bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition of tetraethylorthosilicate and hexamethyldisiloxane on polyester fabrics under pulsed and continuous wave discharge
Authors: Kale Kiran H. , Palaskar Shital S. 
Published: March 2012

AbstractThe article reports plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) of SiOxCyHz polymers on polyester fabric using tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) and hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) precursors. Modulated discharge was used to study the effect of duty cycle on the hydrophobic properties of plasma treated‐polyester fabrics. Ton and Toff periods in modulated discharge were adjusted in such a way to get duty cycle values of 0.25, 0.50, 0.83, and 1.00, respectively. The hydrophobicity of the treated samples was evaluated by static contact angle measurement. Incorporation of SiO, SiCH3 groups on the surface of polyester fabric was evidenced in Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic analysis. In addition, organic–inorganic character of HMDSO plasma polymer derived under modulated discharge and continuous wave discharge was investigated by FTIR spectroscopy. For equal treatment durations (Ttotal), the plasma polymer deposited under pulsed discharge at lower duty cycle showed relatively higher organic content indicating comparatively greater structural retention of the original monomer in modulated discharge. However, structural analysis showed that treatment duration is more critical factor than duty cycle in determining organic character of SiOxCyHz plasma polymers. Ash content results indicated that plasma polymerization proceeds even during Toff period. Evaluation of mechanical properties of polyester fabrics showed decrease in tear strength in both TEOS and HMDSO plasma‐treated samples. The durability of plasma polymers to washing showed promising prospects of use of PECVD for functional finishing of polyester fabrics. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Investigation of free volume and damping property for polycarbonate/multiwalled carbon nanotube composites by positron annihilation technology
Authors: Gong Zhenli , Yan Xiaoli , Gong Jing , Wang Junjun , Wang Bo 
Published: March 2012

AbstractMicrostructure and damping characteristics were investigated for polycarbonate/multiwalled carbon nanotube (PC/MWCNT) composites. Dynamic mechanical analysis results show that the damping factor and the value of the energy loss fraction w are significantly increased. Especially, nearly 300% improvement in damping factor is observed in the temperature range from 140 to 150°C. Positron annihilation lifetime measurements indicate that both the o‐Ps lifetime and the free volume increase with increasing MWCNT content, leading to decrease in the glass transition temperature and increase in the damping properties. The relationships among the damping, mechanical property, and the free volume have been first observed, that is, the increase of the free volume brings about a reduction in tensile strength and an increase in damping. The interfacial friction slipping of MWCNTs and the free volume play an important role in determining the damping property of PC/MWCNT composites. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Fabrication of water‐soluble polyaniline/poly(ethylene oxide)/carbon nanotube electrospun fibers
Authors: Lin Yen‐Wen , Wu Tzong‐Ming 
Published: March 2012

