bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved studies of cross‐coupling reactions of 5‐(tri‐n‐butystannyl)‐ and 5,5′‐bis(tri‐n‐butylstannyl)‐2,2′‐bithiophene with aryl halides
Authors: Hamad Elgazwy Abdel‐Sattar S.
Published: March 2009

Stille coupling under standard conditions proceeds in low yield when using hindered organostannanes (1) or (2) and aryl bromide partners. The inclusion of aryl iodide instead of aryl bromide with the same organostannanes, significantly improves the efficiency of the coupling, providing a variety of desired products in good to excellent yield. The yields of Stille coupling are compared to the different reactivity of aryl halides. This study of Stille coupling with different aryl halides are documented and rationalized.
One‐Pot synthesis of a novel compound N‐hydroxydecahydroacridine under microwave irradiation
Authors: Tu Shujiang , Fang Fang , Zhu Songlei , Li Tuanjie , Zhang Xiaojing , Zhuang Qiya
Published: March 2009

A novel reaction to synthesis a series new N‐hydroxyldecahydroacridine derivatives by a one‐pot condensation of aldehyde, 1,3‐dicarbonyl compound and NH2OH in glycol under microwave irradiation is described. N‐hydroxyldecahydroacridine was obtained in excellent yields (81–95%) within short reaction time (4–7 min)
Synthesis and antifungal activity against strains of candida albicans of 6‐fluoro‐4(5 or 7)‐chloro‐2‐(difluorobenzoyl)aminobenzothiazoles
Authors: Armenise Domenico , De Laurentis Nicolino , Reho Antonia , Rosato Antonio , Morlacchi Flaviano
Published: March 2009

A series of 6‐fluoro‐4‐(5 or 7)‐chloro‐2‐(difluorobenzoyl)aminobenzothiazoles 3a‐r were prepared to investigate their potential biological activity. In this work, the results of their in vitro antifungal activity against some strains of Candida albicans are reported. It was found that some derivatives displayed antifungal activity higher than that for 3k [1a] compound already described in literature.
Practical guidelines for characterization of O‐diglycosyl flavonoid isomers by triple quadrupole MS and their applications for identification of some fruit juices flavonoids
Authors: Abad‐García B. , Garmón‐Lobato S. , Berrueta L.A. , Gallo B. , Vicente F.
Published: March 2009

Fifteen flavonoid O‐diglycosides with different interglycosidic linkage isomery and glycosylation position have been studied in order to analyze their fragmentation patterns. Initial separation was carried out using high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC/DAD) coupled to an electrospray ionization (ESI) interface and a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. Some useful differences in their MS spectra have been found and discussed. As it has already been reported, [Y*]+/[Y0]+ ratio for flavanones and [Y1]+/[Y0]+ ratio for other flavonoids is specific for each isomeric interglycosidic linkage. In this work it has also been observed that the abundance of these ions is dependent on the position of glycosylation. On the basis of these differences, systematic guidelines for our experimental conditions have been proposed for the differentiation of not only isomeric interglycosidic linkage but also glycosylation position using collision‐induced dissociation MS/MS (CID‐MS/MS) spectra in positive mode. These results have been successfully applied for the characterization of three diglycosyl flavonoids found in Citrus fruit juices and these conclusions have also been extrapolated for characterizing two triglycosides in the same fruits. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
α‐Eleostearic acid is more effectively metabolized into conjugated linoleic acid than punicic acid in mice
Authors: Yuan Gao‐Feng , Sinclair Andrew J , Zhou Ci‐Qin , Li Duo
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to investigate the metabolism of α‐eleostearic acid (α‐ESA, cis9,trans11,trans13‐18:3) and punicic acid (PA, cis9,trans11,cis13‐18:3) and to compare the relative conversion efficiency of these fatty acids into conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) in mice.

RESULTS: Twenty‐four male ICR mice were fed either a control diet or one of two experimental diets supplemented with 10 g kg−1α‐ESA or PA in the form of triacylglycerols for 6 weeks. The accumulation of PA in all tissues examined was significantly higher than α‐ESA; in both groups it was found that cis9,trans11‐conjugated linoleic acid (cis9,trans11‐18:2) was detected in all tissues examined. The relative conversion rate of α‐ESA into cis9,trans11‐18:2 was significantly higher than that of PA. The highest conversion rate of α‐ESA was found in adipose tissue (91.8%), spleen (91.4%) and kidney (90.7%), and the lowest in the heart (84.6%). The highest conversion rate of PA occurred in the liver (76.2%) and the lowest occurred in the heart (54.5%).

CONCLUSION: The present results indicate that both α‐ESA and PA are effectively metabolized into cis9,trans11‐18:2 in mice. These conjugated dietary fatty acids might be useful sources of CLAs in tissues owing to the natural abundance of α‐ESA and PA in some seeds. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of controlled atmospheres and shelf life period on concentrations of volatile substances released by ‘Pink Lady®’ apples and on consumer acceptance
Authors: Villatoro Carmen , Luisa López M , Echeverria Gemma , Graell Jordi
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND:‘Pink Lady®’ (Malus×domesticaBorkh.) apples were harvested at commercial maturity and stored at 1 °C under either air or controlled atmosphere (CA) conditions (2.5 kPa O2: 3 kPa CO2and 1 kPa O2: 2 kPa CO2) for 15 or 28 weeks. Standard quality parameters, consumer acceptance and volatile compound emission were evaluated after cold storage plus shelf life period at 20 °C.

