bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ileocolocolic intussusception secondary to a submucosal lipoma: An unusual cause of intermittent abdominal pain in a 62‐year‐old woman
Authors: Kuzmich Siarhei , Connelly James P. , Howlett David C. , Kuzmich Tatsiana , Basit Rizwan , Doctor Cyrus
Published: August 2009

We present a case of subacute nonobstructing ileocolocolic intussusception secondary to a submucosal lipoma and a mobile cecum diagnosed sonographically in a 62‐year‐old woman. The patient was seen following a 2‐month history of nonspecific intermittent pain in the right and middle abdomen and weight loss. Sonography revealed ongoing intussusception involving distal ascending and transverse colon. Analysis of the distal intussusception end demonstrated a 3.0 × 2.5 cm echogenic polypoid lesion consistent with a lipoma serving as a lead point. The sonographic diagnosis was confirmed at surgery. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2010.
Effect of loading on the organization of the collagen fibril network in juvenile equine articular cartilage
Authors: Brama Pieter A.J. , Holopainen Jaakko , van Weeren P. René , Firth Elwyn C. , Helminen Heikki J. , Hyttinen Mika M.
Published: August 2009

We investigated the effects of exercise‐induced loading on the collagen network of equine articular cartilage. Collagen fibril architecture at a site (1) subjected to intermittent high‐intensity loading was compared with that of an adjacent site (2) sustaining continuous low‐level load. From horses exposed to forced exercise (CONDEX group) or not (PASTEX group), the spatial parallelism of fibrils and the orientation angle between fibrils and the surface at depths 9 µm apart through cartilage from surface to tidemark were determined using polarized light microscopy, and expressed as parallelism index (PI) and orientation index (OI). PI was significantly higher in site 2 than 1 in CONDEX and PASTEX groups. PI was significantly higher in forced exercised horses at site 2 but not site 1. OI was significantly greater (more perpendicular to the surface) in the superficial and deep cartilage of site 2 than 1 in both CONDEX and PASTEX groups. Superficial zone OI was higher in exercised horses at site 1 but not at site 2. Exercise increased collagen parallelism and affected orientation. The site differences in OI indicate that Benninghoff's classic predominantly perpendicular arcades appear not to be a consistent architectural feature, but adapt to local forces sustained. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Meniscus structure in human, sheep, and rabbit for animal models of meniscus repair
Authors: Chevrier Anik , Nelea Monica , Hurtig Mark B. , Hoemann Caroline D. , Buschmann Michael D.
Published: August 2009

Meniscus injury is a frequently encountered clinical orthopedic issue and is epidemiologically correlated to osteoarthritis. The development of new treatments for meniscus injury is intimately related to the appropriateness of animal models for their investigation. The purpose of this study was to structurally compare human menisci to sheep and rabbit menisci to generate pertinent animal models for meniscus repair. Menisci were analyzed histologically, immunohistochemically, and by environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM). In all species, collagen I appeared throughout most menisci, but was absent from the inner portion of the tip in some samples. Collagen II was present throughout the inner main meniscal body, while collagen VI was found in pericellular and perivascular regions. The glycosaminoglycan‐rich inner portion of menisci was greater in area for rabbit and sheep compared to human. Cells were rounded in central regions and more fusiform at the surface, with rabbit being more cellular than sheep and human. Vascular penetration in rabbit was confined to the very outermost region (1% of meniscus length), while vessels penetrated deeper into sheep and human menisci (11–15%). ESEM revealed a lamellar collagenous structure at the articulating surfaces of sheep and human menisci that was absent in rabbit. Taken together, these data suggest that the main structural features that will influence meniscus repair—cellularity, vascularity, collagen structure—are similar in sheep and human but significantly different in rabbit, motivating the development of ovine meniscus repair models. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Preparative separation of capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin from Capsicum frutescens by high‐speed counter‐current chromatography
Authors: Peng Aihua , Ye Haoyu , Li Xia , Chen Lijuan
Published: August 2009

Capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin are two main bioactive components of Capsicum frutescens and are widely used as food additives and drugs in China and India. Due to their similarity in structures, isolation of capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin with traditional methods such as silica gel column chromatography, normal‐phase thin‐layer chromatography (TLC) becomes difficult. This study involves separating capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin with sufficient purity and recovery using high‐speed counter‐current chromatography (HSCCC) with a solvent system composed of n‐hexane–ethyl acetate–methanol–water–acetic acid (20:20:20:20:2, v/v/v/v/v). Separation parameters such as sample volume, and sample concentration were first optimized on analytical HSCCC, and then scaled up to preparative HSCCC. 0.65 g capsaicin and 0.28 g dihydrocapsaicin were obtained from 1.2 g crude extract and their purities were 98.5 and 97.8%, respectively. The recoveries of the two compounds were 86.3 and 85.4%, respectively. The purity of the isolated compounds was analyzed by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and their structures were identified by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and 13C NMR analysis.
Extraction, separation, and fluorometric analysis of selected environmental contaminants
Authors: Walworth Matthew J. , Connatser R. Maggie , Sepaniak Michael J.
Published: August 2009