AbstractUltrafine electrospun fibers of water‐soluble polyaniline (PANI)/poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes with attached carboxylic groups (c‐MWCNTs) were successfully prepared by an electrospinning technique. Water‐soluble PANI can be fabricated by a direct sulfonation of emeraldine salt form of PANI, which has been treated with chlorosulfonic acid in an inert solvent. The morphology and fiber diameter of water‐soluble PANI/PEO/MWCNT fibers revealed that the composite fibers had a diameter ranging between 181 and 217 nm, with a general uniform thickness along the fibers. The X‐ray diffraction data of these composite fibers were similar to those of PANI/PEO fibers, indicating the c‐MWCNT is uniformly distributed in PANI/PEO matrix. The mechanical property of 5 wt % PANI/PEO/MWCNT composite fibers was about three times in magnitudes higher than that of PANI/PEO samples. The conductivity of 5 wt % PANI/PEO/MWCNT composite fibers at room temperature is three orders in magnitude higher than that of PANI/PEO specimens. These results demonstrate that the addition of a small number of c‐MWCNTs to a PANI/PEO matrix can form a conducting network in well dispersed composite fibers, thus increasing their electrical conductivity. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
2012 Provisional classification criteria for polymyalgia rheumatica: A European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology collaborative initiative
Authors: Dasgupta Bhaskar , Cimmino Marco A. , Kremers Hilal Maradit , Schmidt Wolfgang A. , Schirmer Michael , Salvarani Carlo , Bachta Artur , Dejaco Christian , Duftner Christina , Jensen Hanne Slott , Duhaut Pierre , Poór Gyula , Kaposi Novák Pál , Mandl Peter , Balint Peter V. , Schmidt Zsuzsa , Iagnocco Annamaria , Nannini Carlotta , Cantini Fabrizio , Macchioni Pierluigi , Pipitone Nicolò , Del Amo Montserrat , Espígol‐Frigolé Georgina , Cid Maria C. , Martínez‐Taboada Víctor M. , Nordborg Elisabeth , Direskeneli Haner , Aydin Sibel Zehra , Ahmed Khalid , Hazleman Brian , Silverman Barbara , Pease Colin , Wakefield Richard J. , Luqmani Raashid , Abril Andy , Michet Clement J. , Marcus Ralph , Gonter Neil J. , Maz Mehrdad , Carter Rickey E. , Crowson Cynthia S. , Matteson Eric L. 
Published: March 2012

AbstractThe objective of this study was to develop European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology classification criteria for polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). Candidate criteria were evaluated in a 6‐month prospective cohort study of 125 patients with new‐onset PMR and 169 non‐PMR comparison subjects with conditions mimicking PMR. A scoring algorithm was developed based on morning stiffness >45 minutes (2 points), hip pain/limited range of motion (1 point), absence of rheumatoid factor and/or anti–citrullinated protein antibody (2 points), and absence of peripheral joint pain (1 point). A score ≥4 had 68% sensitivity and 78% specificity for discriminating all comparison subjects from PMR. The specificity was higher (88%) for discriminating shoulder conditions from PMR and lower (65%) for discriminating RA from PMR. Adding ultrasound, a score ≥5 had increased sensitivity to 66% and specificity to 81%. According to these provisional classification criteria, patients ≥50 years old presenting with bilateral shoulder pain, not better explained by an alternative pathology, can be classified as having PMR in the presence of morning stiffness >45 minutes, elevated C‐reactive protein and/or erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and new hip pain. These criteria are not meant for diagnostic purposes.
Role of the CCL21 and CCR7 pathways in rheumatoid arthritis angiogenesis
Authors: Pickens Sarah R. , Chamberlain Nathan D. , Volin Michael V. , Pope Richard M. , Talarico Nicholas E. , Mandelin Arthur M. , Shahrara Shiva 
Published: March 2012

AbstractObjectiveTo determine the role of CCL21 and its receptor CCR7 in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).MethodsHistologic studies were performed to compare the expression of CCR7 and CCL21 in RA synovial tissue. Next, the role of CCL21 and/or CCR7 in angiogenesis was examined using in vitro chemotaxis, tube formation, and in vivo Matrigel plug assays. Finally, the mechanism by which CCL21 mediates angiogenesis was determined by Western blot analysis and endothelial cell chemotaxis and tube formation assays.ResultsCCL21, but not CCL19, at concentrations present in the RA joint, induced human microvascular endothelial cell (HMVEC) migration that was mediated through CCR7 ligation. Suppression of the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase pathway markedly reduced CCL21‐induced HMVEC chemotaxis and tube formation; however, suppression of the ERK and JNK pathways had no effect on these processes. Neutralization of either CCL21 in RA synovial fluid or CCR7 in HMVECs significantly reduced the induction of HMVEC migration and/or tube formation by RA synovial fluid. We further demonstrated that CCL21 is angiogenic, by showing its ability to promote blood vessel growth in Matrigel plugs in vivo at concentrations that are present in RA joints.ConclusionAngiogenesis is dependent on endothelial cell activation, migration, and proliferation, and inhibition of angiogenesis may provide a novel therapeutic approach in RA. This study identified a novel function of CCL21 as a mediator of RA angiogenesis, supporting CCL21/CCR7 as a therapeutic target in RA.
IgG glycan hydrolysis by endoglycosidase S diminishes the proinflammatory properties of immune complexes from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A possible new treatment?
Authors: Lood Christian , Allhorn Maria , Lood Rolf , Gullstrand Birgitta , Olin Anders I. , Rönnblom Lars , Truedsson Lennart , Collin Mattias , Bengtsson Anders A. 
Published: March 2012

AbstractObjectiveSystemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with chronic or episodic inflammation in several organ systems, related to the presence of circulating and tissue‐deposited immune complexes (ICs) that stimulate leukocytes through Fcγ receptors (FcγR) with subsequent inflammation. Treatment with endoglycosidase S (EndoS), an IgG glycan–hydrolyzing bacterial enzyme from Streptococcus pyogenes, has shown beneficial effects in several experimental animal models of chronic inflammatory disease. This study was undertaken to investigate whether EndoS affects the proinflammatory properties of ICs and has the potential to be developed as a therapy for SLE.MethodsICs purified from SLE patients or RNA‐containing ICs formed in vitro were treated with EndoS and used in several assays reflecting different important features of SLE pathogenesis, such as phagocytosis by polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs), complement activation, and interferon‐α (IFNα) production by PDCs.ResultsEndoS treatment abolished all proinflammatory properties of the ICs investigated. This included FcγR‐mediated phagocytosis by PDCs (P = 0.001) and subsequent production of IFNα (P = 0.002), IC‐induced classical pathway of complement activation (P = 0.008), chemotaxis, and oxidative burst activity of PMNs (P = 0.002). EndoS treatment also had a direct effect on the molecular structure of ICs, causing decreased IC size and glycosylation.ConclusionOur findings indicate that EndoS treatment has prominent effects on several pathogenetically important IC‐mediated events, and suggest that EndoS has the potential to be developed as a novel therapy for SLE.
Muscle density in rheumatoid arthritis: Associations with disease features and functional outcomes
Authors: Kramer Henry R. , Fontaine Kevin R. , Bathon Joan M. , Giles Jon T. 
Published: March 2012

AbstractObjectiveTo explore the associations between measures of body composition derived from computed tomography (CT) of the thigh and functional outcomes in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).MethodsPatients with RA underwent bilateral midfemoral quantitative CT for measurement of thigh fat area (TFA), thigh muscle area (TMA), and thigh muscle density (TMD). The associations of thigh‐composition measures with disability and physical performance, as measured with the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), the Valued Life Activities (VLAs), and the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) instruments, were explored in the total cohort and in the cohort subgrouped by sex, controlling for pertinent demographic, lifestyle, and RA disease and treatment covariates.ResultsA total of 152 RA patients were studied. Among the potential determinants of TMD, older age, longer duration of sedentary activity, longer duration of RA, higher tender joint count, higher serum interleukin‐6 levels, use of glucocorticoids, and nonuse of hydroxychloroquine were all significantly associated with lower TMD in multivariable models. RA characteristics accounted for 63% of the explainable variability in TMD. When comodeled, higher TFA and lower TMD, but not lower TMA, were significantly and independently associated with higher HAQ scores, lower Short Form 36 health survey physical functioning scores, lower composite SPPB scores, and a greater proportion of affected obligatory VLAs.ConclusionThigh CT–derived measures of body composition, particularly fat area and muscle density, were strongly associated with disability and physical performance in RA patients, with RA disease features as potential determinants. Efforts to reduce fat and improve muscle quality may reduce disability in this population with impaired physical functioning.
An alternative definition of dynamic user optimum on signalised road networks
Authors: Ge Y. E. , Zhou Xizhao 
Published: March 2012