RESULTS:A shelf life period of 17 days after long‐term storage in controlled atmosphere allowed the regeneration of the characteristic esters associated to the aroma of this variety. Sixty‐five per cent of consumers preferred apples with higher emissions of aroma‐active volatile compounds, despite the fact that these apples displayed lower values for standard quality attributes. The most accepted samples corresponded to fruit stored in air for 15 weeks regardless of post‐storage period, in air for 28 weeks plus 1 day at 20 °C, and in 2.5 kPa O2: 3 kPa CO2for 15 weeks plus 7 days at 20 °C.

CONCLUSIONS:Concentrations of specific aroma volatile compounds are suggested to be more important than total aroma emission for consumer acceptance of ‘Pink Lady®’ apples. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Brassica oleracea var. costata: comparative study on organic acids and biomass production with other cabbage varieties
Authors: Sousa Carla , Pereira David M , Taveira Marcos , Dopico‐García Sonia , Valentão Patrícia , Pereira José A , Bento Albino , Andrade Paula B
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND: A study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of agronomic practices, harvesting time and leaf age on the organic acid composition and biomass production of Brassica oleracea L. var. costata DC (tronchuda cabbage). Samples were cultivated under eight different fertilisation regimes (two levels each of nitrogen, boron and sulfur, an organic fertiliser and no fertiliser) and collected at three different times.

RESULTS: Principal component analysis of the data indicated significant differences. Three principal components with an eigenvalue higher than one accounted for 79.0% of the total variance of the data set. Samples obtained with conventional fertilisation were characterised by the highest values of fresh weight. External leaves showed higher total organic acid and malic acid contents than internal leaves, while the latter were characterised by higher proportions of citric acid. For consecutive harvests, total organic acid concentration decreased in both external and internal leaves.

CONCLUSION: The use of a conventional fertilisation regime (nitrogen, boron or sulfur) improved the growth of B. oleracea var. costata without affecting its organic acid profile. However, for consecutive harvests, total organic acid concentration was observed to decrease independently of the agronomic practices tested. Leaf age influenced the quantitative composition of organic acids. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of phosphorus uptake on growth and secondary metabolites of garden sage (Salvia officinalis L.)
Authors: Nell Monika , Vötsch Marlies , Vierheilig Horst , Steinkellner Siegrid , Zitterl‐Eglseer Karin , Franz Chlodwig , Novak Johannes
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND: Garden sage (Salvia officinalis L., Lamiaceae) has gained importance during the last decade as a natural antioxidant, mainly owing to the antioxidant secondary plant metabolites rosmarinic acid (RA) and diterpenes such as carnosic acid. The aim of this work was to study the biomass production, the concentrations of total phenolics and RA and the essential oil of garden sage in response to phosphorus (P) supply. The treatments included P fertilisation and inoculation with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), since AMF are the most efficient biotic factor promoting the P uptake of plants.

RESULTS: The P concentration in the plant was highest in P‐fertilised plants, intermediate in AMF‐inoculated plants and lowest in non‐inoculated/non‐P‐supplied plants. The leaf biomass increased only in P‐fertilised plants. AMF‐inoculated plants, in contrast, did not show an increased leaf biomass, but their root biomass was enhanced. The total phenolic and RA concentrations were affected differently in leaves and roots, with the highest concentration and yield being found in leaves of P‐fertilised plants. In none of the treatments were the essential oil concentration and composition affected.

CONCLUSION: Optimal P fertilisation improves the antioxidant potential of garden sage and increases its biomass yield, thus optimising agronomic production of this plant for antioxidant use. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Artificial neural network models for forecasting intermittent monthly precipitation in arid regions
Authors: Dahamsheh Ahmad , Aksoy Hafzullah
Published: March 2009

Forecasting monthly precipitation in arid regions is investigated by means of feed forward back propagation (FFBP) artificial neural networks (ANNs) and compared to the linear regression technique with multiple inputs (MLR). Four meteorological stations from different geographical regions in Jordan are selected. The ANNs and MLR processes are analysed based on the mean square error, relative/absolute error, determination coefficient as well as the central statistical moments such as mean, standard deviation, and minimum and maximum values. It is found that whilst on one hand the ANNs are slightly better than the MLR in forecasting the monthly total precipitation, on the other hand, both are found with to have limitations which should be improved by means of either changing the type and architecture of the ANNs or incorporating modelling tools such as Markov chains into the forecast model. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
An extract (THC‐002) of Ba‐Wei‐Die‐Huang‐Wan inhibits expression of tachykinins, and P2X3 and TRPV1 receptors, and inhibits ATP‐induced detrusor overactivity in spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Imamura Tetsuya , Ishizuka Osamu , Zhong Chen , Ogawa Teruyuki , Nakayama Tsuyoshi , Kurizaki Yoshiki , Tanabe Tomoaki , Nishizawa Osamu , Andersson Karl‐Erik
Published: March 2009

Aims

To investigate possible mechanisms of action of THC‐002 (HARNCARE®), a galenical produced from the traditional Chinese herbal mixture Ba‐Wei‐Die‐Huang‐Wan, which has been reported to improve lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in patients.

Methods

Forty‐five female SHRs were randomly separated into three groups. Two groups were given 20 ml physiological saline solution (PSS) per kg‐body weight orally daily for 1 week. An hour after the administration of PSS, one of the groups received 20 mg THC‐002 per kg body weight, and the other a similar volume of THC‐002‐free saline. The third group received no treatments. The bladders were analyzed by real time RT‐PCR (n = 6) and immunohistochemistry (n = 3) for the expression of tachykinins and P2X3 and TRPV1 receptors. Cystometric investigation (n = 6) was conducted after intravesical instillation of saline followed by 5 mg/ml ATP solution.

