bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aluminium alloys exposed to borderline solutions – a methodology to evaluate the susceptibility to corrosion fatigue with respect to corrosive de‐icers
Authors: Troßmann T. , Yu L. , Bauer K. , Kaufmann H. , Grimm J.
Published: October 2011

In addition to high mechanical loads certain components for the automotive industry are exposed to corrosive environments, especially during winter, when corrosion promoting de‐icers are essential to sustain road traffic. The underlying research work contributes to the evaluation of the corrosion fatigue performance of aluminium alloys relevant for automotive application generally, while the present text focuses on wrought alloys. Aluminium alloys are of special interest because of the opportunity to reduce expenses for an additional corrosion protection and to support lightweight construction of vehicles. Components exposed to simultaneous mechanical and corrosive service loads as well as corrosion tests of different scale level (immersion and cabinet testing, long term outdoor exposure of components, usage on test carriers) were analysed to evaluate typical forms of corrosion. Based upon the prevailing damaging mechanism of material conditions with known differences in susceptibility to specific forms of corrosion, like intergranular corrosion or pitting, methods were derived to evolve service relevant types of corrosion during laboratory tests.
Approaches to fatigue life assessment applied in the very high cycle regime
Authors: Pyttel B. , Berger C. , Schneider N. , Bruder T. , Eufinger J.
Published: October 2011

Designers and calculation engineers are becoming increasingly interested in the latest results on very high cycle fatigue (VHCF). Often, the influence of loading with a very high number of cycles on component behaviour is estimated conservatively, but the exact safety margin is unknown. This paper gives an overview of failure mechanisms in the HCF‐ and VHCF‐regions and of material and component related influences, which have to be considered in the fatigue life assessment. The state of the art of design codes, recommendations from the literature and initial investigations on variable amplitude loading in the VHCF‐regime are presented. This review indicates that further research activities are necessary to improve fatigue life assessment in order to allow a reduction of safety margins.
Transgenic insulin‐like growth factor‐1 stimulates activation of COX‐2 signaling in mammary glands
Authors: Tian Jie , Lambertz Isabel , Berton Thomas R. , Rundhaug Joyce E. , Kiguchi Kaoru , Shirley Stephanie H. , DiGiovanni John , Conti Claudio J. , Fischer Susan M. , Fuchs‐Young Robin
Published: October 2011

Studies show that elevated insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) levels are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer; however, mechanisms through which IGF‐1 promotes mammary tumorigenesis in vivo have not been fully elucidated. To assess the possible involvement of COX‐2 signaling in the pro‐tumorigenic effects of IGF‐1 in mammary glands, we used the unique BK5.IGF‐1 mouse model in which transgenic (Tg) mice have significantly increased incidence of spontaneous and DMBA‐induced mammary cancer compared to wild type (WT) littermates. Studies revealed that COX‐2 expression was significantly increased in Tg mammary glands and tumors, compared to age‐matched WTs. Consistent with this, PGE2 levels were also increased in Tg mammary glands. Analysis of expression of the EP receptors that mediate the effects of PGE2 showed that among the four G‐protein‐coupled receptors, EP3 expression was elevated in Tg glands. Up‐regulation of the COX‐2/PGE2/EP3 pathway was accompanied by increased expression of VEGF and a striking enhancement of angiogenesis in IGF‐1 Tg mammary glands. Treatment with celecoxib, a selective COX‐2 inhibitor, caused a 45% reduction in mammary PGE2 levels, attenuated the influx of mast cells and reduced vascularization in Tg glands. These findings indicate that the COX‐2/PGE2/EP3 signaling pathway is involved in IGF‐1‐stimulated mammary tumorigenesis and that COX‐2‐selective inhibitors may be useful in the prevention or treatment of breast cancer associated with elevated IGF‐1 levels in humans. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nutlin‐3 enhances sorafenib efficacy in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Vatsyayan Rit , Singhal Jyotsana , Nagaprashantha Lokesh Dalasanur , Awasthi Sanjay , Singhal Sharad S.
Published: October 2011

The renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the top 10 cancers in USA. The renal tumors are highly angiogenic and are resistant to conventional interventions, particularly radiotherapy. The advent of multi‐specific tyrosine kinase inhibitor sorafenib has improved the progression‐free survival in RCC, but overall survival in recurrent and metastatic RCC is still a concern that has lead to characterization of combinatorial regimens. Hence, we studied the effect of combination of nutlin‐3, an MDM2 inhibitor, which increases p53 levels, and sorafenib in RCC. Sorafenib along with nutlin‐3 synergistically inhibited the cell survival and enhanced caspase‐3 cleavage leading to apoptosis in RCC. Nutlin‐3 and sorafenib were more effective in reducing the migration of RCC, in combination than as single agents. Sorafenib and nutlin‐3 decreased the phosphorylation of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 (VEGFR‐2) and ERK along with inducing p53 activity. The sorafenib and nutlin‐3 co‐treatment lead to enhanced levels of p53, p‐p53, and increase in the levels of p53 pro‐apoptotic effector PUMA, Bax, and decrease in the anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 levels. Importantly, our studies revealed that sorafenib alone can activate p53 in a concentration dependent manner. Thus, co‐treatment of nutlin‐3 with sorafenib leads to increased half‐life of p53, which in turn can be activated by sorafenib, to induce downstream pro‐apoptotic and anti‐proliferative effects. This is the first report showing the synergistic effect of sorafenib and nutlin‐3 while providing a strong clinical‐translational rationale for further testing of sorafenib and nutlin‐3 combinatorial regimen in human RCC. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Minimally invasive peripheral nerve surgery: Peroneal nerve neurolysis
Authors: Ducic Ivica , Felder John M.
Published: October 2011