SUMMARYIn the literature on dynamic traffic assignment (DTA), dynamic user optimum (DUO) and dynamic user equilibrium (DUE) are interchangeable and refer to a stable state on a road network in which, under the assumption of perfect information on traffic conditions and the assumption that every traveller chooses the least costly path to travel, no one can reduce his or her travel cost by changing his or her path unilaterally. This paper proposes an alternative definition of DUO on signalised road networks; in such a DUO state, the travel times or costs of used paths between the same origin–destination pair can be different because of the existence of signalised junctions. Usually, on signalised road networks, a DUE solution is sought to approximate such a DUO solution by assuming that the capacity of each approach at a signalised junction is equal to the saturation flow rate of the approach times the corresponding split. By comparing the DUE and DUO solutions of a DTA problem on a small signalised road network, this paper discusses advantages and disadvantages of this approximation and shows that such a DUE solution would not be a good approximation to a DUO solution. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lessons from biomass planning at national and regional level in the EU
Authors: Kautto Niina , Peck Philip 
Published: March 2012

AbstractAction plans are an important tool for meeting the EU renewable energy targets. Planning of biomass at national level has recently shifted from biomass action plans to renewable energy action plans; the latter still assigning special attention to biomass. A number of regions have also developed or are developing biomass plans. However, even though such plans are to assist the delivery of bioenergy development, the processes leading to successful implementation are not well documented. Little is known of the roles and function of these plans. This paper examines factors underlying plans and draws lessons from the planning processes that appear to support successful bioenergy development. The work presents views of actors involved in biomass planning in eleven countries and nine regions in Europe with an analytical framework employed to condense and present interview content. The analysis shows that while planning processes at both national and regional levels have encountered barriers – most of them common to policy implementation in general, but some specific to bioenergy policy – the national level appears to have better dealt with such barriers. Stakeholder commitment, continuity of policy, and flexibility of planning guidelines and processes were found as some of the keys to successful implementation. While biomass plans were demonstrated to serve several roles, approaches looking beyond energy use are still limited. The work concludes that coordination of planning between jurisdictional levels needs to be strengthened and regional stimuli recognized at higher levels in order for biomass policy and planning to better achieve goals. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Chemicals from biobutanol: technologies and markets
Authors: Mascal Mark 
Published: March 2012

AbstractThis review provides a technical description of the range of commercial products that can be accessed from n‐butanol, with specific emphasis on n‐butanol derived from renewable sources (biobutanol). n‐Butanol itself and primary derivatives in which the oxygen functionality of the molecule is retained (butyraldehyde and butyric acid) have mainstream applications in the solvent, polymer, fuel oxygenate, and/or specialty chemical markets, while butanol dehydration products (butenes and butadiene) present additional opportunities in the hydrocarbon fuel and synthetic elastomers markets. The volume and value of these markets are noted and specific applications of first‐ and second‐generation n‐butanol derivatives are discussed. Selected technologies for the conversion of butenes into other valuable olefins are described and current biobutanol producers and technology providers are identified and profiled. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Hydrogen Production through Water–Gas Shift Reaction over Supported Cu, Ni, and CuNi Nanoparticle Catalysts Prepared from Metal Colloids
Authors: Lin Jiann‐Horng , Guliants Vadim V. 
Published: March 2012