Results

Treatment with PSS caused and upregulation of tachykinins and P2X3 and TRPV1 receptors, which was prevented in the group treated with THC‐002. In the normal (non‐treated) and non‐THC‐002‐treated SHRs, instillation of the ATP solution decreased voiding interval, micturition volume, and bladder capacity compared to the instillation of saline. However, in the THC‐002‐treated SHRs, ATP instillation had no effect.

Conclusions

In SHRs, THC‐002 reduced the bladder expression of tachykinins and P2X3 and TRPV1 receptors, and inhibited ATP‐induced detrusor overactivity. These effects may explain part of its beneficial effects on LUTS. Neurourol. Urodyn. 28:529–534, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Patient reported outcomes tools in an observational study of female stress urinary incontinence
Authors: van de Vaart Huub , Falconer Christian , Quail Deborah , Timlin Louise , Manning Martina , Tincello Douglas , Tunn Ralf
Published: March 2009

Aims:

To determine which patient characteristics, incontinence and non‐incontinence related, are associated with the symptom severity scores of the Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI) and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Urinary Incontinence (ICIQ‐UI); and to determine the association of both patient characteristics and symptom severity scores with quality‐of‐life scores of the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ) and the Incontinence‐Quality of Life (I‐QOL) questionnaire.

Methods:

Women presenting with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) symptoms in primary and secondary care entered the Stress Urinary Incontinence Treatment Study (SUIT), an observational study evaluating the cost‐effectiveness of duloxetine compared to other non‐surgical treatments for SUI. At enrolment patients completed the UDI‐6, the short form ICIQ‐UI, the IIQ‐7 and the I‐QOL. Multivariate linear regressions were performed with the UDI‐6, ICIQ‐UI SF, IIQ‐7, and I‐QOL as outcomes.

Results:

The total number of incontinence episodes is the most significant explanatory variable of the two symptom questionnaire scores, but the UDI‐6 score also reflects the type of incontinence. The variability of the condition‐specific quality‐of‐life questionnaires is primarily explained by the symptom severity questionnaire scores. Although there is a high intercorrelation, both these symptom questionnaires independently contributed significantly to the IIQ‐7 and I‐QOL total scores.

Conclusions:

The UDI‐6 and ICIQ‐UI SF can be regarded as scientifically sound symptom questionnaires in UI evaluation; but they have differences. Since the UDI‐6 and ICIQ‐UI SF independently contribute to the quality‐of‐life scores, this suggests that in incontinence research symptom questionnaires should not focus only on incontinence, but on a broader range of urogenital symptoms. Neurourol. Urodynam. 29:348–353, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Bladder urothelial cells from patients with interstitial cystitis have an increased sensitivity to carbachol
Authors: Gupta Gopal N. , Lu Shao‐Gang , Gold Michael S. , Chai Toby C.
Published: March 2009

Aims

The presence of muscarinic receptors on bladder urothelial cells (BUC), suggests BUC may be a target for antimuscarinics. This study determined whether human BUC are responsive to a muscarinic agonist and if so, whether responses are altered in interstitial cystitis (IC) BUC.

Methods

Primary urothelial cell cultures were established from cystoscopic biopsies. Normal (NB) and IC BUC were studied using calcium imaging techniques as a means to monitor the response to muscarinic receptor activation with the agonist, carbachol (CCh). Changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) were measured with fura‐2 ratiometric microfluorimetry. Dose–response curves (CCh dose vs. [Ca2+]i) were measured in IC and NB BUC. Tolterodine was used to confirm the specificity (muscarinic versus nicotinic) of CCh evoked increases in [Ca2+]i.

Results

CCh induced a dose‐dependent increase in [Ca2+]i. Potency and efficacy of CCh was significantly greater in IC BUC. The maximal increase in [Ca2+]i was 136.3 ± 5.1% over baseline in 78 cells from 4 IC patients versus 92.4 ± 4.8% over baseline in 67 cells from 4 NB subjects (P < 0.01). The EC50 of the evoked increase was 1.10 ± 0.14 µM versus 3.36 ± 0.72 µM (P < 0.01) in BUC from IC and NB controls, respectively. Removal of extracellular calcium or application of tolterodine, abolished CCh evoked increase in [Ca2+]i in IC and NB BUC.

Conclusions

The greater sensitivity of IC BUC to CCh suggests that IC patholobiology may also include alterations muscarinic signaling. The physiologic sequelae of muscarinic activation in BUC need to be further investigated. Neurourol. Urodynam. 28:1022–1027, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Urodynamic findings in female diabetic patients with and without overactive bladder symptoms
Authors: Ho Chen‐Hsun , Tai Huai‐Ching , Yu Hong‐Jeng
Published: March 2009

Aims

The purpose was to analyze urodynamic findings in female diabetic patients with OAB symptoms.

Methods

Data from 94 female diabetic patients who underwent urodynamic studies in evaluation of various LUTS were retrospectively reviewed. Urodynamic findings, demographic data, and clinical symptoms were compared between patients with and without OAB.

