Is salivary gland ultrasonography a useful tool in Sjögren's syndrome? A systematic review.

PubMed

Jousse-Joulin, Sandrine; Milic, Vera; Jonsson, Malin V; Plagou, Athena; Theander, Elke; Luciano, Nicoletta; Rachele, Pascale; Baldini, Chiara; Bootsma, Hendrika; Vissink, Arjan; Hocevar, Alojzija; De Vita, Salvatore; Tzioufas, Athanasios G; Alavi, Zarin; Bowman, Simon J; Devauchelle-Pensec, Valerie

2016-05-01

Ultrasonography (US) is a sensitive tool in the diagnosis of major salivary gland abnormalities in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). The aim of this systematic review was to assess the metric properties of this technique. PUBMED and EMBASE databases were searched. All publications between January 1988 and January 2013 were considered. Data were extracted from the articles meeting the inclusion criteria according to US definition of salivary gland scoring system and metric properties studied. The type and number of glands tested, study design and metric properties according to OMERACT filter (truth, discrimination, feasibility) were assessed. Of 167 publications identified initially with PUBMED and EMBASE, 31 met the inclusion criteria. The number of pSS patients varied among the studies from 16 to 140. The diagnosis of pSS was in line in most of the cases with the American-European Consensus Group (AECG) classification criteria for Sjögren's syndrome. The US examination was performed in suspected pSS only in studies in which the sensitivity ranged from 45.8 to 91.6% and specificity from 73 to 98.1%. There was heterogeneity in regard to the definition of US in B-mode and few studies used US in colour Doppler. Few studies reported reliability of US and sensitivity to change in pSS. US is a valuable tool for detecting salivary gland abnormalities in pSS. Its reliability has been poorly investigated and there is considerable variation in the definition of US abnormalities. Further studies are required to validate and standardize the US definition of salivary gland in pSS. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Rheumatology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

2MASS J06562998+3002455: Not a Cool White Dwarf Candidate, but a Population II Halo Star

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de la Fuente Marcos, Raúl; de la Fuente Marcos, Carlos

2018-06-01

2MASS J06562998+3002455 or PSS 309-6 is a high proper-motion star that was discovered during a survey with the 2.1 m telescope at Kitt Peak National Observatory. Here, we reevaluate the status of this interesting star using Gaia DR2. Our results strongly suggest that PSS 309-6 could be a Population II star as the value of its V component is close to -220 km/s, which is typical for halo stars in the immediate solar neighborhood. Kapteyn's star is the nearest known halo star and PSS 309-6 exhibits similar kinematic and photometric signatures. Its properties also resemble those of 2MASS J15484023-3544254, which was once thought to be the nearest cool white dwarf but was later reclassified as K-type subdwarf. Although it is virtually certain that PSS 309-6 is not a nearby white dwarf but a more distant Population II subdwarf, further spectroscopic information, including radial velocity measurements, is necessary to fully characterize this probable member of the Galactic halo.

A precursive study of the time-domain survey of the Galactic Anti-center using the Nanshan 1-meter telescope with variable stars detected

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Shu-Guo; Esamdin, Ali; Ma, Lu; Niu, Hu-Biao; Fu, Jian-Ning; Zhang, Yu; Liu, Jin-Zhong; Yang, Tao-Zhi; Song, Fang-Fang; Pu, Guang-Xin

2018-04-01

Following the LAMOST Spectroscopic Survey and the Xuyi's Photometric Survey of the Galactic Anti-center, we plan to carry out a time-domain survey of the Galactic Anti-center (TDS-GAC) to study variable stars by using the Nanshan 1-meter telescope. Before the beginning of TDS-GAC, a precursive sky survey (PSS) has been executed. The goal of the PSS is to optimize the observation strategy of TDS-GAC and to detect some strong transient events, as well as to find some short time-scale variable stars of different types. By observing a discontinuous sky area of 15.03 deg2 with the standard Johnson-Cousin-Bessel V filter, 48 variable stars are found and the time series are analyzed. Based on the behaviors of the light curves, 28 eclipsing binary stars, 10 RR Lyraes, 3 periodic pulsating variables of other types have been classified. The rest 7 variables stay unclassified with deficient data. In addition, the observation strategy of TD-GAC is described, and the pipeline of data reduction is tested.

Stress among healthcare students--a cross disciplinary perspective.

PubMed

Jacob, Tamar; Itzchak, Esther Ben; Raz, Olga

2013-07-01

Perceived stress (PS) among healthcare students worldwide is a recognized problem. To address the paucity of data about the actual degree of PS, this study aimed to: 1) evaluate and compare PS across three healthcare programs (Physical Therapy [PT], Communication Disorders [CD], and Nutrition Sciences [NS]) in one university; 2) evaluate changes in PS across study years; 3) identify the contribution of academic- and socio-demographic-related variables to PS; and 4) determine whether the Israeli students' PS levels differ from those of their peers in other countries. A cross-sectional survey was performed among all undergraduate PT, CD, and NS students from one university. Data were collected using anonymous questionnaires. Instruments included the Perceived Stress Scale 10 (PSS) and the Undergraduate Sources of Stress (USOS). ANOVA was used to evaluate the differences between the three programs, and regression analysis to evaluate the contribution of socio-demographic factors to PS and USOS. A total of 312 students (PT--154; CD--92; NS--66) participated in the study. Mean PSS (range: 13.5-13.6) was similar in the three programs. The USOS academic factor was the most reported source of stress in all programs. Most socio-demographic variables were not related to either PS or USOS. Students from PT, CD, and NS programs perceived similar levels of stress. The academic factor was perceived as the most important source of stress by students from the three departments, despite differences in the academic educational programs. Further studies are needed to generalize these results and enable a comparison between healthcare students and other students' stress perceptions.

Impacts of social support on symptoms in Brazilian women with fibromyalgia.

PubMed

Freitas, Rodrigo Pegado de Abreu; Andrade, Sandra Cristina de; Spyrides, Maria Helena Constantino; Micussi, Maria Thereza Albuquerque Barbosa Cabral; Sousa, Maria Bernardete Cordeiro de

We aimed to assess the impact of social support on symptoms in Brazilian women with FM. An observational, descriptive study enrolling 66 women who met the 1990 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria. Social support was measured by the Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS), functionality was evaluated using the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), depression was assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), anxiety was measured using the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAS), affectivity was measured by Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), and algometry was carried out to record pressure pain threshold (PPth) and tolerance (PPTo) at 18 points recommended by the ACR. Patients were divided into normal (NSS) or poor social support (PSS) groups with PSS defined as having a MOS-SSS score below the 25th percentile of the entire sample. Mann-Whitney or Unpaired t-test were used to compare intergroup variables and Fisher's for categorical variables. Analysis of covariance and Pearson correlation test were used. No differences in sociodemographic variables between PSS and NSS were found. Differences between NSS and PSS groups were observed for all four subcategories of social support and MOS-SSS total score. Significant differences between NSS and PSS on depression (p=0.007), negative affect (p=0.025) and PPTh (p=0.016) were found. Affectionate subcategory showed positive correlation between pain and positive affect in PSS. Positive social interaction subcategory showed a negative correlation between FIQ and depression state. Therefore social support appears to contribute to ameliorate mental and physical health in FM. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

Astrometric observations of Saturn's satellites from McDonald Observatory, 1972. [using reference stars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abbot, R. I.; Mulholland, J. D.; Shelus, P. J.

1974-01-01

Observations of Saturn's satellites were reduced by means of secondary reference stars obtained by reduction of Palomar Sky Survey (PSS) plates. This involved the use of 39 SAO stars and plate overlap technique to determine the coordinates of 59 fainter stars in the satellite field. Fourteen plate constants were determined for each of the two PSS plates. Comparison of two plate measurement and reduction techniques on the satellite measurements demonstrate the existence of a serious background gradient effect and the utility of microdensitometry to eliminate this error source in positional determinations of close satellites.

University of Chicago — Nanoscale Metal-organic Frameworks

Cancer.gov

This project addresses the unmet needs in developing highly efficient and safe nanoparticle PSs that can have much broader clinical applications for cancer by Near-IR triggered PDT and X-ray induced PDT (X-PDT).

The impact of mind-body medicine facilitation on affirming and enhancing professional identity in health care professions faculty.

PubMed

Talisman, Nicholas; Harazduk, Nancy; Rush, Christina; Graves, Kristi; Haramati, Aviad

2015-06-01

Georgetown University School of Medicine (GUSOM) offers medical students a course in mind-body medicine (MBM) that introduces them to tools that reduce stress and foster self-awareness. Previous studies reported decreases in students' perceived stress and increases in mindfulness-changes that were associated with increased empathic concern and other elements of professional identity formation. However, no reports have described the impact of an MBM course on the facilitators themselves. To explore whether MBM facilitation is associated with changes in professional identity, self-awareness, and/or perceived stress, 62 facilitators, trained by the GUSOM MBM program, were invited to complete two validated surveys: the Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory (FMI) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Forty-two participants also completed a six-item open-ended questionnaire addressing their experience in the context of their professional identity. Facilitators' scores were significantly lower on PSS and higher on FMI compared with normative controls (P < .05), and the two parameters were inversely correlated (-0.46, P < .01). Qualitative analysis revealed three main themes: (1) aspects of professional identity (with subthemes of communication; connections and community; empathy and active listening; and self-confidence); (2) self-care; and (3) mindful awareness. Preliminary findings will be extended with larger studies that examine longitudinal quantitative assessment of communication, connection, and self-confidence outcomes in MBM facilitators, and the impact of MBM facilitation on burnout and resilience.

Psychometric evaluation of Turkish version of the Perceived Stress Scale with Turkish college students.

PubMed

Kaya, Cahit; Tansey, Timothy N; Melekoglu, Macid; Cakiroglu, Orhan; Chan, Fong

2017-12-20

The Turkish version of the Perceived Stress Scale (T-PSS-10) measures the extent to which situations in one's life are appraised as stressful. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the measurement structure of T-PSS-10. Two-hundred and thirty-five Turkish university students (93 men and 142 women) completed the T-PSS-10, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), the General Anxiety Disorder 7-Item Scale (GAD-7), and the Inventory of Common Problems (ICP). Confirmatory factor analysis results indicated that a one-factor model did not fit the data, whereas a two-factor correlated model (stress related self-efficacy beliefs, stress related feelings of helplessness) provided a better fit between the model and the data. Significant moderate correlations were found for the stress-related self-efficacy beliefs and stress-related feelings of helplessness factors with depression, anxiety, academic difficulty, relationship problems and health problems. The internal consistency reliability coefficients for the stress-related self-efficacy beliefs and stress-related feelings of helplessness factors were 0.68 and 0.85, respectively. This study provided support for the reliability and validity of T-PSS-10 suggesting that it can be used as a screening instrument by health professionals working with Turkish college students.

Molecular characterization and expression of three preprosomatostatin genes and their association with growth in common carp (Cyprinus carpio).

PubMed

Feng, Xiu; Yu, Xiaomu; Pang, Meixia; Liu, Haiyang; Tong, Jingou

2015-04-01

Somatostatins (SSs) are a structurally diverse family of peptides that play important roles in the regulation of growth, development and metabolism in vertebrates. In this study, three preprosomatostatin genes (PSSs) in the common carp, Cyprinus carpio (Cc) were identified and characterized. Based on cloned sequences and genome BLAST, six isoforms of the PSS gene in C. carpio (CcPSS) were identified and included CcPSS1a and CcPSS1b, CcPSS2a and CcPSS2b, and finally, CcPSS3a and CcPSS3b. The open reading frames (ORF) of CcPSS1a, CcPSS2a and CcPSS3a consist of 345, 336 and 363 nucleotides. During embryonic development, the expressions of CcPSS2 and CcPSS3 were first observed at the stage of optic vesicle, and CcPSS1 mRNA was initially detected at the stage of muscular effect. The highest mRNA levels of CcPSS1, CcPSS2 and CcPSS3 were observed at 1-day post-hatch (dph), 2-dph and the stage of heart beating, respectively. In the adult brain, the distributions of three CcPSS mRNAs were differential but overlapping in the hypothalamus, telencephalon and medulla oblongata. For peripheral tissues, all three CcPSS mRNAs were detected in the mid-intestine, and CcPSS1 and CcPSS3 mRNAs were also expressed in the liver. Owing to the importance of somatostatins on regulating growth, functional mutations of CcPSSs were identified in a C. carpio population. A total of 23 polymorphic sites were detected in CcPSS1a and CcPSS3a. Of them, two SNPs (CcPSS1a-g.922C>T, and CcPSS3a-g.1125C>A) were significantly associated with growth traits, indicating their potential applications in gene (marker)-assisted selective breeding in C. carpio. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Energy level and thickness control on PEDOT:PSS layer for efficient planar heterojunction perovskite cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Chunhua; Zhang, Chujun; Tong, Sichao; Xia, Huayan; Wang, Lijuan; Xie, Haipeng; Gao, Yongli; Yang, Junliang

2018-01-01

Efficient planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells (PHJ-PSCs) with an architecture of ITO/PEDOT:PSS/CH3NH3PbI3/PCBM/Al were fabricated by controlling the energy level and thickness of the PEDOT:PSS layer, where the PEDOT:PSS precursor was diluted with deionized water (H2O) and isopropyl alcohol (IPA), i.e. W-PEDOT:PSS and I-PEDOT:PSS. The performance parameters of the PHJ-PSCs showed soaring enhancement after employing W-PEDOT:PSS or I-PEDOT:PSS instead of pristine PEDOT:PSS (P-PEDOT:PSS), resulting in an increase of the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of W-PEDOT:PSS-based PHJ-PSCs to 15.60% from 11.95% for P-PEDOT:PSS-based PHJ-PSCs. The performance improvement results from two aspects. On the one hand, as compared to P-PEDOT:PSS, the occupied molecular orbital energy (HOMO) level of dilute PEDOT:PSS showed an impressive decrease and can well match the valence band of CH3NH3PbI3 film, resulting in less energy loss and a significant improvement in the open-circuit voltage (V oc). On the other hand, the dilute PEDOT:PSS could produce a thinner film as compared with the P-PEDOT:PSS, which also played an important role in the performance of the PHJ-PSCs. Furthermore, the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) results indicated that the interface between perovskite and PEDOT:PSS was greatly improved by employing W-PEDOT:PSS or I-PEDOT:PSS, leading to an obvious decrease in the series resistance (R s) and an increase in the recombination resistance (R rec). The research demonstrated that diluting PEDOT:PSS with a common solvent, such as H2O and IPA, is a feasible low-temperature way of achieving efficient PHJ-PSCs.

An investigation into the prevalence of sleep disturbances in primary Sjögren's syndrome: a systematic review of the literature.

PubMed

Hackett, Katie L; Gotts, Zoe M; Ellis, Jason; Deary, Vincent; Rapley, Tim; Ng, Wan-Fai; Newton, Julia L; Deane, Katherine H O

2017-04-01

To identify whether sleep disturbances are more prevalent in primary SS (pSS) patients compared with the general population and to recognize which specific sleep symptoms are particularly problematic in this population. Electronic searches of the literature were conducted in PubMed, Medline (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), PsychINFO (Ovid) and Web of Science and the search strategy registered a priori . Titles and abstracts were reviewed by two authors independently against a set of prespecified inclusion/exclusion criteria, reference lists were examined and a narrative synthesis of the included articles was conducted. Eight whole-text papers containing nine separate studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the narrative analysis. Few of these studies met all of the quality assessment criteria. The studies used a range of self-reported measures and objective measures, including polysomnography. Mixed evidence was obtained for some of the individual sleep outcomes, but overall compared with controls, pSS patients reported greater subjective sleep disturbances and daytime somnolence and demonstrated more night awakenings and pre-existing obstructive sleep apnoea. A range of sleep disturbances are commonly reported in pSS patients. Further polysomnography studies are recommended to confirm the increased prevalence of night awakenings and obstructive sleep apnoea in this patient group. pSS patients with excessive daytime somnolence should be screened for co-morbid sleep disorders and treated appropriately. Interventions targeted at sleep difficulties in pSS, such as cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia and nocturnal humidification devices, have the potential to improve quality of life in this patient group and warrant further investigation. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Rheumatology. All rights reserved.

[Validation of the American College of Rheumatology classification criteria for primary Sjogren's syndrome in Chinese patients].