Background: Both patients and surgeons recognize the value of procedures that minimize scarring and tissue dissection. No previous reports have described a minimally invasive technique for peroneal nerve neurolysis, or evaluated its safety. Methods: The senior author's technique for a minimally invasive approach to neurolysis of the common, superficial, and deep peroneal nerves is presented. Safety of the technique was determined by review of records of all patients undergoing this procedure from 2003–2011, looking for major complications. Results: Using the minimally invasive approach to peroneal nerve neurolysis, average skin incision size is 3.5 cm for the common peroneal nerve, 4 cm for the superficial peroneal nerve, and 2.5 cm for the deep peroneal nerve. In 400 patients undergoing 679 total procedures, there were no nerve injuries, postoperative neuromas, or adjacent structures harmed. Conclusions: Peroneal nerve neurolysis can be accomplished safely and effectively via a minimal skin incision, improving aesthetic results and decreasing possible scar‐related complications. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2012.
Contralateral C7 nerve root transfer to neurotize the upper trunk via a modified prespinal route in repair of brachial plexus avulsion injury
Authors: Wang Shufeng , Yiu Hon‐Wan , Li Pengcheng , Li Yucheng , Wang Haihua , Pan Yongwei
Published: October 2011

Purpose: In this report, we present our experience on the repair of brachial plexus root avulsion injuries with the use of contralateral C7 nerve root transfers with nerve grafting through a modified prespinal route. Methods: The outcomes of the contralateral C7 nerve root transfer to neurotize the upper trunk and C5/C6 nerve roots of the total or near total brachial plexus nerve root avulsion injury in a series of 41 patients were evaluated. The contralateral C7 nerve root that was dissected to the distal end of the divisions, along with the sural nerve graft, were placed underneath the anterior scalene and longus colli muscles, and then passed through the retro‐esophageal space to neurotize the recipient nerve. The mean length of the dissected contralateral C7 nerve root was 6.5 ± 0.7 cm, and the mean length of sural nerve graft was 6.8 ± 1.9 cm. The suprascapular nerve was neurotized additionally by the phrenic nerve or the terminal motor branch of accessory nerve in some patients. Results: The mean length of the follow‐up was 47.2 ± 14.5 months. The muscle strength was graded M4 or M3 for the biceps muscle in 85.4% of patients, for the deltoid muscle in 82.9% of patients, and for the upper parts of pectoral major in 92.7% of patients. The functional recovery of shoulder abduction in the patients with the additional suprascapular nerve neurotization was remarkably improved. Conclusions: The modified prespinal route could significantly reduced the length of nerve graft in the contralateral C7 nerve root transfer to the injured upper trunk in brachial plexus root avulsion injury, and it may improve the functional outcomes, which deserves further investigations. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2012.
Structure determination of baeckeins C and D from the roots of Baeckea frutescens
Authors: Jia Bei‐Xi , Zhou Yu‐Xin , Chen Xiao‐Qing , Wang Xiao‐Bing , Yang Jie , Lai Mao‐Xiang , Wang Qiang
Published: October 2011

Baeckeins C (compound 1) and D (compound 2), a pair of new diastereomeric biflavonoids, were isolated from the roots of Baeckea frutescens. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis, including HR‐ESI‐MS and one‐ and two‐dimensional NMR spectra (1H and 13C NMR, HSQC, HMBC, and ROESY). The absolute configurations of the 2,3‐epoxide moiety for compounds 1 and 2 were determined by circular dichroism spectrometry combined with quantum chemical calculations. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
F2‐selective two‐dimensional NMR spectroscopy for the analysis of minor components in foods
Authors: Koda Masanori , Furihata Kazuo , Wei Feifei , Miyakawa Takuya , Tanokura Masaru
Published: October 2011

In this study, we propose F2‐selective 2D NMR spectroscopy as an effective method to obtain high‐quality spectra of minor components in complex foodstuffs. Selective excitation along the F2 axis overcame the problems occurring in the conventional F1‐selective 2D NMR spectroscopy. The technique was successfully applied to mango juice to provide high‐quality TOCSY, DQF‐COSY, and NOESY spectra of the minor components for the assignment of their signals. In addition, high‐quality TOCSY spectra were obtained for the minor components of Japanese sake and honey. These results indicate that F2‐selective 2D NMR spectroscopy will be useful for the non‐destructive analysis of various foods. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NMR relaxation dispersion of Miglyol molecules confined inside polymeric micro‐capsules
Authors: Nechifor Ruben , Ardelean Ioan , Mattea Carlos , Stapf Siegfried , Bogdan Mircea
Published: October 2011