Results

Among the 94 subjects analyzed, 34 (36.2%) were diagnosed as OAB. Demographic data were similar between the patients with and without OAB. In the OAB group, patients had significantly higher storage symptom scores and marginally higher voiding symptom scores. On cystometry, the OAB group had a higher percentage of increased bladder sensation (41.2% vs 11.7%, P = 0.001) and detrusor overactivity (29.4% vs 10.0%, P = 0.023). The OAB group had lower peak flow rate (16.2 ± 5.9 vs 19.3 ± 6.3 ml/s, P = 0.023), greater PVR volume (60.3 ± 29.4 vs 45.0 ± 25.1 ml, P = 0.009), and lower bladder voiding efficiency (BVE, 75.2 ± 2.8 vs 81.5 ± 2.9%, P < 0.001). On pressure‐flow studies, the OAB group had a higher percentage of BOO (26.5% vs 6.7%, P = 0.008).

Conclusions

Our study shows that the most frequent urodynamic finding of OAB in female diabetic patients is increased bladder sensation, followed by detrusor overactivity. Compared to those without OAB, female diabetic patients with OAB are more likely to have impaired voiding function, characterized by lower peak flow rate, greater PVR volume, lower BVE, and a higher percentage of BOO. In these patients, BOO not only causes voiding difficulty but may also contribute to the development of OAB. Neurourol. Urodynam. 29:424–427, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pretreatments of natural fibers and their application as reinforcing material in polymer composites—A review
Authors: Kalia Susheel , Kaith B.S. , Kaur Inderjeet
Published: March 2009

In recent years, natural fibers reinforced composites have received much attention because of their lightweight, nonabrasive, combustible, nontoxic, low cost and biodegradable properties. Among the various natural fibers; flax, bamboo, sisal, hemp, ramie, jute, and wood fibers are of particular interest. A lot of research work has been performed all over the world on the use of natural fibers as a reinforcing material for the preparation of various types of composites. However, lack of good interfacial adhesion, low melting point, and poor resistance towards moisture make the use of natural fiber reinforced composites less attractive. Pretreatments of the natural fiber can clean the fiber surface, chemically modify the surface, stop the moisture absorption process, and increase the surface roughness. Among the various pretreatment techniques, graft copolymerization and plasma treatment are the best methods for surface modification of natural fibers. Graft copolymers of natural fibers with vinyl monomers provide better adhesion between matrix and fiber. In the present article, the use of pretreated natural fibers in polymer matrix‐based composites has been reviewed. Effect of surface modification of natural fibers on the properties of fibers and fiber reinforced polymer composites has also been discussed. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Cu2ZnSnSe4 thin film solar cells produced by selenisation of magnetron sputtered precursors
Authors: Zoppi G. , Forbes I. , Miles R. W. , Dale P. J. , Scragg J. J. , Peter L. M.
Published: March 2009

Polycrystalline thin films of Cu2ZnSnSe4 (CZTSe) were produced by selenisation of Cu(Zn,Sn) magnetron sputtered metallic precursors for solar cell applications. The p‐type CZTSe absorber films were found to crystallize in the stannite structure (a = 5·684 Å and c = 11·353 Å) with an electronic bandgap of 0·9 eV. Solar cells with the indium tin oxide structure (ITO)/ZnO/CdS/CZTSe/Mo were fabricated with device efficiencies up to 3·2% measured under standard AM1·5 illumination. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crystalline β‐structure of PHBV grown epitaxially on silicate layers of MMT
Authors: Ublekov F. , Baldrian J. , Nedkov E.
Published: March 2009

The poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV)/montmorillonite(MMT) nanocomposites were investigated by wide‐angle X‐ray scattering (WAXS). The aim of the investigation was solution intercalation of MMT with PHBV. Beside the usual orthorhombic unit cell, a stable pseudohexagonal β‐structure of PHBV was obtained. Well known β‐structure has one common WAXS reflection (d = 0.480 nm), which corresponds to the mean distance of PHBV chains in the pseudohexagonal structure. The new β‐structure has two diffraction peaks in the WAXS pattern. It is a three‐dimensionally ordered crystalline structure oriented in parallel with the silica layers of MMT. The new polymorphic form is supposed to be growing on the layers of MMT. Its layers serve as primary nucleation centers for epitaxial growth of the β‐structure. After annealing, this polymorphic form of PHBV disappears and it is transformed into the more stable α‐form leading to an enhanced total crystallinity of the polymer comprised in the nanocomposite. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 751–755, 2009
The sulfonation of crosslinked poly(ether ether ketone)—Diffusion‐controlled kinetics
Authors: Al Lafi Abdul G. , Hay James N.
Published: March 2009

The effect of crosslinks introduced by ion irradiation with 11.7 MeV proton and 30 MeV helium ions on the reactivity of poly(ether‐ether‐ketone) (PEEK) to sulfonation have been investigated following the kinetics of the reaction at room temperature. Concentrated sulfuric acid was used as a swelling and sulfonating agent and the reaction was followed by changes in the FTIR spectrum. The rate of reaction decreased with the degree of crosslinking and the progress with time was consistent with diffusion control of the sulfuric acid into the crosslinked matrix. The results were consistent with the efficiency of the ions in crosslinking PEEK and in particular with the differences in their linear energy transfer (LET). © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 775–783, 2009
Prediction of the glass transition temperature of semicrystalline polymer/salt complexes
Authors: Koh Joo Hwan , Park Jung Tae , Koh Jong Kwan , Kim Jong Hak
Published: March 2009

