Polyoxyethylene polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic). 721.10170 Section 721.10170 Protection of Environment... polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic). (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to... sulfate ammonium salt (PMN P-03-197) is subject to reporting under this section for the significant new...

40 CFR 721.10170 - Polyoxyethylene polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic). 721.10170 Section 721.10170 Protection of Environment... polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic). (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to... sulfate ammonium salt (PMN P-03-197) is subject to reporting under this section for the significant new...

40 CFR 721.10170 - Polyoxyethylene polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic). 721.10170 Section 721.10170 Protection of Environment... polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic). (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to... sulfate ammonium salt (PMN P-03-197) is subject to reporting under this section for the significant new...

40 CFR 721.10170 - Polyoxyethylene polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic). 721.10170 Section 721.10170 Protection of Environment... polyalkylarylphenylether sulfate ammonium salt (generic). (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses subject to... sulfate ammonium salt (PMN P-03-197) is subject to reporting under this section for the significant new...

21 CFR 182.1127 - Aluminum ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Aluminum ammonium sulfate. 182.1127 Section 182.1127 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED... Food Substances § 182.1127 Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (a) Product. Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (b...

21 CFR 582.1135 - Ammonium bicarbonate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Ammonium bicarbonate. 582.1135 Section 582.1135 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) ANIMAL... Additives § 582.1135 Ammonium bicarbonate. (a) Product. Ammonium bicarbonate. (b) Conditions of use. This...

21 CFR 582.1135 - Ammonium bicarbonate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Ammonium bicarbonate. 582.1135 Section 582.1135 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) ANIMAL... Additives § 582.1135 Ammonium bicarbonate. (a) Product. Ammonium bicarbonate. (b) Conditions of use. This...

21 CFR 582.1135 - Ammonium bicarbonate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Ammonium bicarbonate. 582.1135 Section 582.1135 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) ANIMAL... Additives § 582.1135 Ammonium bicarbonate. (a) Product. Ammonium bicarbonate. (b) Conditions of use. This...

21 CFR 582.1135 - Ammonium bicarbonate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Ammonium bicarbonate. 582.1135 Section 582.1135 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) ANIMAL... Additives § 582.1135 Ammonium bicarbonate. (a) Product. Ammonium bicarbonate. (b) Conditions of use. This...

21 CFR 172.165 - Quaternary ammonium chloride combination.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Quaternary ammonium chloride combination. 172.165... HUMAN CONSUMPTION Food Preservatives § 172.165 Quaternary ammonium chloride combination. The food additive, quaternary ammonium chloride combination, may be safely used in food in accordance with the...

Contrasting effects of ammonium and nitrate additions on the biomass of soil microbial communities and enzyme activities in subtropical China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Chuang; Zhang, Xin-Yu; Zou, Hong-Tao; Kou, Liang; Yang, Yang; Wen, Xue-Fa; Li, Sheng-Gong; Wang, Hui-Min; Sun, Xiao-Min

2017-10-01

The nitrate to ammonium ratios in nitrogen (N) compounds in wet atmospheric deposits have increased over the recent past, which is a cause for some concern as the individual effects of nitrate and ammonium deposition on the biomass of different soil microbial communities and enzyme activities are still poorly defined. We established a field experiment and applied ammonium (NH4Cl) and nitrate (NaNO3) at monthly intervals over a period of 4 years. We collected soil samples from the ammonium and nitrate treatments and control plots in three different seasons, namely spring, summer, and fall, to evaluate the how the biomass of different soil microbial communities and enzyme activities responded to the ammonium (NH4Cl) and nitrate (NaNO3) applications. Our results showed that the total contents of phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) decreased by 24 and 11 % in the ammonium and nitrate treatments, respectively. The inhibitory effects of ammonium on Gram-positive bacteria (G+) and bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) PLFA contents ranged from 14 to 40 % across the three seasons. We also observed that the absolute activities of C, N, and P hydrolyses and oxidases were inhibited by ammonium and nitrate, but that nitrate had stronger inhibitory effects on the activities of acid phosphatase (AP) than ammonium. The activities of N-acquisition specific enzymes (enzyme activities normalized by total PLFA contents) were about 21 and 43 % lower in the ammonium and nitrate treatments than in the control, respectively. However, the activities of P-acquisition specific enzymes were about 19 % higher in the ammonium treatment than in the control. Using redundancy analysis (RDA), we found that the measured C, N, and P hydrolysis and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activities were positively correlated with the soil pH and ammonium contents, but were negatively correlated with the nitrate contents. The PLFA biomarker contents were positively correlated with soil pH, soil organic carbon (SOC), and total N contents, but were negatively correlated with the ammonium contents. The soil enzyme activities varied seasonally, and were highest in March and lowest in October. In contrast, the contents of the microbial PLFA biomarkers were higher in October than in March and June. Ammonium may inhibit the contents of PLFA biomarkers more strongly than nitrate because of acidification. This study has provided useful information about the effects of ammonium and nitrate on soil microbial communities and enzyme activities.

Influence of cationic cellulose structure on its interactions with sodium dodecylsulfate: implications on the properties of the aqueous dispersions and hydrogels.

PubMed

Rodríguez, R; Alvarez-Lorenzo, C; Concheiro, A

2003-07-01

The interactions of sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS) with the aqueous dispersions and the chemically cross-linked hydrogels of two cationic hydroxyethylcelluloses, polyquaternium-4 (PQ-4) and polyquaternium-10 (PQ-10), commonly used in cosmetics and in topical drug delivery devices, were analyzed. This surfactant was chosen not only for its interest as excipient, but also as a model of the amphiphilic behavior shown by many drugs. In aqueous dispersions, the interaction process was studied through transmittance, surface tension, fluorescence, microcalorimetry titration, viscosity and oscillatory rheometry measurements. The ammonium/sulfate groups ratios at the critical aggregation concentration (0.05% SDS) were 2.61 for PQ-4 and 4.02 for PQ-10; while at the saturation concentration (0.25% SDS), these ratios decreased to 0.52 and 0.80, respectively. The binding process, through ionic and hydrophobic interactions, was strongly exothermic in both water and aqueous NaCl 0.9% solution, which indicates that the salt did not modify the interaction. PQ-4/SDS dispersions had, for all SDS concentrations, higher viscous (G") and, especially, elastic (G') moduli than the polymer solution. The maxima in G' and G" (four orders of magnitude greater than PQ-4 only solutions) were observed at the SDS concentrations in which the ammonium/sulfate groups ratio is close to 1. PQ-10/SDS dispersions behaved very differently and, near the neutralization point, the precipitation of the system caused G" to decrease abruptly, and G' to disappear. The contrasting behavior of the two cationic celluloses may be attributed to their structural differences; PQ-4 has less ammonium groups, in small chains grafted to the cellulose backbone, and more free hydroxyethyl substituents than PQ-10. Therefore, although the neutralization of charges causes the formation of a neutral polyampholyte, the presence of the free hydrophilic hydroxyethyl groups in PQ-4 avoids the precipitation of the aggregates and contributes to the establishment of a three-dimensional network. In contrast, in PQ-10, the ammonium groups are directly bonded to the hydroxyethyl substituents and, in the aggregation process, they may be included in the polyampholyte complex, contributing to the precipitation. This different behavior was easily seen in the surfactant-induced shrinking of the hydrogels around the charges neutralization. Although the SDS binding isotherms were very similar, PQ-10 hydrogels decreased their volume up to 20 times at the neutralization point, while PQ-4 hydrogels reduced their initial volume only three times under the same conditions. These results suggest that the phase transitions of the hydrogels may be used as quick predictors of the behavior of the polymer dispersions.

Synthesis of D-glucosamine quaternary ammonium derivatives and evaluation of their antifungal activity together with aminodeoxyglucose derivatives against two wood fungi Coriolus versicolor and Poria placenta: structure-activity relationships.

PubMed

Muhizi, Théoneste; Coma, Véronique; Grelier, Stéphane

2011-03-01

Structure-activity relationships are often reported in scientific studies. These may be employed in searching for new acceptable biocides to use against harmful microorganisms, because the biocides used hitherto encounter various problems, including lack of efficiency, high toxicity and persistence. Nowadays, scientists are trying to find new, environmentally acceptable biocides to replace these earlier biocides. Different compounds from renewable materials have been studied and have shown pronounced antifungal activity against wood fungi. These include aminopolysaccharide derivatives and different quaternary ammonium polymers. A biological study carried out with these products indicated a possible relationship between amino groups and differences in biological activity observed. In this study, an amino group was successively fixed to different carbon atoms of glucose, and glucosamine was also modified by both N-alkylation and quaternisation. The impact of the amino group position on antifungal activity against two wood decay fungi was investigated. The amino group at the anomeric position showed the highest antifungal activity against both Coriolus versicolor Quel. and Poria placenta (Fr.) Cooke. Furthermore, the positive impact of both N-alkylation and quaternisation on the growth of both strains was demonstrated. The anomeric position of the amino group and the N-alkylation and quaternisation of amino sugars considerably increase the antifungal activity of these compounds. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry.