Frequency dependent NMR relaxation studies have been carried out on Miglyol molecules confined inside core shell polymeric capsules to obtain a correlation between capsule dimension and the measurable parameters. The polymeric capsules were prepared using an interfacial polymerization technique for three different concentrations of Miglyol. It was shown that the variation of Miglyol concentration influences the capsule dimension. Their average size was estimated using the pulsed field gradient diffusometry technique. The relaxation dispersion curves were obtained at room temperature by a combined use of a fast field cycling instrument and a high‐field instrument. The frequency dependence of relaxation rate shows a transition from a diffusion‐limited to a surface‐limited relaxation regime. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Application of automated eightfold suppression of water and ethanol signals in 1H NMR to provide sensitivity for analyzing alcoholic beverages
Authors: Monakhova Yulia B. , Schäfer Hartmut , Humpfer Eberhard , Spraul Manfred , Kuballa Thomas , Lachenmeier Dirk W.
Published: October 2011

The 400 MHz 1H NMR analysis of alcoholic beverages using standard pulse programs lacks the necessary sensitivity to detect minor constituents such as methanol, acetaldehyde or ethyl acetate. This study investigates the application of a shaped pulse sequence during the relaxation delay to suppress the eight 1H NMR frequencies of water and ethanol (the OH singlet of both water and ethanol, as well as the CH2 quartet and CH3 triplet of ethanol). The sequence of reference measurement for frequency determination followed by the suppression experiment is controlled by a macro in the acquisition software so that a measurement under full automation is possible (12 min per sample total time). Additionally, sample preparation was optimized to avoid precipitation, which is facilitated by 1 : 1 dilution with ethanol and pH 7.4 buffer.

Compared with the standard water presaturation pulse program, the eightfold suppression allowed a significantly higher setting of receiver gain without receiver overflow, which significantly increased the signal‐to‐noise ratio by an average factor of 10. The signal intensities increased by a factor of 20. The resulting limits of detection (below 1 g/hl of pure alcohol) now allow the control of legal requirements for minor compounds in alcoholic beverages. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Possible intermolecular association in triphenyltin chloride in the solution state as detected by NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Ng Soon , Sathasivam Renuka V. , Lo Kong Mun
Published: October 2011

NMR measurements (119Sn chemical shift, line width and 13 C relaxation) were made on triphenyltin chloride in two solutions, 2.5 and 0.75 mol% in CDCl3, at several temperatures. The 13 C spin–lattice relaxation time and NOE data for the phenyl carbons provide the corresponding correlation times for the overall molecular reorientational motion and the internal rotation of the phenyl groups. The results are indicative of a weak intermolecular association of the triphenyltin chloride molecules in solution and are discussed with reference to a model for intermolecular phenyl ring π–π stacking interactions. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Subclinical autonomic dysfunction in spinobulbar muscular atrophy (Kennedy disease)
Authors: Rocchi Camilla , Greco Viviana , Urbani Andrea , Di Giorgio Alessandra , Priori Marina , Massa Roberto , Bernardi Giorgio , Marfia Girolama A.
Published: October 2011

Introduction: Spinobulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) is an inherited adult‐onset motor neuron disease caused by the expansion of a polyglutamine tract within the androgen receptor. Autonomic nervous system involvement (ANS) is not considered part of SBMA. The aim of this study was to assess autonomic cardiovascular function in 5 SBMA patients. Methods: Five quantitative autonomic function tests (AFTs) were performed in 5 SBMA patients. Plasma noradrenaline (NA) concentration in patients and in 5 healthy subjects was also measured. Results: AFTs were abnormal in 4 of the 5 patients, and plasma NA concentration was significantly reduced in patients with respect to controls. Conclusion: The impairment of cardiovascular responses to AFTs in addition to reduced plasma NA concentration observed in our patients suggests subclinical involvement of the ANS in Kennedy disease. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Knee extensor strength exhibits potential to predict function in sporadic inclusion‐body myositis
Authors: Lowes Linda Pax , Alfano Lindsay , Viollet Laurence , Rosales Xiomara Quintero , Sahenk Zarife , Kaspar Brian K. , Reed Clark K. , Flanigan Kevin M. , Mendell Jerry R. , McDermott Michael P.
Published: October 2011

Introduction: In this study we address the challenging issue of potential use of muscle strength to predict function in clinical trials. This has immediate relevance to translational studies that attempt to improve quadriceps strength in sporadic inclusion‐body myositis (sIBM). Methods: Maximum voluntary isometric contraction testing as a measure of muscle strength and a battery of functional outcomes were tested in 85 ambulatory subjects with sIBM. Results: Marked quadriceps weakness was noted in all patients. Strength was correlated with distance walked at 2 and 6 minutes. Additional correlations were found with time to get up from a chair, climb stairs, and step up on curbs. Conclusions: Quadriceps (knee extensor) strength correlated with performance in this large cohort of sIBM subjects, which demonstrated its potential to predict function in this disease. These data provide initial support for use of muscle strength as a surrogate for function, although validation in a clinical trial is required. Muscle Nerve, 2012
Time‐course analysis of injured skeletal muscle suggests a critical involvement of ERK1/2 signaling in the acute inflammatory response
Authors: Szelenyi Eric r. , Urso Maria l.
Published: October 2011

