Controlling performance of lipase immobilised on bioinspired silica.

Lipase (Candida antarctica lipase B) was immobilised on silica that was produced via a mild route using a recently developed biologically inspired silica formation method. This route of immobilisation was favourable compared to traditional methods due to its simplicity, mild conditions, low cost, one-step procedure and short preparation time. Lipase was chosen as the enzyme due to its wide implementation in industry, particularly in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Compared to other methods using bioinspired silica entrapment of enzymes, we demonstrate several significant improvements in the performance of the biocatalysts produced. Very high immobilisation efficiencies (close to 100%) were achieved under optimised conditions. The immobilised enzymes also displayed high levels of activity, which exceeded those reported in previous studies of lipase that was immobilised on bioinspired silica. Furthermore, we demonstrate the control over enzyme activity which was achieved through the entrapment conditions by regulating surface area, the average pore diameter and the mean particle size of the silica support. The immobilised enzymes also had very good reuse potential, and showed improved thermal and pH stability. The biocatalysts also performed well in turbulent conditions, showed good storage properties and were successfully used in bench-top reactors, therefore strongly supporting their use in commercial applications. The immobilised enzymes also performed comparably to or better than the industrial benchmark, Novozym® 435. The bioinspired method of immobilisation used has significant benefits over current methods, and these factors could increase potential applications in industry.

CO2 sequestration by enzyme immobilized onto bioinspired silica.

We present the first report on bioinspired silica - produced using a green method - supported carbonic anhydrase for carbon capture and demonstrate significantly improved carbon capture efficiency and stability relevant to flue gas temperatures.

Men's emotional responses to their partner's pregnancy and their views on support and information received.

The main aim of this study was to extend previous research of men's experiences of pregnancy; 48 Australian men and their pregnant partners took part. Most men reported feeling positive about the pregnancy, emotionally well supported and well informed. Men reported receiving more valuable information from their partner than from doctors/obstetricians, family or the internet and were accurate observers of women's depression levels.