Crystallization of the avian reovirus double-stranded RNA-binding and core protein σA

PubMed Central

Hermo-Parrado, X. Lois; Guardado-Calvo, Pablo; Llamas-Saiz, Antonio L.; Fox, Gavin C.; Vazquez-Iglesias, Lorena; Martínez-Costas, José; Benavente, Javier; van Raaij, Mark J.

2007-01-01

The avian reovirus protein σA plays a dual role: it is a structural protein forming part of the transcriptionally active core, but it has also been implicated in the resistance of the virus to interferon by strongly binding double-stranded RNA and thus inhibiting the double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase. The σA protein has been crystallized from solutions containing ammonium sulfate at pH values around 6. Crystals belonging to space group P1, with unit-cell parameters a = 103.2, b = 129.9, c = 144.0 Å, α = 93.8, β = 105.1, γ = 98.2° were grown and a complete data set has been collected to 2.3 Å resolution. The self-rotation function suggests that σA may form symmetric arrangements in the crystals. PMID:17565188

Cationic gemini surfactants with cleavable spacer: chemical hydrolysis, biodegradation, and toxicity.

PubMed

Tehrani-Bagha, A R; Holmberg, K; van Ginkel, C G; Kean, M

2015-07-01

The paper describes synthesis and characterization of a new type of cationic gemini surfactant, which has dodecyl tails and a spacer that contains an ester bond. The nomenclature used to describe the structure is 12Q2OCO1Q12, with Q being a quaternary ammonium group and the numbers indicating the number of methylene or methyl groups. Due to the close proximity to the two quaternary ammonium groups, the ester bond is very stable on the acid side and very labile already at slightly alkaline conditions. The hydrolysis products are two single chain surfactants (i.e. 12Q2OH and 12Q1COOH) which are less surface active than the intact gemini surfactant. 12Q2OCO1Q12 was found to be readily biodegradable, i.e. it gave more than 60% biodegradation after 28 days. This is interesting because similar gemini surfactants but with ester bonds in the tails instead of the spacer, have previously been found not to be readily biodegradable. The gemini surfactant was found to be toxic to aquatic organisms (ErC50 value of 0.27 mg/l), although less toxic than the two hydrolysis products. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Hydrothermal synthesis of ammonium illite

USGS Publications Warehouse

Šucha, Vladimír; Elsass, F.; Eberl, D.D.; Kuchta, L'.; Madejova, J.; Gates, W.P.; Komadel, P.

1998-01-01

Synthetic gel and glass of illitic composition, natural kaolinite, and mixed-layer illite-smectite were used as starting materials for hydrothermal synthesis of ammonium illite. Ammonium illite was prepared from synthetic gel by hydrothermal treatment at 300??C. The onset of crystallization began within 3 h, and well-crystallized ammonium illite appeared at 24 h. Increasing reaction time (up to four weeks) led to many illite layers per crystal. In the presence of equivalent proportions of potassium and ammonium, the gel was transformed to illite with equimolar contents of K and NH4. In contrast, synthesis using glass under the same conditions resulted in a mixture of mixed-layer ammonium illite-smectite with large expandability and discrete illite. Hydrothermal treatments of the fine fractions of natural kaolinite and illite-smectite produced ammonium illite from kaolinite but the illite-smectite remained unchanged.

Exopolysaccharides from yeast: insight into optimal conditions for biosynthesis, chemical composition and functional properties - review.

PubMed

Gientka, Iwona; Błażejak, Stanisław; Stasiak-Różańska, Lidia; Chlebowska-Śmigiel, Anna

2015-01-01

xopolysaccharides (EPS) are not a well-established group of metabolites. An industrial scale    of this EPS production is limited mainly by low yield biosynthesis. Until now, enzymes and biosynthesis pathways, as well as the role of regulatory genes, have not been described. Some of yeast EPS show antitumor, immunostimulatory and antioxidant activity. Others, absorb heavy metals and can function as bioactive components of food. Also, the potential of yeast EPS as thickeners or stabilizers can be found. Optimal conditions for the biosynthesis of yeast exopolysaccharides require strong oxygenation and low temperature of the culture, due to the physiology of the producer strains. The medium should contain sucrose as a carbon source and ammonium sulfate as inorganic nitrogen source, wherein the C:N ratio in the substrate should be 15:1. The cultures are long and the largest accumulation of polymers is observed after 4 or 5 days of culturing. The structure of yeast EPS is complex which affects the strain and culture condition. The EPS from yeast are linear mannans, pullulan, glucooligosaccharides, galactooligosaccharides and other heteropolysaccharides containing α-1,2; α-1,3; α-1,6; β-1,3; β-1,4 bonds. Mannose and glucose have the largest participation of carbohydrates for. t exopolysaccharides (EPS) are not a well-established group of metabolites. An industrial scale    of this EPS production is limited mainly by low yield biosynthesis. Until now, enzymes and biosynthesis pathways, as well as the role of regulatory genes, have not been described. Some of yeast EPS show antitumor, immunostimulatory and antioxidant activity. Others, absorb heavy metals and can function as bioactive components of food. Also, the potential of yeast EPS as thickeners or stabilizers can be found. Optimal conditions for the biosynthesis of yeast exopolysaccharides require strong oxygenation and low temperature of the culture, due to the physiology of the producer strains. The medium should contain sucrose as a carbon source and ammonium sulfate as inorganic nitrogen source, wherein the C:N ratio in the substrate should be 15:1. The cultures are long and the largest accumulation of polymers is observed after 4 or 5 days of culturing. The structure of yeast EPS is complex which affects the strain and culture condition. The EPS from yeast are linear mannans, pullulan, glucooligosaccharides, galactooligosaccharides and other heteropolysaccharides containing α-1,2; α-1,3; α-1,6; β-1,3; β-1,4 bonds. Mannose and glucose have the largest participation of carbohydrates formin. t exopolysaccharides (EPS) are not a well-established group of metabolites. An industrial scale    of this EPS production is limited mainly by low yield biosynthesis. Until now, enzymes and biosynthesis pathways, as well as the role of regulatory genes, have not been described. Some of yeast EPS show antitumor, immunostimulatory and antioxidant activity. Others, absorb heavy metals and can function as bioactive components of food. Also, the potential of yeast EPS as thickeners or stabilizers can be found. Optimal conditions for the biosynthesis of yeast exopolysaccharides require strong oxygenation and low temperature of the culture, due to the physiology of the producer strains. The medium should contain sucrose as a carbon source and ammonium sulfate as inorganic nitrogen source, wherein the C:N ratio in the substrate should be 15:1. The cultures are long and the largest accumulation of polymers is observed after 4 or 5 days of culturing. The structure of yeast EPS is complex which affects the strain and culture condition. The EPS from yeast are linear mannans, pullulan, glucooligosaccharides, galactooligosaccharides and other heteropolysaccharides containing α-1,2; α-1,3; α-1,6; β-1,3; β-1,4 bonds. Mannose and glucose have the largest participation of carbohydrates forming EPS.

Acid-Base Homeostasis

PubMed Central

Nakhoul, Nazih; Hering-Smith, Kathleen S.

2015-01-01

Acid-base homeostasis and pH regulation are critical for both normal physiology and cell metabolism and function. The importance of this regulation is evidenced by a variety of physiologic derangements that occur when plasma pH is either high or low. The kidneys have the predominant role in regulating the systemic bicarbonate concentration and hence, the metabolic component of acid-base balance. This function of the kidneys has two components: reabsorption of virtually all of the filtered HCO3− and production of new bicarbonate to replace that consumed by normal or pathologic acids. This production or generation of new HCO3− is done by net acid excretion. Under normal conditions, approximately one-third to one-half of net acid excretion by the kidneys is in the form of titratable acid. The other one-half to two-thirds is the excretion of ammonium. The capacity to excrete ammonium under conditions of acid loads is quantitatively much greater than the capacity to increase titratable acid. Multiple, often redundant pathways and processes exist to regulate these renal functions. Derangements in acid-base homeostasis, however, are common in clinical medicine and can often be related to the systems involved in acid-base transport in the kidneys. PMID:26597304

21 CFR 582.1143 - Ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Ammonium sulfate. 582.1143 Section 582.1143 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) ANIMAL... Additives § 582.1143 Ammonium sulfate. (a) Product. Ammonium sulfate. (b) Conditions of use. This substance...