PubMed

Wei, Pan; Lu, Song-he; Fu, Jing-ya; Yan, Zhi-min; Hua, Hong

2014-04-18

To validate the American College of Rheumatology Classification (ACR) Criteria (2012) for the diagnosis of primary Sjogren's syndrome in Chinese patients. All patients involved in this study came from the Department of Oral Medicine Peking University Stomatology Hospital. They were devided into two groups of pSS and non-pSS according to the diagnoses made by two experts. Both groups of the patients had completed medical records kept in the hospital. A total of 239 pSS patients (160 with labial salivary gland biopsy, and 79 without biopsy) and 52 age-matched non-pSS patients [(55.17±14.295),and (55.90±13.38) years old, P>0.05] (9 with biopsy, and 43 without biopsy) were involved in this study. The sensitivity and specificity of ACR criteria in diagnosing pSS were 90.37 % and 88.46 % respectively. The positive and negative likelihood ratios were 7.83 and 0.109, respectively. The sensitivities of ACR criteria in diagnosing pSS patients with and without labial biopsy were 88.75% and 93.67 %, respectively, with specificities of 88.89% and 88.37%, respectively. The most sensitive item adopted in ACR criteria was the ocular staining score with a sensitivity of 85.77%, and the most specific item was the labial salivary gland biopsy, with a specificity of 88.89%. The sensitivity and specificity of ACR criteria in diagnosing Chinese pSS patients were relatively high, and may serve as the diagnosis criteria in research and clinical practice. However, the ACR criteria need to be validated and further revised in the future .

PHOSPHATIDYLSERINE SYNTHASE1 is required for microspore development in Arabidopsis thaliana.

PubMed

Yamaoka, Yasuyo; Yu, Yanbo; Mizoi, Junya; Fujiki, Yuki; Saito, Kyoko; Nishijima, Masahiro; Lee, Youngsook; Nishida, Ikuo

2011-08-01

Phosphatidylserine (PS) has many important biological roles, but little is known about its role in plants, partly because of its low abundance. We show here that PS is enriched in Arabidopsis floral tissues and that genetic disruption of PS biosynthesis decreased heterozygote fertility due to inhibition of pollen maturation. At1g15110, designated PSS1, encodes a base-exchange-type PS synthase. Escherichia coli cells expressing PSS1 accumulated PS in the presence of l-serine at 23°C. Promoter-GUS assays showed PSS1 expression in developing anther pollen and tapetum. A few seeds with pss1-1 and pss1-2 knockout alleles escaped embryonic lethality but developed into sterile dwarf mutant plants. These plants contained no PS, verifying that PSS1 is essential for PS biosynthesis. Reciprocal crossing revealed reduced pss1 transmission via male gametophytes, predicting a rate of 61.6%pss1-1 pollen defects in PSS1/pss1-1 plants. Alexander's staining of inseparable qrt1-1 PSS1/pss1-1 quartets revealed a rate of 42% having three or four dead pollen grains, suggesting sporophytic pss1-1 cell death effects. Analysis with the nuclear stain 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) showed that all tetrads from PSS1/pss1-1 anthers retain their nuclei, whereas unicellular microspores were sometimes anucleate. Transgenic Arabidopsis expressing a GFP-LactC2 construct that binds PS revealed vesicular staining in tetrads and bicellular microspores and nuclear membrane staining in unicellular microspores. Hence, distribution and/or transport of PS across membranes were dynamically regulated in pollen microspores. However, among unicellular microspores from PSS1/pss1-2 GFP-LactC2 plants, all anucleate microspores showed little GFP-LactC2 fluorescence, suggesting that pss1-2 microspores are more sensitive to sporophytic defects or show partial gametophytic defects. © 2011 The Authors. The Plant Journal © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

An HPLC Method for Microanalysis and Pharmacokinetics of Marine Sulfated Polysaccharide PSS-Loaded Poly Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid (PLGA) Nanoparticles in Rat Plasma

PubMed Central

Li, Peng-Li; Li, Chun-Xia; Xue, Yi-Ting; Li, Hai-Hua; Liu, Hong-Bing; He, Xiao-Xi; Yu, Guang-Li; Guan, Hua-Shi

2013-01-01

This study was aimed at developing a sensitive and selective HPLC method with postcolumn fluorescence derivatization for the detection of propylene glycol alginate sodium sulfate (PSS) in rat plasma. Plasma samples were prepared by a simple and fast ultrafiltration method. PSS was extracted from rat plasma with d-glucuronic acid as internal standard. Isocratic chromatographic separation was performed on a TSKgel G2500 PWxL column with the mobile phase of 0.1 M sodium sulfate at a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min. Analyte detection was achieved by fluorescence detection (FLD) at 250 nm (excitation) and 435 nm (emission) using guanidine hydrochloride as postcolumn derivatizing reagent in an alkaline medium at 120 °C. The calibration curve was linear over a concentration range of 1–500 μg/mL, and the lower limit of detection (LLOD) was found to be 250 ng/mL. This validated method was applied successfully to the pharmacokinetic study of PSS and PSS-loaded poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (PSS-NP) in rat plasma after a single intravenous (PSS only) and oral administration (PSS and PSS-NP). Significant differences in the main pharmacokinetic parameters of PSS and PSS-NP were observed. The relative bioavailability of PSS-NP was 190.10% compared with PSS which shows that PSS-NP can improve oral bioavailability. PMID:23549283

Fabrication of water-dispersible and highly conductive PSS-doped PANI/graphene nanocomposites using a high-molecular weight PSS dopant and their application in H2S detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cho, Sunghun; Lee, Jun Seop; Jun, Jaemoon; Kim, Sung Gun; Jang, Jyongsik

2014-11-01

This work describes the fabrication of poly(4-styrenesulfonic acid)-doped polyaniline/graphene (PSS-doped PANI/graphene) nanocomposites and their use as sensing elements for hydrogen sulfide (H2S) detection. PSS with a weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of 1.96 × 106 was synthesized using low-temperature free-radical polymerization. The PSS was used as both a doping agent and a binding agent for the polymerization of aniline monomers in a biphasic system (water-chloroform) at -50 °C. The high Mw of PSS resulted in relatively large particle sizes and smooth surfaces of the PSS-doped PANI. These physical characteristics, in turn, resulted in low interparticle resistance and high conductivity. In addition, the PSS allowed homogeneous dispersion of reduced graphene sheets through electrostatic repulsion. The prepared PSS-doped PANI/graphene solutions showed good compatibility with flexible poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrates, making them suitable for flexible sensor electrodes. Changes in the charge-transport properties, such as protonation level, conjugation length, crystalline structure, and charge-transfer resistance, of the electrode materials were the main factors influencing the electrical and sensor performance of the PSS-doped PANI-based electrodes. PSS-doped PANI/graphene composites containing 30 wt% graphene showed the highest conductivity (168.4 S cm-1) and the lowest minimum detection level (MDL) for H2S gas (1 ppm). This result is consistent with the observed improvements in charge transport in the electrode materials via strong π-π stacking interactions between the PANI and the graphene sheets.This work describes the fabrication of poly(4-styrenesulfonic acid)-doped polyaniline/graphene (PSS-doped PANI/graphene) nanocomposites and their use as sensing elements for hydrogen sulfide (H2S) detection. PSS with a weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of 1.96 × 106 was synthesized using low-temperature free-radical polymerization. The PSS was used as both a doping agent and a binding agent for the polymerization of aniline monomers in a biphasic system (water-chloroform) at -50 °C. The high Mw of PSS resulted in relatively large particle sizes and smooth surfaces of the PSS-doped PANI. These physical characteristics, in turn, resulted in low interparticle resistance and high conductivity. In addition, the PSS allowed homogeneous dispersion of reduced graphene sheets through electrostatic repulsion. The prepared PSS-doped PANI/graphene solutions showed good compatibility with flexible poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrates, making them suitable for flexible sensor electrodes. Changes in the charge-transport properties, such as protonation level, conjugation length, crystalline structure, and charge-transfer resistance, of the electrode materials were the main factors influencing the electrical and sensor performance of the PSS-doped PANI-based electrodes. PSS-doped PANI/graphene composites containing 30 wt% graphene showed the highest conductivity (168.4 S cm-1) and the lowest minimum detection level (MDL) for H2S gas (1 ppm). This result is consistent with the observed improvements in charge transport in the electrode materials via strong π-π stacking interactions between the PANI and the graphene sheets. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: FE-SEM images of PSS-doped PANI/graphene nanocomposites and graphene sheets, FT-IR spectra of PSS with different Mw, XRD patterns of PSS-doped PANI polymerized with different Mw of PSS, FT-IR spectra of GO, RGO, PSS-coated GO, and PSS-coated RGO, fully XPS scanned spectra of PSS-doped PANI/graphene nanocomposites, cyclic voltammogram of PSS-doped PANI/graphene nanocomposites at different scan rates (10 to 50 mV-1), and I-V characteristics of PSS-doped PANI/graphene nanocomposites with a thickness of 5 μm. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr04413d

Preparation, characterization and pharmacokinetics of fluorescence labeled propylene glycol alginate sodium sulfate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Pengli; Li, Chunxia; Xue, Yiting; Zhang, Yang; Liu, Hongbing; Zhao, Xia; Yu, Guangli; Guan, Huashi

2014-08-01

A rapid and sensitive fluorescence labeling method was developed and validated for the microanalysis of a sulfated polysaccharide drug,namely propylene glycol alginate sodium sulfate (PSS), in rat plasma. Fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) was selected to label PSS, and 1, 6-diaminohexane was used to link PSS and FITC in order to prepare FITC-labeled PSS (F-PSS) through a reductive amination reaction. F-PSS was identified by UV-Vis, FT-IR and 1H-NMR spectrum. The cell stability and cytotoxicity of F-PSS were tested in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells. The results indicated that the labeling efficiency of F-PSS was 0.522% ± 0.0248% and the absolute bioavailability was 8.39%. F-PSS was stable in MDCK cells without obvious cytotoxicity. The method was sensitive and reliable; it showed a good linearity, precision, recovery and stability. The FITC labeling method can be applied to investigating the absorption and metabolism of PSS and other polysaccharides in biological samples.

Predictive optimized adaptive PSS in a single machine infinite bus.

PubMed

Milla, Freddy; Duarte-Mermoud, Manuel A

2016-07-01

Power System Stabilizer (PSS) devices are responsible for providing a damping torque component to generators for reducing fluctuations in the system caused by small perturbations. A Predictive Optimized Adaptive PSS (POA-PSS) to improve the oscillations in a Single Machine Infinite Bus (SMIB) power system is discussed in this paper. POA-PSS provides the optimal design parameters for the classic PSS using an optimization predictive algorithm, which adapts to changes in the inputs of the system. This approach is part of small signal stability analysis, which uses equations in an incremental form around an operating point. Simulation studies on the SMIB power system illustrate that the proposed POA-PSS approach has better performance than the classical PSS. In addition, the effort in the control action of the POA-PSS is much less than that of other approaches considered for comparison. Copyright © 2016 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Swelling kinetics and electrical charge transport in PEDOT:PSS thin films exposed to water vapor.

PubMed

Sarkar, Biporjoy; Jaiswal, Manu; Satapathy, Dillip K

2018-06-06

We report the swelling kinetics and evolution of the electrical charge transport in poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) thin films subjected to water vapor. Polymer films swell by the diffusion of water vapor and are found to undergo structural relaxations. Upon exposure to water vapor, primarily the hygroscopic PSS shell, which surrounds the conducting PEDOT-rich cores, takes up water vapor and subsequently swells. We found that the degree of swelling largely depends on the PEDOT to PSS ratio. Swelling driven microscopic rearrangement of the conducting PEDOT-rich cores in the PSS matrix strongly influences the electrical charge transport of the polymer film. Swelling induced increase as well as decrease of electrical resistance are observed in polymer films having different PEDOT to PSS ratio. This anomalous charge transport behavior in PEDOT:PSS films is reconciled by taking into account the contrasting swelling behavior of the PSS and the conducting PEDOT-rich cores leading to spatial segregation of PSS in films with PSS as a minority phase and by a net increase in mean separation between conducting PEDOT-rich cores for films having abundance of PSS.

PEDOT:PSS/graphene quantum dots films with enhanced thermoelectric properties via strong interfacial interaction and phase separation.

PubMed

Du, Fei-Peng; Cao, Nan-Nan; Zhang, Yun-Fei; Fu, Ping; Wu, Yan-Guang; Lin, Zhi-Dong; Shi, Run; Amini, Abbas; Cheng, Chun

2018-04-24

The typical conductive polymer of PEDOT:PSS has recently attracted intensive attention in thermoelectric conversion because of its low cost and low thermal conductivity as well as high electrical conductivity. However, compared to inorganic counterparts, the relatively poor thermoelectric performance of PEDOT:PSS has greatly limited its development and high-tech applications. Here, we report a dramatic enhancement in the thermoelectric performance of PEDOT:PSS by constructing unique composite films with graphene quantum dots (GQDs). At room temperature, the electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient of PEDOT:PSS/GQDs reached to 7172 S/m and 14.6 μV/K, respectively, which are 30.99% and 113.2% higher than those of pristine PEDOT:PSS. As a result, the power factor of the optimized PEDOT:PSS/GQDs composite is 550% higher than that of pristine PEDOT:PSS. These significant improvements are attributed to the ordered alignment of PEDOT chains on the surface of GQDs, originated from the strong interfacial interaction between PEDOT:PSS and GQDs and the separation of PEDOT and PSS phases. This study evidently provides a promising route for PEDOT:PSS applied in high-efficiency thermoelectric conversion.

Swelling kinetics and electrical charge transport in PEDOT:PSS thin films exposed to water vapor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarkar, Biporjoy; Jaiswal, Manu; Satapathy, Dillip K.

2018-06-01

We report the swelling kinetics and evolution of the electrical charge transport in poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) thin films subjected to water vapor. Polymer films swell by the diffusion of water vapor and are found to undergo structural relaxations. Upon exposure to water vapor, primarily the hygroscopic PSS shell, which surrounds the conducting PEDOT-rich cores, takes up water vapor and subsequently swells. We found that the degree of swelling largely depends on the PEDOT to PSS ratio. Swelling driven microscopic rearrangement of the conducting PEDOT-rich cores in the PSS matrix strongly influences the electrical charge transport of the polymer film. Swelling induced increase as well as decrease of electrical resistance are observed in polymer films having different PEDOT to PSS ratio. This anomalous charge transport behavior in PEDOT:PSS films is reconciled by taking into account the contrasting swelling behavior of the PSS and the conducting PEDOT-rich cores leading to spatial segregation of PSS in films with PSS as a minority phase and by a net increase in mean separation between conducting PEDOT-rich cores for films having abundance of PSS.

The use of self-Reiki for stress reduction and relaxation.

PubMed

Bukowski, Elaine L

2015-09-01

More than one-third of college students reported the desire for stress reduction techniques and education. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a 20-week structured self-Reiki program on stress reduction and relaxation in college students. Students were recruited from Stockton University and sessions were conducted in the privacy of their residence. Twenty students completed the entire study consisting of 20 weeks of self-Reiki done twice weekly. Each participant completed a Reiki Baseline Credibility Scale, a Reiki Expectancy Scale, and a Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) after acceptance into the study. The PSS was completed every four weeks once the interventions were initiated. A global assessment questionnaire was completed at the end of the study. Logs summarizing the outcome of each session were submitted at the end of the study. With the exception of three participants, participants believed that Reiki is a credible technique for reducing stress levels. Except for two participants, participants agreed that Reiki would be effective in reducing stress levels. All participants experienced stress within the month prior to completing the initial PSS. There was a significant reduction in stress levels from pre-study to post-study. There was a correlation between self-rating of improvement and final PSS scores. With one exception, stress levels at 20 weeks did not return to pre-study stress levels. This study supports the hypothesis that the calming effect of Reiki may be achieved through the use of self-Reiki.

Conflict and well-being: a comparative study of health-related quality of life, stress, and insecurity of university students in the West Bank and Jordan.

PubMed

Asi, Yara M; Unruh, Lynn; Liu, Xinliang

2018-05-01

A significant body of research indicates that the conflict environment is detrimental to the quality of life and well-being of civilians. This study assesses the health-related quality of life, stress, and insecurity of the West Bank, which has been engaged in conflict for seven decades, in comparison to a demographically and culturally similar population in Jordan, a neighboring nation with no conflict. We expect the Jordanian sample to report better functioning. We collected 793 surveys from university students (mean age = 20.2) in Nablus, West Bank (398 [50.2%]) and Irbid, Jordan (395 [49.8%]). The survey instrument consisted of the SF-36 to measure HRQoL, the PSS-4 to measure stress, and an insecurity scale, along with demographic characteristics. Our findings indicate that outcomes in the West Bank were not significantly worse than in Jordan, and in some cases represented better functioning, especially in the SF-36 measures. Our counterintuitive results suggest that health and well-being outcomes are dependent on many factors in addition to conflict. For one, it may be that the better perceived health and well-being of the Palestinians is because they have developed a culture of resilience. Additionally, Jordanians are undergoing a period of instability due to internal struggles and surrounding conflicts.

