Colloidal Fe , Mn , Co , and Cu Hydroxides Stabilized by Starch as Catalysts of Water Oxidation Reaction with One Electron Oxidant Ru(bpy).

Colloidal catalysts for oxidation of water to dioxygen, which are stable on storage and under the reaction conditions, are synthesized based on Co , Mn , Fe and Cu hydroxides. Stabilization of the colloids with dextrated starch allows the process of hydroxide ageing to be stopped at the stage of the formation of primary nuclei (ca. 2-3 nm from transmission electron microscopy data).

A phenol-free method for isolation of microRNA from biological fluids.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) found in biological fluids such as blood and urine have been identified as promising biomarkers for many human disorders, including cancer, cardiopathies, and neurodegenerative diseases. However, circulating miRNAs are either encapsulated into vesicles or found in complexes with proteins and lipoproteins and, thus, require a special approach to their isolation. Acid phenol-chloroform extraction can solve this problem, but it is a labor-intensive procedure that relies heavily on the use of hazardous chemicals.