21 CFR 582.1127 - Aluminum ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Aluminum ammonium sulfate. 582.1127 Section 582.1127 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED... Additives § 582.1127 Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (a) Product. Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (b) Conditions of...

21 CFR 582.1143 - Ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Ammonium sulfate. 582.1143 Section 582.1143 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) ANIMAL... Additives § 582.1143 Ammonium sulfate. (a) Product. Ammonium sulfate. (b) Conditions of use. This substance...

21 CFR 582.1143 - Ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Ammonium sulfate. 582.1143 Section 582.1143 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) ANIMAL... Additives § 582.1143 Ammonium sulfate. (a) Product. Ammonium sulfate. (b) Conditions of use. This substance...

21 CFR 582.1127 - Aluminum ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Aluminum ammonium sulfate. 582.1127 Section 582.1127 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED... Additives § 582.1127 Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (a) Product. Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (b) Conditions of...

21 CFR 582.1127 - Aluminum ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Aluminum ammonium sulfate. 582.1127 Section 582.1127 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED... Additives § 582.1127 Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (a) Product. Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (b) Conditions of...

21 CFR 582.1143 - Ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Ammonium sulfate. 582.1143 Section 582.1143 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) ANIMAL... Additives § 582.1143 Ammonium sulfate. (a) Product. Ammonium sulfate. (b) Conditions of use. This substance...

21 CFR 582.1127 - Aluminum ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Aluminum ammonium sulfate. 582.1127 Section 582.1127 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED... Additives § 582.1127 Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (a) Product. Aluminum ammonium sulfate. (b) Conditions of...

75 FR 56489 - Separation Distances of Ammonium Nitrate and Blasting Agents From Explosives or Blasting Agents...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-16

... combustible, organic material calculated as carbon, or (3) ammonium nitrate-based fertilizers containing... that passes the insensitivity test prescribed in the definition of ammonium nitrate fertilizer issued by the Fertilizer Institute'' in its ``Definition and Test Procedures for Ammonium Nitrate Fertilizer...

40 CFR 60.422 - Standards for particulate matter.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... (CONTINUED) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Standards of Performance for Ammonium Sulfate... required to be conducted by § 60.8 is completed, no owner or operator of an ammonium sulfate dryer subject... of ammonium sulfate produced (0.30 pound of particulate per ton of ammonium sulfate produced) and...

21 CFR 73.1298 - Ferric ammonium ferrocyanide.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Ferric ammonium ferrocyanide. 73.1298 Section 73... LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES EXEMPT FROM CERTIFICATION Drugs § 73.1298 Ferric ammonium ferrocyanide. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive ferric ammonium ferrocyanide is the blue pigment obtained by oxidizing...

21 CFR 520.310 - Caramiphen ethanedisulfonate and ammonium chloride tablets.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Caramiphen ethanedisulfonate and ammonium chloride... § 520.310 Caramiphen ethanedisulfonate and ammonium chloride tablets. (a) Specifications. Each tablet contains 10 milligrams of 5st caramiphen ethanedisulfonate and 80 milligrams of ammonium chloride.1 1 These...

Extraction of urea and ammonium ion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anselmi, R. T.; Husted, R. R.; Schulz, J. R.

1977-01-01

Water purification system keeps urea and ammonium ion concentration below toxic limits in recirculated water of closed loop aquatic habitat. Urea is first converted to ammonium ions and carbon dioxide by enzygmatic action. Ammonium ions are removed by ion exchange. Bioburden is controlled by filtration through 0.45 micron millipore filters.

75 FR 59617 - Notification of Arrival in U.S. Ports; Certain Dangerous Cargoes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-28

... only included residue quantities of bulk ammonium nitrate or ammonium nitrate fertilizer that remained... ammonium nitrate and propylene oxide cargoes transported on U.S. waters. After consultation with CTAC and...) Propylene oxide, alone or mixed with ethylene oxide. (9) The following bulk solids: (i) Ammonium nitrate...

78 FR 35258 - Solid Agricultural Grade Ammonium Nitrate from Ukraine: Continuation of Antidumping Duty Order

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-12

... Ammonium Nitrate from Ukraine: Continuation of Antidumping Duty Order AGENCY: Import Administration... agricultural grade ammonium nitrate from Ukraine would likely lead to continuation or recurrence of dumping... Order: Solid Agricultural Grade Ammonium Nitrate from Ukraine, 66 FR 47451 (September 12, 2001) (``the...

Some modification of cellulose nanocrystals for functional Pickering emulsions

PubMed Central

Saidane, Dorra; Perrin, Emilie; Cherhal, Fanch; Guellec, Florian

2016-01-01

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are negatively charged colloidal particles well known to form highly stable surfactant-free Pickering emulsions. These particles can vary in surface charge density depending on their preparation by acid hydrolysis or applying post-treatments. CNCs with three different surface charge densities were prepared corresponding to 0.08, 0.16 and 0.64 e nm−2, respectively. Post-treatment might also increase the surface charge density. The well-known TEMPO-mediated oxidation substitutes C6-hydroxyl groups by C6-carboxyl groups on the surface. We report that these different modified CNCs lead to stable oil-in-water emulsions. TEMPO-oxidized CNC might be the basis of further modifications. It is shown that they can, for example, lead to hydrophobic CNCs with a simple method using quaternary ammonium salts that allow producing inverse water-in-oil emulsions. Different from CNC modification before emulsification, modification can be carried out on the droplets after emulsification. This way allows preparing functional capsules according to the layer-by-layer process. As a result, it is demonstrated here the large range of use of these biobased rod-like nanoparticles, extending therefore their potential use to highly sophisticated formulations. This article is part of the themed issue ‘Soft interfacial materials: from fundamentals to formulation’. PMID:27298429

Diversity, distribution and roles of osmoprotective compounds accumulated in halophytes under abiotic stress

PubMed Central

Slama, Inès; Abdelly, Chedly; Bouchereau, Alain; Flowers, Tim; Savouré, Arnould

2015-01-01

Background and Aims Osmolytes are low-molecular-weight organic solutes, a broad group that encompasses a variety of compounds such as amino acids, tertiary sulphonium and quaternary ammonium compounds, sugars and polyhydric alcohols. Osmolytes are accumulated in the cytoplasm of halophytic species in order to balance the osmotic potential of the Na+ and Cl− accumulated in the vacuole. The advantages of the accumulation of osmolytes are that they keep the main physiological functions of the cell active, the induction of their biosynthesis is controlled by environmental cues, and they can be synthesized at all developmental stages. In addition to their role in osmoregulation, osmolytes have crucial functions in protecting subcellular structures and in scavenging reactive oxygen species. Scope This review discusses the diversity of osmolytes among halophytes and their distribution within taxonomic groups, the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that influence their accumulation, and their role in osmoregulation and osmoprotection. Increasing the osmolyte content in plants is an interesting strategy to improve the growth and yield of crops upon exposure to salinity. Examples of transgenic plants as well as exogenous applications of some osmolytes are also discussed. Finally, the potential use of osmolytes in protein stabilization and solvation in biotechnology, including the pharmaceutical industry and medicine, are considered. PMID:25564467

Functional Reconstitution into Liposomes of Purified Human RhCG Ammonia Channel

PubMed Central

Mouro-Chanteloup, Isabelle; Cochet, Sylvie; Chami, Mohamed; Genetet, Sandrine; Zidi-Yahiaoui, Nedjma; Engel, Andreas; Colin, Yves; Bertrand, Olivier; Ripoche, Pierre

2010-01-01

Background Rh glycoproteins (RhAG, RhBG, RhCG) are members of the Amt/Mep/Rh family which facilitate movement of ammonium across plasma membranes. Changes in ammonium transport activity following expression of Rh glycoproteins have been described in different heterologous systems such as yeasts, oocytes and eukaryotic cell lines. However, in these complex systems, a potential contribution of endogenous proteins to this function cannot be excluded. To demonstrate that Rh glycoproteins by themselves transport NH3, human RhCG was purified to homogeneity and reconstituted into liposomes, giving new insights into its channel functional properties. Methodology/Principal Findings An HA-tag introduced in the second extracellular loop of RhCG was used to purify to homogeneity the HA-tagged RhCG glycoprotein from detergent-solubilized recombinant HEK293E cells. Electron microscopy analysis of negatively stained purified RhCG-HA revealed, after image processing, homogeneous particles of 9 nm diameter with a trimeric protein structure. Reconstitution was performed with sphingomyelin, phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidic acid lipids in the presence of the C12E8 detergent which was subsequently removed by Biobeads. Control of protein incorporation was carried out by freeze-fracture electron microscopy. Particle density in liposomes was a function of the Lipid/Protein ratio. When compared to empty liposomes, ammonium permeability was increased two and three fold in RhCG-proteoliposomes, depending on the Lipid/Protein ratio (1/300 and 1/150, respectively). This strong NH3 transport was reversibly inhibited by mercuric and copper salts and exhibited a low Arrhenius activation energy. Conclusions/Significance This study allowed the determination of ammonia permeability per RhCG monomer, showing that the apparent PunitNH3 (around 1×10−3 µm3.s−1) is close to the permeability measured in HEK293E cells expressing a recombinant human RhCG (1.60×10−3 µm3.s−1), and in human red blood cells endogenously expressing RhAG (2.18×10−3 µm3.s−1). The major finding of this study is that RhCG protein is active as an NH3 channel and that this function does not require any protein partner. PMID:20126667

A Re-evaluation of the Ferrozine Method for Dissolved Iron: The Effect of Organic Interferences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balind, K.; Barber, A.; Gelinas, Y.