Comparison of Long-Term Clinical Outcomes of Lesions Exhibiting Focal and Segmental Peri-Stent Contrast Staining.

PubMed

Tokuda, Takahiro; Yamawaki, Masahiro; Takahara, Mitsuyohi; Mori, Shinsuke; Makino, Kenji; Honda, Yosuke; Takafuji, Hiroya; Takama, Takuro; Tsutsumi, Masakazu; Sakamoto, Yasunari; Takimura, Hideyuki; Kobayashi, Norihiro; Araki, Motoharu; Hirano, Keisuke; Ito, Yoshiaki

2016-03-18

Peri-stent contrast staining (PSS) after metallic drug-eluting stent deployment is associated with target lesion revascularization and very late stent thrombosis. However, the type of PSS that influences the clinical outcomes is unknown. Therefore, we aimed to reveal which PSS type was influencing clinical outcomes. This study included 5580 de novo lesions of 4405 patients who were implanted with a first- or second-generation drug-eluting stent and who were evaluated using follow-up angiography within 12 months after stent implantation. We compared the clinical outcomes of patients divided into focal PSS and segmental PSS groups for 6 years after stent implantation. Total PSS was observed in 97 lesions (2.2%), of which 42 and 55 lesions were focal and segmental PSS, respectively. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups, except for intraoperative chronic total occlusion (segmental PSS=47.3% versus focal PSS=11.9%, P=0.0001). The incidence of segmental PSS tended to be higher in patients with a first-generation drug-eluting stent (83.6% versus 16.4%, P=0.05). The cumulative incidence of stent thrombosis in the 6 years of segmental PSS group was significantly higher than that of the focal PSS group (13.9% versus 0%, P=0.04). The cumulative incidence of overall target lesion revascularization for restenosis, excluding target lesion revascularization procedures for stent thrombosis, was significantly higher in the segmental PSS group (38.0% versus 0%, P=0.01). The incidence of segmental PSS tended to be higher in patients with a first-generation drug-eluting stent and appeared to be significantly associated with target lesion revascularization and stent thrombosis. © 2016 The Authors. Published on behalf of the American Heart Association, Inc., by Wiley Blackwell.

Giant Cosmic Lens Reveals Secrets of Distant Galaxy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

2003-04-01

Using the National Science Foundation's Very Large Array (VLA) radio telescope and helped by a gigantic cosmic lens conveniently provided by nature, an international team of astronomers has discovered that a young galaxy had a central disk of gas in which hundreds of new stars were being born every year -- at a time when the Universe was only a fraction of its current age. Artist's Conception of the Star-Forming Disk (Click on Image for Larger Version) VLA Image of PSS J2322+1944 (Click on Image for Larger Version) "This unique look into a very distant, young galaxy gives us unprecedented insight into the process that produced both tremendous numbers of stars and supermassive black holes in forming galaxies," said Chris Carilli, of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) in Socorro, NM, leader of the research team. "This work strongly supports the idea that the stars and the black holes formed simultaneously," he added. The research was published in the April 4 issue of Science Express. The astronomers studied a quasar called PSS J2322+1944, about 12 billion light-years from Earth. The quasar is an extremely luminous object powered by the supermassive black hole at the core of a galaxy. At the distance of this quasar, the scientists see the object as it was when the Universe was less than 2 billion years old, about 15 percent of its current age. The discovery required a huge assist from nature. To find the star-forming disk, the astronomers needed to observe natural radio emission from the carbon monoxide (CO) molecule, an important component of the gas that forms stars. However, this molecule emits radio waves at frequencies much higher than the VLA is capable of receiving. At PSS J2322+1944's distance of 12 billion light-years, however, the expansion of the Universe stretched the radio waves, reducing their frequency. CO emission at 230 GigaHertz was shifted to 45 GigaHertz, within the VLA's range. That alone was not enough. The distance that made it possible to receive the radio waves from the quasar also meant that the object was too far away for the VLA to discern the detail required to show the disk. Once again, nature stepped in to help, providing another galaxy directly between the quasar and Earth to form a gravitational lens. "What we needed wasn't just any old gravitational lens, but a nearly-perfect alignment of the distant quasar, mid-distance galaxy, and Earth -- and that's what we got," said Geraint Lewis of the University of Sydney in Australia, another member of the team. With such a perfect alignment, the quasar image was distorted into a ring, called an "Einstein Ring." The VLA images were the first to show the Einstein Ring of PSS J2322+1944. "We never would have seen the disk of CO gas near the center of this galaxy without the gravitational lens," said Carilli. "The lens boosted the signal and magnified the image to reveal the disk's structure in unprecedented detail," he added. For several years, astronomers have noted that the masses of black holes are directly proportional to the sizes of central bulges of stars in galaxies. This led to the speculation that formation of the black holes and of the stars are somehow related to each other. Scientists hypothesized that gas being drawn towards a galaxy's central black hole is the same gas from which large numbers of stars are forming. Studies of more-nearby galaxies supported such speculation, but the question remained whether the idea could be applied to the very early Universe, when the first galaxies and black holes formed. "This new observation gives strong support to the idea that large numbers of stars were forming in young galaxies at the same time that their central black holes were pulling in additional mass," said Pierre Cox, of the Institute for Space Astrophysics of the University of Paris. The astronomers believe that galaxies in the early Universe were frequently disrupted by nearby encounters with other galaxies, "feeding" the central black hole with gas. The gas formed an extensive, spinning disk around the galaxy's center, some of it eventually falling into the black hole and some of it forming new stars. In PSS J2322+1944, the astronomers believe that new stars with a total mass equal to some 900 times that of the Sun were forming in the 13,000-light-year-diameter disk every year. At that rate, the scientists say, most of the stars in a large elliptical galaxy could form in only about 100 million years. PSS J2322+1944 is one of the most luminous quasars in the Universe. It was first discovered by George Djorgovski and his collaborators from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), using the digitized Palomar Observatory Sky Survey. Later studies led by Cox and Alain Omont of the Astrophysical Institute of Paris using the IRAM millimeter-wave facilities in Europe (the 30-meter telescope and the Plateau de Bure Interferometer) showed that it had a huge reservoir of dust and molecular gas, the fuel for star formation. Optical observation at the W.M. Keck Observatory in Hawaii showed a double image that indicated gravitational lensing. All these factors, the scientists said, made it an ideal candidate for study with the VLA. "Our guess paid off handsomely. Finding that Einstein Ring with the VLA gave us the tool we needed to see what was going on inside that very distant galaxy," said Carilli. "There are fewer than 100 gravitational lenses known so far, and we were extremely lucky to find one that allowed us to help resolve the specific scientific question we were studying." Gravitational lenses were predicted, based on Albert Einstein's General Theory of Relativity, in 1919. Einstein himself showed in 1936 that a perfectly-aligned gravitational lens would produce a circular image, but felt that the chances of actually observing such an object were nearly zero. The first gravitational lens was discovered in 1979, and the first Einstein Ring was discovered by researchers using the VLA in 1987. PSS J2322+1944 is the first Einstein Ring detected through the signature emission of a molecule and the most distant yet found. PSS J2322+1944 may be able to make another contribution to science. Astronomers believe that gravitational lenses may serve as a tool for precisely measuring great distances in the Universe. If a distant quasar varies in brightness over time, the multiple images formed by a gravitational lens would show that variation at different times. By monitoring such time differences and using a mathematical model of the specific gravitational lens, the distance to the quasar can be measured. "This quasar, if it shows brightness variations in the future, may be such a 'Golden Lens,' long sought to refine our measurement of very great distances," said Lewis. In addition to Carilli, Lewis, Djorgovski, Cox and Omont, the research team includes Ashish Mahabal of Caltech and Frank Bertoldi of the Max-Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy in Bonn, Germany. The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility of the National Science Foundation, operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.

A theory of phase singularities for image representation and its applications to object tracking and image matching.

PubMed

Qiao, Yu; Wang, Wei; Minematsu, Nobuaki; Liu, Jianzhuang; Takeda, Mitsuo; Tang, Xiaoou

2009-10-01

This paper studies phase singularities (PSs) for image representation. We show that PSs calculated with Laguerre-Gauss filters contain important information and provide a useful tool for image analysis. PSs are invariant to image translation and rotation. We introduce several invariant features to characterize the core structures around PSs and analyze the stability of PSs to noise addition and scale change. We also study the characteristics of PSs in a scale space, which lead to a method to select key scales along phase singularity curves. We demonstrate two applications of PSs: object tracking and image matching. In object tracking, we use the iterative closest point algorithm to determine the correspondences of PSs between two adjacent frames. The use of PSs allows us to precisely determine the motions of tracked objects. In image matching, we combine PSs and scale-invariant feature transform (SIFT) descriptor to deal with the variations between two images and examine the proposed method on a benchmark database. The results indicate that our method can find more correct matching pairs with higher repeatability rates than some well-known methods.

Perceived stress and bruxism in university students.

PubMed

Cavallo, Pierpaolo; Carpinelli, Luna; Savarese, Giulia

2016-12-21

Many studies have shown the correlation between bruxism and stress that affects the quality of life of university students. The present study highlights this correlation-for the first time-in a group of university students in Italy. We have investigated the prevalence of awake and asleep bruxism and its correlation with perceived stress in a group of 278 Italian undergraduate students (117 M). A self report questionnaire was constructed using a socio-demographic test, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the item n. 8 of the Fonseca Questionnaire for presence of bruxism. The perceived stress score using PSS-10 scale was 32.2 (SD 4.6, 95% CL 31.6-32.7) for all the subjects, with significant gender difference: M = 31.2 and F = 32.9 (P = 0.0019). The prevalence for awake bruxism was 37.9% (F = 40.8%; M = 34.2%,), while for sleep bruxism was 31.8% (F = 33.3%; M = 29.1%), both without significant gender difference. A positive correlation, with significant concordance and dependence, between stress score and awake bruxism was present for male students only. University students showed higher bruxism and stress levels compared to the general population, with higher stress for females, but, even if female students show higher stress, a correlation between stress and bruxism exists only for male gender. Further studies should be performed.

Perceived Stress Scale: reliability and validity study in Greece.

PubMed

Andreou, Eleni; Alexopoulos, Evangelos C; Lionis, Christos; Varvogli, Liza; Gnardellis, Charalambos; Chrousos, George P; Darviri, Christina

2011-08-01

To translate the Perceived Stress Scale (versions PSS-4, -10 and -14) and to assess its psychometric properties in a sample of general Greek population. 941 individuals completed anonymously questionnaires comprising of PSS, the Depression Anxiety and Stress scale (DASS-21 version), and a list of stress-related symptoms. Psychometric properties of PSS were investigated by confirmatory factor analysis (construct validity), Cronbach's alpha (reliability), and by investigating relations with the DASS-21 scores and the number of symptoms, across individuals' characteristics. The two-factor structure of PSS-10 and PSS-14 was confirmed in our analysis. We found satisfactory Cronbach's alpha values (0.82 for the full scale) for PSS-14 and PSS-10 and marginal satisfactory values for PSS-4 (0.69). PSS score exhibited high correlation coefficients with DASS-21 subscales scores, meaning stress (r = 0.64), depression (r = 0.61), and anxiety (r = 0.54). Women reported significantly more stress compared to men and divorced or widows compared to married or singled only. A strong significant (p < 0.001) positive correlation between the stress score and the number of self-reported symptoms was also noted. The Greek versions of the PSS-14 and PSS-10 exhibited satisfactory psychometric properties and their use for research and health care practice is warranted.

PEDOT:PSS as multi-functional composite material for enhanced Li-air-battery air electrodes.

PubMed

Yoon, Dae Ho; Yoon, Seon Hye; Ryu, Kwang-Sun; Park, Yong Joon

2016-01-27

We propose PSS as a multi-functional composite material for an enhanced Li-air-battery air electrode. The PSS layer was coated on the surface of carbon (graphene) using simple method. A electrode containing PSS-coated graphene (PEDOT electrode) could be prepared without binder (such as PVDF) because of high adhesion of PSS. PEDOT electrode presented considerable discharge and charge capacity at all current densities. These results shows that PSS acts as a redox reaction matrix and conducting binder in the air electrode. Moreover, after cycling, the accumulation of reaction products due to side reaction in the electrode was significantly reduced through the use of PSS. This implies that PSS coating layer can suppress the undesirable side reactions between the carbon and electrolyte (and/or Li2O2), which causes enhanced Li-air cell cyclic performance.

Functional solid additive modified PEDOT:PSS as an anode buffer layer for enhanced photovoltaic performance and stability in polymer solar cells

PubMed Central

Xu, Binrui; Gopalan, Sai-Anand; Gopalan, Anantha-Iyengar; Muthuchamy, Nallal; Lee, Kwang-Pill; Lee, Jae-Sung; Jiang, Yu; Lee, Sang-Won; Kim, Sae-Wan; Kim, Ju-Seong; Jeong, Hyun-Min; Kwon, Jin-Beon; Bae, Jin-Hyuk; Kang, Shin-Won

2017-01-01

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is most commonly used as an anode buffer layer in bulk-heterojunction (BHJ) polymer solar cells (PSCs). However, its hygroscopic and acidic nature contributes to the insufficient electrical conductivity, air stability and restricted photovoltaic (PV) performance for the fabricated PSCs. In this study, a new multifunctional additive, 2,3-dihydroxypyridine (DOH), has been used in the PEDOT: PSS buffer layer to obtain modified properties for PEDOT: PSS@DOH and achieve high PV performances. The electrical conductivity of PEDOT:PSS@DOH films was markedly improved compared with that of PEDOT:PSS. The PEDOT:PSS@DOH film exhibited excellent optical characteristics, appropriate work function alignment, and good surface properties in BHJ-PSCs. When a poly(3-hexylthiohpene):[6,6]-phenyl C61-butyric acid methyl ester blend system was applied as the photoactive layer, the power conversion efficiency of the resulting PSCs with PEDOT:PSS@DOH(1.0%) reached 3.49%, outperforming pristine PEDOT:PSS, exhibiting a power conversion enhancement of 20%. The device fabricated using PEDOT:PSS@DOH (1.0 wt%) also exhibited improved thermal and air stability. Our results also confirm that DOH, a basic pyridine derivative, facilitates adequate hydrogen bonding interactions with the sulfonic acid groups of PSS, induces the conformational transformation of PEDOT chains and contributes to the phase separation between PEDOT and PSS chains. PMID:28338088

Functional solid additive modified PEDOT:PSS as an anode buffer layer for enhanced photovoltaic performance and stability in polymer solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Binrui; Gopalan, Sai-Anand; Gopalan, Anantha-Iyengar; Muthuchamy, Nallal; Lee, Kwang-Pill; Lee, Jae-Sung; Jiang, Yu; Lee, Sang-Won; Kim, Sae-Wan; Kim, Ju-Seong; Jeong, Hyun-Min; Kwon, Jin-Beon; Bae, Jin-Hyuk; Kang, Shin-Won

2017-03-01

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is most commonly used as an anode buffer layer in bulk-heterojunction (BHJ) polymer solar cells (PSCs). However, its hygroscopic and acidic nature contributes to the insufficient electrical conductivity, air stability and restricted photovoltaic (PV) performance for the fabricated PSCs. In this study, a new multifunctional additive, 2,3-dihydroxypyridine (DOH), has been used in the PEDOT: PSS buffer layer to obtain modified properties for PEDOT: PSS@DOH and achieve high PV performances. The electrical conductivity of PEDOT:PSS@DOH films was markedly improved compared with that of PEDOT:PSS. The PEDOT:PSS@DOH film exhibited excellent optical characteristics, appropriate work function alignment, and good surface properties in BHJ-PSCs. When a poly(3-hexylthiohpene):[6,6]-phenyl C61-butyric acid methyl ester blend system was applied as the photoactive layer, the power conversion efficiency of the resulting PSCs with PEDOT:PSS@DOH(1.0%) reached 3.49%, outperforming pristine PEDOT:PSS, exhibiting a power conversion enhancement of 20%. The device fabricated using PEDOT:PSS@DOH (1.0 wt%) also exhibited improved thermal and air stability. Our results also confirm that DOH, a basic pyridine derivative, facilitates adequate hydrogen bonding interactions with the sulfonic acid groups of PSS, induces the conformational transformation of PEDOT chains and contributes to the phase separation between PEDOT and PSS chains.

Effects of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS as a hole-conducting layer on the performance characteristics of polymer photovoltaic cells.