Teratogenic, carcinogenic, and pervasive endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) in suspect water systems present an immediate threat to both the environment and potable water supplies. The US Environmental Protection Agency mandated research regarding suspect EDCs, personal care products, and pesticide pollution requires the use of suitable methods of analysis that can perform extraordinarily well in the field and show low “cost to benefit” ratios. Such methods must increasingly address the need for enhanced sensitivity and selectivity in interrogating complex mixtures. Here, several device and method optimization strategies, specific for these classes of compounds, are discussed and include, among others, the preconcentration of field samples utilizing high performance extraction disk cartridges. Matrix interferences and undetectable concentration levels are eliminated by the way of an RP extraction technique that is vital to obtaining detectable concentrations of target analytes in the ppb range. Established capillary EKC methods are modified and implemented on a short capillary for low nanoliter discrete injections, efficient separations, and detection with LIF of analyte mixtures. Efficient separations were achieved with plate counts ranging from 103 to 104. Analytes spiked into real sample matrices at ppb levels were easily separated and detected via LIF using a He/Cd laser operating at 325 nm. The presented techniques are valuable in determining both the presence and concentration of suspect contaminates in different water systems. The methods presented here could easily be extended to microfluidic platforms with little to no optimization for on‐site testing.
Assessing visitors' experiences at hot spring recreation areas in Taiwan
Authors: Lee Tsung‐Hung
Published: August 2009

This study assessed the recreational experiences of tourists and aims to discuss the sustainable development of hot spring recreation areas in Taiwan. The study employed questionnaires that included variables measuring importance, satisfaction, sustainable development, and demographic and recreational characteristics. The rate of repeat visits was extremely high. Moreover, tourists strongly agreed that hot spring recreation areas should develop ecotourism programmes. This study concludes that hot spring recreation areas could utilise their natural landscapes, hot spring quality, hotel service quality and proximity to neighbouring destinations to develop themselves. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sphenoid septations and their relationship with internal carotid arteries: Anatomical and radiological study
Authors: Fernandez‐Miranda Juan C. , Prevedello Daniel M. , Madhok Ricky , Morera Victor , Barges‐Coll Juan , Reineman Katharine , Snyderman Carl H. , Gardner Paul , Carrau Ricardo , Kassam Amin B.
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

We sought to investigate the anatomical relation of the intrasphenoid septations to the internal carotid artery (ICA).

Methods:

Twenty‐seven preoperative high‐resolution computed tomography angiographic (CTA) scans with 1 mm of separation acquisition were examined. In addition, an endoscopic endonasal approach and high‐resolution computed tomography were done on 27 fresh‐frozen cadaveric heads. The number of intrasphenoid septa and their relation to the ICAs were analyzed endoscopically and radiologically. Complete and incomplete septations were included in the analysis. A total of 54 sphenoid sinuses were studied.

Results:

Out of 27 sphenoid sinuses radiologically studied from real patients, 23 (85%) and 11 (41%) had at least one or two septa, respectively, touching one of the ICA. Out of 27 sphenoid sinuses endoscopically examined from cadavers (excluding one conchal type), 24 (89%) had at least one septation inserted in the ICAs. Two or more septations were inserted in the carotid prominence in 48% of sphenoid sinuses. The radiological examination of the anatomical specimens revealed similar results, with discrepancy in just one case (1/27) where it did not identify an incomplete septation inserting at ICA. No significant differences were found between the groups. From a total of 54 sphenoid sinuses studied, 47 (87%) had at least one septum related to the ICA, and only 13% presented a typical isolated midline septation.

Conclusions:

As demonstrated both radiographically and endoscopically, most intrasphenoidal septa insert at the parasellar or paraclival carotid prominence. As such, extreme care should be taken when identifying and removing these septations intraoperatively. Laryngoscope, 2009
Polyrotaxanes of Pyrene–Triazole Conjugated Azomethine and α‐Cyclodextrin with High Fluorescence Properties
Authors: Farcas Aurica , Jarroux Nathalie , Ghosh Indrajit , Guégan Philippe , Nau Werner M. , Harabagiu Valeria
Published: August 2009

The paper reports on the preparation of a new 2‐rotaxane monomer through an acid coupling reaction between 1‐pyrenecarboxaldehyde and α‐CD/3,5‐diamino‐1,2,4‐triazole inclusion complex. Pyrenyl groups are large enough to provide a blocking effect toward cyclodextrin de‐threading. The oxidative CC coupling of 2‐rotaxane in the presence of RuCl3 catalyst afforded conjugated azomethine polyrotaxanes. The expected modifications of the solubility, morphology, film forming ability for rotaxane polymer were proved. As shown by fluorescence and UV‐vis spectroscopy, a material with optical properties appropriate for use in photonics was obtained.

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Revealing Triple‐Shape Memory Effect by Polymer Bilayers
Authors: Xie Tao , Xiao Xingcheng , Cheng Yang‐Tse
Published: August 2009

Bilayer polymers that consist of two epoxy dual‐shape memory polymers of well‐separated glass transition temperatures have been synthesized. These bilayer epoxy samples exhibit a triple‐shape memory effect (TSME) with shape fixities tailorable by changing the ratio between the two layers. The triple‐shape fixities of the bilayer epoxy polymers can be explained by the balance of stress between the two layers. Based on this work, it is believed that the following three molecular design criterions should be considered in designing triple‐shape memory polymers with optimum TSME: 1) well‐separated thermal transitions, 2) a strong interface, and 3) an appropriate balance of moduli and relative ratios between the layers (or microphases).