An explicit expression based on the configurational entropy model, the Flory‐Huggins theory and Guggenheim's form of Debye‐Hückel theory has been derived for predicting the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of binary semicrystalline polymer/salt complexes. The proposed configurational entropy (Sc) of polymer/salt systems consists of the disorientation entropy of polymer 1 (Sdiso‐1), the dissociation entropy of salt (Sdiss‐2), the mixing entropy (Smix‐12) and the specific interaction entropy (Sspe‐12). In particular, the effect of crystalline segments was accounted for by the current model. The prediction of the proposed Tg model is in good agreement with experimental data. Our results demonstrate that the small change of the Tg in semicrystalline polymer/salt complexes compared to amorphous systems is mostly attributable to the reduced configurational entropy due to the presence of crystalline segments. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 793–798, 2009
Secondary molecular mobility in amorphous ethyl cellulose: Aging effects and degree of co‐operativity
Authors: Diogo Hermínio P. , Moura‐Ramos Joaquim J.
Published: March 2009

The secondary relaxations in amorphous ethyl cellulose are studied using thermally stimulated depolarization currents (TSDCs) in the temperature region from 165 °C (108 K) up to 145 °C (418 K). The influence of aging on the current peaks of the secondary relaxation is discussed, and it is concluded that some modes of motion of this mobility are aging independent, while others are affected by aging. A particular attention is focused on the discussion of the degree of co‐operativity of the motional modes of the secondary relaxation. The conclusion to be driven from the obtained TSDC results is that the aging‐independent motional modes, as well as those that are aging dependent, do not show any appreciable co‐operative character. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 820–829, 2009
Self‐assembled anionic micellar template for polypyrrole, polyaniline, and their random copolymer nanomaterials
Authors: Antony M. Jinish , Jayakannan M.
Published: March 2009

We report an anionic surfactant approach for size and shape control in polyaniline, polypyrrole, and their polyaniline‐co‐polypyrrole random copolymer nanomaterials. A renewable resource azobenzenesulfonic acid anionic surfactant was developed for template‐assisted synthesis of these classes of nanomaterials. The surfactant exists as 4.3 nm micelle in water and self‐organizes with pyrrole to produce spherical aggregates. The sizes of the spherical aggregates were controlled by water dilution and subsequent oxidation of these templates, produced polypyrrole nanospheres of 0.5 μM to 50 nm dimensions. The anionic surfactant interacts differently with aniline and forms cylindrical aggregates, which exclusively produce nanofibers of ∼180 nm in diameter with length up to 3–5 μM. The template selectivity of surfactant toward aniline and pyrrole was used to tune the nanostructure of the aniline‐pyrrole random copolymers from nanofiber‐to‐nanorod‐to‐nanospheres. Dynamic light scattering technique and electron microscopes were used to study the mechanistic aspects of the template‐assisted polymerization. The four probe conductivity of the copolymers showed a nonlinear trend and the conductivity passes through minimum at 60–80% of pyrrole in the feed. The amphiphilic dopant effectively penetrates into the crystal lattices of the polymer chain and induces high solid state ordering in the homopolymer nanomaterials. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 830–846, 2009
Paralysis and a perihilar protuberance: An unusual presentation of sarcoidosis in a child
Authors: Wurzel Danielle F. , Steinfort Daniel P. , Massie John , Ryan Monique M , Irving Louis B. , Ranganathan Sarath C.
Published: March 2009

Sarcoidosis in children can present with extra‐pulmonary manifestations, making diagnosis difficult. We describe a case of sarcoidosis in a child, presenting as a Guillain–Barré‐like illness with the incidental finding of a perihilar mass. We also report the first successful use of the minimally invasive technique of Endobronchial Ultrasound‐Guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) to delineate the cause of hilar lymphadenopathy in a child. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:410–414. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Predictors of major intervention in infants with bronchiolitis
Authors: Parker Melissa J. , Allen Upton , Stephens Derek , Lalani Amina , Schuh Suzanne
Published: March 2009

Objective

We sought to identify predictors of the major medical intervention (MMI) in infants with bronchiolitis in the Emergency Department (ED) to recognize those in need of hospitalization versus the candidates for discharge.

Patients and Methods

We conducted an analysis of data from a prospective cohort study of previously healthy infants 2–23 months presenting to our ED with first episode of wheeze and respiratory distress. Infants were divided into those with at least one MMI defined as oxygen administration for saturation of <90%, intravenous (IV) fluids of 20 ml/kg, apnea management, or critical care unit (CCU) admission (MMI group) versus those without (no‐MMI group). The primary outcome was the association between the MMI versus no‐MMI groups and potential risk factors for these outcomes.

Results

Of 312 study infants, 52 experienced MMI—all received oxygen for saturation <90%, four also received IV fluids and none required apnea management or CCU care. The following four risk factors were associated with MMI: baseline accessory muscle score ≥6/9 [OR 2.44, 95% CI 1.29; 4.62], oxygen saturation ≤92% [OR 2.41, 95% CI 0.96; 6.14], respiratory rate ≥60 [OR 1.85, 95% CI 0.97; 3.54], and poor fluid intake [OR 2.65, 95% CI 1.12; 6.26]. Of the 148 infants without predictors 11 (7.4%) received MMI, 145 required either no MMI or oxygen for ≤6 hr and 130 (87.8%) stayed for ≤12 hr.