PubMed

Kim, Hyunsoo; Lee, Jungrae; Ok, Sunseong; Choe, Youngson

2012-01-05

We have investigated the effect of pentacene-doped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene:poly(4-styrenesulfonate) [PEDOT:PSS] films as a hole-conducting layer on the performance of polymer photovoltaic cells. By increasing the amount of pentacene and the annealing temperature of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS layer, the changes of performance characteristics were evaluated. Pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS thin films were prepared by dissolving pentacene in 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone solvent and mixing with PEDOT:PSS. As the amount of pentacene in the PEDOT:PSS solution was increased, UV-visible transmittance also increased dramatically. By increasing the amount of pentacene in PEDOT:PSS films, dramatic decreases in both the work function and surface resistance were observed. However, the work function and surface resistance began to sharply increase above the doping amount of pentacene at 7.7 and 9.9 mg, respectively. As the annealing temperature was increased, the surface roughness of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS films also increased, leading to the formation of PEDOT:PSS aggregates. The films of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS were characterized by AFM, SEM, UV-visible transmittance, surface analyzer, surface resistance, and photovoltaic response analysis.

Effects of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS as a hole-conducting layer on the performance characteristics of polymer photovoltaic cells

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

We have investigated the effect of pentacene-doped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene:poly(4-styrenesulfonate) [PEDOT:PSS] films as a hole-conducting layer on the performance of polymer photovoltaic cells. By increasing the amount of pentacene and the annealing temperature of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS layer, the changes of performance characteristics were evaluated. Pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS thin films were prepared by dissolving pentacene in 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone solvent and mixing with PEDOT:PSS. As the amount of pentacene in the PEDOT:PSS solution was increased, UV-visible transmittance also increased dramatically. By increasing the amount of pentacene in PEDOT:PSS films, dramatic decreases in both the work function and surface resistance were observed. However, the work function and surface resistance began to sharply increase above the doping amount of pentacene at 7.7 and 9.9 mg, respectively. As the annealing temperature was increased, the surface roughness of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS films also increased, leading to the formation of PEDOT:PSS aggregates. The films of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS were characterized by AFM, SEM, UV-visible transmittance, surface analyzer, surface resistance, and photovoltaic response analysis. PMID:22221320

Assessing health-related quality of life in primary Sjögren's syndrome-The PSS-QoL.

PubMed

Lackner, Angelika; Stradner, Martin H; Hermann, Josef; Unger, Julia; Stamm, Tanja; Graninger, Winfried B; Dejaco, Christian

2017-11-27

To develop a questionnaire for the assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQL) in primary Sjögren's syndrome (PSS), and to test its psychometric properties. Based on the concepts of a previous qualitative study, a questionnaire for the assessment of HRQL in PSS (PSS-QoL) was developed. Psychometric testing of PSS-QoL was performed after revising the first draft with feedback of patients (n = 6) and clinicians (n = 4). Convergent construct validity was assessed by correlating the score with the EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Patient Reported Index (ESSPRI), EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ESSDAI) and Euro-QoL 5D (EQ-5D). Reliability was examined by asking patients to complete the questionnaire twice 1-2 weeks apart. An English Version of the PSS-QoL was developed by using standard methodology with forward and back translation. Out of the 75 PSS patients, 91% were female, mean (±SD) age was 58.5 ± 12.5 years. PSS-QoL consists of 25 questions and can be divided into two main categories: physical (discomfort and dryness) and psychosocial. The internal consistency of the PSS-QoL revealed a Crohnbach's α of 0.892. Strong and moderate correlations were found between the PSS-QoL and ESSPRI (corr coeff = 0.755) and EQ. 5D-pain/discomfort (corr coeff = 0.531). Reproducibility of the PSS-QoL was high, yielding an ICC of 0.958 (95% CI: 0.926-0.981). The PSS-QoL is the first specific tool for the assessment of patients' HRQL in PSS and showed good psychometric properties. It may serve as a novel patient-reported outcome measure in future clinical studies. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

PEDOT:PSS as multi-functional composite material for enhanced Li-air-battery air electrodes

PubMed Central

Yoon, Dae Ho; Yoon, Seon Hye; Ryu, Kwang-Sun; Park, Yong Joon

2016-01-01

We propose PEDOT:PSS as a multi-functional composite material for an enhanced Li-air-battery air electrode. The PEDOT:PSS layer was coated on the surface of carbon (graphene) using simple method. A electrode containing PEDOT:PSS-coated graphene (PEDOT electrode) could be prepared without binder (such as PVDF) because of high adhesion of PEDOT:PSS. PEDOT electrode presented considerable discharge and charge capacity at all current densities. These results shows that PEDOT:PSS acts as a redox reaction matrix and conducting binder in the air electrode. Moreover, after cycling, the accumulation of reaction products due to side reaction in the electrode was significantly reduced through the use of PEDOT:PSS. This implies that PEDOT:PSS coating layer can suppress the undesirable side reactions between the carbon and electrolyte (and/or Li2O2), which causes enhanced Li-air cell cyclic performance. PMID:26813852

Perceived social support and psychosocial distress among children affected by AIDS in china.

PubMed

Hong, Yan; Li, Xiaoming; Fang, Xiaoyi; Zhao, Guoxiang; Lin, Xiuyun; Zhang, Jintao; Zhao, Junfeng; Zhang, Liying

2010-02-01

The psychosocial wellbeing of the children affected by Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) receives growing international attention. However, limited data in this area are available in China, which hosts an estimate of 100,000 AIDS-orphaned children. The study aims to examine the relationship between perceived social support (PSS) and psychosocial wellbeing among children affected by AIDS. A cross-sectional survey was administered to 1,625 children (aged 6-18 years) in Henan Province, an area with a large number of HIV cases due to unhygienic commercial blood/plasma collection. Our sample included 296 double orphans (i.e., children who lost both parents to AIDS), 459 single orphans (children who lost one parent to AIDS), 466 vulnerable children (children living with HIV-infected parents) and 404 comparison children (children who did not experience HIV-related illness and death in family). Data suggest that vulnerable children reported the lowest level of PSS compared to AIDS orphans and comparison children. Level of PSS was significantly and positively associated with psychosocial wellbeing even after controlling for potential confounders. The study underscores the importance of providing social support and mental health services for children affected by AIDS in China.

Highly Conductive PEDOT:PSS Films with 1,3-Dimethyl-2-Imidazolidinone as Transparent Electrodes for Organic Light-Emitting Diodes.

PubMed

Kim, Jin Hee; Joo, Chul Woong; Lee, Jonghee; Seo, Yoon Kyung; Han, Joo Won; Oh, Ji Yoon; Kim, Jong Su; Yu, Seunggun; Lee, Jae Hyun; Lee, Jeong-Ik; Yun, Changhun; Choi, Bum Ho; Kim, Yong Hyun

2016-09-01

Highly conductive poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) ( PSS) films as transparent electrodes for organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) are doped with a new solvent 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone (DMI) and are optimized using solvent post-treatment. The DMI doped PSS films show significantly enhanced conductivities up to 812.1 S cm(-1) . The sheet resistance of the PSS films doped with DMI is further reduced by various solvent post-treatment. The effect of solvent post-treatment on DMI doped PSS films is investigated and is shown to reduce insulating PSS in the conductive films. The solvent posttreated PSS films are successfully employed as transparent electrodes in white OLEDs. It is shown that the efficiency of OLEDs with the optimized DMI doped PSS films is higher than that of reference OLEDs doped with a conventional solvent (ethylene glycol). The results present that the optimized PSS films with the new solvent of DMI can be a promising transparent electrode for low-cost, efficient ITO-free white OLEDs. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Postpartum Depressive symptomatology: results from a two-stage US national survey.

PubMed

Tatano Beck, Cheryl; Gable, Robert K; Sakala, Carol; Declercq, Eugene R

2011-01-01

Up to 19% of new mothers have major or minor depression sometime during the first 3 months after birth. This article reports on the prevalence of postpartum depressive symptoms and risk factors obtained from a 2-stage US national survey conducted by Childbirth Connection: Listening to Mothers II (LTM II) and Listening to Mothers II Postpartum Survey. The weighted survey results are based on an initial sample of 1573 women (1373 online, 200 telephone interviews) who had given birth in the year prior to the survey and repeat interviews with 902 women (859 online, 44 telephone) 6 months later. Three main instruments were used to collect data: the Postpartum Depression Screening Scale (PDSS), the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2), and the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptom Scale-Self Report (PSS-SR). Sixty-three percent of the women in the LTM II sample screened positive for elevated postpartum depressive symptoms with the PDSS, and 6 months later 42% of the women in this sample screened positive for elevated postpartum depressive symptoms with the PHQ-2. A stepwise, multiple regression revealed 2 variables that significantly explained 54% of the variance in postpartum depressive symptom scores: posttraumatic stress symptom scores on the PSS-SR and health promoting behaviors of healthy diet, managing stress, rest, and exercise. The high percentage of mothers who screened positive for elevated postpartum depressive symptoms in this 2-stage national survey highlights the need for prevention and routine screening during the postpartum period and follow-up treatment. © 2011 by the American College of Nurse‐Midwives.

A novel hierarchical Pt- and FTO-free counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cell

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

A novel hierarchical Pt- and FTO-free counter electrode (CE) for the dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) was prepared by spin coating the mixture of TiO2 nanoparticles and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxy-thiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) solution onto the glass substrate. Compared with traditional Pt/FTO CE, the cost of the new CE is dramatically reduced by the application of bilayer TiO2-PEDOT:PSS/PEDOT:PSS film and the glass substrate. The sheet resistance of this composite film is 35 Ω sq−1 and is low enough to be used as an electrode. The surface morphologies of TiO2-PEDOT:PSS layer and modified PEDOT:PSS layer were characterized by scanning electron microscope, which shows that the former had larger surface areas than the latter. Electrochemical impedance spectra and Tafel polarization curves prove that the catalytic activity of TiO2-PEDOT:PSS/PEDOT:PSS/glass CE is higher than that of PEDOT:PSS/FTO CE and is similar to Pt/FTO CE's. This new fabricated device with TiO2-PEDOT:PSS/PEDOT:PSS/glass CE achieves a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 4.67%, reaching 91.39% of DSSC with Pt/FTO CE (5.11%). PMID:24808802

Effect of incorporation of silver nanoparticles in PEDOT:PSS layer on performance of organic solar cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Joginder; Nirwal, Varun Singh; Bhatnagar, P. K.; Peta, Koteswara Rao

2018-05-01

Solution processable organic solar cells have attracted significant interest in scientific community due to their easy processability, flexibility and eco friendly fabrication. In these organic solar cells structure, PEDOT:PSS layer has major importance as it used as hole transporting layer. In the present work, we have analyzed the effect of incorporation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in PEDOT:PSS layer for P3HT:PCBM based organic solar cells. The presence of Ag nanoparticles in PEDOT:PSS film is confirmed by atomic force microscopy (AFM) images. It has been observed that PEDOT:PSS layer with AgNPs has ˜5.4% more transmittance than PEDOT:PSS layer in most of the visible region, which helps in reaching more light on active layer. Finally, solar cell with structure ITO/PEDOT:PSS:AgNPs/Al is fabricated and J-V characteristics are plotted under illumination. It is observed that there is a significant (˜10%) enhancement in short circuit current and slight increment in open circuit voltage with addition of AgNPs in PEDOT:PSS layer. The calculated value of power conversion efficiency (PCE) of fabricated device without AgNPs in PEDOT:PSS was 1.67%, which increased to 2.02% after addition of AgNPs in PEDOT:PSS layer.

Comparison of the discontinuation rates and side-effect profiles of pilocarpine and cevimeline for xerostomia in primary Sjögren's syndrome.

PubMed

Noaiseh, Ghaith; Baker, Joshua F; Vivino, Frederick B

2014-01-01

There are currently no head-to-head comparisons of sialagogues for Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). We compared the tolerability and side effect profile of pilocarpine and cevimeline in patients with pSS and determined clinical, laboratory and pathological variables associated with therapeutic failure. We retrospectively reviewed the use of pilocarpine and cevimeline in 118 patients with pSS who fulfilled the 2002 American European Consensus Group criteria in a University-based setting. Clinical, laboratory and pathological baseline variables were collected. Failure of therapy was defined as the clinician or patient's decision to stop treatment either due to lack of efficacy or side effects. Cevimeline was associated with lower failure rates compared to pilocarpine among first-time users: 27% vs. 47% (p=0.02), and all users: 32% vs. 61% (p<0.001). Severe sweating was the most frequent side effect leading to cessation of therapy and occurred more frequently in pilocarpine (25%) than cevimeline (11%) users (p=0.02). Patients who previously failed one secretagogue were less likely to discontinue treatment with the other agent, 52% of first-time users vs. 27% of second-time users (p=0.004). Only ANA positivity was associated with failure: [59% vs. 38%] (p=0.03). pSS patients were more likely to continue cevimeline than pilocarpine long-term due to fewer reported side effects with cevimeline. Therapeutic failure of one secretagogue did not predict similar results with the other since second time users were more likely to continue long-term treatment.

Genome-wide mRNA processing in methanogenic archaea reveals post-transcriptional regulation of ribosomal protein synthesis.

PubMed

Qi, Lei; Yue, Lei; Feng, Deqin; Qi, Fengxia; Li, Jie; Dong, Xiuzhu

2017-07-07

Unlike stable RNAs that require processing for maturation, prokaryotic cellular mRNAs generally follow an 'all-or-none' pattern. Herein, we used a 5΄ monophosphate transcript sequencing (5΄P-seq) that specifically captured the 5΄-end of processed transcripts and mapped the genome-wide RNA processing sites (PSSs) in a methanogenic archaeon. Following statistical analysis and stringent filtration, we identified 1429 PSSs, among which 23.5% and 5.4% were located in 5΄ untranslated region (uPSS) and intergenic region (iPSS), respectively. A predominant uridine downstream PSSs served as a processing signature. Remarkably, 5΄P-seq detected overrepresented uPSS and iPSS in the polycistronic operons encoding ribosomal proteins, and the majority upstream and proximal ribosome binding sites, suggesting a regulatory role of processing on translation initiation. The processed transcripts showed increased stability and translation efficiency. Particularly, processing within the tricistronic transcript of rplA-rplJ-rplL enhanced the translation of rplL, which can provide a driving force for the 1:4 stoichiometry of L10 to L12 in the ribosome. Growth-associated mRNA processing intensities were also correlated with the cellular ribosomal protein levels, thereby suggesting that mRNA processing is involved in tuning growth-dependent ribosome synthesis. In conclusion, our findings suggest that mRNA processing-mediated post-transcriptional regulation is a potential mechanism of ribosomal protein synthesis and stoichiometry. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Nucleic Acids Research.

Online Physician Reviews Do Not Reflect Patient Satisfaction Survey Responses.

PubMed

Widmer, R Jay; Maurer, Matthew J; Nayar, Veena R; Aase, Lee A; Wald, John T; Kotsenas, Amy L; Timimi, Farris K; Harper, Charles M; Pruthi, Sandhya

2018-04-01

Online physician reviews have become increasingly prevalent and are a common means by which patients explore medical options online. Currently, there are no data comparing physicians with negative online reviews and those without negative reviews. We sought to compare industry-vetted patient satisfaction surveys (PSSs), such as Press Ganey (PG) PSSs, between those physicians with negative online reviews and those without negative reviews. Overall, there were 113 unique individuals with negative online reviews from September 1, 2014, to December 31, 2014, with 8 being nonphysicians. We matched 113 physicians in similar departments/divisions. We obtained PG PSS scores of both groups and compared the mean scores of the 2 groups. Press Ganey PSS scores were available for 98 physicians with negative online reviews compared with 82 matched physicians without negative online reviews. The mean raw PG PSS scores were not different between the 2 groups (4.05; 95% CI, 3.99-4.11 vs 4.04; 95% CI, 3.97-4.11; P=.92). We also noted no difference in mean scores on questions related to physician-patient communication and interaction skills between those with poor online reviews and those without (4.38; 95% CI, 4.32-4.43 vs 4.41; 95% CI, 4.35-4.47; P=.42). However, there was a significantly lower non-physician-specific mean in those with negative online reviews (3.91; 95% CI, 3.84-3.97) vs those without negative online reviews (4.01; 95% CI, 3.95-4.09) (P=.02). Here, we provide data indicating that online physician reviews do not correlate to formal institutional PG PSS. Furthermore, physicians with negative online reviews have lower scores on non-physician-specific variables included in the PG PSSs, emphasizing that these discrepancies can negatively affect overall patient experience, online physician reviews, and physician reputation. It is prudent that an improved mechanism for online ratings be implemented to better inform patients about a physician's online reputation. Copyright © 2018 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Posttraumatic stress disorder in new mothers: results from a two-stage U.S. national survey.