Introduction: The coupling and timing of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory processes in skeletal muscle injury is poorly understood. We investigated the temporal response and regulated processes of extracellular signal–regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2), p38, and IkappaB kinase (IKK) α/β signaling pathways after traumatic injury. Methods: Traumatic freeze injury was delivered to the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle in C57BL/6J mice, and injured and uninjured TA muscles were analyzed 3–72 h into the recovery period. Results: Significant increases in pro‐inflammatory cytokine transcription accompanied IKKβ phosphorylation, robust ERK pathway activation, and reduced heat shock protein (Hsp) protein expression at 3–24 h. At 24 h, ERK activation was abolished concomitantly with a significant increase in mitogen‐activated protein kinase phosphatase‐1 (MKP‐1). After 24 h, cytokine transcription along with ERK1/2 and IKKβ phosphorylation remained suppressed, whereas Hsp protein expression rose to significant levels by 72 h and associated with IKKβ. Conclusions: Results indicate a bimodal regulation of ERK1/2 in acute inflammation in which it is supportive from 3 to 24 h, and suppressive from 24 to 72 h. Muscle Nerve, 2012
Autosomal recessive Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy caused by a novel mutation (R225Q) in the lamin A/C gene identified by exome sequencing
Authors: Jimenez‐Escrig Adriano , Gobernado Isabel , Garcia‐Villanueva Mercedes , Sanchez‐Herranz Antonio
Published: October 2011

Introduction: The aim of this study is to describe a new mutation in the LMNA gene diagnosed by whole exome sequencing. Methods: A two‐generation kindred with recessive limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy was evaluated by exome sequencing of the proband's DNA. Results: Exome sequencing disclosed 194,618 variants (170,196 SNPs, 8482 MNPs, 7466 insertions, 8307 deletions, and 167 mixed combinations); 71,328 were homozygotic and 123,290 were heterozygotic, with 11,753 non‐synonymous, stop‐gain, stop‐loss, or frameshift mutations occurring in the coding region or nearby intronic region. The cross‐referencing of these mutations in candidate genes for muscular dystrophy showed a homozygote mutation c.G674A in exon 4 of LMNA causing a protein change R225Q in an arginine conserved from human to Xenopus tropicalis and in lamin B1. Conclusions: This technique will be preferred for studying patients with muscular dystrophy in the coming years. Muscle Nerve, 2012
Perfluoropolyether polymers by UV curing: design, synthesis and characterization
Authors: Bongiovanni Roberta , Medici Andrea , Zompatori Alberto , Garavaglia Silvia , Tonelli Claudio
Published: October 2011

Perfluoropolyether (PFPE) structures can be functionalized with acrylic groups using appropriate hydrogenated acrylic monomers: the macromers obtained are highly reactive under UV irradiation, and fluorinated polymers can be obtained. In the first part of this work is described the synthesis of new PFPE (meth)acrylic oligomers by extending OH‐terminated fluorinated chains with urethane groups and reactive acrylic functions. The photopolymerization reaction of each product is then reported followed by the characterisation of the main thermal, mechanical and surface properties of UV‐cured coatings. The polymers have good thermal resistance and fair mechanical and chemical resistance. More interestingly they show very low refractive index and low surface tension. For these latter properties the products can be advantageously used in highly demanding applications such as photonic devices and nano‐patterning. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis and properties of optically clear silicone resin/epoxy resin hybrids
Authors: Zhang Ying , Yang Xin , Zhao Xiaojuan , Huang Wei
Published: October 2011

Optically clear silicone/epoxy hybrid resins were synthesized. The silicone resin (SiR) carrying SiH, SiCHCH2 and SiOH groups was prepared by hydrolytic condensation. The blends of SiR and diglycidyl ether of hydrogenated bisphenol A (DGEHBA) were cured through platinum‐catalyzed hydrosilylation and aluminium acetylacetonate‐catalyzed polymerization. The curing process was studied using differential scanning calorimetry and rigid‐body pendulum rheometry. It was found that the ratio of SiR to DGEHBA plays a major role in the curing process. The SiOH groups of SiR assist polymerization of DGEHBA, and react with the epoxy resin to prevent phase separation. The cured hybrid resins are single‐phase materials with a transmittance of about 87% at 400 nm for a thickness of 3 mm using air as reference. UV resistance and thermal stability of the hybrids are largely dependent on the composition. The adhesive strength of the SiRs can be significantly improved by a small fraction of DGEHBA, with a marginal influence on UV resistance. However, increasing the epoxy proportion has a marked negative influence on thermal stability. Compounding stabilizers, especially thermal stabilizers, are essential, in particular for high epoxy content, if the hybrids are to be used for high‐brightness light‐emitting diode packaging. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of monomer composition on properties of copolyimides derived from 3,3′,4,4′‐biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride/4,4′‐oxydianiline/1,3‐bis (4‐aminophenoxy)benzene
Authors: Wang Wei , Wang Daming , Jing Jing , Li Qingming , Jia He , Zhao Xiaogang , Chen Chunhai
Published: October 2011