Conclusions

Infants with bronchiolitis with high‐risk predictors should be hospitalized whereas those without can be considered for outpatient management due to low‐risk of MMI. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:358–363. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Preparation and Catalytic Activity of Co/CNTs Nanocomposites via Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Zhang Xiaojuan , Jiang Wei , Song Dan , Liu Yong , Geng Jingjing , Li Fengsheng
Published: March 2009

Co nanoparticles supported on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were prepared by microwave‐assisted heating of the hydrazine reduction in ethylene glycol (EG). The Co/CNT nanocomposites prepared by the microwave‐irradiation method (MIM‐Co/CNTs) were characterized by XRD, SEM, EDS, and BET. It was found that MIM‐Co/CNTs had compact coating, high cobalt loading, and large BET surface area. The obtained products for the thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate (AP) were investigated by DTA. The catalytic activity of MIM‐Co/CNTs was better than that of pure Co nanoparticles and Co/CNT nanocomposites by water‐bath method (WBM‐Co/CNTs). The addition of 5 wt.‐% MIM‐Co/CNTs decreased the high decomposition temperature of AP by 174.05 °C and increased the total DTA heat release by 0.799 kJ g−1.
The effect of growth temperature on physical properties of heavily doped ZnO:Al films
Authors: Hong Jongin , Paik Hanjong , Hwang Hosung , Lee Sunghwan , deMello Andrew J. , No Kwangsoo
Published: March 2009

Heavily‐doped ZnO:Al films have been deposited on high temperature stable glass substrates using radio‐frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering. The effect of growth temperature on physical properties of the films has been investigated. The microstructure evolved a columnar structure into a granular one with the increase in growth temperature and then a typical honeycomb‐type microstructure representing huge grain formation indicating high densification. All Al‐doped ZnO films exhibited high optical transparency and the absorption edge shifted to the short wavelength (blue‐shift) as the growth temperature increased. The dense microstructure with a high crystallographic quality and large grains evolved at 500 °C enabled us to obtain 2.28 × 10–3 Ω cm and high visible transmittance over 90% even if the ZnO film was doped with an Al content of approximately 5.5 at%. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
High quality Al‐doped ZnO thin films deposited using targets prepared by chemical coprecipitation
Authors: Cai L. , Jiang G. , Zhu C. , Wang D.
Published: March 2009

In order to grow high‐quality aluminum‐doped zinc oxide films (AZO), the chemical coprecipitation method was adopted to synthesize ultra‐fine AZO powder, in which Al2O3 was more easily and more uniformly doped in ZnO compared to the traditional mechanical grinding method. X‐ray diffraction results showed that Al atoms have replaced the position of Zn atoms in ZnO lattice without forming the Al2O3 phase. AZO thin films were deposited at a substrate temperature of 200 °C by using pulsed laser deposition. The resistivity of the AZO films was 1.7 × 10‐4 Ω cm and the light transmittance in the visible region exceeded 85%. The properties of these films commendably meet the requirements of solar cell devices. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Singlet oxygen inhibits nonradiative defects in porous silicon
Authors: Pikulev V. B. , Kuznetsov S. N. , Kuznetsov A. S. , Saren A. A. , Gurtov V. A.
Published: March 2009

Experimental evidences are presented for the first time that singlet oxygen generated ex situ acts as an inhibitor of nonradiative recombination in porous silicon (PSi). This effect is observed on a pristine PSi as well as on degraded porous layers quenched by ozone adsorption. A photoluminescence (PL) enhancement produced by singlet oxygen is accompanied with only slight oxidation of a PSi. We assume that the observed effect on PL efficiency is due to gentle selective oxidation of single defects on silicon nanocrystal surface. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The hydrophobic properties of femtosecond laser fabricated spike structures and their effects on cell proliferation
Authors: Fadeeva Elena , Schlie Sabrina , Koch Jürgen , Ngezahayo Anaclet , Chichkov Boris N.
Published: March 2009

Silicon (Si) spikes with an average tip surface of 1.4 μm2, an average depth 5.9 μm and a spike‐to‐spike distance of 4.8 μm have been produced with a commercial laser system which delivers sub‐30‐fs pulses at 800 nm and a repetition rate of 1 kHz. The fabricated spikes can be used for the generation of negative replica in soft material such as silicone elastomer. Since the Si spikes were not destroyed during the replication process, it is possible to reproduce ad libitum soft material with the same spike configuration rendering comparison possible. The analysis of the wettability of the surfaces revealed that the structuring induced an increase in hydrophobic character of Si as well as of silicone elastomer. This effect is related to the presence of air trapped in the microstructured surface. Analysis of the effect of the structuring on the proliferation activity of fibroblasts and SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells showed that the spike structures and its negative replicas in silicone elastomer are able to suppress the proliferation of the fibroblasts for 48 h but did not affect the neuroblastoma cells. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Self‐catalytic etching of silicon: from nanowires to regular mesopores
Authors: Boarino L. , Destro M. , Borini S. , Pugno N. , Chiodoni A. , Bellotti F. , Amato G.
Published: March 2009

Metal assisted etching is a new promising technique for Silicon nanowires fabrication, but also for generating a new class of porous semiconductors with precise and controlled morphology, unavailable by electrochemical etching. The process and the morphology seem to be independent on substrate doping, but only on the crystallographic directions and metal patterning at the top surface. A preliminary investigation on some possible patterning techniques is reported, using porous silicon layers as pre‐patterning tool, porous alumina and polystyrene nanospheres. The influence of the masking procedure on the final array of nanostructures is discussed. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Synthesis of DNA oligonucleotides in mesoporous silicon
Authors: Lawrie Jenifer L. , Xu Zhou , Rong Guoguang , Laibinis Paul E. , Weiss Sharon M.
Published: March 2009