PubMed

Beck, Cheryl Tatano; Gable, Robert K; Sakala, Carol; Declercq, Eugene R

2011-09-01

Prevalence rates of women in community samples who screened positive for meeting the DSM-IV criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder after childbirth range from 1.7 to 9 percent. A positive screen indicates a high likelihood of this postpartum anxiety disorder. The objective of this analysis was to examine the results that focus on the posttraumatic stress disorder data obtained from a two-stage United States national survey conducted by Childbirth Connection: Listening to Mothers II (LTM II) and Listening to Mothers II Postpartum Survey (LTM II/PP). In the LTM II study, 1,373 women completed the survey online, and 200 mothers were interviewed by telephone. The same mothers were recontacted and asked to complete a second questionnaire 6 months later and of those, 859 women completed the online survey and 44 a telephone interview. Data obtained from three instruments are reported in this article: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptom Scale-Self Report (PSS-SR), Postpartum Depression Screening Scale (PDSS), and the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2). Nine percent of the sample screened positive for meeting the diagnostic criteria of posttraumatic stress disorder after childbirth as determined by responses on the PSS-SR. A total of 18 percent of women scored above the cutoff score on the PSS-SR, which indicated that they were experiencing elevated levels of posttraumatic stress symptoms. The following variables were significantly related to elevated posttraumatic stress symptoms levels: low partner support, elevated postpartum depressive symptoms, more physical problems since birth, and less health-promoting behaviors. In addition, eight variables significantly differentiated women who had elevated posttraumatic stress symptom levels from those who did not: no private health insurance, unplanned pregnancy, pressure to have an induction and epidural analgesia, planned cesarean birth, not breastfeeding as long as wanted, not exclusively breastfeeding at 1 month, and consulting with a clinician about mental well-being since birth. A stepwise multiple regression revealed that two predictor variables significantly explained 55 percent of the variance in posttraumatic stress symptom scores: depressive symptom scores on the PHQ-2 and total number of physical symptoms women were experiencing at the time they completed the LTM II/PP survey. In this two-stage national survey the high percentage of mothers who screened positive for meeting all the DSM-IV criteria for a posttraumatic stress disorder diagnosis is a sobering statistic. © 2011, Copyright the Authors. Journal compilation © 2011, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Heritability of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Men: A Twin Study

PubMed Central

Afari, Niloofar; Gasperi, Marianna; Forsberg, Christopher W.; Goldberg, Jack; Buchwald, Dedra; Krieger, John N.

2016-01-01

Purpose Symptoms of urinary irritation, urgency, frequency, and obstruction, known as lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), are common in urological practice. However, little is known about the etiology or pathogenesis of LUTS, especially the relative contributions of genetic and environmental factors to development of these symptoms. We used a classical twin study design to examine the relative contribution of genetic and environmental factors to the occurrence of LUTS in middle-aged men. Materials and Methods Twins were members of the Vietnam Era Twin (VET) Registry. We used a mail survey to collect lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) using the International Prostate Symptom Score (I-PSS) instrument. Twin correlations and biometric modeling was used to determine the relative genetic and environmental contributions to variance in I-PSS total score and individual items. Results Participants were 1,002 monozygotic and 580 dizygotic middle-aged male twin pairs (mean age = 50.2 years; S.D. = 3.0 years). Nearly 25% of the sample had an I-PSS score > 8, indicating at least moderate LUTS. The heritability of the total I-PSS was 37% (95% CI = 32-42%). Heritability estimates ranged from 21% for nocturia to 40% for straining, with moderate heritability (34–36%) for urinary frequency and urgency. Conclusions Genetic factors provide a moderate contribution (20–40%) to LUTS in middle-aged men, suggesting that environmental factors may also contribute substantially to LUTS. Future research is needed to define specific genetic and environmental mechanisms that underlie the development of these symptoms and conditions associated with LUTS. PMID:27312318

Selling the PSS in a School of Business: Relationship Selling in Practice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Titus, David; Harris, Garth; Gulati, Rajesh; Bristow, Dennis

2017-01-01

This paper presents a step-by-step process for the development and implementation of a professional selling specialization program in the marketing curriculum of a school of business at an AACSB accredited state university. The program is presented in detail along with the process followed in order to develop support for the program with three…

Association between memory B-cells and clinical and immunological features of primary Sjögren's syndrome and Sicca patients.

PubMed

Barcelos, Filipe; Martins, Catarina; Papoila, Ana; Geraldes, Carlos; Cardigos, Joana; Nunes, Glória; Lopes, Teresa; Alves, Nuno; Vaz-Patto, José; Branco, Jaime; Borrego, Luís-Miguel

2018-06-01

B-cells play a pivotal role in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) pathogenesis. We aim to (1) evaluate the distribution of B-lymphocyte subpopulations in pSS and Sicca patients, (2) establish cut-off points that discriminate pSS from controls, (3) evaluate the association between memory B-cells and phenotypic features in pSS. We included 57 pSS patients, 68 Sicca and 24 healthy controls. Circulating B-cells were characterized by flow cytometry as naïve and memory subsets and classified from Bm1 to Bm5. Compared to controls, pSS patients had lower percentages (29.5 vs 44.4%) and absolute numbers (47 vs 106 cells/µl) of memory B-cells. Through ROC curves, a cut-off of ≤ 58 total memory B-cells/µl yielded a specificity of 0.88 and a sensitivity of 0.60 for pSS, and was met by 59.6% of pSS patients, 38.8% of Sicca and 12.5% of controls. A cut-off of < 23.5 Switched-memory B-cells/µl yielded a specificity of 0.88 and a sensitivity of 0.54 and was met by 54.4% of pSS patients, 37.3% of Sicca and 12.5% of controls. In pSS, lower total memory B-cells count was associated with longer disease duration (14.3 vs 8.1 years, p = 0.006) and more active disease profile, as evaluated by the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ESSDAI) (3.1 vs 1.4, p = 0.043). Decreased numbers of memory B-cells clearly discriminated pSS from controls and can also have prognostic value. It remains to be clarified whether Sicca patients with decreased memory B-cells represent pSS and if B-cell profiling could help in the diagnosis of pSS.

Effect of Secondary Doping Using Sorbitol on Structure and Transport Properties of PEDOT-PSS Thin Films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khasim, Syed; Pasha, Apsar; Roy, Aashish S.; Parveen, Ameena; Badi, Nacer

2017-07-01

Poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulphonate) (PEDOT-PSS) in the recent past has emerged as one of the most fascinating conducting polymers for many device applications. The unique feature of PEDOT-PSS is its transparency in the entire visible spectrum with excellent thermal stability. The PEDOT-PSS as prepared as an aqueous dispersion has very low conductivity, and it hinders the performance of a device. In this work we report the conductivity enhancement of PEDOT-PSS thin films through secondary doping using a polar organic solvent such as sorbitol. The mechanism of conductivity enhancement was studied through various physical and chemical characterizations. The effect of sorbitol concentration on structure and transport properties of PEDOT-PSS thin films was investigated in detail. The structural and morphological modifications in PEDOT-PSS due to the addition of sorbitol was studied through Fourier transform spectroscopy, Ultra Violet-visible spectroscopy, theromogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The interactions resulting from conformational changes of PEDOT chains that changes from coiled to linear structure due to the sorbitol treatment significantly improves the conductivity of PEDOT-PSS films. The secondary doping of sorbitol reduces the energy barrier that facilitates the charge carrier hopping leading to enhanced conductivity. We have observed that the conductivity of PEDOT-PSS thin films was increased by two fold due to sorbitol treatment when compared to conductivity of pure PEDOT-PSS. We have carried out detailed analysis of dielectric parameters of sorbitol-treated PEDOT-PSS films and found that sorbitol treatment has a significant effect on various dielectric attributes of PEDOT-PSS films. Hence, secondary doping using sorbitol could be a useful way to effectively tailor the conductivity and dielectric properties of PEDOT-PSS thin films that can be used as flexible electrodes in optoelectronic devices.

Study on the disparate transition behaviors of the electrical/physical properties in PEDOT:PSS film depending on solvent species under a follow-up solution-treatment process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yun, Dong-Jin; Kim, Jung-Hwa; Kim, Seong Heon; Seol, Minsu; Yu, DaEun; Kwon, Hyukju; Ham, Yongnam; Chung, JaeGwan; Kim, Yongsu; Heo, Sung

2016-04-01

In most solution-processed organic devices, a poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) polymerized with poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PSS) film is inevitably affected by various conditions during the subsequent solution-coating processes. To investigate the effects of direct solvent exposure on the properties of PEDOT polymerized with PSS (PEDOT:PSS) films, photoemission spectroscopy-based analytical methods were used before and after solvent-coating processes. Our results clearly indicate that PEDOT:PSS films undergo a different transition mechanism depending on the solubility of the solvent in water. The water-miscible solvents induce the solvation of hydrophilic PSS chains. As a result, this process allows the solvent to diffuse into the PEDOT:PSS film, and a conformational change between PEDOT and PSS occurs. On the other hand, the water-immiscible organic solvents cause the partial adsorption of solvent molecules at the PE surface, which leads to changes in the surface properties, including work function. Based on our finding, we demonstrate that the energy-level alignments at the organic semiconductor/electrode interface for the PEDOT:PSS films can be controlled by simple solvent treatments.

Environmentally Friendly Plasma-Treated PEDOT:PSS as Electrodes for ITO-Free Perovskite Solar Cells.

PubMed

Vaagensmith, Bjorn; Reza, Khan Mamun; Hasan, Md Nazmul; Elbohy, Hytham; Adhikari, Nirmal; Dubey, Ashish; Kantack, Nick; Gaml, Eman; Qiao, Qiquan

2017-10-18

Solution processed poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) transparent electrodes (TEs) offer great potential as a low cost alternative to expensive indium tin oxide (ITO). However, strong acids are typically used for enhancing the conductivity of PEDOT:PSS TEs, which produce processing complexity and environmental issues. This work presents an environmentally friendly acid free approach to enhance the conductivity of PEDOT:PSS using a light oxygen plasma treatment, in addition to solvent blend additives and post treatments. The plasma treatment was found to significantly reduce the sheet resistance of PEDOT:PSS TEs from 85 to as low as 15 Ω sq -1 , which translates to the highest reported conductivity of 5012 S/cm for PEDOT:PSS TEs. The plasma treated PEDOT:PSS TE resulted in an ITO-free perovskite solar cell efficiency of 10.5%, which is the highest reported efficiency for ITO-free perovskite solar cells with a PEDOT:PSS electrode that excludes the use of acid treatments. This research presents the first demonstration of this technology. Moreover, the PEDOT:PSS TEs enabled better charge extraction from the perovskite solar cells and reduced hysteresis in the current density-voltage (J-V) curves.

Relationships between molecular structure and kinetic and thermodynamic controls in lipid systems. Part III. Crystallization and phase behavior of 1-palmitoyl-2,3-stearoyl-sn-glycerol (PSS) and tristearoylglycerol (SSS) binary system.

PubMed

Bouzidi, Laziz; Narine, Suresh S

2012-01-01

The phase behavior of 1-palmitoyl-2,3-distearoyl-sn-glycerol (PSS)/tristearoylglycerol (SSS) binary system was investigated in terms of polymorphism, crystallization and melting behavior, microstructure and solid fat content (SFC) using widely different constant cooling rates. Kinetic phase diagrams were experimentally determined from the DSC heating thermograms and analyzed using a thermodynamic model to account for non-ideality of mixing. The kinetic phase diagram presented a typical eutectic behavior with a eutectic point at the 0.5(PSS) mixture with a probable precipitation line from 0.5(PSS) to 1.0(PSS), regardless of the rate at which the sample was cooled. The eutectic temperature decreased only slightly with increasing cooling rate. PSS has a strong effect on the physical properties of the PSS-SSS mixtures. In fact, the overall phase behavior of the PSS-SSS binary system was determined, for a very large part, by the asymmetrical TAG. Moreover, PSS is a key driver of the high stability observed in crystal growth, polymorphism and phase development. Levels as low as 10% PSS, when cooled slowly, and 30% when cooled rapidly, were found to be sufficient to suppress the effect of thermal processing. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Reliability and validity of Persian version of perceived stress scale (PSS-10) in adults with asthma.

PubMed

Maroufizadeh, Saman; Zareiyan, Armin; Sigari, Naseh

2014-05-01

Asthma is a major public health problem in the world, and recent findings suggest that stress influences asthma and asthma morbidity. The 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) is one of the most frequently used instruments to measure psychological stress. This study was conducted to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Persian versions of the PSS-10 in adults with asthma. In this descriptive cross-sectional study as a methodological research, 106 asthmatic patients referring to several clinics in Sanandaj (western Iran) were selected through convenience sampling. The PSS-10 and the 21-item Depression anxiety and stress scale (DASS-21) were administrated to all patients. Cronbach's alpha was used to evaluate reliability of PSS-10, and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and convergent validity were used to evaluate its validity. The results of confirmatory factor analysis indicated that a two-factor structure of PSS-10 provided a good fit to data. The Cronbach's alpha coefficients for negative factor, positive factor and total score (PSS-10) were 0.86, 0.83, and 0.90, respectively. The PSS-10 was positively correlated with the DASS-21 and its subscales, indicating an acceptable convergent validity. Female asthmatic patients scored higher on PSS-10 in comparison with male asthmatic patients. The Persian version of PSS-10 is a valid and reliable instrument to measure perceived stress in adults with asthma.

Health-related quality of life and psychological status of women with primary Sjögren's syndrome: A cross-sectional study of 304 Chinese patients.

PubMed

Liu, Zhaoxiang; Dong, Zhenhua; Liang, Xiaochun; Liu, Jinhe; Xuan, Lei; Wang, Jing; Zhang, Gaili; Hao, Weixin

2017-12-01

Patients with primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS) always suffer from dryness, pain, and fatigue caused by the involvement of multiple different systems or organs. The uncomfortable disease symptoms, the consequent disability, and the side effects of therapeutic drugs decrease the quality of life and lead to emotional problems. We investigated the health-related quality of life and psychological status of a large cohort of women patients with pSS and associated factors.A total of 304 women with pSS referred to Peking Union Medical College Hospital during 2011 and 2014 were included. The internationally recognized Short Form (36) Health Survey (SF-36) was used to assess patients' quality of life; a higher score indicated a better quality of life. Patients' psychological status was assessed by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and higher scores predicted more anxiety or depression.Patients with pSS had remarkably lower SF-36 scores. The Hospital Anxiety Scale (HAS) and Hospital Depression Scale (HDS) scores of the pSS patients (7 [4,10] and 6 [3,10], respectively) were significantly higher than that of patients with other internal diseases (3.37 ± 2.81 and 3.83 ± 3.14; both P < .001). Negative predictors of quality of life were: pain (physical condition, β = -0.225; P < .001); fatigue (physical condition, β = -0.298; P < .001; and mental condition, β = -0.319; P < .001). Risk factors for anxiety were: young age (β = -0.059; P = .035); pain (β = 0.025; P = .028); or fatigue (β = 0.029; P = .004). Risk factors for depression were: xeroderma (β = 0.030; P = .003); pain (β = 0.022; P = .047); or fatigue (β = 0.033; P = .001).Patients with pSS have a low quality of life with anxiety and depression. Pain and fatigue are primary factors for lower quality of life, which cause more anxiety and depression. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Polyelectrolyte and carbon nanotube multilayers made from ionic liquid solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakashima, Takuya; Zhu, Jian; Qin, Ming; Ho, Szushen; Kotov, Nicholas A.

2010-10-01

The inevitable contact of substrates with water during the traditional practice of layer-by-layer assembly (LBL) creates problems for multiple potential applications of LBL films in electronics. To resolve this issue, we demonstrate here the possibility of a LBL process using ionic liquids (ILs), which potentially eliminates corrosion and hydration processes related to aqueous media and opens additional possibilities in structural control of LBL films. ILs are also considered to be one of the best ``green'' processing solvents, and hence, are advantageous in respect to traditional organic solvents. Poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI) and poly(sodium styrenesulfonate) (PSS) were dispersed in a hydrophilic IL and successfully deposited in the LBL fashion. To produce electroactive thin films with significance to electronics, a similar process was realized for PSS-modified single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT-PSS) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). Characterization of the coating using standard spectroscopy and microscopy techniques typical of the multilayer field indicated that there are both similarities and differences in the structure and properties of LBL films build from ILs and aqueous solutions. The films exhibited electrical conductivity of 102 S m-1 with transparency as high as 98% for visible light, which is comparable to similar parameters for many carbon nanotube and graphene films prepared by both aqueous LBL and other methods.The inevitable contact of substrates with water during the traditional practice of layer-by-layer assembly (LBL) creates problems for multiple potential applications of LBL films in electronics. To resolve this issue, we demonstrate here the possibility of a LBL process using ionic liquids (ILs), which potentially eliminates corrosion and hydration processes related to aqueous media and opens additional possibilities in structural control of LBL films. ILs are also considered to be one of the best ``green'' processing solvents, and hence, are advantageous in respect to traditional organic solvents. Poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI) and poly(sodium styrenesulfonate) (PSS) were dispersed in a hydrophilic IL and successfully deposited in the LBL fashion. To produce electroactive thin films with significance to electronics, a similar process was realized for PSS-modified single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT-PSS) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). Characterization of the coating using standard spectroscopy and microscopy techniques typical of the multilayer field indicated that there are both similarities and differences in the structure and properties of LBL films build from ILs and aqueous solutions. The films exhibited electrical conductivity of 102 S m-1 with transparency as high as 98% for visible light, which is comparable to similar parameters for many carbon nanotube and graphene films prepared by both aqueous LBL and other methods. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Aggregation of PEI and PSS in [EMIm][EtSO4], detailed FTIR data, water-contact angle for (PEI/PSS)10 multilayers, and XPS survey spectra. See DOI: 10.1039/b9nr00333a

The co-occurrence of Hashimoto thyroiditis in primary Sjogren's syndrome defines a subset of patients with milder clinical phenotype.