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Characteristics of Bimodal Polyethylene Prepared via Co‐Immobilization of Chromium and Iron Catalysts on an MgCl2‐Based Support
Authors: Kukalyekar Nileshkumar , Balzano Luigi , Peters Gerrit W. M. , Rastogi Sanjay , Chadwick John C.
Published: August 2009

Bimodal polyethylenes comprising varying proportions of high‐ and low‐molecular‐weight fractions are synthesized in a single polymerization stage, via the co‐immobilization of a chromium and an iron catalyst on an MgCl2/AlEtn(OEt)3−n support. Changes observed in the viscoelastic response of the polymer melt with increasing content of the high‐molecular‐weight fraction indicate effective mixing in the bimodal blend. In flow, chains in the high‐molecular weight fraction tend to orient and stretch under shear. Due to the longer relaxation time of the high‐molecular‐weight component, X‐ray diffraction and scattering reveal that shear‐induced crystallization takes place at temperatures close to the equilibrium melting point of linear polyethylene. The so‐crystallized high‐molecular‐weight component suppresses the nucleation barrier for further crystallization, leading to the formation of a “shish‐kebab” polymer morphology.

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Noninvasive quantification of human brain ascorbate concentration using 1H NMR spectroscopy at 7 T
Authors: Terpstra Melissa , Ugurbil Kamil , Tkac Ivan
Published: August 2009

Ascorbate (Asc, vitamin C) was quantified in the human brain noninvasively using two different 1H NMR spectroscopy methods: short‐echo time STEAM and MEGA‐PRESS homonuclear editing. Taking advantage of increased sensitivity and chemical shift dispersion at 7 T, Asc was quantified with increased reliability relative to our previous study accomplished at 4 T. Asc concentration quantified from short‐echo time spectra measured from the occipital lobe of eight healthy subjects ([Asc] = 1.1 ± 0.3 µmol/g, mean ± SD) was in excellent agreement with Asc concentration quantified from the same volume of interest using homonuclear editing ([Asc] = 1.2 ± 0.2 µmol/g). This agreement indicates that at 7 T, Asc can be reliably quantified in the human brain simultaneously with 15 other metabolites. Additional advantages of the short‐echo time approach were: shorter measurement time than homonuclear editing and minimal effect of T2 relaxation on Asc quantification. High magnetic field was also beneficial for Asc quantification with MEGA‐PRESS because increased chemical shift dispersion enabled editing with full efficiency, which resulted in a supra‐linear gain in signal‐to‐noise ratio relative to 4 T. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stafne's defects in two mandibles from archaeological sites in Croatia
Authors: Vodanović M. , Šlaus M. , Galić I. , Marotti M. , Brkić H.
Published: August 2009

Salivary gland inclusions in the mandible are relatively uncommon in recent as well as archaeological populations. This condition is well known to oral surgeons, but less so to anthropologists, osteologists and skeletal biologists. At present a limited number of reports pertaining to this condition in ancient populations are available in anthropological and palaeopathological literature, although scattered reports of cases in recent populations are found in dental journals. This paper analyses the prevalence of Stafne's bone defect in a large composite Croatian archaeological series (n = 4250 mandibles), and reports on two cases in which computerised tomography was performed, in order to draw the attention of anthropologists, osteologists and skeletal biologists to this condition when faced with differential diagnosis of odontogenic lesions, cysts and neoplasms in the area of the angle of the mandible. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of dispersion on graphite nanosheet composites
Authors: Wu Tsung‐Lin , Lo Tzu‐Sen , Kuo Wen‐Shyong
Published: August 2009

By intercalating and exfoliating natural graphite flakes, expanded graphite was obtained and used as the additive for making composites. The expanded graphite was composed of partly connected graphite nanosheets. Three types of composites were made, representing three levels of dispersing the graphite nanosheets. The first was the impregnation of epoxy resin to the expanded graphite by resin transfer molding. No dispersion was applied, and the expanded graphite can retain its original shape. The second was the use of a high‐power sonication to break apart the expanded graphite. The thickness of the sonicated expanded graphite was reduced to about 100 times. The third method was to use a high‐shear strain rate to separate the graphite nanosheets from the expanded graphite and to disperse them into the resin. The thickness range of the graphite nanosheets was 20–50 nm, about 100 times thinner than the sonicated ones. Compression and impact tests were conducted. The influence of dispersion on the material behavior was studied. Some fracture modes associated with the layered microstructures of the graphite nanosheets were observed. A simple model was used to study the stress transfer and frictional energy consumption of the pullout of the nanosheet. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effects of filler size and content on shrinkage and gloss of injection molded PBT/PET/talc composites
Authors: Kim Myung Wook , Lee Seung Hwan , Youn Jae Ryoun
Published: August 2009