In‐situ oligonucleotide synthesis through an 8‐base sequence is demonstrated within 30 nm silicon mesopores utilizing sequential phosphoramidite reactions. Stepwise attachment of each base is confirmed by monitoring the porous silicon effective refractive index via a waveguide resonance angle. A linear increase in the effective refractive index is observed after the addition of each base, and the detection of oligonucleotides containing only a single thymine is possible. It is estimated that 50% of the available internal pore surface is occupied by the 8‐base oligonucleotides, which is a substantially greater coverage than obtained by using traditional methods of direct attachment of presynthesized DNA oligonucleotides. The greater surface coverage by DNA probes will enable more effective biosensing devices. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The effect of NaF precursors on low temperature growth of CIGS thin film solar cells on polyimide substrates
Authors: Caballero Raquel , Kaufmann Christian A. , Eisenbarth Tobias , Unold Thomas , Schorr Susan , Hesse Raik , Klenk Reiner , Schock Hans‐Werner
Published: March 2009

The aim of this work is to study the effect of Na on low temperature growth of CIGS solar cells on polyimide (PI) substrates. The Na is introduced via evaporation of a NaF precursor layer prior to the absorber deposition. As reported previously, the devices at nominal Tsub,max = 500 °C are characterized by a higher Voc when the Na content increases. However, lowering process temperature to nominally 450 °C together with high Na concentration produces a pronounced band gap grading through the absorber layer, as detected by energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). The absorber layers and the devices were studied by grazing incidence X‐ray diffraction, external quantum efficiency and drive level capacitance profiling. A limit Tsub,max is identified as detrimental on the PV performance when high Na concentration is added, mainly due to a reduced Voc. 12.2% of efficiency (active area) is achieved reducing the Na concentration for the lower Tsub,max. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Energy transfer from rare‐earth element to Mn in (Ca,Sr)Ga2S4 compounds
Authors: Obonai Toshimitsu , Hidaka Chiharu , Takizawa Takeo
Published: March 2009

For realizing a red‐colour emission using SrGa2S4 compounds, Mn and rare‐earth‐element (REE) co‐doping is tried. Photoluminescence (PL) and photoluminescence excitation (PLE) spectra are measured using samples so prepared. As a result, enhancement of the Mn red emission is observed. Considering the 4f and 5d levels of REE in the host material, it is expected that the energy transfer from REE to Mn is caused by the weak coupling between the d levels of REE and Mn. Moreover, in the Ce co‐doping case, another process is expected as a resonant energy transfer between the 4f–5d transition of Ce3+ and a certain transition of Mn2+. To specify the Mn2+ levels related to the resonant transfer, PL spectra of a Mn only doped CaGa2S4 single crystal and an undoped one are measured at low temperatures, though we could not find emission expected to be related to the resonant transfer. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
CuI/Zn2x(CuIn)1–xS2/AgIn5S8 double heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Konovalov Igor , Makhova Liudmila , Roussak Liudmila
Published: March 2009

First succesfull attempts to apply ZnS–CuInS2 mixed crystals in double heterojunction p–i–n solar cells in combination with AgIn5S8 and CuI are presented. Besides of studying the optoelectronic properties of the heterojunction structures, a special attention is paid to the problem of optimal band offsets and of the chemical stability. The influence of band offsets on the conversion efficiency was treated by simulation using SCAPS software, whereas the experimental band offsets were measured using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The trend of the open circuit voltage change vs. ZnS concentration can be explained by the observed change of the band offset at the interface with AgIn5S8. For each combination of the n‐type and p‐type materials in a p–i–n heterostructure, a certain maximum possible band gap in the i‐type material exists, still allowing the perfect band alignment. This band gap is about 1.2 eV for AgIn5S8 + CuI combination. The band gaps of all ZnS–CuInS2 materials being larger than 1.5 eV are too large to be used in optimal double heterojunction devices in this system. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A structural study on the CuGaSe2‐related copper‐poor materials CuGa3Se5 and CuGa5Se8: thin‐film vs. bulk material
Authors: Lehmann Sebastian , Marrón David Fuertes , Tovar Michael , Tomm Yvonne , Wolf Christian , Schorr Susan , Schedel‐Niedrig Thomas , Arushanov Ernest , Lux‐Steiner Martha Christina
Published: March 2009

Polycrystalline samples of CuGaSe2‐related defect compounds (DC) have been prepared by Chemical Close‐Spaced Vapour Transport (CCSVT) (thin films) and elemental synthesis (powder) respectively. In the latter case a homogenisation step was introduced during the preparation, including mechanical intermixing and adjacent‐heat treatment after the main reaction. Following this route we assured conditions “close to” thermodynamic equilibrium. The influence of the annealing temperature on the lattice parameters a0 and c0, as well as the cation distribution, was investigated. By means of X‐ray and neutron diffraction analysis the structural properties of the Cu–Ga–Se based DCs have been determined and a new structural model has been derived. Finally the structural parameters of CCSVT‐grown thin‐film material were correlated with findings for bulk material samples which were intentionally prepared off‐equilibrium. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Investigations of interdiffusion in InGaAsP multiple‐quantum‐well structures by photoreflectance
Authors: Lin D. Y. , Lin W. C. , Wu F. L. , Wu J. S. , Pan Y. T. , Lee S. L. , Huang Y. S.
Published: March 2009