PubMed

Caramaschi, Paola; Biasi, Domenico; Caimmi, Cristian; Scambi, Cinzia; Pieropan, Sara; Barausse, Giovanni; Adami, Silvano

2013-05-01

To evaluate in a cohort of 100 consecutive patients affected by primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS) the incidence of Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) and to compare the clinical features and the laboratory parameters of patients affected by pSS with and without concomitant HT. In 100 consecutive patients affected by pSS, the occurrence of other autoimmune diseases was recorded and a full examination of thyroid function obtained. HT was associated with pSS in 27 cases. The comparison between pSS cases with and without HT showed that only patients with isolated pSS had low C4 level [p = 0.032, OR (IC 95 %) 230 (13.13-4,046)]. In addition, only patients affected by pSS without HT had evidence of cryoglobulins, cutaneous vasculitis with palpable purpura, peripheral neuropathy, and development of lymphoma, although all these manifestations were observed in a 4.1-8.2 % of the cases, without reaching statistical significance. The association of HT in patients suffering from pSS defines a subset of patients with milder disease and normal C4 levels.

Correlation between the fine structure of spin-coated PEDOT:PSS and the photovoltaic performance of organic/crystalline-silicon heterojunction solar cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Funda, Shuji; Ohki, Tatsuya; Liu, Qiming

2016-07-21

We investigated the relationship between the fine structure of spin-coated conductive polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiphene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) films and the photovoltaic performance of PEDOT:PSS crystalline-Si (PEDOT:PSS/c-Si) heterojunction solar cells. Real-time spectroscopic ellipsometry revealed that there were two different time constants for the formation of the PEDOT:PSS network. Upon removal of the polar solvent, the PEDOT:PSS film became optically anisotropic, indicating a conformational change in the PEDOT and PSS chain. Polarized Fourier transform infrared attenuated total reflection absorption spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy measurements also indicated that thermal annealing promoted an in-plane π-conjugated C{sub α} = C{sub β} configuration attributed to a thiophene ring in PEDOTmore » and an out-of-plane configuration of -SO{sub 3} groups in the PSS chain with increasing composition ratio of oxidized (benzoid) to neutral (quinoid) PEDOT, I{sub qui}/I{sub ben}. The highest power conversion efficiency for the spin-coated PEDOT:PSS/c-Si heterojunction solar cells was 13.3% for I{sub qui}/I{sub ben} = 9–10 without employing any light harvesting methods.« less

Efficient and Air-Stable Planar Perovskite Solar Cells Formed on Graphene-Oxide-Modified PEDOT:PSS Hole Transport Layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Hui; Lin, Xuanhuai; Hou, Xian; Pan, Likun; Huang, Sumei; Chen, Xiaohong

2017-10-01

As a hole transport layer, PEDOT:PSS usually limits the stability and efficiency of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) due to its hygroscopic nature and inability to block electrons. Here, a graphene-oxide (GO)-modified PEDOT:PSS hole transport layer was fabricated by spin-coating a GO solution onto the PEDOT:PSS surface. PSCs fabricated on a GO-modified PEDOT:PSS layer exhibited a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 15.34%, which is higher than 11.90% of PSCs with the PEDOT:PSS layer. Furthermore, the stability of the PSCs was significantly improved, with the PCE remaining at 83.5% of the initial PCE values after aging for 39 days in air. The hygroscopic PSS material at the PEDOT:PSS surface was partly removed during spin-coating with the GO solution, which improves the moisture resistance and decreases the contact barrier between the hole transport layer and perovskite layer. The scattered distribution of the GO at the PEDOT:PSS surface exhibits superior wettability, which helps to form a high-quality perovskite layer with better crystallinity and fewer pin holes. Furthermore, the hole extraction selectivity of the GO further inhibits the carrier recombination at the interface between the perovskite and PEDOT:PSS layers. Therefore, the cooperative interactions of these factors greatly improve the light absorption of the perovskite layer, the carrier transport and collection abilities of the PSCs, and especially the stability of the cells.

A universal approach to fabricate ordered colloidal crystals arrays based on electrostatic self-assembly.

PubMed

Zhang, Xun; Zhang, Junhu; Zhu, Difu; Li, Xiao; Zhang, Xuemin; Wang, Tieqiang; Yang, Bai

2010-12-07

We present a novel and simple method to fabricate two-dimensional (2D) poly(styrene sulfate) (PSS, negatively charged) colloidal crystals on a positively charged substrate. Our strategy contains two separate steps: one is the three-dimensional (3D) assembly of PSS particles in ethanol, and the other is electrostatic adsorption in water. First, 3D assembly in ethanol phase eliminates electrostatic attractions between colloids and the substrate. As a result, high-quality colloidal crystals are easily generated, for electrostatic attractions are unfavorable for the movement of colloidal particles during convective self-assembly. Subsequently, top layers of colloidal spheres are washed away in the water phase, whereas well-packed PSS colloids that are in contact with the substrate are tightly linked due to electrostatic interactions, resulting in the formation of ordered arrays of 2D colloidal spheres. Cycling these processes leads to the layer-by-layer assembly of 3D colloidal crystals with controllable layers. In addition, this strategy can be extended to the fabrication of patterned 2D colloidal crystals on patterned polyelectrolyte surfaces, not only on planar substrates but also on nonplanar substrates. This straightforward method may open up new possibilities for practical use of colloidal crystals of excellent quality, various patterns, and controllable fashions.

A simple tool to evaluate common disorders: validation of a "proctological symptom scale".

PubMed

Kraemer, Matthias; Kara, David; Rzepisko, Michael; Sayfan, Joel

2015-05-01

Proctological symptomatology is of little complexity and therefore appears particularly suitable for comparative evaluation by visual scales. We devised a "proctological symptom scale" (PSS) with separate scales for four cardinal proctological symptoms: pain, itching/irritation, discharge/moisture, and bleeding. The objective of this study was to evaluate the PSS among proctological patients and non-proctological controls. This was a single center non-interventional observational study on 229 proctological patients and 133 controls. The main outcome measures investigated were age- and sex-stratified comparison of the non-proctological cohort and the controls, effect of therapeutic intervention on scale values in a subset of patients with haemorrhoidal disease, and sensitivity of the PSS to detect therapeutic failure in this subset of patients. The PSS was found to significantly differentiate between proctological patients and controls. Gender and age had no significant influence on PSS values in the proctological cohort. The intervention (one session of rubber band ligation in patients with haemorrhoidal disease) was reflected by a significantly improved overall PSS. In 16 cases within this group, the PSS got worse. A case-by-case follow-up of these patients showed that 14 of the 16 patients ended up with surgery (or with the advice to have surgery). The PSS reliably differentiates proctological patients from non-proctological controls. Following intervention, the PSS reliably differentiated therapeutic success from failure. We find the PSS to be a simple and useful tool in our clinical routine since it provides an easily obtainable and reproducible basis for the visit-by-visit assessment of proctological patients. The PSS may also be suitable for studies to measure and compare symptomatic improvement and success of different therapies in proctology.

The Vietnamese version of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10): Translation equivalence and psychometric properties among older women.

PubMed

Dao-Tran, Tiet-Hanh; Anderson, Debra; Seib, Charrlotte

2017-02-06

The Perceived Stress Scale 10 item (PSS-10) has been translated into more than 20 languages and used widely in different populations. Yet, to date, no study has tested psychometric properties of the instrument among older women and there is no Vietnamese version of the instrument. This study translated the PSS-10 into Vietnamese and assessed Vietnamese version of the Perceived Stress Scale 10 items (V-PSS-10) for translation equivalence, face validity, construct validity, correlations, internal consistency reliability, and test-retest reliability among 473 women aged 60 and over. The study found that V-PSS-10 retained the original meaning and was understood by Vietnamese older women. An exploratory factor analysis of the V-PSS-10 yielded a two-factor structure, and these two factors were significantly correlated (0.56, p < .01) with all item loadings exceeded .50. The V-PSS-10 score was positively correlated with general sleep disturbance (ρ = .12, p < .05), CES-D score for depression symptoms (ρ = .60, p < .01), and negatively correlated with mental (ρ = -.46, p < .01), and physical health scores (ρ = -.19, p < .01). The Cronbach's alpha for the V-PSS-10 was .80, and the test-retest correlation at one month's interval was .43. Findings from this study suggest that the V-PSS-10 has acceptable validity and reliability levels among older women. The V-PSS-10 can be used to measure perceived stress in future research and practice. However, future research would be useful to further endorse the validity and reliability of the V-PSS-10.

Performance Support Systems: Integrating AI, Hypermedia, and CBT to Enhance User Performance.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McGraw, Karen L.

1994-01-01

Examines the use of a performance support system (PSS) to enhance user performance on an operational system. Highlights include background information that describes the stimulus for PSS development; discussion of the major PSS components and the technology they require; and discussion of the design of a PSS for a complex database system.…

Resistive Switching Memory Phenomena in PEDOT PSS: Coexistence of Switchable Diode Effect and Write Once Read Many Memory

PubMed Central

Nguyen, Viet Cuong; Lee, Pooi See

2016-01-01

We study resistive switching memory phenomena in conducting polymer PEDOT PSS. In the same film, there are two types of memory behavior coexisting; namely, the switchable diode effect and write once read many memory. This is the first report on switchable diode phenomenon based on conducting organic materials. The effect was explained as charge trapping of PEDOT PSS film and movement of proton. The same PEDOT PSS device also exhibits write once read many memory (WORM) phenomenon which arises due to redox reaction that reduces PEDOT PSS and renders it non-conducting. The revelation of these two types of memory phenomena in PEDOT PSS highlights the remarkable versatility of this conducting conjugated polymer. PMID:26806868

Care for the Caregiver: Evaluation of Mind-Body Self-Care for Accelerated Nursing Students.

PubMed

Drew, Barbara L; Motter, Tracey; Ross, Ratchneewan; Goliat, Laura M; Sharpnack, Patricia A; Govoni, Amy L; Bozeman, Michelle C; Rababah, Jehad

2016-01-01

Stress affects the well-being of both nursing students and the individuals with whom they work. With the theory of cognitive appraisal as a framework for this study, it is proposed that mind-body self-care strategies promote stress management by stabilization of emotions. Outcomes will be a perception of less stress and more mindful engagement with the environment. Objective of the study was to describe an evaluation of student perceived stress and mindfulness to 1-hour per week of class time dedicated to mind-body self-care (yoga, mindful breathing, Reiki, and essential oil therapy). It was a quasi-experimental study; data collection took place at 4 time points. Participants were entry-level accelerated nursing students from 3 US universities: 50 in the treatment group, 64 in the comparison group. Data included health-promoting practices using Health-Promoting Promotion Lifestyle Profile II as a control variable, stress and mindfulness (Perceived Stress Scale [PSS] and Mindful Attention Awareness Scale [MAAS]), and demographic information; analysis using mixed-design repeated-measures analysis of variances. There was a statistically significant interaction between intervention and time on PSS scores, F(3, 264) = 3.95, P = .009, partial η(2) = 0.043, with PSS scores of the intervention group decreasing from baseline to T3 when intervention ended whereas PSS scores of the comparison group increased from baseline. The average scores on the MAAS did not differ significantly. Evaluation of an embedded mind-body self-care module in the first nursing course demonstrated promising improvements in stress management. The findings support the appropriateness of integrating mind-body self-care content into nursing curricula to enhance students' ability to regulate stress.

Respiratory symptoms are poor predictors of concomitant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome.

PubMed

Strevens Bolmgren, Victor; Olsson, Peter; Wollmer, Per; Hesselstrand, Roger; Mandl, Thomas

2017-05-01

Involvement of the respiratory system, in particular dry airways and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is common in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). As respiratory symptoms are also common in pSS patients and may have different etiologies, we wanted to evaluate the amount and impact of respiratory symptoms in out-patients with pSS and to assess if such symptoms are related to concomitant COPD. The St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) was used to assess respiratory symptoms. SGRQ scores were compared between 51 consecutive pSS patients, in an out-patient setting, and 80 population-based controls. The patients were also studied by pulmonary function tests and CT scans of the lungs to assess signs of obstructive airway disease, including COPD, as well as to assess signs of interstitial lung disease (ILD). 41 and 18% of pSS patients were found to have COPD and radiographic signs of ILD, respectively. pSS patients had significantly higher SGRQ scores compared to controls, but no significant differences in SGRQ scores were found between patients with and without COPD. Neither did the small group of pSS patients with ILD significantly differ in SGRQ scores in comparison to patients without ILD. Respiratory symptoms were common in pSS, but were not more common in patients with concomitant COPD. Since pulmonary involvement in pSS is associated with an increased mortality and respiratory symptoms is a poor marker for pulmonary involvement, we suggest that pulmonary function tests should be performed liberally in all pSS patients regardless of symptoms.

Psychometric properties of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS): measurement invariance between athletes and non-athletes and construct validity

PubMed Central

Lin, Ju-Han; Nien, Chiao-Lin; Hsu, Ya-Wen; Liu, Hong-Yu

2016-01-01

Background Although Perceived Stress Scale (PSS, Cohen, Kamarack & Mermelstein, 1983) has been validated and widely used in many domains, there is still no validation in sports by comparing athletes and non-athletes and examining related psychometric indices. Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the measurement invariance of PSS between athletes and non-athletes, and examine construct validity and reliability in the sports contexts. Methods Study 1 sampled 359 college student-athletes (males = 233; females = 126) and 242 non-athletes (males = 124; females = 118) and examined factorial structure, measurement invariance and internal consistency. Study 2 sampled 196 student-athletes (males = 139, females = 57, Mage = 19.88 yrs, SD = 1.35) and examined discriminant validity and convergent validity of PSS. Study 3 sampled 37 student-athletes to assess test-retest reliability of PSS. Results Results found that 2-factor PSS-10 fitted the model the best and had appropriate reliability. Also, there was a measurement invariance between athletes and non-athletes; and PSS positively correlated with athletic burnout and life stress but negatively correlated with coping efficacy provided evidence of discriminant validity and convergent validity. Further, the test-retest reliability for PSS subscales was significant (r = .66 and r = .50). Discussion It is suggested that 2-factor PSS-10 can be a useful tool in assessing perceived stress either in sports or non-sports settings. We suggest future study may use 2-factor PSS-10 in examining the effects of stress on the athletic injury, burnout, and psychiatry disorders. PMID:27994983

Heritability of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Men: A Twin Study.

PubMed

Afari, Niloofar; Gasperi, Marianna; Forsberg, Christopher W; Goldberg, Jack; Buchwald, Dedra; Krieger, John N

2016-11-01

Symptoms of urinary irritation, urgency, frequency and obstruction, known as lower urinary tract symptoms, are common in urological practice. However, little is known about the etiology or pathogenesis of lower urinary tract symptoms, especially the relative contributions of genetic and environmental factors to the development of these symptoms. We used a classic twin study design to examine the relative contributions of genetic and environmental factors to the occurrence of lower urinary tract symptoms in middle-aged men. Twins were members of the Vietnam Era Twin Registry. We used a mail survey to collect data on lower urinary tract symptoms using the I-PSS (International Prostate Symptom Score) instrument. Twin correlations and biometric modeling were used to determine the relative genetic and environmental contributions to variance in I-PSS total score and individual items. Participants were 1,002 monozygotic and 580 dizygotic middle-aged male twin pairs (mean age 50.2 years, SD 3.0). Nearly 25% of the sample had an I-PSS greater than 8, indicating at least moderate lower urinary tract symptoms. The heritability of the total I-PSS was 37% (95% CI 32-42). Heritability estimates ranged from 21% for nocturia to 40% for straining, with moderate heritability (34% to 36%) for urinary frequency and urgency. Genetic factors provide a moderate contribution (20% to 40%) to lower urinary tract symptoms in middle-aged men, suggesting that environmental factors may also contribute substantially to lower urinary tract symptoms. Future research is needed to define specific genetic and environmental mechanisms that underlie the development of these symptoms and conditions associated with lower urinary tract symptoms. Copyright © 2016 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Measuring occupational balance and its relationship to perceived stress and health: Mesurer l'équilibre occupationnel et sa relation avec le stress perçus et la santé.