A series of uncontrolled molecular weight homopolyimides and copolyimides based on 3,3′,4,4′‐biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride (s‐BPDA)/4,4′‐oxydianiline (4,4′‐ODA)/1,3‐bis(4‐aminophenoxy)benzene (TPER) were synthesized. All the polyimides displayed excellent thermal stability and mechanical properties, as evidenced by dynamic thermogravimetric analysis and tensile properties testing. A singular glass transition temperature (Tg) was found for each composite from either differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) or dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), but the values determined from tan δ of DMA were much different from those determined from DSC and storage modulus (E′) of DMA. The Fox equation was used to estimate the random Tg values. Some composites exhibited re‐crystallization after quenching from the melt; upon heating, multi‐melting behavior was observed after isothermal crystallization at different temperatures. The equilibrium melting temperature was estimated using the Hoffman‐Weeks method. Additionally, DMA was conducted to obtain E′ and tan δ. Optical properties were strongly dependent on the monomer composition as evidenced by UV‐visible spectra. X‐ray diffraction was used to interpret the crystal structure. All the results indicated that composites with TPER composition ≥ 70% were dominated by the TPER/s‐BPDA polyimide phase, and ≤40% by the 4,4′‐ODA/s‐BPDA polyimide phase. When the ratio between the two diamines was close to 1:1, the properties of the copolyimides were very irregular, which means a complicated internal structure. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparative proteomic analysis of the Arabidopsis cbl1 mutant in response to salt stress
Authors: Shi Shanshan , Chen Wei , Sun Weining
Published: October 2011

Many environmental stimuli, including light, biotic and abiotic stress factors, induce changes in cellular Ca2+ concentrations in plants. Such Ca2+ signatures are perceived by sensor molecules such as calcineurin B‐like (CBL) proteins. AtCBL1, a member of the CBL family which is highly inducible by multiple stress signals, is known to function in the salt stress signal transduction pathway and to positively regulate the plant tolerance to salt. To shed light into the molecular mechanisms of the salt stress response mediated by AtCBL1, a two‐dimensional DIGE proteomic approach was applied to identify the differentially expressed proteins in Arabibdopsis wild‐type and cbl1 null mutant plants in response to salt stress. Seventy‐three spots were found altered in expression by least 1.2‐fold and 50 proteins were identified by MALDI‐TOF/TOF‐MS, including some well‐known and novel salt‐responsive proteins. These proteins function in various processes, such as signal transduction, ROS scavenging, energy production, carbon fixation, metabolism, mRNA processing, protein processing and structural stability. Receptor for activated C kinase 1C (RACK1C, spot 715), a WD40 repeat protein, was up‐regulated in the cbl1 null mutant, and two rack1c mutant lines showed decreased tolerance to salt stress, suggesting that RACK1C plays a role in salt stress resistance. In conclusion, our work demonstrated the advantages of the proteomic approach in studies of plant biology and identified candidate proteins in CBL1‐mediated salt stress signaling network.
Confined crystallization of PVDF and a PVDF‐TFE copolymer in nanolayered films
Authors: Mackey Matt , Flandin Lionel , Hiltner Anne , Baer Eric
Published: October 2011

Layer‐multiplying coextrusion was used in conjunction with isothermal recrystallization to study the confined crystallization of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and polyvinylidene fluoride‐tetrafluoroethylene (PVDF‐TFE) using polycarbonate (PC) and polysulfone (PSF) as confining materials. Three layered systems were produced (PC/PVDF, PSF/PVDF, and PC/PVDF‐TFE) with layer thicknesses ranging from 525 to 28 nm. The crystal morphology was affected by both layer thickness and recrystallization temperature. Specifically, increased recrystallization temperature and decreased layer thickness facilitated the formation of high aspect ratio in‐plane crystals in both PVDF based polymers. On the other side of the spectrum, thicker layers and lower recrystallization temperatures produced on‐edge PVDF crystals and isotropic PVDF‐TFE crystals. The morphology was correlated with oxygen permeability, which decreased by almost two orders of magnitude compared with the bulk. A variety of crystal structures were obtained and explained with nucleation and diffusion theory. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2011
The influence of solid‐state microstructure on the origin and yield of long‐lived photogenerated charge in neat semiconducting polymers
Authors: Reid Obadiah G. , Malik Jennifer A. Nekuda , Latini Gianluca , Dayal Smita , Kopidakis Nikos , Silva Carlos , Stingelin Natalie , Rumbles Garry
Published: October 2011

The influence of solid‐state microstructure on the optoelectronic properties of conjugated polymers is widely recognized, but still poorly understood. Here, we show how the microstructure of conjugated polymers controls the yield and decay dynamics of long‐lived photogenerated charge in neat films. Poly(3‐hexylthiophene) was used as a model system. By varying the molecular weight, we drive a transition in the polymer microstructure from nonentangled, chain‐extended, paraffinic‐like to entangled, semicrystalline (MW = 5.5–347 kg/mol). The molecular weight range at which this transition occurs (MW = 40–50 kg/mol) can be deduced from the drastic change in elongation at break found in tensile tests. Linear absorption measurements of free‐exciton bandwidth and time‐resolved microwave conductivity (TRMC) measurements of transient photoconductance track the concomitant evolution in optoelectronic properties of the polymer as a function of MW. TRMC measurements show that the yield of free photogenerated charge increases with increasing molecular weight in the paraffinic regime and saturates at the transition into the entangled, semicrystalline regime. This transition in carrier yield correlates with a sharp transition in free‐exciton bandwidth and decay dynamics at a similar molecular weight. We propose that the transition in microstructure controls the yield and decay dynamics of long‐lived photogenerated charge. The evolution of a semicrystalline structure with well‐defined interfaces between amorphous and crystalline domains of the polymer is required for spatial separation of the electron and hole. This structural characteristic not only largely controls the yield of free charges, but also serves as a recombination center, where mobile holes encounter a bath of dark electrons resident in the amorphous phase and recombine with quasi first‐order kinetics. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2011
Determination of volume fractions and ligand layer thickness of polymer/CdSe quantum dot blend films by effective medium approximations
Authors: Schädel Martin , Jeltsch Krischan F. , Niyamakom Phenwisa , Rauscher Frank , Zhou Yunfei , Krüger Michael , Meerholz Klaus
Published: October 2011