We present the investigations of interdiffusion in InGaAsP multiple‐quantum‐well (MQW) structures using photoreflectance (PR) and photoluminescence (PL) measurements. It is found that the degree of compositional intermixing induced by the processes of ion implantation and rapid thermal annealing in MQW structures can be obtained through the energy shift of the 11H excitonic transition. Besides, the strain relaxation resulting from intermixing is studied through the high order excitonic transitions observed in PR spectra. It is found that the splitting energy between the 11H and 11L transitions decreases as a result of increasing the degree of intermixing. Based on the theoretical calculation considering the strain effect and the different diffusion ratios between the group‐III and group‐V atoms, the data analysis have been done. It is pointed out that the diffusion coefficients and the ratio of diffusion rates between the group‐V and group‐III atoms has been enhanced by the P+ ion implantation. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On the stability of fluorine ions in AlGaN/GaN heterostructures: a molecular dynamics simulation study
Authors: Yuan Li , Wang Maojun , Chen Kevin J.
Published: March 2009

Fluorine ions can be effectively incorporated into AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) structures, enabling the modulation of local potential and carrier density. The physical mechanism of fluorine incorporation in AlGaN/GaN heterojunctions is of fundamental importance to the stability of fluorine ions in AlGaN/GaN HEMTs. In this work, the molecular dynamic (MD) simulation method is used to calculate the potential energies of interstitial and substitutional fluorine atoms in AlGaN/GaN material system. Ziegler‐Biersack‐Littmark (ZBL), Lindhard‐Sorensen (L‐S) and Coulomb potential functions are applied in the MD simulation. The geometric lattice structures, spontaneous and piezoelectric polarizations, and temperature dependence are also included in the simulation. The activation energies associated with interstitial‐substitutional and interstitial‐interstitial diffusions are obtained. It is revealed that the fluorine ions are most likely located at the substitutional group‐III cation sites S(III) and the diffusion of fluorine ions should be dominated by S(III)‐interstitial process which exhibits an activation energy of 1.1 eV in Al0.25Ga0.75N and 1.4 eV in GaN in the presence of group‐III vacancies. It is expected that the removal of group‐III vacancies can significantly suppress the fluorine diffusion, which in turn, leads to excellent fluorine stability in III‐nitride materials. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Activation energy of Mg in Al0.25Ga0.75N and Al0.5Ga0.5N
Authors: Nagamatsu Kentaro , Takeda Kenichiro , Iwaya Motoaki , Kamiyama Satoshi , Amano Hiroshi , Akasaki Isamu
Published: March 2009

The Mg concentration dependence of the acceptor activation energy in Al0.25Ga0.75N and Al0.5Ga0.5N was investigated. Temperature‐dependent Hall effect measurements show that effective acceptor activation energy changes with a negative 1/3 power of Mg concentration, which means that the activation ratio increases with increasing Mg concentration. Similar to the case of GaN, however, overdoping of Mg causes serious compensation and a steep decrease of the hole concentration. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
MBE growth of GaN and AlN using ammonia cluster ion beam – Dependence on cluster energy and growth temperature
Authors: Saito Hiroshi , Nakagawa Shun‐ichiro , Ohishi Masakazu , Imai Kazuaki
Published: March 2009

Cluster ion beam (CIB) using ammonia as a source gas is applied to molecular beam epitaxial growth of GaN and AlN. Absolute values of the flux density of Ga; F (Ga), that of Al; F (Al) and that of N; F (N), and the ratio; R =F (Ga)/F (N) are determined for quantitative discussion. In the case of GaN, the growth rate increases linearly with F (Ga) until certain value of F (Ga)=Fc, but in turn decrease for F (Ga)>Fc. The R corresponding to Fc occurs at Rc=0.14, independent of the CIB energy at a fixed growth temperature, but moves to higher R with the rise of growth temperature. The FWHM (Δω) of (0002) rocking curve of XRD having values of 2000∼4000 arcsec at smaller F (Ga) or R, decreases to below 200 arcsec with increasing F (Ga) or R. The growth rate for F (Ga)Fc is related to two different kind of growth mechanisms taking place simultaneously, probably caused by the presence of excess Ga atoms on the surface. In the case of AlN, Δω (0002) shows a close relationship with the (0002) intensity in 2θ‐ω scan and has value of 200∼300 arcsec for samples with stronger (0002) intensity. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Scanning capacitance microscopy as a tool for the assessment of unintentional doping in GaN
Authors: Oliver Rachel A. , Bakshi Subhankar Das , Sumner Joy , Kappers Menno J.
Published: March 2009

Scanning capacitance microscopy (SCM) is a technique based on atomic force microscopy which provides information about the concentration and distribution of charge carriers in a semiconducting sample. As an imaging technique it provides an advantage over more conventional approaches such as secondary ion mass spectrometry and depth‐profiling Hall voltage measurement since it provides a two‐dimensional dataset rather than a one dimensional line profile. Here, we demonstrate the utility of SCM for GaN‐based materials by assessing the unintentionally doped layer at the GaN/sapphire interface in a series of samples in which the growth conditions initially favoured the formation of three‐dimensional islands, which later coalesced to form a two‐dimensional film. Using SCM we observe that the width of the resulting conductive layer at the GaN/sapphire interface depends on the time taken to achieve coalescence but that the carrier density does not. We also assess and attempt to explain the roughness of the top surface of the conductive interface layer, which can only be addressed using an imaging technique. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)