2016-12-01

Among the most commonly used analytical methods in geochemistry is the ferrozine method for determining dissolved iron concentration in water (1). This cheap and easy-to-use spectrophotometric method involves a complexing agent (ferrozine), a reducing agent (hydroxylamine-HCl) and buffer (ammonium acetate with ammonium hydroxide). Previous studies have demonstrated that complex organic matter (OM) originating from the Suwannee River did not lead to a significantly underestimation of the measured iron content in OM amended iron solutions (2). The authors concluded that this method could be used even in organic rich (i.e., 25 mg/L) waters. Here we compare the concentration of Fe measured using this spectrophotometric method to the total Fe as measured by ICP-MS in the presence/absence of specific organic molecules to ascertain if they interfere with the ferrozine method. We show that certain molecules with hydroxyl and carboxyl functional groups as well as multi-dentate chelating species have a significant effect on the measured iron concentrations. Two possible mechanisms likely are responsible for the inefficiency of this method in the presence of specific organic molecules; 1) incomplete reduction of Fe(III) bound to organic molecules, or 2) competition between the OM and ferrozine for the available iron. We address these possibilities separately by varying the experimental conditions. These methodological artifacts may have far reaching implications due to the extensive use of this method. Stookey, L. L., Anal. Chem., 42, 779 (1970). Viollier, E., et al., Applied Geochem., 15, 785 (2000).

Biological Activity of Mesoporous Dendrimer-Coated Titanium Dioxide: Insight on the Role of the Surface-Interface Composition and the Framework Crystallinity.

PubMed

Milowska, Katarzyna; Rybczyńska, Aneta; Mosiolek, Joanna; Durdyn, Joanna; Szewczyk, Eligia M; Katir, Nadia; Brahmi, Younes; Majoral, Jean-Pierre; Bousmina, Mosto; Bryszewska, Maria; El Kadib, Abdelkrim

2015-09-16

Hitherto, the field of nanomedicine has been overwhelmingly dominated by the use of mesoporous organosilicas compared to their metal oxide congeners. Despite their remarkable reactivity, titanium oxide-based materials have been seldom evaluated and little knowledge has been gained with respect to their "structure-biological activity" relationship. Herein, a fruitful association of phosphorus dendrimers (both "ammonium-terminated" and "phosphonate-terminated") and titanium dioxide has been performed by means of the sol-gel process, resulting in mesoporous dendrimer-coated nanosized crystalline titanium dioxide. A similar organo-coating has been reproduced using single branch-mimicking dendrimers that allow isolation of an amorphous titanium dioxide. The impact of these materials on red blood cells was evaluated by studying cell hemolysis. Next, their cytotoxicity toward B14 Chinese fibroblasts and their antimicrobial activity were also investigated. Based on their variants (cationic versus anionic terminal groups and amorphous versus crystalline titanium dioxide phase), better understanding of the role of the surface-interface composition and the nature of the framework has been gained. No noticeable discrimination was observed for amorphous and crystalline material. In contrast, hemolysis and cytotoxicity were found to be sensitive to the nature of the interface composition, with the ammonium-terminated dendrimer-coated titanium dioxide being the most hemolytic and cytotoxic material. This surface-functionalization opens the door for creating a new synergistic machineries mechanism at the cellular level and seems promising for tailoring the biological activity of nanosized organic-inorganic hybrid materials.

Evidence for ammonium-bearing minerals in Ceres

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

King, T. V. V.; Clark, R. N.; Calvin, W. M.; Sherman, D. M.; Swayze, G. A.; Brown, R. H.

1991-01-01

Evidence for ammonium-bearing minerals was found on the surface of the largest asteroid Ceres. The presence of ammonium-bearing clays suggests that Ceres has experienced a period of alteration by substantial amounts of an ammonium-bearing fluid. The presence of the ammonium-bearing clays does not preclude Ceres maintaining a volatile inventory in the core or in a volatile-rich zone at some distance below the surface. Telescopic observations of Ceres, using the 3.0 meter NASA Infrared telescope facility prompted this reevaluation of its surface mineralogy.

Evidence of ammonium ion-exchange properties of natural bentonite and application to ammonium detection.

PubMed

Zazoua, A; Kazane, I; Khedimallah, N; Dernane, C; Errachid, A; Jaffrezic-Renault, N

2013-12-01

Ammonium exchange with hybrid PVC-bentonite (mineral montmorillonite clay) thin film was revealed using FTIR spectroscopy, EDX, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The effect of ammonium exchange on the charge transfer resistance of PVC-bentonite hybrid thin film was attributed to a modification of the intersheet distance and hydration of bentonite crystals. The obtained impedimetric ammonium sensor shows a linear range of detection from 10(-4)M to 1M and a detection limit around 10(-6)M. © 2013.

[Influencing factors in preparation of brucine liposomes by ammonium sulfate transmembrane gradients].

PubMed

Wang, Wei; Chen, Jun; Cai, Bao-Chang; Fang, Yun

2008-09-01

To study the influencing factors in preparation of brucine liposomes by ammonium sulfate transmembrane gradients. The brucine liposomes were separated by Sephadex G-50, and the influence of various factors on the entrapment efficiencies were investigated. The entrapment efficiency was enhanced by increased ammonium sulfate concentration, ethanol volume and PC concentration. Burcine liposomes prepared by ammonium sulfate transmembrance gradients can get a high entrapment efficiency, the main influencing factors were ammonium sulfate concentration, ethanol volume and PC concentration.

Hygroscopicity of organic surrogate compounds from biomass burning and their effect on the efflorescence of ammonium sulfate in mixed aerosol particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lei, Ting; Zuend, Andreas; Cheng, Yafang; Su, Hang; Wang, Weigang; Ge, Maofa

2018-01-01

Hygroscopic growth factors of organic surrogate compounds representing biomass burning and mixed organic-inorganic aerosol particles exhibit variability during dehydration experiments depending on their chemical composition, which we observed using a hygroscopicity tandem differential mobility analyzer (HTDMA). We observed that levoglucosan and humic acid aerosol particles release water upon dehumidification in the range from 90 to 5 % relative humidity (RH). However, 4-Hydroxybenzoic acid aerosol particles remain in the solid state upon dehumidification and exhibit a small shrinking in size at higher RH compared to the dry size. For example, the measured growth factor of 4-hyroxybenzoic acid aerosol particles is ˜ 0.96 at 90 % RH. The measurements were accompanied by RH-dependent thermodynamic equilibrium calculations using the Aerosol Inorganic-Organic Mixtures Functional groups Activity Coefficients (AIOMFAC) model and Extended Aerosol Inorganics Model (E-AIM), the Zdanovskii-Stokes-Robinson (ZSR) relation, and a fitted hygroscopicity expression. We observed several effects of organic components on the hygroscopicity behavior of mixtures containing ammonium sulfate (AS) in relation to the different mass fractions of organic compounds: (1) a shift of efflorescence relative humidity (ERH) of ammonium sulfate to higher RH due to the presence of 25 wt % levoglucosan in the mixture. (2) There is a distinct efflorescence transition at 25 % RH for mixtures consisting of 25 wt % of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid compared to the ERH at 35 % for organic-free AS particles. (3) There is indication for a liquid-to-solid phase transition of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid in the mixed particles during dehydration. (4) A humic acid component shows no significant effect on the efflorescence of AS in mixed aerosol particles. In addition, consideration of a composition-dependent degree of dissolution of crystallization AS (solid-liquid equilibrium) in the AIOMFAC and E-AIM models leads to a relatively good agreement between models and observed growth factors, as well as ERH of AS in the mixed system. The use of the ZSR relation leads to good agreement with measured diameter growth factors of aerosol particles containing humic acid and ammonium sulfate. Lastly, two distinct mixtures of organic surrogate compounds, including levoglucosan, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, and humic acid, were used to represent the average water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC) fractions observed during the wet and dry seasons in the central Amazon Basin. A comparison of the organic fraction's hygroscopicity parameter for the simple mixtures, e.g., κ ≈ 0.12 to 0.15 for the wet-season mixture in the 90 to 40 % RH range, shows good agreement with field data for the wet season in the Amazon Basin (WSOC κ ≈ 0.14±0.06 at 90 % RH). This suggests that laboratory-generated mixtures containing organic surrogate compounds and ammonium sulfate can be used to mimic, in a simplified manner, the chemical composition of ambient aerosols from the Amazon Basin for the purpose of RH-dependent hygroscopicity studies.

