Switchable DNA-Based Peroxidases Controlled by a Chaotropic Ion**

Here we demonstrate a switchable DNA electron-transfer catalyst, enabled by selective destabilization of secondary structure by the denaturant, perchlorate. The system is comprised of two strands, one of which can be selectively switched between a G-quadruplex and duplex or single-stranded conformations. In the G-quadruplex state, it binds hemin, enabling peroxidase activity. This switching ability arises from our finding that perchlorate, a chaotropic Hofmeister ion, selectively destabilizes duplex over G-quadruplex DNA. By varying perchlorate concentration, we show that the DNA structure can be switched between states that do and do not catalyze electron-transfer catalysis. State switching can be achieved in three ways: thermally, by dilution, or by concentration.     

Reproducibility of diffusion tensor imaging-derived parameters: implications for the streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetic rats

Magnetic Resonance Materials in Physics, Biology and Medicine - Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is a useful approach for studying neuronal integrity in animals. However, the test–retest...     

Impact of post-pyrolysis wash on biochar properties

Washing biochar modifies its properties for use as a soil amendment. The important biochar properties for use as a soil amendment are hydrophilicity, adsorption, and stability. Biochar was obtained with intermediate pyrolysis at 400°C of three different feedstocks: woodchips, Bayview Flowers Digestate, and Storm Fisher Digestate biomass. A simple wash with an aqueous surfactant solution improved the properties of the biochar for soil amendment, with a non-ionic surfactant combined with oxidizing hydrogen peroxide being the most effective. The improved properties included the removal of tars and possible modification of surface properties that increased hydrophilicity and adsorption and decreased leaching of any hydrocarbons that could negatively impact the surroundings. As a result, the washed biochar will exhibit better water retention and a more hospitable environment for the growth of beneficial microorganisms. In addition, by making the biochar more hydrophilic, a wash will make its granulation easier, reducing dust emissions during its application and allowing its formulation with enhancement additives. Although many post-pyrolysis treatments of biochars have been investigated, the proposed wash is simple and effective, with beneficial advantages for downstream processing and application as a soil amendment.     

Calcium Carbonate in Waste Flooring for Neutralization of Acid Rock Drainage

Mine Water and the Environment - Acid rock drainage (ARD) was successfully neutralized in this study using carpet tiles. Most polyolefin-based carpet tiles contain over 65% of finely ground calcium...     

N.J. court committee requires most out-of-state lawyers to register for ADR

A New Jersey Supreme Court committee issues an unauthorized practice of law opinion that calls into question who can represent a party in private ADR matters. Based on recent-vintage changes to attorneys' model conduct rules, the move, while extreme, also may be part of a larger trend nationwide