Effects of filler size and content on the shrinkage of injection molded poly(butylene terephthalate)/poly(ethylene terephthalate)/talc (PBT/PET/talc) composites were investigated. Circular plate specimens were examined by a field emission scanning electron microscope and a numerical analysis code was used for modeling of the injection molding. Orientation effects of polymer molecules and fillers on the shrinkage behavior of PBT/PET/talc composites were illustrated by using schematic diagrams. It was found that the planes of talc particles were aligned parallel to the mold wall due to applied shear stresses and the largest axes of the disk‐like talc particles were oriented along the flow direction. Shrinkage of the PBT/PET/talc composites was decreased more rapidly along the flow direction than along the transverse direction as the talc content was increased. Small‐sized talc was more effective for reduction of the surface shrinkage of PBT/PET composites than titanium dioxide (TiO2) or large‐sized talc. Although the PBT/PET polymer matrix almost covered the surface of talc particles, surface gloss of the particle filled composites was decreased as the size of mineral filler was increased. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of poly(ethylene terephthalate)/clay nanocomposites prepared by melt processing
Authors: Durmus Ali , Ercan Nevra , Soyubol Göksu , Deligöz Hüseyin , Kaşgöz Ahmet
Published: August 2009

In this study, cold and melt crystallization behaviors of amorphous poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET)/clay nanocomposites were investigated. Two nanocomposite samples with the same amount of inorganic content were prepared by melt processing using natural montmorillonite (Na‐MMT) and organo‐modified montmorillonite (org‐MMT). Depending on the clay structure, clay dispersion into PET and crystallization behavior of the samples were studied using X‐ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry methods, respectively. Effects of clay structure and organic groups between clay layers in org‐MMT on the melt crystallization kinetics of the samples were analyzed with various kinetic models, namely, the Ozawa, Avrami modified by Jeziorny, and Liu‐Mo. Crystallization activation energies of the samples were also determined by the Kissinger and Augis–Bennett models. Exfoliated structures were obtained in the nanocomposite samples prepared with both the Na‐MMT and org‐MMT. From the kinetics study, it was found that the melt‐crystallization rate of the sample prepared with the Na‐MMT was higher than that prepared with the org‐MMT at a given cooling rate. It can be concluded that organic ammonium groups in the org‐MMT decelerate the crystallization rate of PET chains possibly by affecting the chain diffusion and folding. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Properties of unidirectional kenaf fiber–polyolefin laminates
Authors: Lee Sangyeob , Shi Sheldon Q. , Groom Leslie H. , Xue Yibin
Published: August 2009

The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of kenaf fiber orientation and furnish formulation on the properties of laminated natural fiber–polymer composites (LNPC). The uniaxial fiber orientation provided property enhancement of the LNPC. The randomly oriented kenaf fibers, regardless of fiber contents in the laminates, provided an equal performance compared to the composites made of 25% fiber glass reinforced polyvinyl ester resin in the same laboratory processing conditions. Thermal properties of the laminates obtained from thermal gravimetry with differential scanning calorimetry (TG‐DSC) showed that the melting point (Tm) of the polypropylene (PP) film laminates decreased, and the crystallization peak increased as the kenaf fiber content in the laminates increased. The surface morphology results of the kenaf fiber and fractures of the laminates showed that some fibers pulled out from the matrix. The mechanical properties increased as the kenaf fiber content increased. The tensile stress of the laminated composites fabricated with unidirectional fiber orientation was about 2–4 times higher than those with the randomly oriented samples. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction: effect on emotional distress in diabetes
Authors: Young LA , Cappola AR , Baime MJ
Published: August 2009

Psychological distress is common in patients with diabetes. Little is known about the impact of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), a non‐traditional, cognitive behavioural intervention designed to improve stress management skills, in patients with diabetes.

The purpose of this retrospective analysis was to evaluate the impact of MBSR training on mood states in 25 individuals with diabetes. All participants completed the Profile of Mood States Short Form (POMS‐SF) at baseline and following eight weeks of MBSR. Overall psychological distress measured by the total mood score (TMS) and six subscales—including tension/anxiety, depression/dejection, anger/hostility, fatigue/inertia, confusion/bewilderment and vigour/activity—were assessed.

Overall mood, measured by the TMS, as well as all subscale mood measurements improved significantly from baseline following MBSR training. Compared to population means, those with diabetes had higher distress at baseline and similar levels of distress following MBSR training. The primary reason participants reported for enrolling in the MBSR course was to improve stress management skills.