Oxidation of ammonium sulfite in aqueous solutions using ozone technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yue; Shang, Kefeng; Lu, Na; Li, Jie; Wu, Yan

2013-03-01

How to deal with unstable ammonium sulfite, the byproduct of flue gas desulfuration by ammonia absorption methods, has been a difficult problem in recent years. Oxidation of ammonium sulfite in aqueous solutions using ozone produced by a surface discharge system was investigated in the paper. The oxidation efficiency of ammonium sulfite by ozone and traditional air aeration were compared, and the factors including ozone concentration, gas flow rate, initial concentration of ammonium sulfite solution and reaction temperature were discussed. The results show that the oxidation efficiency of ammonium sulfite by ozone technology reached nearly 100% under the optimum conditions, which had a significant increase compared with that by air aeration.

Application of anaerobic ammonium-oxidizing consortium to achieve completely autotrophic ammonium and sulfate removal.

PubMed

Liu, Sitong; Yang, Fenglin; Gong, Zheng; Meng, Fangang; Chen, Huihui; Xue, Yuan; Furukawa, Kenji

2008-10-01

The simultaneous ammonium and sulfate removal was detected in an anammox reactor, consisted of ammonium oxidization with sulfate deoxidization, and subsequently traditional anammox process, in via of middle medium nitrite with solid sulfur and N2 as the terminal products. The pure anammox bacteria offered a great biotechnological potential for the completely autotrophic reaction indicated by batch tests. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) analysis further revealed that a new organism belonging to Planctomycetales was strongly enriched in the defined niche: the redox of ammonium and sulfate. The new species "Anammoxoglobussulfate" was so considered as holding a critical role in the ammonium oxidization with sulfate deoxidization to nitrite. Afterwards, the Planctomyces existing in the bacteria community performed the anammox process together to achieve the complete nitrogen and sulfate removal. The potential use of sulfate as electron acceptor for ammonium oxidizing widens the usage of anammox bacteria.

Differential chemosensory feeding behaviour by three co-occurring mysids (Crustacea, Mysidacea) from southeastern Tasmania.

PubMed

Metillo, Ephrime B; Ritz, David A

2003-02-01

Three mysid species showed differences in chemosensory feeding as judged from stereotyped food capturing responses to dissolved mixtures of feeding stimulant (either betaine-HCl or glycine) and suppressant (ammonium). The strongest responses were to 50:50 mixtures of both betaine-ammonium and glycine-ammonium solutions. In general, the response curve to the different mixtures tested was bell-shaped. Anisomysis mixta australis only showed the normal curve in response to the glycine-ammonium mixture. The platykurtic curve for Tenagomysis tasmaniae suggests a less optimal response to the betaine-HCl-ammonium solution. Paramesopodopsis rufa reacted more strongly to the betaine-ammonium than to the glycine-ammonium solutions, and more individuals of this species responded to both solutions than the other two species. It is suggested that these contrasting chemosensitivities of the three coexisting mysid species serve as a means of partitioning the feeding niche.

Molecular recognition of organic ammonium ions in solution using synthetic receptors

PubMed Central

Späth, Andreas

2010-01-01

Summary Ammonium ions are ubiquitous in chemistry and molecular biology. Considerable efforts have been undertaken to develop synthetic receptors for their selective molecular recognition. The type of host compounds for organic ammonium ion binding span a wide range from crown ethers to calixarenes to metal complexes. Typical intermolecular interactions are hydrogen bonds, electrostatic and cation–π interactions, hydrophobic interactions or reversible covalent bond formation. In this review we discuss the different classes of synthetic receptors for organic ammonium ion recognition and illustrate the scope and limitations of each class with selected examples from the recent literature. The molecular recognition of ammonium ions in amino acids is included and the enantioselective binding of chiral ammonium ions by synthetic receptors is also covered. In our conclusion we compare the strengths and weaknesses of the different types of ammonium ion receptors which may help to select the best approach for specific applications. PMID:20502608

Determination of ammonium in river water and sewage samples by capillary zone electrophoresis with direct UV detection.

PubMed

Fukushi, Keiichi; Ito, Hideyuki; Kimura, Kenichi; Yokota, Kuriko; Saito, Keiitsu; Chayama, Kenji; Takeda, Sahori; Wakida, Shin-ichi

2006-02-17

We developed capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) with direct UV detection for determination of ammonium in environmental water samples. Ammonium in the samples was partly converted into ammonia in the alkaline background electrolyte (BGE) during migration and was detected by molecular absorption of ammonia at 190 nm in approximately 7 min. The limit of detection (LOD) for ammonium was 0.24 mg/l (as nitrogen) at a signal-to-noise ratio of three. The respective values of the relative standard deviation (RSD) of peak area, peak height, and migration time for ammonium were 2.1, 1.8, and 0.46%. Major alkali and alkaline earth metal ions coexisting in the samples did not interfere with ammonium determination by the proposed method. The proposed method determined ammonium in surface water and sewage samples. The results were compared to those obtained using ion chromatography (IC).

21 CFR 184.1143 - Ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Ammonium sulfate. 184.1143 Section 184.1143 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) DIRECT... GRAS § 184.1143 Ammonium sulfate. (a) Ammonium sulfate ((NH4)2SO4, CAS Reg. No. 7783-20-2) occurs...

21 CFR 184.1143 - Ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Ammonium sulfate. 184.1143 Section 184.1143 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) FOOD FOR... Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1143 Ammonium sulfate. (a) Ammonium sulfate ((NH4)2SO4, CAS Reg...

21 CFR 184.1143 - Ammonium sulfate.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Ammonium sulfate. 184.1143 Section 184.1143 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) FOOD FOR... Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1143 Ammonium sulfate. (a) Ammonium sulfate ((NH4)2SO4, CAS Reg...

76 FR 23569 - Termination of the Suspension Agreement on Solid Fertilizer Grade Ammonium Nitrate From the...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-27

... the Ministry of Economic Development (``MED'') of the Russian Federation (``Russia'') dated February... fertilizer grade ammonium nitrate (``ammonium nitrate'') from Russia were being, or were likely to be, sold... determination. (See Certain Ammonium Nitrate from Russia, Investigation No. 731-TA-856 (Preliminary), 64 FR...

77 FR 21527 - Ammonium Nitrate From Russia: Correction to Notice of Opportunity To Request Administrative Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-10

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [A-821-811] Ammonium Nitrate From Russia... omitted Ammonium Nitrate from Russia, POR 5/2/2011-3/31/2012. See Antidumping or Countervailing Duty Order...). This notice serves as a correction to include the Ammonium Nitrate from Russia administrative review in...

27 CFR 555.220 - Table of separation distances of ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... distances of ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting agents. 555.220 Section 555... ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting agents. Table: Department of Defense... Not over Minimum separation distance of acceptor from donor when barricaded (ft.) Ammonium nitrate...

27 CFR 555.220 - Table of separation distances of ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... distances of ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting agents. 555.220 Section 555... ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting agents. Table: Department of Defense... Not over Minimum separation distance of acceptor from donor when barricaded (ft.) Ammonium nitrate...

27 CFR 555.220 - Table of separation distances of ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... distances of ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting agents. 555.220 Section 555... ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting agents. Table: Department of Defense... Not over Minimum separation distance of acceptor from donor when barricaded (ft.) Ammonium nitrate...

27 CFR 555.220 - Table of separation distances of ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... distances of ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting agents. 555.220 Section 555... ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting agents. Table: Department of Defense... Not over Minimum separation distance of acceptor from donor when barricaded (ft.) Ammonium nitrate...