PubMed

Yu, Yu; Manku, Mandeep; Backman, Catherine L

2018-04-01

There is an assumption that occupational balance is integrally related to health and well-being. This study aimed to investigate test-retest reliability of the English-translated Occupational Balance Questionnaire (OBQ), its relationship to measures of health (Short Form Health Survey-36 Version 2.0 [SF-36v2]) and stress (Perceived Stress Scale-10; PSS-10), and demographic differences in OBQ scores in Canadian adults. Test-retest reliability (2 weeks) was assessed using intraclass correlation (ICC) coefficients. Online surveys from 86 adults were analyzed using descriptive, correlational, and t test statistics. OBQ test-retest reliability was ICC = 0.74 (95% CI [0.34, 0.90]; p = .003) when excluding an influential case ( n = 20). OBQ correlations with PSS-10 were r = -.72; with SF-36v2 Mental Component Score, r = .65; and with Physical Component Score, r = .31; all p < .001. Age and gender had no impact on OBQ scores. Findings help elucidate relationships among health, stress, and occupational balance; however, further psychometric testing is warranted before using OBQ for clinical purposes.

Influence of Weak Base Addition to Hole-Collecting Buffer Layers in Polymer:Fullerene Solar Cells.

PubMed

Seo, Jooyeok; Park, Soohyeong; Song, Myeonghun; Jeong, Jaehoon; Lee, Chulyeon; Kim, Hwajeong; Kim, Youngkyoo

2017-02-09

We report the effect of weak base addition to acidic polymer hole-collecting layers in normal-type polymer:fullerene solar cells. Varying amounts of the weak base aniline (AN) were added to solutions of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS). The acidity of the aniline-added PEDOT:PSS solutions gradually decreased from pH = 1.74 (AN = 0 mol% ) to pH = 4.24 (AN = 1.8 mol %). The electrical conductivity of the PEDOT:PSS-AN films did not change much with the pH value, while the ratio of conductivity between out-of-plane and in-plane directions was dependent on the pH of solutions. The highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) was obtained at pH = 2.52, even though all devices with the PEDOT:PSS-AN layers exhibited better PCE than those with the pristine PEDOT:PSS layers. Atomic force microscopy investigation revealed that the size of PEDOT:PSS domains became smaller as the pH increased. The stability test for 100 h illumination under one sun condition disclosed that the PCE decay was relatively slower for the devices with the PEDOT:PSS-AN layers than for those with pristine PEDOT:PSS layers.

Enhancement of Thermoelectric Properties of PEDOT:PSS and Tellurium-PEDOT:PSS Hybrid Composites by Simple Chemical Treatment.

PubMed

Bae, Eun Jin; Kang, Young Hun; Jang, Kwang-Suk; Cho, Song Yun

2016-01-05

The thermoelectric properties of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) ( PSS) and tellurium- PSS (Te- PSS) hybrid composites were enhanced via simple chemical treatment. The performance of thermoelectric materials is determined by their electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and Seebeck coefficient. Significant enhancement of the electrical conductivity of PSS and Te- PSS hybrid composites from 787.99 and 11.01 to 4839.92 and 334.68 S cm(-1), respectively was achieved by simple chemical treatment with H2SO4. The power factor of the developed materials could be effectively tuned over a very wide range depending on the concentration of the H2SO4 solution used in the chemical treatment. The power factors of the developed thermoelectric materials were optimized to 51.85 and 284 μW m(-1) K(-2), respectively, which represent an increase of four orders of magnitude relative to the corresponding parameters of the untreated thermoelectric materials. Using the Te- PSS hybrid composites, a flexible thermoelectric generator that could be embedded in textiles was fabricated by a printing process. This thermoelectric array generates a thermoelectric voltage of 2 mV using human body heat.

Advance in Photosensitizers and Light Delivery for Photodynamic Therapy

PubMed Central

Yoon, Il; Li, Jia Zhu

2013-01-01

The brief history of photodynamic therapy (PDT) research has been focused on photosensitizers (PSs) and light delivery was introduced recently. The appropriate PSs were developed from the first generation PS Photofrin (QLT) to the second (chlorins or bacteriochlorins derivatives) and third (conjugated PSs on carrier) generations PSs to overcome undesired disadvantages, and to increase selective tumor accumulation and excellent targeting. For the synthesis of new chlorin PSs chlorophyll a is isolated from natural plants or algae, and converted to methyl pheophorbide a (MPa) as an important starting material for further synthesis. MPa has various active functional groups easily modified for the preparation of different kinds of PSs, such as methyl pyropheophorbide a, purpurin-18, purpurinimide, and chlorin e6 derivatives. Combination therapy, such as chemotherapy and photothermal therapy with PDT, is shortly described here. Advanced light delivery system is shown to establish successful clinical applications of PDT. Phtodynamic efficiency of the PSs with light delivery was investigated in vitro and/or in vivo. PMID:23423543

Polymerizable Supramolecular Approach to Highly Conductive PEDOT:PSS Patterns.

PubMed

Kim, Tae Geun; Ha, Su Ryong; Choi, Hyosung; Uh, Kyungchan; Kundapur, Umesha; Park, Sumin; Lee, Chan Woo; Lee, Sang-Hwa; Kim, Jaeyong; Kim, Jong-Man

2017-06-07

Owing to its high conductivity, solution processability, mechanical flexibility, and transparency, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) has been extensively explored for use in functional devices including solar cells, sensors, light-emitting diodes, and supercapacitors. The ability to fabricate patterned PEDOT:PSS on a solid substrate is of significant importance to develop practical applications of this conducting polymer. Herein, we describe a new approach to obtain PEDOT:PSS patterns that are based on a polymerizable supramolecular concept. Specifically, we found that UV irradiation of a photopolymerizable diacetylene containing PEDOT:PSS film followed by development in deionized water and subsequent treatment with sulfuric acid (glass and silicon wafer) or formic acid (PET) produces micron-sized PEDOT:PSS patterns on solid substrates. The newly designed photolithographic method, which can be employed to generate highly conductive (>1000 S/cm) PEDOT:PSS patterns, has many advantages including the use of aqueous process conditions, a reduced number of process steps, and no requirement for plasma etching procedures.

Optimization of a polymer top electrode for inverted semitransparent organic solar cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhou, Yinhua; Cheun, Hyeunseok; Choi, Seungkeun

We report on semitransparent organic solar cells using a single-layer blend based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) as the top electrode. The PEDOT:PSS blend was prepared by mixing a high-conductivity formulation of PEDOT:PSS (H.C. Starck CLEVIOS PH-1000) and another formulation of PEDOT:PSS (H.C. Starck CLEVIOS CPP 105D). The PEDOT:PSS blend yields good wetting properties on the hydrophobic surface of a blend of poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) with phenyl-C 61-butyric acid methyl ester (PC 60 BM), and shows a conductivity over 400 S cm -1. Semitransparent organic solar cells using the PEDOT:PSS blend as the top electrode with a structure of glass/ITO/ZnO/P3HT:PC 60BM/PEDOT:PSS-blend exhibited anmore » average power conversion efficiency of 2.4% estimated for 100 mW cm -2 AM 1.5G illumination.« less

Understanding the Pathophysiology of Portosystemic Shunt by Simulation Using an Electric Circuit.

PubMed

Kim, Moonhwan; Lee, Keon-Young

2016-01-01

Portosystemic shunt (PSS) without a definable cause is a rare condition, and most of the studies on this topic are small series or based on case reports. Moreover, no firm agreement has been reached on the definition and classification of various forms of PSS, which makes it difficult to compare and analyze the management. The blood flow can be seen very similar to an electric current, governed by Ohm's law. The simulation of PSS using an electric circuit, combined with the interpretation of reported management results, can provide intuitive insights into the underlying mechanism of PSS development. In this article, we have built a model of PSS using electric circuit symbols and explained clinical manifestations as well as the possible mechanisms underlying a PSS formation.

Vocational interest types of medical students and its usage in student career counseling program.

PubMed

Hur, Yera; Lee, Keumho

2012-12-01

It is very important to consider student's personality, aptitudes, and interest to choose an appropriate major or career. This study explored three overarching topics: Are there difference in vocational interest types by gender? Do students' vocational interest type concur with type related to medicine? Are the results of Strong Interest Inventory useful in student career counseling? The subjects were 124 freshmen in Konyang University College of Medicine. The Strong Interest Inventory (Korean version) was used. This were divided into three scales: general occupational themes (GOT), basic interest scales (BIS), and personal style scales (PSS). The data were analyzed by the frequency analysis, chi-square test and t-test. From GOT six interest types, male and female showed significant differences in realistic (t=2.71, p=0.008), artist (t=-3.33, p=0.001), and social (t=-2.08, p=0.039) types. From PSS, the score of work style was below 50 points, it is mean they prefer to work alone, with the ideas, materials rather than work with people. Investigative type was the most frequent type (63.7%) and social type was the least (8.1%). The interest test results were very useful in student career counseling with professors (n=53). The satisfaction survey results showed 58.5% of professors were very satisfied as the data was "helpful in understanding the students," "useful in leading natural conversation (41.5%)," and "helpful in creating rapport (39.6%)." Strong vocational interest types explains an individual's career interests, and reflect the characteristics of medical students are. The finding of the study can be used to provide student counseling and developing a tailored student career guidance program.

Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies and rheumatoid factor in Sjögren's syndrome.

PubMed

Barcelos, Filipe; Abreu, Isabel; Patto, José Vaz; Trindade, Hélder; Teixeira, Ana

2009-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and clinical significance of anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (anti-CCP-Abs), IgM and IgA rheumatoid factors (RFs) in primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS). We compared clinical and serological characteristics of 31 pSS and 31 Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients. Both, anti-CCP-Abs and RFs (IgM, IgA) directed against Fc determinants of IgG from humans and rabbit were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We included 31 blood donors as control group for the evaluation of RFs and anti-CCP-Abs. Nine (29%) pSS patients presented arthritis, and 10 (32,3%) RA patients also had secondary Sjögren's syndrome (sSS) RESULTS: IgM and IgA RFs prevalence was similar in pSS and RA, whichever the antigene (Human or Rabbit IgG) used. However, RA patients with sSS showed a tendency to present more often RF positivity, longer disease duration and higher ESR and CRP when compared with pSS patients with arthritis. Anti-CCP-Abs were detected in 64,5% of RA patients and in only 6,9% of pSS patients (p<0,0005). Anti-CCP-Abs were more often positive in RA patients with sSS (RA/sSS) (8 patients, 80%) than in RA patients without sSS (18 patients, 58,1%), and were absent in pSS patients with arthritis. RF-positive pSS patients presented more often pulmonary involvement and higher inflammatory parameters, and less often neuropathy compared to RF-negative patients. In controls, anti-CCP-Abs were absent and RFs were negligible. Anti-CCP-Abs were detected in only a few pSS patients, none of whom presented arthritis, which contrasts with the high frequency of these antibodies in RA/sSS. These results suggest that anti-CCP-Abs could be useful in the distinction between pSS and RA with sSS. Although not useful for the differential diagnosis between RA and pSS, RFs may have a prognostic role in pSS.

Modification of the Highly Conductive PEDOT:PSS Layer for Use in Silver Nanogrid Electrodes for Flexible Inverted Polymer Solar Cells.

PubMed

Wang, Jie; Fei, Fei; Luo, Qun; Nie, Shuhong; Wu, Na; Chen, Xiaolian; Su, Wenming; Li, Yuanjie; Ma, Chang-Qi

2017-03-01

Silver nanogrid based flexible transparent electrode is recognized as the most promising alternative to ITO electrode for organic electronics, owing to its low production cost and excellent flexibility. Typically, a highly conductive thin film coating layer, such as highly conductive PEDOT:PSS (HC-PEDOT:PSS) is usually deposited onto the Ag-grid electrode to smooth the surface and to minimize the sheet resistance. In this paper, we found that inverted flexible polymer solar cells with structure of Ag-grid/HC-PEDOT:PSS/ZnO/photoactive layer/MoO 3 /Al generally exhibits strong S-shaped J-V curves, which could be eliminated by light-soaking treatment. Kelvin probe force microscope (KPFM) measurement proved that a large work function (WF) difference (0.70 eV) between HC-PEDOT:PSS and ZnO is the main reason for the formation of S-shape. White light soaking of the Ag-grid/HC-PEDOT:PSS gradually decreased the WF of HC-PEDOT:PSS from 5.10 to 4.60 eV, leading to a reduced WF difference between HC-PEDOT:PSS and ZnO from 0.70 to 0.38 eV. Such a WF difference decrease was believed to be the working mechanism for the light-soaking effect in this flexible device. Based on this finding, the HC-PEDOT:PSS solution was then modified by doping with polyethylenimine (PEI) and aqueous ammonia. The modified PEDOT:PSS film is characteristic of adjusting WF through varying PEI doping concentrations. By using such a modified PEDOT:PSS layer, light-soaking-free flexible inverted polymer solar cell with a power conversion efficiency of 6.58% was achieved for PTB7-Th:PC 71 BM cells. The current work provides a useful guideline for interfacial modification for Ag-grid based flexible electrode.

Determining Factors for Stress Perception Assessed with the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-4) in Spanish and Other European Samples.

PubMed

Vallejo, Miguel A; Vallejo-Slocker, Laura; Fernández-Abascal, Enrique G; Mañanes, Guillermo

2018-01-01

Objective: Stress perception depends on cultural and social aspects that vary from one country to another. One of the most widely disseminated methods of assessing psychological stress is the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-4). Therefore, in order to identify these factors and their impact on mental health, the present study compares the PSS-4 results among three European countries (Great Britain, France and Spain). This study focuses on PSS-4 results within a Spanish sample to determine: (1) normative data, reliability and validity of PSS-4 in a Spanish sample and (2) how stress perception changes depending on cultural and social factors. Methods: The data were obtained from a website representing a service of a smoking cessation program, the study represented a service that was open to all individuals. The number of participants were 37,451. They reported their age, gender, nationality, marital status, education and employment status, and completed two psychological questionnaires (PPS-4 and the anxiety and depression scales of the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised, SCL 90-R). Results: The PSS-4 scores could differentiate between relevant sociodemographic variables (such as sex, age, nationality, marital status, education, parental status, employment status, and income class). The PSS-4 scores showed a positive correlation with the SCL 90-R anxiety and depression scales. The normed values for interpreting the PSS-4 scores are presented. The PSS-4 showed adequate internal consistency and reliability. Conclusions: The PSS-4 is a useful instrument for assessing stress perception levels in the general population in different countries. Its internal consistency is sufficient for a 4-item scale.

Determining Factors for Stress Perception Assessed with the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-4) in Spanish and Other European Samples

PubMed Central

Vallejo, Miguel A.; Vallejo-Slocker, Laura; Fernández-Abascal, Enrique G.; Mañanes, Guillermo

2018-01-01

Objective: Stress perception depends on cultural and social aspects that vary from one country to another. One of the most widely disseminated methods of assessing psychological stress is the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-4). Therefore, in order to identify these factors and their impact on mental health, the present study compares the PSS-4 results among three European countries (Great Britain, France and Spain). This study focuses on PSS-4 results within a Spanish sample to determine: (1) normative data, reliability and validity of PSS-4 in a Spanish sample and (2) how stress perception changes depending on cultural and social factors. Methods: The data were obtained from a website representing a service of a smoking cessation program, the study represented a service that was open to all individuals. The number of participants were 37,451. They reported their age, gender, nationality, marital status, education and employment status, and completed two psychological questionnaires (PPS-4 and the anxiety and depression scales of the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised, SCL 90-R). Results: The PSS-4 scores could differentiate between relevant sociodemographic variables (such as sex, age, nationality, marital status, education, parental status, employment status, and income class). The PSS-4 scores showed a positive correlation with the SCL 90-R anxiety and depression scales. The normed values for interpreting the PSS-4 scores are presented. The PSS-4 showed adequate internal consistency and reliability. Conclusions: The PSS-4 is a useful instrument for assessing stress perception levels in the general population in different countries. Its internal consistency is sufficient for a 4-item scale. PMID:29434563

CNNH_PSS: protein 8-class secondary structure prediction by convolutional neural network with highway.