We investigate hybrid organic/inorganic films using different polymers and CdSe quantum dots (QD) and nanorods (NR) with hexanoic acid (HA)‐treated hexadecylamine (HDA) or pyridine as the capping ligands. The volume ratios of the polymer:nanoparticle (NP) blends are studied by spectroscopic ellipsometry and transmission intensity data. Effective medium approximation based on the results of the pristine films is applied. With this routine, the polymer/NP volume ratio of the blend can be identified. In combination with the mass ratio of the components, the mass density of the NP including the inorganic crystalline core and the organic ligand layer is obtained. A geometrical model for QD and NR allows for the estimation of the ligand layer thickness. We find pyridine and HDA after HA treatment to be 0.9 and 0.6 nm on the QD surface, respectively. By contrast, the effective thickness of the organic ligand is 3.0 nm on the investigated NR. In both cases, the organic layer is thicker than a monolayer of the expected pyridine due to the presence of extant synthesis ligands as a result of incomplete ligand exchange. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 000: 000–000, 2011
Water‐mediated transport in ion‐containing polymers
Authors: Hickner Michael A.
Published: October 2011

Water‐mediated ion conduction enables high conductivity in hydrated polymer membranes commonly used in electrochemical devices. Understanding the coupling of the absorbed water with the polymer matrix and the dynamics of water inside the polymer network across the full range of length scales in the membrane is important for unraveling the structure–property relationships in these materials. By considering the water behavior in ion‐containing polymers, next‐generation fuel cell membranes are being designed that exceed the conductivity of the state‐of‐the‐art materials and have optimized conductivity and permeability that may be useful in other types of devices such as redox flow batteries. Water–polymer associations can be exploited to tune the transport and mechanical property tradeoffs in these polymers. Measurements of water motion provide important criteria for assessing the factors that control the performance of these types of materials. This review article discusses current understanding of water behavior in ion‐containing polymers and the relationship between water motion and ion and molecular transport. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2011
The Role of Albumin and Fibronectin in the Adhesion of Fibroblasts to Plasma Polymer Surfaces
Authors: Zelzer Mischa , Albutt Darren , Alexander Morgan R. , Russell Noah A.
Published: October 2011

Plasma polymer coatings are widely applied to the modification of biomaterial surfaces. In order to understand the role of the surface in the adhesion of cells to these materials, it is necessary to understand how protein adsorption is influenced by the plasma polymer surface chemistry. In coated scaffolds, plasma polymerised allylamine has been found to encourage fibroblast adhesion while plasma polymerised hexane reduces cell adhesion. To study the role of proteins in this process, albumin and fibronectin are pre‐adsorbed individually, competitively or sequentially to the plasma polymer surfaces before seeding them with a culture of 3T3 fibroblasts. Significant dependence upon the protein pre‐adsorption was seen in the adhered cell numbers. In situ measurements of protein adsorption using a quartz crystal microbalance help to elucidate the factors that govern the observed cellular response. The measured protein adsorption is rationalised in terms of our knowledge of the surface chemistry of these plasma polymers. We found that high cell adhesion is related to the ability of fibronectin to displace albumin. This ability is reduced on the hydrophobic plasma polymer as well as by adsorbing albumin and fibronectin sequentially.

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Association between parental smoking behavior and children's respiratory morbidity: 5‐year study in an urban city of South Korea
Authors: Jung Jae Woo , Ju Young Su , Kang Hye Ryun
Published: October 2011

Introduction

After intensive tobacco control efforts in recent decades, the prevalence of active smoking has decreased. However, the hazardous effect of indirect exposure to cigarette smoke is often underestimated, especially in children. We aimed to investigate the effect of parental smoking on the respiratory morbidity of the children of parents who smoke by evaluating the relationship between parental smoking behavior and children's respiratory symptoms.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional follow‐up study of 31,584 children aged 6–11 in an urban community in Anyang City, Korea. The children's parents were asked about their smoking status and completed questionnaires regarding their children's symptoms related to asthma and other upper or lower respiratory illnesses. Our analysis focused on a comparison of the frequency of respiratory and ocular symptoms according to parental smoking status, whether it was non‐smoking (Non‐S), indirect passive smoking (third‐hand smoking, THS) or direct passive smoking (second‐hand smoking, SHS).

Results

The children with Non‐S patients were 40.9%, THS group 40.6%, and SHS group 18.5%. THS group showed lower ORs for most respiratory symptoms when compared with those of SHS group, however, THS group revealed increased ORs compared with Non‐S in cough‐related symptoms. There was a linear trend in frequencies of cough and sputum‐related symptoms according to the degree of exposure to cigarette smoke (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The prevalence of respiratory symptoms increased in children exposed to parental smoking including SHS and THS. To avoid the risk of respiratory and allergic disease by environmental tobacco smoke, absolute smoking cessation by parents is strongly recommended. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2012; 47:338–345. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Progression of lung disease in primary ciliary dyskinesia: Is spirometry less accurate than CT?
Authors: Maglione Marco , Bush Andrew , Montella Silvia , Mollica Carmine , Manna Angelo , Esposito Antonietta , Santamaria Francesca
Published: October 2011