27 CFR 555.220 - Table of separation distances of ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... distances of ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting agents. 555.220 Section 555... ammonium nitrate and blasting agents from explosives or blasting agents. Table: Department of Defense... Not over Minimum separation distance of acceptor from donor when barricaded (ft.) Ammonium nitrate...

40 CFR 180.910 - Inert ingredients used pre- and post-harvest; exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... formulation Surfactant α-Alkyl(C6-C15)-ω-hydroxypoly(oxyethylene)sulfate, and its ammonium, calcium, magnesium..., related adjuvants of surfactants Alkyl (C8-C18) sulfate and its ammonium, calcium, isopropylamine... stearate Surfactant Ammonium sulfate Solid diluent, carrier Ammonium thiosulfate Intensifier when used with...

77 FR 59377 - Solid Agricultural Grade Ammonium Nitrate from Ukraine: Final Results of the Expedited Second...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-09-27

... Ammonium Nitrate from Ukraine: Final Results of the Expedited Second Sunset Review of the Antidumping Duty... duty order on solid agricultural grade ammonium nitrate from Ukraine. The Department has conducted an... on solid agricultural grade ammonium nitrate from Ukraine, pursuant to section 751(c) of the Tariff...

77 FR 65015 - Ammonium Nitrate From Ukraine; Notice of Commission Determination To Conduct a Full Five-year...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-24

... INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION [Investigation No. 731-TA-894 (Second Review)] Ammonium Nitrate... Full Five-year Review Concerning the Antidumping Duty Order on Ammonium Nitrate From Ukraine AGENCY... antidumping duty order on ammonium nitrate from Ukraine would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence...

An optical-density-based feedback feeding method for ammonium concentration control in Spirulina platensis cultivation.

PubMed

Bao, Yilu; Wen, Shumei; Cong, Wei; Wu, Xia; Ning, Zhengxiang

2012-07-01

Cultivation of Spirulina platensis using ammonium salts or wastewater containing ammonium as alternative nitrogen sources is considered as a commercial way to reduce the production cost. In this research, by analyzing the relationship between biomass production and ammonium- N consumption in the fed-batch culture of Spirulina platensis using ammonium bicarbonate as a nitrogen nutrient source, an online adaptive control strategy based on optical density (OD) measurements for controlling ammonium feeding was presented. The ammonium concentration was successfully controlled between the cell growth inhibitory and limiting concentrations using this OD-based feedback feeding method. As a result, the maximum biomass concentration (2.98 g/l), productivity (0.237 g/l·d), nitrogen-to-cell conversion factor (7.32 gX/gN), and contents of protein (64.1%) and chlorophyll (13.4 mg/g) obtained by using the OD-based feedback feeding method were higher than those using the constant and variable feeding methods. The OD-based feedback feeding method could be recognized as an applicable way to control ammonium feeding and a benefit for Spirulina platensis cultivations.

Removal of mercury (II), elemental mercury and arsenic from simulated flue gas by ammonium sulphide.

PubMed

Ning, Ping; Guo, Xiaolong; Wang, Xueqian; Wang, Ping; Ma, Yixing; Lan, Yi

2015-01-01

A tubular resistance furnace was used as a reactor to simulate mercury and arsenic in smelter flue gases by heating mercury and arsenic compounds. The flue gas containing Hg(2+), Hg(0) and As was treated with ammonium sulphide. The experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of varying the concentration of ammonium sulphide, the pH value of ammonium sulphide, the temperature of ammonium sulphide, the presence of SO2 and the presence of sulphite ion on removal efficiency. The prepared adsorption products were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that the optimal concentration of ammonium sulphide was 0.8 mol/L. The optimal pH value of ammonium sulphide was 10, and the optimal temperature of ammonium sulphide was 20°C.Under the optimum conditions, the removal efficiency of Hg(2+), Hg(0) and As could reach 99%, 88.8%, 98%, respectively. In addition, SO2 and sulphite ion could reduce the removal efficiency of mercury and arsenic from simulated flue gas.

Renal ammonium production--une vue canadienne.

PubMed

Brosnan, J T; Lowry, M; Vinay, P; Gougoux, A; Halperin, M L

1987-04-01

The purpose of this review is to examine the factors regulating ammonium production in the kidney and to place these factors in the perspective of acid-base balance. Renal ammonium production and excretion are required to maintain acid-base balance. However, only a portion of renal ammonium production is specifically stimulated by metabolic acidosis. One should examine urinary ammonium excretion at three levels: distribution of ammonium between blood and urine, augmented glutamine metabolism, and an energy constraint due to ATP balance considerations. With respect to the biochemical regulation of acid-base renal ammonium production, an acute stimulation of alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase by a fall in pH seems to be important but this may not be the entire story. In chronic metabolic acidosis augmented glutamine entry into mitochondria (dog) or increased phosphate-dependent glutaminase activity (rat) become critical to support a high flux rate. Metabolic alterations, which diminish the rate of oxidation of alternate fuels, might also be important. The above principles are discussed in the ketoacidosis of fasting, the clinically important situation of high rates of renal ammonium production.

TRANSPORT AND FATE OF AMMONIUM AND ITS IMPACT ON URANIUM AND OTHER TRACE ELEMENTS AT A FORMER URANIUM MILL TAILING SITE

PubMed Central

Miao, Ziheng; Nihat, Hakan; McMillan, Andrew Lee; Brusseau, Mark L.

2013-01-01

The remediation of ammonium-containing groundwater discharged from uranium mill tailing sites is a difficult problem facing the mining industry. The Monument Valley site is a former uranium mining site in the southwest US with both ammonium and nitrate contamination of groundwater. In this study, samples collected from 14 selected wells were analyzed for major cations and anions, trace elements, and isotopic composition of ammonium and nitrate. In addition, geochemical data from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) database were analyzed. Results showing oxic redox conditions and correspondence of isotopic compositions of ammonium and nitrate confirmed the natural attenuation of ammonium via nitrification. Moreover, it was observed that ammonium concentration within the plume area is closely related to concentrations of uranium and a series of other trace elements including chromium, selenium, vanadium, iron, and manganese. It is hypothesized that ammonium-nitrate transformation processes influence the disposition of the trace elements through mediation of redox potential, pH, and possibly aqueous complexation and solid-phase sorption. Despite the generally relatively low concentrations of trace elements present in groundwater, their transport and fate may be influenced by remediation of ammonium or nitrate at the site. PMID:24357895

Removal of ammonium and heavy metals by cost-effective zeolite synthesized from waste quartz sand and calcium fluoride sludge.

PubMed

Zhang, Qian; Lin, Bing; Hong, Junming; Chang, Chang-Tang

2017-02-01

This study focuses on the effectiveness of zeolite (10% CF-Z [0.5]) hydrothermally synthesized from waste quartz sand and calcium fluoride (CF) for ammonium ion and heavy metal removal. Zeolite was characterized through powder X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, micromeritics N 2 adsorption/desorption analysis, and field emission scanning electron microscopy. The effects of CF addition, Si/Al ratio, initial ammonium concentration, solution pH, and temperature on the adsorption of ammonium on 10% CF-Z (0.5) were further examined. Results showed that 10% CF-Z (0.5) was a single-phase zeolite A with cubic-shaped crystals and 10% CF-Z (0.5) efficiently adsorbs ammonium and heavy metals. For instance, 91% ammonium (10 mg L -1 ) and 93% lead (10 mg L -1 ) are removed. The adsorption isotherm, kinetics, and thermodynamics of ammonium adsorption on 10% CF-Z (0.5) were also theoretically analyzed. The adsorption isotherm of ammonium and lead on 10% CF-Z (0.5) in single systems indicated that Freundlich model provides the best fit for the equilibrium data, whereas pseudo-second-order model best describes the adsorption kinetics. The adsorption degree of ions on 10% CF-Z (0.5) in mixed systems exhibits the following pattern: lead > ammonium > cadmium > chromium.

Specific ion effects on membrane potential and the permselectivity of ion exchange membranes.