AbstractColloidal Cu, Ni, and CuNi nanoparticles obtained through chemical reduction were impregnated onto γ‐Al2O3 to prepare supported catalysts. Conventional catalysts were also prepared for comparison through support impregnation with metal salt solutions. A combination of TEM and STEM, thermogravimetric analysis, powder X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and N2 adsorption analysis was used to characterize the alumina‐supported nanoparticle catalysts. Monodisperse Cu and Ni nanoparticles were uniformly distributed on γ‐Al2O3 as observed by STEM equipped with a high‐angle annular dark field (HAADF) detector. The powder XRD and HAADF–STEM provided evidence supporting the formation of CuNi particles containing the Cu core and the CuNi alloy shell. The resulting supported Cu and Ni nanoparticle catalysts were found to be 2.5 times more active in the water–gas shift (WGS) reaction per unit mass of the active metal as compared with catalysts prepared by means of the conventional impregnation method. Supported Cu catalysts showed promising activity at low temperatures (125–250 °C), whereas supported Ni catalysts showed high activity at high temperatures (275–400 °C). The presence of a surfactant during the preparation of supported Cu nanoparticles resulted in a higher degree of Cu dispersion and thus enhanced WGS activity. Stabilized Ni/Ni(OH)2 nanoparticles were also synthesized to prepare well‐dispersed supported Ni catalysts. In the case of bimetallic catalysts, Cu5Ni5 catalysts showed a higher specific reaction rate per unit surface area of the active metal than did monometallic catalysts. These findings strongly suggested that supported Cu, Ni, and CuNi nanoparticle catalysts prepared from metal colloids are promising, highly active WGS catalysts.
Advances in the Electro‐Fenton Process for Remediation of Recalcitrant Organic Compounds
Authors: Rosales E. , Pazos M. , Sanromán M. A. 
Published: March 2012

AbstractThe electro‐Fenton (EF) process is a promising method combining electrochemical reactions and Fenton's reagent. In this hybrid process, the electrical current induces the in situ generation of H2O2 via reduction of oxygen, and the catalytic reaction is propagated by Fe2+ regeneration, which can take place by reduction of Fe3+ with H2O2, hydroperoxyl radical, organic radical intermediates, or directly at the cathode. Recent advances in the EF process are discussed and several key variables analyzed, including electrode material, initial pH, and Fenton's reagents, in order to extend the applicability of this technology.
Drug and Protein Encapsulation by Emulsification: Technology Enhancement Using Foam Formulations
Authors: Tan M. X. L. , Danquah M. K. 
Published: March 2012

AbstractSignificant progress has been made in developing formulations for protein and drug encapsulation and delivery. The most frequently used method is the emulsion/solvent removal technology, where microencapsulation of proteins in polymeric matrices can be easily achieved with a simple stirrer setup. However, it remains a challenge to produce protein‐encapsulated formulations with high encapsulation efficiencies. The emulsion/solvent removal technique and the relevant formulation and process parameters that govern the protein encapsulation processes are reviewed. A new encapsulation method of using foam as a delivery medium during the preparation of protein‐loaded microparticles is proposed. The foam characteristics of direct relevance to protein encapsulation are discussed. The unique properties of foam could enhance intermolecular interactions and access to internal pore surfaces, thus making them superior compared to traditional methods employing aqueous liquid phases during protein encapsulation.
Indoor Air Quality Monitoring Improving Air Quality Perception
Authors: Herberger Simone , Ulmer Heiko 
Published: March 2012

AbstractEnergy‐efficient ventilation strategies relating to good indoor air quality (IAQ) are a major task for building performance according to the requirements set by the energy performance of buildings directive (EPBD) in 2010. Applying demand‐controlled ventilation (DCV) in buildings, using sensors for IAQ control that enables variable airflow rates adapted to the actual indoor load conditions is one possibility to fulfill the requirements of adequate IAQ while reducing the energy consumption at the same time. CO2 concentrations above outdoors are generally used as an indicator for occupancy generated indoor air pollution and corresponding ventilation rates. The objective of this study is focused on a micromachined metal oxide semiconductor gas sensor module developed for IAQ control, based on volatile organic compound (VOC) detection. The sensor output was correlated with measured CO2 concentrations and quantified VOCs in 15 field scenarios. Energy demand and IAQ, applying the sensor module for DCV in an office, were compared to natural and time‐scheduled ventilation in the office. The study accentuates the need for DCV and proves the functionality of the sensor module for IAQ control at adequate comfort levels. Compared to time‐scheduled ventilation, 15% heating energy and 70% power consumption were saved with DCV.