It was concluded that MBSR training is a promising, group‐based intervention that can be used to decrease psychological distress in individuals with diabetes who perceive a need for training in stress management. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, characterization, and electroluminescence of novel copolyfluorenes and their applications in white light emission
Authors: Wang Ping , Jin Hao , Yang Qian , Liu Wanli , Shen Zhihao , Chen Xiaofang , Fan Xinghe , Zou Dechun , Zhou Qifeng
Published: August 2009

New copolyfluorenes (PC8OF0–PC8OF50) comprised of 9,9‐dioctylfluorene and jacketed units 2,5‐bis[(5‐octyloxy‐phenyl)‐1,3,4‐ oxadiazole]‐1‐(3,5‐dibromophenyl)‐benzene (35C8) were synthesized by palladium‐catalyzed Suzuki coupling reaction. They were characterized by molecular weight determination, 1H NMR, elemental analysis, DSC, TGA, absorption and emission spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry (CV). These copolymers were readily soluble in common organic solvents and exhibited high glass transition temperature and thermal stability.The copolymer films showed absorption peaks from 381 nm to 351 nm, and PL peaks from 432 nm to 421 nm with a blue shift originated from 35C8 units. Both the HOMO energy levels and LUMO levels changed little as the content of 35C8 units increased (−5.59 eV to −5.48 eV and −2.60 eV to −2.49 eV). Electroluminescent devices: ITO/PEDOT:PSS[poly(ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrenesulfonate]/polymer/Ca (25 nm)/Ag(80 nm) (a), ITO/PEDOT:PSS/polymer/TPBI [1,3,5‐ tris(N‐phenylbenzimidazol‐2‐yl)benzene](15 nm)/Mg:Ag(10:1, wt)/Ag (b), and ITO/ PEDOT:PSS/PVK[Poly(N‐vinylcarbazole)]/polymer/TPBI(15 nm)/Ca(25 nm)/Ag(80 nm) (c) were fabricated to investigate the influence of jacketed contents and device architectures on emission characteristics. The maximum brightness and current efficiency of the PC8OF25 device (5097.8 cd/m2 and 0.484 cd/A) surpassed those of the PC8OF0 device (3122.8 cd/m2 and 0.416 cd/A). The EL emissions of PC8OF0 – PC8OF50 were pure blue and low‐energy excimer emission bands were successfully suppressed, indicating that these copolymers could be good candidates for blue light‐emitting materials. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4555–4565, 2009
Two‐dimensionally extended aromatic polyamines for optimization of charge‐transporting properties by partial oxidation
Authors: Michinobu Tsuyoshi , Kato Fumiaki , Inui Jun , Nishide Hiroyuki
Published: August 2009

This article describes the synthesis of the two‐dimensionally extended aromatic polyamines by polycondensation between the tri‐sec‐amine monomer and p‐phenylenediamine‐based dibromide, the polyradical generation by chemical and electrochemical oxidations, and the hole‐transporting properties. The molecular weights (Mn) of the polyamines, 3a and 3b, were 7700 and 5000, respectively, and both polymers were very soluble in the typical organic solvents, ensuring a good film formation capability by a spin‐coating technique. The thermal stability of the aromatic polyamines, elucidated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), was quite high. More important, the cross‐conjugated structure is essential for the controlled radical generation and the maintenance of the radical stability. Cyclic voltammograms of the neutral polyamines in the presence of 1 vol % of trifluoroacetic acid and the intervalence bands of the partially oxidized polyamines with NOPF6 revealed that the generated radicals delocalize over the p‐phenylenediamine moieties. The half‐life of the polyradicals was about 12 h even under ambient conditions, which allowed us to fabricate and measure the hole‐only devices. The charge‐transporting properties of the polyamines were dramatically changed by the partial oxidation (20 mol %/aminium unit) with NOPF6. The neutral polyamines showed the conventional injection‐limit behaviors, whereas the hole‐transporting behaviors of the polyradicals are bulk‐limit and highly dependent on the chemical structure. The efficient hole‐transport of the all‐conjugated poly(aminium cationic radical)s was for the first time realized for the polyradical of 3b. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4577–4586, 2009
Modification of silica nanoparticles by grafting of copolymers containing organosilane and fluorine moities
Authors: Pardal Francis , Lapinte Vincent , Robin Jean‐Jacques
Published: August 2009

The free‐radical cotelomerization of 3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate (TMSPMA) with 1,1,2,2‐tetrahydroperfluorodecyl acrylate (PFDA) in the presence of 2‐mercaptoethanol was performed at 80 °C in acetonitrile. Hydroxy end‐groups of the cotelomers were reacted with 2‐isocyanatoethyl methacrylate to give macromonomers. The P(TMSPMA‐stat‐PFDA) cotelomers, containing fluoro and silane groups, were then grafted onto silica nanoparticles. Optimal grafting conditions were found with TMSPMA monomer alone in toluene at 110 °C. The structure of the modified silica was analyzed by FTIR and29Si solid‐state NMR. The amount of grafted TMSPMA or P(TMSPMA‐stat‐PFDA) was calculated by thermogravimetric and elemental analyzes. The grafting yield increased with the copolymer/silica weight ratio until a maximum value of 2.26 μmol/m2. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4617–4628, 2009
Polyaddition of bifunctional cyclic carbonate with diamine in ionic liquids: In situ ion composite formation and simple separation of ionic liquid
Authors: Ochiai Bungo , Satoh Yuriko , Endo Takeshi
Published: August 2009