PubMed

Geise, Geoffrey M; Cassady, Harrison J; Paul, Donald R; Logan, Bruce E; Hickner, Michael A

2014-10-21

Membrane potential and permselectivity are critical parameters for a variety of electrochemically-driven separation and energy technologies. An electric potential is developed when a membrane separates electrolyte solutions of different concentrations, and a permselective membrane allows specific species to be transported while restricting the passage of other species. Ion exchange membranes are commonly used in applications that require advanced ionic electrolytes and span technologies such as alkaline batteries to ammonium bicarbonate reverse electrodialysis, but membranes are often only characterized in sodium chloride solutions. Our goal in this work was to better understand membrane behaviour in aqueous ammonium bicarbonate, which is of interest for closed-loop energy generation processes. Here we characterized the permselectivity of four commercial ion exchange membranes in aqueous solutions of sodium chloride, ammonium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, and ammonium bicarbonate. This stepwise approach, using four different ions in aqueous solution, was used to better understand how these specific ions affect ion transport in ion exchange membranes. Characterization of cation and anion exchange membrane permselectivity, using these ions, is discussed from the perspective of the difference in the physical chemistry of the hydrated ions, along with an accompanying re-derivation and examination of the basic equations that describe membrane potential. In general, permselectivity was highest in sodium chloride and lowest in ammonium bicarbonate solutions, and the nature of both the counter- and co-ions appeared to influence measured permselectivity. The counter-ion type influences the binding affinity between counter-ions and polymer fixed charge groups, and higher binding affinity between fixed charge sites and counter-ions within the membrane decreases the effective membrane charge density. As a result permselectivity decreases. The charge density and polarizability of the co-ions also appeared to influence permselectivity leading to ion-specific effects; co-ions that are charge dense and have low polarizability tended to result in high membrane permselectivity.

Modifying Silicates for Better Dispersion in Nanocomposites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Campbell, Sandi

2005-01-01

An improved chemical modification has been developed to enhance the dispersion of layered silicate particles in the formulation of a polymer/silicate nanocomposite material. The modification involves, among other things, the co-exchange of an alkyl ammonium ion and a monoprotonated diamine with interlayer cations of the silicate. The net overall effects of the improved chemical modification are to improve processability of the nanocomposite and maximize the benefits of dispersing the silicate particles into the polymer. Some background discussion is necessary to give meaning to a description of this development. Polymer/silicate nanocomposites are also denoted polymer/clay composites because the silicate particles in them are typically derived from clay particles. Particles of clay comprise layers of silicate platelets separated by gaps called "galleries." The platelet thickness is 1 nm. The length varies from 30 nm to 1 m, depending on the silicate. In order to fully realize the benefits of polymer/silicate nanocomposites, it is necessary to ensure that the platelets become dispersed in the polymer matrices. Proper dispersion can impart physical and chemical properties that make nanocomposites attractive for a variety of applications. In order to achieve nanometer-level dispersion of a layered silicate into a polymer matrix, it is typically necessary to modify the interlayer silicate surfaces by attaching organic functional groups. This modification can be achieved easily by ion exchange between the interlayer metal cations found naturally in the silicate and protonated organic cations - typically protonated amines. Long-chain alkyl ammonium ions are commonly chosen as the ion-exchange materials because they effectively lower the surface energies of the silicates and ease the incorporation of organic monomers or polymers into the silicate galleries. This completes the background discussion. In the present improved modification of the interlayer silicate surfaces, the co-ion exchange strengthens the polymer/silicate interface and ensures irreversible separation of the silicate layers. One way in which it does this is to essentially tether one amine of each diamine molecule to a silicate surface, leaving the second amine free for reaction with monomers during the synthesis of a polymer. In addition, the incorporation of alkyl ammonium ions into the galleries at low concentration helps to keep low the melt viscosity of the oligomer formed during synthesis of the polymer and associated processing - a consideration that is particularly important in the case of a highly cross-linked, thermosetting polymer. Because of the chemical bonding between the surface-modifying amines and the monomers, even when the alkyl ammonium ions become degraded at high processing temperature, the silicate layers do not aggregate and, hence, nanometer-level dispersion is maintained.

[Immobilization impact of different fixatives on heavy metals contaminated soil].

PubMed

Wu, Lie-shan; Zeng, Dong-mei; Mo, Xiao-rong; Lu, Hong-hong; Su, Cui-cui; Kong, De-chao

2015-01-01

Four kinds of amendments including humus, ammonium sulfate, lime, superphosphate and their complex combination were added to rapid immobilize the heavy metals in contaminated soils. The best material was chosen according to the heavy metals' immobilization efficiency and the Capacity Values of the fixative in stabilizing soil heavy metals. The redistributions of heavy metals were determined by the European Communities Bureau of Referent(BCR) fraction distribution experiment before and after treatment. The results were as follows: (1) In the single material treatment, lime worked best with the dosage of 2% compared to the control group. In the compound amendment treatments, 2% humus combined with 2% lime worked best, and the immobilization efficiency of Pb, Cu, Cd, Zn reached 98.49%, 99.40%, 95.86%, 99.21%, respectively. (2) The order of Capacity Values was lime > humus + lime > ammonium sulfate + lime > superphosphate > ammonium sulfate + superphosphate > humus + superphosphate > humus > superphosphate. (3) BCR sequential extraction procedure results indicated that 2% humus combined with 2% lime treatment were very effective in immobilizing heavy metals, better than 2% lime treatment alone. Besides, Cd was activated firstly by 2% humus treatment then it could be easily changed into the organic fraction and residual fraction after the subsequent addition of 2% lime.

Detection of Ammonium Nitrate Variants by Canine: A Study of Generalization between Like Substances

DTIC Science & Technology

2018-04-30

PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER 7. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) 10. SPONSOR / MONITOR’S ACRONYM(S)9. SPONSORING / MONITORING...16 Figure 9. Alert rates for Group A, trained to prill fertilizer AN, and Group B, trained to ground fertilizer AN for Trial 2...thirds of all American deaths in combat were by IED attacks, according to the Joint IED Defeat Organization (JIEDDO, now the Joint Improvised- Threat

Detonation Characteristics of Mixtures of HMX and Emulsion Explosives

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-04-01

and an aqueous emulsion explo- sive have been determined. The emulsion explosive consisted of amonium - nitrate , sodium- nitrate and water in the...1989 D Cb ID A Final Report C14 Approved for public release; distribution unlimited. AIR FORCE WEAPONS LABORATORY Air Force Systems Command Kirtland...TERMS (ContInue on nvwn Nf ocosury and idsŘ by block number) FIELD GROUP SUB-GROUP Explosives; Ammonium Nitrate ;- 19 01Emulsion Explosives; ( 07 04

Estimating ammonium and nitrate load from septic systems to surface water bodies within ArcGIS environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Yan; Ye, Ming; Roeder, Eberhard; Hicks, Richard W.; Shi, Liangsheng; Yang, Jinzhong

2016-01-01

This paper presents a recently developed software, ArcGIS-based Nitrogen Load Estimation Toolkit (ArcNLET), for estimating nitrogen loading from septic systems to surface water bodies. The load estimation is important for managing nitrogen pollution, a world-wide challenge to water resources and environmental management. ArcNLET simulates coupled transport of ammonium and nitrate in both vadose zone and groundwater. This is a unique feature that cannot be found in other ArcGIS-based software for nitrogen modeling. ArcNLET is designed to be flexible for the following four simulating scenarios: (1) nitrate transport alone in groundwater; (2) ammonium and nitrate transport in groundwater; (3) ammonium and nitrate transport in vadose zone; and (4) ammonium and nitrate transport in both vadose zone and groundwater. With this flexibility, ArcNLET can be used as an efficient screening tool in a wide range of management projects related to nitrogen pollution. From the modeling perspective, this paper shows that in areas with high water table (e.g. river and lake shores), it may not be correct to assume a completed nitrification process that converts all ammonium to nitrate in the vadose zone, because observation data can indicate that substantial amount of ammonium enters groundwater. Therefore, in areas with high water table, simulating ammonium transport and estimating ammonium loading, in addition to nitrate transport and loading, are important for avoiding underestimation of nitrogen loading. This is demonstrated in the Eggleston Heights neighborhood in the City of Jacksonville, FL, USA, where monitoring well observations included a well with predominant ammonium concentrations. The ammonium loading given by the calibrated ArcNLET model can be 10-18% of the total nitrogen load, depending on various factors discussed in the paper.

Ammonium Metabolism Enzymes Aid Helicobacter pylori Acid Resistance

PubMed Central

Miller, Erica F.