Despite its extensive use, there is no evidence that spirometry is useful in the assessment of progression of lung disease in primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD). We hypothesize that high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is a better indicator of PCD lung disease progression than spirometry. We retrospectively evaluated two paired spirometry and HRCT examinations from 20 PCD patients (age, 11.6 years; range, 6.5–27.5 years). The evaluations were performed in stable state and during unstable lung disease. HRCT scans were scored blind by two raters. Compared to the first assessment, at the second evaluation spirometry did not change while HRCT scores significantly worsened (P < 0.01). Age was significantly related to HRCT total (r = 0.5; P = 0.02) and bronchiectasis scores (r = 0.5; P = 0.02). At both evaluations, HRCT total score correlated with FEV1 (r = −0.5, P = 0.01; r = −0.7, P = 0.001, respectively) and FVC Z scores (r = −0.6, P = 0.006; r = −0.7, P = 0.001, respectively), and bronchiectasis score was related to FEV1 (r = −0.5, P = 0.03; r = −0.6; P = 0.002, respectively) and FVC Z scores (r = −0.6, P = 0.008; r = −0.7, P = 0.001, respectively). No relationship was found between the change in HRCT scores and the change in spirometry. In PCD, structural lung disease may worsen despite spirometry being stable. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2012; 47:498–504. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Surface passivation of phosphorus‐diffused n+‐type emitters by plasma‐assisted atomic‐layer deposited Al2O3
Authors: Hoex B. , van de Sanden M. C. M. , Schmidt J. , Brendel R. , Kessels W. M. M.
Published: October 2011

In recent years Al2O3 has received tremendous interest in the photovoltaic community for the application as surface passivation layer for crystalline silicon. Especially p‐type c‐Si surfaces are very effectively passivated by Al2O3, including p‐type emitters, due to the high fixed negative charge in the Al2O3 film. In this Letter we show that Al2O3 prepared by plasma‐assisted atomic layer deposition (ALD) can actually provide a good level of surface passivation for highly doped n‐type emitters in the range of 10–100 Ω/sq with implied‐Voc values up to 680 mV. For n‐type emitters in the range of 100–200 Ω/sq the implied‐Voc drops to a value of 600 mV for a 200 Ω/sq emitter, indicating a decreased level of surface passivation. For even lighter doped n‐type surfaces the passivation quality increases again to implied‐Voc values well above 700 mV. Hence, the results presented here indicate that within a certain doping range, highly doped n‐ and p‐type surfaces can be passivated simultaneously by Al2O3. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Inhibitory Effect of Compounds from Goniothalamus tapis Miq. and Goniothalamus uvaroides King on Platelet‐Activating Factor Receptor Binding
Authors: Moharam Bushra Abdulkarim , Jantan Ibrahim , Jalil Juriyati , Ahmad Fasihuddin
Published: October 2011

Phytochemical investigation on the bark of Goniothalamus tapis Miq. and G. uvaroides King has resulted in the isolation of eight styryl‐lactones, (−)‐cryptomeridiol, liriodenine, 3‐methyl‐1H‐benz[f]indole‐4,9‐dione, (−)‐stigmasterol and dimethyl terephthalate. The structures of the compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic techniques. The compounds were evaluated for their effect on platelet‐activating factor (PAF) receptor binding on rabbit platelets using 3H‐PAF as a ligand. Among the compounds tested, (−)‐cryptomeridiol, (+)‐goniothalamin and (+)‐isoaltholactone exhibited a significant and concentration‐dependent inhibitory effect on PAF receptor binding, with inhibitory concentration (IC)50 values of 17.5, 19.7 and 46.5 µm, respectively. The inhibitory effects of the first two compounds were comparable to that obtained from the positive control, cedrol. The results indicated that these compounds were strong PAF receptor binding inhibitors. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Counter‐ion effects of A‐ and B‐type poly(dG)·Poly(dC) and poly(dA)·Poly(dT) DNA by elongation method
Authors: Xie Peng , Liu Kai , Gu Fenglong , Aoki Yuriko
Published: October 2011

The elongation method was developed to calculate the local density of states (LDOS) at ab initio molecular orbital (MO) level. This method is performed on eight types of DNA molecules: namely, a pitch of A‐ and B‐ type poly(dA)·poly(dT) and poly(dG)·poly(dC), and they are neutralized by H+ and Na+, respectively. The difference of total energy between elongation and conventional calculations in each step is considerably small in the order of 10−9 hartree/atom for 20 units of B‐type poly(dA)·poly(dT) model. When the figures of total DOS of each model was compared, the energy gap of model containing Na+ is smaller than that of corresponding model containing H+. The LDOS for each model estimated by elongation method can well reproduce the results by conventional method. The LDOS figures show that the valence bands in A‐ and B‐type DNA are formed by the highest occupied MOs (HOMOs) of adenine/guanine. Na+ can greatly decrease the energy of lowest unoccupied MO (LUMO) and consequently decrease the energy gap between LUMO and HOMO. The electron transfer between stacking adenine/guanine and sodium would play an important role in the conductivity of A‐ and B‐type DNA. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2012
Stable hydrogen isotopic analysis of nanomolar molecular hydrogen by automatic multi‐step gas chromatographic separation
Authors: Komatsu Daisuke D. , Tsunogai Urumu , Kamimura Kanae , Konno Uta , Ishimura Toyoho , Nakagawa Fumiko
Published: October 2011