Polyaddition of bifunctional cyclic carbonates and diamines in ionic liquids proceeded smoothly to afford polyurethanes having hydroxyl groups in the side chain (i.e., poly(hydroxyurethane)). The reaction mixtures separated into ionic liquids and ionic composites consisting of poly(hydroxyurethane) and ionic liquids. The ionic composites originated from the interactions between hydroxyl groups in the side chains and the ionic liquids, confirmed by IR spectroscopic analysis. When the polyaddition was conducted in the mixed solvent consists of water and N‐n‐butylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate. After the reaction, the polymer and the ionic liquid could be separated easily. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4629–4635, 2009
A kinked unit‐containing thermotropic liquid crystalline copolyester with low glass transition temperature and broad phase transition temperature
Authors: Huang Heng‐Zhen , Chen Li , Wang Yu‐Zhong
Published: August 2009

A novel phosphorus‐containing thermotropic liquid crystalline copolyester with kinked unit named as poly(hydroxybenzate‐co‐DOPO‐benzenediol dihydrodipheyl ether terephthalate) (PHDDT) was synthesized successfully by melting transesterification from terephthalic acid (TPA), p‐hydroxybenzoic acid (p‐ABH), 2‐(6‐oxid‐6H‐dibenz(c, e) (1,2) oxaphosphorin 6‐yl)1,4‐benzenediol (DOPO‐HQ), and 4,4′‐dihydroxydiphenyl ether (DOP). The chemical structure, the mesophase behavior, and the thermal properties of the copolyesters were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H, 13C, and 31P NMR), wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, polarizing light microscopy (PLM), differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and dynamic mechanical analysis. Results suggested that PHDDTs exhibited the typical nematic mesophase that occurred at low temperatures and maintained in a broad temperature range from 230 °C to higher than 400 °C, and had low glass transition temperature ranging from 154.5 to 166.9 °C. The novel phosphorus‐containing thermotropic liquid crystalline copolyester will have a potential application in preparing various in situ reinforced polymer materials with excellent mechanical properties and flame retardancy. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4703–4709, 2009
Content validation of the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for Head and Neck Cancer (HNC): the perspective of psychologists
Authors: Becker Sven , Kirchberger Inge , Cieza Alarcos , Berghaus Alexander , Harréus Ulrich , Reichel Oliver , Tschiesner Uta
Published: August 2009

Objective: The ‘Comprehensive ICF Core Set for Head and Neck Cancer (HNC)’ is an application of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) and represents the typical spectrum of problems in functioning of patients with HNC. The objective of this study was to explore the content validity of this Core Set from the perspective of psychologists.

Methods: Psychologists experienced in HNC treatment were asked about the patients' problems, resources and aspects of environment they treat in HNC patients in a three‐round Delphi survey. First round responses were linked to the ICF. In round two a list of all identified ICF categories was sent to the participants and they were asked whether the listed ICF categories represent the patients' problems, resources and the aspects of the environment psychologists treat in HNC patients. In round three the participants were requested to reconsider their decisions based on the group response. Kappa statistics was used to describe the agreement between the two health care professionals who performed the linking.

Results: 34 psychologists from 15 countries named 728 concepts covering all ICF components. 98 ICF categories were linked to these answers. 27 concepts were linked to the not yet developed ICF component ‘personal factors’. Kappa coefficient reached 0.71 (95% bootstrapped CI 0.64–0.77).

Conclusion: The validity of the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for HNC was largely supported by the perspective of psychologists. However, some categories considered relevant for psychologists but currently not covered by the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for HNC require further investigation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative Study of the Superhydrophobic‐Modification of Silicone Rubber Surfaces by CF4 ICP and CCP
Authors: Gao Song‐Hua , Zhou Ke‐Sheng , Lei Ming‐Kai , Wen Li‐Shi
Published: August 2009

Super‐hydrophobic surface‐modification of silicone rubber (SIR) as an outdoor insulator by CF4 radio frequency (RF) inductively coupled plasma (ICP) and capacitively coupled plasma (CCP) has been studied. X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and static contact angle measurements were employed to characterize the changes of the surface chemical composition, topography, and hydrophobicity. The results show that etching or ablation and fluorination are parallel and competitive during both treatments. The improvement of hydrophobicity is ascribed to the coaction of the increase of surface roughness and the introduction of fluoric groups (CCFn) or structures (SiF and SiF2). It is also found that the ratio of [SiF]/[CF] and the increase of surface roughness of the SIR treated by CCP are higher than that by ICP, which leads to a greater hydrophobic modification effect by the CCP process.

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Analyses of Thick Lithium Coatings Deposited by Sputter‐Evaporation and Exposed to Air
Authors: Rigaux C. , Lafort A. , Bodart F. , Jongen Y. , Cambriani A. , Lucas S.
Published: August 2009