2014-01-01

The gastric pathogen Helicobacter pylori possesses a highly active urease to support acid tolerance. Urea hydrolysis occurs inside the cytoplasm, resulting in the production of NH3 that is immediately protonated to form NH4+. This ammonium must be metabolized or effluxed because its presence within the cell is counterproductive to the goal of raising pH while maintaining a viable proton motive force (PMF). Two compatible hypotheses for mitigating intracellular ammonium toxicity include (i) the exit of protonated ammonium outward via the UreI permease, which was shown to facilitate diffusion of both urea and ammonium, and/or (ii) the assimilation of this ammonium, which is supported by evidence that H. pylori assimilates urea nitrogen into its amino acid pools. We investigated the second hypothesis by constructing strains with altered expression of the ammonium-assimilating enzymes glutamine synthetase (GS) and glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) and the ammonium-evolving periplasmic enzymes glutaminase (Ggt) and asparaginase (AsnB). H. pylori strains expressing elevated levels of either GS or GDH are more acid tolerant than the wild type, exhibit enhanced ammonium production, and are able to alkalize the medium faster than the wild type. Strains lacking the genes for either Ggt or AsnB are acid sensitive, have 8-fold-lower urea-dependent ammonium production, and are more acid sensitive than the parent. Additionally, we found that purified H. pylori GS produces glutamine in the presence of Mg2+ at a rate similar to that of unadenylated Escherichia coli GS. These data reveal that all four enzymes contribute to whole-cell acid resistance in H. pylori and are likely important for assimilation and/or efflux of urea-derived ammonium. PMID:24936052

Seasonal changes of concentrations of inorganic and organic nitrogen in coastal marine sediments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamada, Hisashi; Kayama, Mitsu; Fujisawa, Kuniyasu

1987-05-01

The seasonal fluctuations of the concentration of nitrogenous compounds in sediments was investigated for three regions of the Seto Inland Sea in Japan; the variation of nitrogenous compounds in sediments was also studied in a laboratory experiment. The amounts of ammonium, dissolved organic nitrogen, nitrite and nitrate, as percentages of the dissolved total nitrogen of the interstitial water, were in the ranges of 47-99%, 10-50%, 0·1-0·6% and 0·3-4·1%, respectively. Ammonium was the major component and organic nitrogen was the next most important. The concentrations of these nitrogenous compounds changed seasonally: dissolved total nitrogen was higher in the warm month of September than in May; ammonium increased in warm months and decreased in cold months, but nitrite and nitrate increased in cold months. It was possible to explain the seasonal fluctuation of nitrogenous compounds in terms of the rates of the metabolic pathways of nitrogen in the sediments. Ammonium was not necessarily correlated with dissolved organic nitrogen. From this, it was considered that ammonium did not occur from solubilization of particulate organic nitrogen followed by mineralization, but from direct mineralization of particulate organic nitrogen in sediments. For the sediments of Suho Nada, Hiuchi Nada and station B-47 in Beppu Bay, the ratio of dissolved ammonium to adsorbed ammonium in the sediments was in the range 10-25%, but the ratio was 60-70% of adsorbed ammonium in the considerably anaerobic sediments at station B-45 in Beppu Bay. The ratio of dissolved ammonium to adsorbed ammonium increased with the increase of the concentration of sulfide in sediments. It was recognized that the anaerobic conditions of the sediments led to the dissolution of adsorbed ammonium.

Ammonium on Ceres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ammannito, E.; De Sanctis, M. C.; Carrorro, F. G.; Ciarniello, M.; Combe, J. P.; De Angelis, S.; Ehlmann, B. L.; Frigeri, A.; Longobardo, A.; Mugnuolo, R.; Marchi, S.; Palomba, E.; Raymond, C. A.; Salatti, M.; Tosi, F.; Zambon, F.; Russell, C. T.

2017-12-01

Since January 2015, the surface of Ceres has been studied by the Dawn spacecraft through the measurements from the three instruments on board (1). The VIR imaging spectrometer, sensitive to the spectral range 0.25 -5.0 μm, provided information on the surficial composition of Ceres at resolutions ranging from few kilometers to about one hundred meters (2). Analysis of VIR reflectance data revealed that the average spectrum of Ceres is compatible with a mixture of low-albedo minerals, Mg- phyllosilicates, ammoniated clays, and Mg- carbonates, (3) confirming previous studies based on ground based spectra (4, 5). Mineralogical maps of the surface at about 1 km/px show that the components identified in the average spectrum are present all across the surface with variations in their relative abundance and chemical composition (6, 7). While the ammoniated clays have been already studied (6), the presence nature and distribution of additional ammoniated species has never been investigated in detail, although the spectral analysis of the bright faculae within Occator crater already revealed the potential presence of ammonium salts (8). Since the position and shape of the ammonium absorption in the VIS-NIR region are function of the hosting mineral specie (8), we did an inventory and characterization of the ammonium-rich regions, in order to analyze their spectral properties. In addition to the presence of ammonium, also the identification of the hosting species has implication for the evolution of Ceres. Our study, therefore, is a step forward in understanding of evolutionary pathway of Ceres. References: (1) Russell, C. T. et al., Science, 2016. (2) De Sanctis M.C. et al., Space Science Reviews, 2011. (3) De Sanctis M.C. et al., Nature, 2015. (4) King T. et al. Science, 1992. (5) Rivkin A.S. et al. Icarus, 2006. (6) Ammannito E. et al., Science, 2016. (7) Carrozzo F.G. et al., Science Advances, in revision. (8) De Sanctis et al., Nature, 2016. (9) Berg et al., Icarus, 2016.

High pressure structural, elastic and vibrational properties of green energetic oxidizer ammonium dinitramide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yedukondalu, N.; Ghule, Vikas D.; Vaitheeswaran, G.

2016-08-01

Ammonium DiNitramide (ADN) is one of the most promising green energetic oxidizers for future rocket propellant formulations. In the present work, we report a detailed theoretical study on structural, elastic, and vibrational properties of the emerging oxidizer under hydrostatic compression using various dispersion correction methods to capture weak intermolecular (van der Waals and hydrogen bonding) interactions. The calculated ground state lattice parameters, axial compressibilities, and equation of state are in good accord with the available experimental results. Strength of intermolecular interactions has been correlated using the calculated compressibility curves and elastic moduli. Apart from this, we also observe discontinuities in the structural parameters and elastic constants as a function of pressure. Pictorial representation and quantification of intermolecular interactions are described by the 3D Hirshfeld surfaces and 2D finger print maps. In addition, the computed infra-red (IR) spectra at ambient pressure reveal that ADN is found to have more hygroscopic nature over Ammonium Perchlorate (AP) due to the presence of strong hydrogen bonding. Pressure dependent IR spectra show blue- and red-shift of bending and stretching frequencies which leads to weakening and strengthening of the hydrogen bonding below and above 5 GPa, respectively. The abrupt changes in the calculated structural, mechanical, and IR spectra suggest that ADN might undergo a first order structural transformation to a high pressure phase around 5-6 GPa. From the predicted detonation properties, ADN is found to have high and low performance characteristics (DCJ = 8.09 km/s and PCJ = 25.54 GPa) when compared with ammonium based energetic oxidizers (DCJ = 6.50 km/s and PCJ = 17.64 GPa for AP, DCJ = 7.28 km/s and PCJ = 18.71 GPa for ammonium nitrate) and well-known secondary explosives for which DCJ = ˜8-10 km/s and PCJ = ˜30-50 GPa, respectively.

Nitrogen sources, transport and processing in peri-urban floodplains.

PubMed

Gooddy, D C; Macdonald, D M J; Lapworth, D J; Bennett, S A; Griffiths, K J

2014-10-01

Peri-urban floodplains are an important interface between developed land and the aquatic environment and may act as a source or sink for contaminants moving from urban areas towards surface water courses. With increasing pressure from urban development the functioning of floodplains is coming under greater scrutiny. A number of peri-urban sites have been found to be populated with legacy landfills which could potentially cause pollution of adjacent river bodies. Here, a peri-urban floodplain adjoining the city of Oxford, UK, with the River Thames has been investigated over a period of three years through repeated sampling of groundwaters from existing and specially constructed piezometers. A nearby landfill has been found to have imprinted a strong signal on the groundwater with particularly high concentrations of ammonium and generally low concentrations of nitrate and dissolved oxygen. An intensive study of nitrogen dynamics through the use of N-species chemistry, nitrogen isotopes and dissolved nitrous oxide reveals that there is little or no denitrification in the majority of the main landfill plume, and neither is the ammonium significantly retarded by sorption to the aquifer sediments. A simple model has determined the flux of total nitrogen and ammonium from the landfill, through the floodplain and into the river. Over an 8 km reach of the river, which has a number of other legacy landfills, it is estimated that 27.5 tonnes of ammonium may be delivered to the river annually. Although this is a relatively small contribution to the total river nitrogen, it may represent up to 15% of the ammonium loading at the study site and over the length of the reach could increase in-stream concentrations by nearly 40%. Catchment management plans that encompass floodplains in the peri-urban environment need to take into account the likely risk to groundwater and surface water quality that these environments pose. Crown Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.