We have developed a new automated analytical system that employs a continuous flow isotope ratio mass spectrometer to determine the stable hydrogen isotopic composition (δD) of nanomolar quantities of molecular hydrogen (H2) in an air sample. This method improves previous methods to attain simpler and lower‐cost analyses, especially by avoiding the use of expensive or special devices, such as a Toepler pump, a cryogenic refrigerator, and a special evacuation system to keep the temperature of a coolant under reduced pressure. Instead, the system allows H2 purification from the air matrix via automatic multi‐step gas chromatographic separation using the coolants of both liquid nitrogen (77 K) and liquid nitrogen + ethanol (158 K) under 1 atm pressure. The analytical precision of the δD determination using the developed method was better than 4‰ for >5 nmol injections (250 mL STP for 500 ppbv air sample) and better than 15‰ for 1 nmol injections, regardless of the δD value, within 1 h for one sample analysis. Using the developed system, the δD values of H2 can be quantified for atmospheric samples as well as samples of representative sources and sinks including those containing small quantities of H2, such as H2 in soil pores or aqueous environments, for which there is currently little δD data available. As an example of such trace H2 analyses, we report here the isotope fractionations during H2 uptake by soils in a static chamber. The δD values of H2 in these H2‐depleted environments can be useful in constraining the budgets of atmospheric H2 by applying an isotope mass balance model. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of an analytical model for generation expansion planning as a tool to provide guidelines for preventing instability in the long‐term electricity market
Authors: Goldani Saeed Reza , Ghazi Reza , Mashhadi Habib Rajabi
Published: October 2011

This paper considers the problem of deciding multiperiod investments for generation expansion planning (GEP) in restructured power systems. This problem has presented a challenge for both market managers and suppliers regarding the stability in the electricity market and minimum income for suppliers over the planning period. In this paper, an analytical model for studying the GEP problem from the viewpoint of a central management entity is presented. The aim of this method is to establish a dynamic balance between energy supply and demand by adjustment of GEP over the horizon of planning so that not only the expected profit is provided for all new generating plants but the long‐term stability in the electricity market is also improved. This analytical model can be utilized by regulatory bodies to obtain some guidelines and thereby to set their policies for improving GEP and preventing instability in the long‐term electricity market. To do so, in this study, the uncertainties of demand and supply have been modeled through two stochastic processes. Furthermore, the market price dynamics and their mutual effects on the GEP's results have been considered. Finally, this nonlinear dynamic optimization problem is solved using a modified genetic algorithm (GA). The efficiency and ability of the proposed method are examined on a test power system. © 2011 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Evaluation of 2 cable restraints with minimum loop stops to capture coyotes
Authors: Etter Dwayne R. , Belant Jerrold L.
Published: October 2011

We compared efficiency and selectivity of 2 cable restraints with a 10.8‐cm‐ (larger) or 8.9‐cm‐ (smaller) diameter minimum loop stop to live‐capture coyotes (Canis latrans) in Michigan, USA. Cable restraints were set for 3,166 (larger) and 1,175 (smaller) trap‐nights, respectively, during March 2008 and January–March 2009. Capture efficiency was 64% (n = 22 coyotes) and 100% (n = 11 coyotes) for cable restraints with larger and smaller diameter minimum loop stops, respectively. Coyotes captured in cable restraints with larger or smaller minimum loop stops were similar in size. Selectivity of cable restraints with larger and smaller minimum loop stops was 100% and 79%, respectively; nontarget species captured included white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and northern raccoon (Procyon lotor). Based on our findings, we recommend the smaller minimum loop stop diameter for capture of coyotes. We also recommend further testing of cable restraints and set placement for coyotes to improve capture efficacy. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Interspecific variation in wildlife hazards to aircraft: Implications for airport wildlife management
Authors: DeVault Travis L. , Belant Jerrold L. , Blackwell Bradley F. , Seamans Thomas W.
Published: October 2011

Understanding the relative hazards of wildlife to aircraft is important for developing effective management programs. We used Federal Aviation Administration National Wildlife Strike Database records from 1990 to 2009 in the United States to rank the relative hazard of wildlife to aircraft. We summarized data for 77 species or species groups with ≥20 records where collisions occurred ≤500 ft (152 m) above ground level. We also assessed the effects of avian body mass, body density, and group size on relative hazard scores. The 3 most hazardous species or species groups were mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), white‐tailed deer (O. virginianus), and domestic dogs. “Other geese” (snow goose [Chen caerulescens], brant [Branta bernicla], and greater white‐fronted goose [Anser albifrons]) was the most hazardous bird group. Ten of the 15 most hazardous bird species or species groups are strongly associated with water. Avian body mass was strongly associated with percentage of all strikes that caused damage, but not for species exceeding median body mass (1,125 g) of birds in damaging strikes. In contrast, percentage of damaging strikes increased when multiple birds were involved, but only for those species with body mass ≥1,125 g. Managers should prioritize efforts that will reduce habitat suitability for those species most hazardous to aircraft. We recommend use of exclusion (e.g., fences) for managing large mammals and habitat modifications (e.g., reductions in standing water) accompanied by hazing for reducing bird use of airports. We also recommend that evaluations of jet turbine engine performance following bird ingestions consider using multiple birds with body mass >1,000 g. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.