Lithium coatings on various substrates have numerous applications: Boron neutron capture therapy, neutron activation analysis, super‐conducting tokamak etc. Traditionally these coatings are produced by well‐known techniques such as electrochemistry and evaporation. In this work, we investigated a new method based on sputter‐evaporation, which enables thick coatings (>10 µm) to be built on various substrates within a short timeframe. In order to minimize the process time, evaporation techniques can be used but the coating quality suffers. Moreover, it is well known that the use of DC magnetron sputtering results in the deposition of good quality coatings (smoothness, density, adhesion); however, the deposition rate is low. The rationale of this work is to combine these two techniques, yielding a sputter‐evaporation process that possesses the advantages of each separate technique. Li is placed in a stainless steel crucible (cathode), and heated by the plasma generated by a magnetron discharge. The Li temperature is measured by a thermocouple welded onto the cathode and measured at different plasma power densities. The deposition rate of lithium is measured using a quartz balance and by profilometry, at several temperatures (from 0 to 580 °C). Li samples were depth‐profiled with the resonant nuclear reaction 7Li(p,γ)7. In addition to the concentration, certain characteristics like the density and the chemical reactivity of layers, are also important. Thus we have studied the evolution of the density with time, estimated by weight and profilometry measurements, and the change in morphology, by cross‐sectional scanning electron microscopy (SEM), of samples exposed to air at room temperature. The evolution of the film compounds have also been determined by X‐ray powder diffraction. These physical properties have been investigated for various bias substrates during deposition.
High Temporal Resolution Ion Energy Distribution Functions in HIPIMS Discharges
Authors: Mishra Anurag , Clarke Gregory , Kelly Peter , Bradley James W.
Published: August 2009

A technique for obtaining high time resolution ion energy distribution functions (IEDFs) at the substrate in depositing plasma has been demonstrated, and applied to a high power impulse magnetron sputtering (HIPIMS) discharge. Key to this technique is the electrostatic gating of ions inside the instrument end cap. To demonstrate the performance of this technique, IEDF measurements with a 2 µs time‐resolution have been made with the following HIPIMS operating conditions: a repetition rate of 100 Hz, a pulse width of 100 µs, a pressure of 0.26 Pa and a peak power density of 2.5 kW cm−2. The orifice of the mass spectrometer was positioned facing the racetrack region of the circular magnetron cathode. The Ar+ ions were detected 8 µs after initiation of the discharge voltage pulse, exhibiting a narrow distribution of energies, while Ti+ ions were detected 14 µs after the initiation, showing a high‐energy tail extending up to 100 eV. The time‐evolution of Ti+ ions show that the metal flux starts to be built up at the substrate position at times 20 µs after the pulse initiation.
Deposition of TiN–WS2 Nanocomposite Coatings by a Hybrid Process: Reactive Sputtering and Clusters Gun
Authors: Mohan D. Bharathi , Svahn F. , Cavaleiro A.
Published: August 2009

A dc magnetron reactive sputtering equipment connected with a homemade clusters gun was used to deposit a series of TiN–WS2 nanocomposite coatings with different magnetron power values and different argon pressures in the clusters gun. The original idea was to achieve from the TiN matrix, originated from the normal running of the magnetron system, the high wear resistance property, whereas the pre‐formed IF–WS2 nanospheres introduced by the clusters gun would provide the low friction coefficient. A small peak detected at low diffraction angles by X‐ray diffraction in two of the produced samples gave the first evidence of the WS2 nanospheres incorporation in the TiN matrix. Then, scanning electron microscopy was used for observing very small grain features which were identified as the WS2 nanospheres by energy dispersive analysis of X‐rays, demonstrating the feasibility of this hybrid technique for the deposition of nanocomposite coatings.
Modulated T‐complex protein 1 ζ and peptidyl‐prolyl cis‐trans isomerase B are two novel indicators for evaluating lymph node metastasis in colorectal cancer: Evidence from proteomics and bioinformatics
Authors: Yue Fei , Wang Li‐Shun , Xia Li , Wang Xiao‐Ling , Feng Bo , Lu Ai‐Guo , Chen Guo‐Qiang , Zheng Min‐Hua
Published: August 2009

Lymph node metastasis (LNM) is an important indicator for systematic therapy, which could increase the survival of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. However, effective clinical evaluation for LNM is still absent to date. In this study, protein expression profiles of CRC tissues were compared between patients with and without LNM. Based on average expression level, 12 proteins were found to be differentially expressed in the CRC tissues with LNM, whose discrimination reliability was confirmed by PCA. With stepwise linear discriminant analysis, T‐complex protein 1 ζ subunit and peptidyl‐prolyl cis‐trans isomerase B (PPIB) were identified as two main contributors for separating CRC tissues with positive LNM from those negative ones in both original‐grouped and cross‐validated‐grouped cases, which was also supported in subsequent linear support vector machine analysis. In addition, the expression alterations of the two proteins were verified by Western blot and immunohistochemistry. Functional studies also confirmed the role of PPIB in migration and invasion of cancer cells. Taken together, the down‐regulated T‐complex protein 1 ζ subunit and up‐regulated PPIB were identified as two promising indicators for the clinical evaluation of LNM in CRC patients.
Toward the proteome of the human peripheral blood eosinophil
Authors: Straub Christof , Pazdrak Konrad , Young Travis W. , Stafford Susan J. , Wu Zheng , Wiktorowicz John E. , Haag Anthony M. , English Robert D. , Soman Kizhake V. , Kurosky Alexander
Published: August 2009

Eosinophils (EOSs) are granular leukocytes that have significant roles in many inflammatory and immunoregulatory responses, especially asthma and allergic diseases. We have undertaken a fairly comprehensive proteomic analysis of purified peripheral blood EOSs from normal human donors primarily employing 2‐DE with protein spot identification by MALDI‐MS. Protein subfractionation methods employed included IEF (Zoom®Fractionator) and subcellular fractionation using differential protein solubilization. We have identified 3141 proteins, which had Mascot expectation scores of 10−3or less. Of these 426 were unique and non‐redundant of which 231 were novel proteins not previously reported to occur in EOSs. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis showed that some 70% of the non‐redundant proteins could be subdivided into categories that are clearly related to currently known EOS biological activities. Cytoskeletal and associated proteins predominated among the proteins identified. Extensive protein posttranslational modifications were evident, many of which have not been previously reported that reflected the dynamic character of the EOS. This data set of eosinophilic proteins will prove valuable in comparative studies of diseaseversusnormal states and for studies of gender differences and polymorphic variation among individuals.
Toward a Successful Clinical Neuroproteomics The 11th HUPO Brain Proteome Project Workshop 3 March, 2009, Kolymbari, Greece
Authors: Kim Young Hye , Marcus Katrin , Grinberg Lea Tenenholz , Goehler Heike , Wiltfang Jens , Stephan Christian , Eisenacher Martin , Hardt Tanja , Martens Lennart , J. Dunn Michael , Park Young Mok , Meyer Helmut E.
Published: August 2009

The HUPO Brain Proteome Project (HUPO BPP) held its 11th workshop in Kolymbari on March 3, 2009. The principal aim of this project is to obtain a better understanding of neurodiseases and ageing, with the ultimate objective of discovering prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers, in addition to the development of novel diagnostic techniques and new medications. The attendees came together to discuss sub‐project progress in the clinical neuroproteomics of human or mouse models of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and to define the needs and guidelines required for more advanced proteomics approaches. With the election of new steering committees, the members of the HUPO BPP elaborated an actual plan promoting activities, outcomes, and future directions of the HUPO BPP to acquire new funding and new participants.
The benefits of comparing similar hazards across ‘sister’ plants
Authors: Downes Anthony , Twarowski Andrew
Published: August 2009

Companies often have multiple ‘sister’ plants in different locations, sometimes scattered around the globe. Generally, these companies are striving for similarly low risk among all these sister plants, even though they may have been built at different times, using evolving technology, and often have different capacities. In the pursuit of achieving acceptably low risk at all the chemical plants within a company, Process Safety specialists tend to put each under the PHA ‘microscope’ separately. FMC has several businesses that operate multiple “sister” plants, and has found that there are substantial benefits to be gained by also comparing the hazards at similar plants. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2010
Effect of annealing on electrical, structural, and optical properties of sol–gel ITO thin films
Authors: Hammad Talaat Moussa
Published: August 2009

Indium tin oxide (ITO) thin films (In/Sn = 90:10) prepared by the sol–gel dip‐coating process on glass substrates, followed by annealing in air in the temperature range 150–550 °C were studied. Overall the films structure, surface roughness, and electrical performances are improved, leading to electrical resistivity fifth order of magnitude larger than before annealing and a more compact and crystalline films, translated by a preferential orientation in the (111) direction. Besides that, the films are highly transparent in the visible range, where it shows an average transmittance of 92.3% after annealing to 550 °C. The allowed direct band gap at temperature range 150–550 °C was estimated to be 3.32–4.21 eV, increasing as the annealing temperature also increases.
Activation energy of thermally grown silicon dioxide layers on silicon substrates
Authors: Gerlach G. , Maser K. , Saad A. M.
Published: August 2009

A detailed numerical consideration is used as basic approach for calculating profiles of activation energy versus oxide thickness for various temperatures between 780 and 930 °C. Results presented here are intentionally not based on models of diffusion and reaction kinetics to avoid introducing correction terms due to the expansion of theory still under discussion. The statistical calculation gives the mean activation energy of 2.01 eV with standard deviation of 0.10 eV, very close to the overall activation energy of 2.05 eV [M. A. Rabie, Y. M. Haddara, and J. Carette, J. Appl. Phys. 98, 074904 (2005)]. More instructive features of the thermal oxidation of silicon have been disclosed directly from measurements of oxide thickness with time [M. A. Hopper, R. A. Clarke, and L. Young, J. Electrochem. Soc. 122, 1216 (1975) and J. Blanc, Philos. Mag. B 55, 685 (1987)]. Graphs of the natural logarithm of the growth rate versus oxide thickness, in the range between 2 and 65 nm, show that the oxide thickness influences the activation energy EA between 1.4 and 2.7 eV.
The fracture toughness of composite laminates with a negative Poisson's ratio
Authors: Donoghue J. P. , Alderson K. L. , Evans K. E.
Published: August 2009

Two sets of carbon fibre laminate configurations have been designed, manufactured and examined. The first consisted of one in‐plane auxetic (i.e. having a negative Poisson's ratio) and one with matched elastic moduli, but a positive in‐plane Poisson's ratio. The second consisted of three laminates, again with matched elastic moduli, but with negative, near zero and positive thru‐thickness Poisson's ratio. Fracture toughness is predicted to be enhanced if a negative thru‐thickness Poisson's ratio is present. This study also shows that more energy is required to propagate a crack in the auxetic laminate and that it is less notch sensitive than its conventional counterpart for the negative in‐plane Poisson's ratio.