PubMed

Zhou, Jiyun; Wang, Hongpeng; Zhao, Zhishan; Xu, Ruifeng; Lu, Qin

2018-05-08

Protein secondary structure is the three dimensional form of local segments of proteins and its prediction is an important problem in protein tertiary structure prediction. Developing computational approaches for protein secondary structure prediction is becoming increasingly urgent. We present a novel deep learning based model, referred to as CNNH_PSS, by using multi-scale CNN with highway. In CNNH_PSS, any two neighbor convolutional layers have a highway to deliver information from current layer to the output of the next one to keep local contexts. As lower layers extract local context while higher layers extract long-range interdependencies, the highways between neighbor layers allow CNNH_PSS to have ability to extract both local contexts and long-range interdependencies. We evaluate CNNH_PSS on two commonly used datasets: CB6133 and CB513. CNNH_PSS outperforms the multi-scale CNN without highway by at least 0.010 Q8 accuracy and also performs better than CNF, DeepCNF and SSpro8, which cannot extract long-range interdependencies, by at least 0.020 Q8 accuracy, demonstrating that both local contexts and long-range interdependencies are indeed useful for prediction. Furthermore, CNNH_PSS also performs better than GSM and DCRNN which need extra complex model to extract long-range interdependencies. It demonstrates that CNNH_PSS not only cost less computer resource, but also achieves better predicting performance. CNNH_PSS have ability to extracts both local contexts and long-range interdependencies by combing multi-scale CNN and highway network. The evaluations on common datasets and comparisons with state-of-the-art methods indicate that CNNH_PSS is an useful and efficient tool for protein secondary structure prediction.

Pathophysiological appraisal of a rat model of total hepatic ischemia with an extracorporeal portosystemic shunt.

PubMed

Suzuki, S; Nakamura, S; Sakaguchi, T; Mitsuoka, H; Tsuchiya, Y; Kojima, Y; Konno, H; Baba, S

1998-11-01

Animal models of total hepatic ischemia (THI) and reperfusion injury are restricted by concomitant splanchnic congestion. This study was performed to determine the requirement suitable for an extracorporeal portosystemic shunt (PSS) to maintain the intestinal integrity in a rat model of THI. Using a polyethylene tube (0.86 or 1 mm i.d.), PSS was placed between the mesenteric and jugular veins. Comparison was done between THI models with or without PSS and a partial ischemia model with hepatectomy of the nonischemic lobes. Well-tolerated hepatic ischemic period, portal pressure after 10 min of hepatic ischemia, portal endotoxin levels at 1 h after reperfusion, histological features of the small bowel just before reperfusion, and local jejunal and ileal blood hemoglobin oxygen saturation index (ISO2) were compared among the models. Animals without PSS poorly tolerated 30 min of THI. Animals receiving THI with PSS or partial hepatic ischemia tolerated a longer ischemic period (60 min) with a significantly higher small bowel ISO2, lower portal pressure and endotoxin levels (P < 0.01), and less histological damage of the small bowel when compared to those receiving THI without PSS. Portal endotoxin levels after THI with PSS using a 1-mm i.d. tube as well as partial hepatic ischemia were significantly lower than those after THI with PSS using a 0.86-mm i.d. tube. THI with PSS using a 1-mm i.d. tube was strikingly similar to partial hepatic ischemia in the pathophysiological profile during hepatic ischemia. PSS with a tube 1 mm or more in inner diameter offers pathophysiological advantages in experiments on THI and reperfusion. Copyright 1998 Academic Press.

Understanding the Experiences of Women, Graduate Student Stress, and Lack of Marital/Social Support: A Mixed Method Inquiry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Williams-Tolliver, Sarah D.

2010-01-01

The purpose of this study was to explore how women attending graduate degree programs in public universities in Virginia were affected by such issues as stress and lack of marital/social support. Utilizing a mixed method approach for data collection, 23 participants completed demographic data, an essay response, and the PSS-10 Stress Scale; 8 were…

Soft and flexible PEDOT/PSS films for applications to soft actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yuechen; Tanigawa, Ryo; Okuzaki, Hidenori

2014-07-01

Stretchable and highly conductive PEDOT/PSS/Xyl films were prepared by casting an aqueous dispersion of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) doped with poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT/PSS) as colloidal gel particles containing xylitol (Xyl) and subsequent heating. The electrical conductivity of the PEDOT/PSS/Xyl film containing 50 wt% of xylitol significantly increased from 115 S cm-1 to 407 S cm-1 by heating at 140 °C in air for 1 h. It was found that the xylitol had two functions as (i) a plasticizer to weaken hydrogen bonds between PSS of colloidal particles by replacing with that between xylitol and PSS and (ii) the additional capability of increasing the mobility of charge carriers between the colloidal particles. The transparent ionic liquid/polyurethane (IL/PU) gels were fabricated by dissolving thermoplastic polyurethane and ionic liquid of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide. By increasing the IL content from 0 wt% to 70 wt%, both ionic conductivity and electric-double-layer capacitance under an electric field increased, while Young’s modulus, strength and elongation at break decreased. The IL/PU/PEDOT/PSS/Xyl composites were fabricated by sandwiching the IL/PU gel between two soft and flexible PEDOT/PSS/Xyl films. Upon application of 2 V, the IL/PU/PEDOT/PSS/Xyl composite (IL = 70%) showed quick and intensive bending toward anode, where the bending displacement at 0.1 Hz attained 2.9 mm, corresponding to the strain of 0.15%, and still worked at frequencies higher than 50 Hz.

Biological responses of T cells encapsulated with polyelectrolyte-coated gold nanorods and their cellular activities in a co-culture system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wattanakull, Porntida; Killingsworth, Murray C.; Pissuwan, Dakrong

2017-11-01

Currently, human T cell therapy is of considerable scientific interest. In addition, cell encapsulation has become an attractive approach in biomedical applications. Here, we propose an innovative technique of single-cell encapsulation of human T cells using polyelectrolytes combined with gold nanorods. We have demonstrated encapsulation of human Jurkat T cells with poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSS)-coated gold nanorods (PSS-GNRs). Other forms of encapsulation, using polyelectrolytes without GNRs, were also performed. After Jurkat T cells were encapsulated with poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) and/or PSS-GNRs or PSS, most cells survived and could proliferate. Jurkat T cells encapsulated with a double layer of PSS-GNR/PAH (PSS-GNR/PAH@Jurkat) showed the highest rate of cell proliferation when compared to 24-h encapsulated cells. With the exception of IL-6, no significant induction of inflammatory cytokines (IL-2, IL-1β, and TNF-α) was observed. Interestingly, when encapsulated cells were co-cultured with THP-1 macrophages, co-cultures exhibited TNF-α production enhancement. However, the co-culture of THP-1 macrophage and PSS-GNR/PAH@Jurkat or PSS/PAH@Jurkat did not enhance TNF-α production. No significant inductions of IL-2, IL-1β, and IL-6 were detected. These data provide promising results, demonstrating the potential use of encapsulated PSS-GNR/PAH@Jurkat to provide a more inert T cell population for immunotherapy application and other biomedical applications.

The Optical Properties of Thin Film Reduced Graphene Oxide/Poly (3,4 Ethylenedioxtriophene):Poly (Styrene Sulfonate)(PEDOT:PSS) Fabricated by Spin Coating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rokmana, Arinta W.; Asriani, A.; Suhendar, H.; Triyana, K.; Kusumaatmaja, A.; Santoso, I.

2018-04-01

Reduced Graphene Oxide (rGO) has been successfully synthesized from Graphite powder through chemical process using modified Hummers method by removing NaNO3 from reaction formula. Hydrazine hydrate 80 wt% has been chosen as reductor to eliminate the epoxy group in GO. FTIR and Uv-Vis spectroscopy result showed that Graphene Oxide (GO) and rGO were formed. Our produced rGO then used to fabricated the composite thin film rGO/PEDOT:PSS by spin coating at room temperature. The optical constant of thin film rGO/PEDOT:PSS were calculated from the absorbance spectrum of Uv-Visible spectra. The result showed that the value of coefficient absorbance of rGO dropped from 4.7×106 m-1 to 1.3×106 m-1 after doped with 0.02 mL PEDOT:PSS, then increase with the addition volume concentration of PEDOT:PSS. The value of extinction coefficient decrease from 0.31 to 0.08 after rGO doped with 0.02 ml PEDOT:PSS and then increase with the addition concentration of PEDOT:PSS. Our result show that thin film rGO/PEDOT:PSS was more transparent than that of thin film rGO.

Enhancement of Thermoelectric Properties of PEDOT:PSS and Tellurium-PEDOT:PSS Hybrid Composites by Simple Chemical Treatment

PubMed Central

Jin Bae, Eun; Hun Kang, Young; Jang, Kwang-Suk; Yun Cho, Song

2016-01-01

The thermoelectric properties of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) and tellurium-PEDOT:PSS (Te-PEDOT:PSS) hybrid composites were enhanced via simple chemical treatment. The performance of thermoelectric materials is determined by their electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and Seebeck coefficient. Significant enhancement of the electrical conductivity of PEDOT:PSS and Te-PEDOT:PSS hybrid composites from 787.99 and 11.01 to 4839.92 and 334.68 S cm−1, respectively was achieved by simple chemical treatment with H2SO4. The power factor of the developed materials could be effectively tuned over a very wide range depending on the concentration of the H2SO4 solution used in the chemical treatment. The power factors of the developed thermoelectric materials were optimized to 51.85 and 284 μW m−1 K−2, respectively, which represent an increase of four orders of magnitude relative to the corresponding parameters of the untreated thermoelectric materials. Using the Te-PEDOT:PSS hybrid composites, a flexible thermoelectric generator that could be embedded in textiles was fabricated by a printing process. This thermoelectric array generates a thermoelectric voltage of 2 mV using human body heat. PMID:26728992

Psychometric properties of the French versions of the Perceived Stress Scale.

PubMed

Lesage, Francois-Xavier; Berjot, Sophie; Deschamps, Frederic

2012-06-01

This study was conducted to examine the psychometric properties of the French versions of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and to compare the appropriateness of the three versions of this scale (14 items, 10 items, or 4 items) in a sample of workers. Five hundred and one workers were randomly selected in several occupational health care centers of the North of France during 2010. Participants completed a questionnaire including demographic variables and the PSS. The psychometric properties of this scale were analyzed: internal consistency, factorial structure, and discriminative sensibility. For the PSS-14 and PSS-10, the Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) provided a two-factor structure, corresponding to the positively and negatively worded items. Those two factors were significantly correlated (r = 0.43 and 0.50, respectively). For the PSS-4, the EFA yielded a one-factor structure. The reliability was high for all three versions of the PSS (Cronbach's α values ranged from 0.73 to 0.84). The results concerning the effects of age, gender, marital, parental and occupational statuses showed that the 10-item version had the best discriminative sensibility. The findings confirmed satisfactory psychometric properties of all the three French versions of the PSS. We recommend the use of the PSS-10 in research settings because of its good psychometric properties.

Posttraumatic stress symptomatology as a mediator of the relationship between warzone exposure and physical health symptoms in men and women.

PubMed

Wachen, Jennifer Schuster; Shipherd, Jillian C; Suvak, Michael; Vogt, Dawne; King, Lynda A; King, Daniel W

2013-06-01

The mediating role of posttraumatic stress symptomatology (PSS) on the association between warzone exposure and physical health symptoms in 7 bodily systems (cardiovascular, dermatological, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, musculoskeletal, neurological, and pulmonary) was examined. We also examined if mediation effects varied as a function of sex. A sample of 317 U.S. Gulf war veterans was assessed for warzone exposure, PSS, and physical health symptoms 10 years after deployment. PSS was significantly associated with postdeployment physical health in all symptom categories when accounting for predeployment health (with effect sizes ranging from a 1.27-1.64 increase in the likelihood of postdeployment physical health symptoms with a 1 standard deviation increase in the PSS symptoms). PSS severity mediated the relationship between warzone exposure and postdeployment symptoms in all physical health domains (with percent mediation ranging 44%-75%). A significant Warzone Exposure × PSS interaction emerged for 5 outcomes such that the effect of PSS on physical health was stronger for veterans reporting lower warzone exposure. No significant interactions with sex emerged. These findings suggest the important influence of PSS on physical health symptoms for both men and women. Published 2013. This article is a US Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Multiple congenital PSS in a dog: case report and literature review.

PubMed

Leeman, Jessica J; Kim, Stanley E; Reese, David J; Risselada, Marije; Ellison, Gary W

2013-01-01

A 4 yr old spayed female mixed-breed dog presented with a 2 yr history of recurring increases in liver enzymes. Two congenital portosystemic shunts (PSSs) were identified using computed tomography (CT) angiography, which included a portoazygous and portorenal extrahepatic shunt. Double right renal veins were also identified. The shunts were successfully identified and attenuated with cellophane banding. Multiple congenital PSS is a rare phenomenon, but should be considered during exploratory laparotomy for PSS and in dogs with poor response to surgical attenuation of a single PSS. CT proved to be a crucial part of accurate diagnosis and surgical planning for this dog with multiple congenital PSS.

Conductivity Enhancement of PEDOT:PSS Films Through the Surface Treatment with Organic Solvent.

PubMed

Lee, Sungkoo

2016-03-01

The improvement of conductivity is a key factor in application of conducting polymer to elec- tronic devices. The conductivity enhancement of PSS films were observed after dipping in polar organic solvents, including DMSO, ethylene glycol, glycerol and IPA. The conductivity of PSS films increased from 0.5 S/cm to over 800 S/cm, that is, by a factor of more than 1,600. The conductivity enhancement was dependent on the type of organic solvents and dipping time of PSS into solvent. The enhancement of conductivity may be caused by the phase separation between PEDOT chains and PSS counter anions.

Self-reported posttraumatic growth predicts greater subsequent posttraumatic stress amidst war and terrorism.

PubMed

Zalta, Alyson K; Gerhart, James; Hall, Brian J; Rajan, Kumar B; Vechiu, Catalina; Canetti, Daphna; Hobfoll, Stevan E

2017-03-01

This study tested three alternative explanations for research indicating a positive, but heterogeneous relationship between self-reported posttraumatic growth (PTG) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PSS): (a) the third-variable hypothesis that the relationship between PTG and PSS is a spurious one driven by positive relationships with resource loss, (b) the growth over time hypothesis that the relationship between PTG and PSS is initially a positive one, but becomes negative over time, and (c) the moderator hypothesis that resource loss moderates the relationship between PTG and PSS such that PTG is associated with lower levels of PSS as loss increases. A nationally representative sample (N = 1622) of Israelis was assessed at three time points during a period of ongoing violence. PTG, resource loss, and the interaction between PTG and loss were examined as lagged predictors of PSS to test the proposed hypotheses. Results were inconsistent with all three hypotheses, showing that PTG positively predicted subsequent PSS when accounting for main and interactive effects of loss. Our results suggest that self-reported PTG is a meaningful but counterintuitive predictor of poorer mental health following trauma.

Highly transparent and efficient counter electrode using SiO2/PEDOT-PSS composite for bifacial dye-sensitized solar cells.

PubMed

Song, Dandan; Li, Meicheng; Li, Yingfeng; Zhao, Xing; Jiang, Bing; Jiang, Yongjian

2014-05-28

A highly transparent and efficient counter electrode was facilely fabricated using SiO2/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT-PSS) inorganic/organic composite and used in bifacial dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs). The optical properties of SiO2/PEDOT-PSS electrode can be tailored by the blending amount of SiO2 and film thickness, and the incorporation of SiO2 in PEDOT-PSS provides better transmission in the long wavelength range. Meanwhile, the SiO2/PEDOT-PSS counter electrode shows a better electrochemical catalytic activity than PEDOT-PSS electrode for triiodide reduction, and the role of SiO2 in the catalytic process is investigated. The bifacial DSC with SiO2/PEDOT-PSS counter electrode achieves a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 4.61% under rear-side irradiation, which is about 83% of that obtained under front-side irradiation. Furthermore, the PCE of bifacial DSC can be significantly increased by adding a reflector to achieve bifacial irradiation, which is 39% higher than that under conventional front-side irradiation.

In vitro and in vivo evaluation of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrene sulfonate)/dopamine-coated electrodes for dopamine delivery.

PubMed

Sui, L; Song, X J; Ren, J; Cai, W J; Ju, L H; Wang, Y; Wang, L Y; Chen, M

2014-06-01

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) doped with poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS) has a variety of chemical and biomedical applications. The application of PEDOT/PSS polymers in drug delivery has attracted attention. However, whether conducting polymers of PEDOT/PSS could be used for dopamine delivery has not clear. In the present study, the PEDOT/PSS coatings incorporated with dopamine were fabricated on 0.5 mm diameter platinum electrodes, electrochemical properties, and dopamine delivery capacities of these electrodes were evaluated in vitro and in vivo through implanting these electrodes into brain striatum area. The findings demonstrated that the PEDOT/PSS/dopamine coatings on platinum electrodes could reduce electrodes impedances, increase charge storage capacities, and release significant levels of dopamine upon electrical stimulation of these electrodes. These results indicated that polymers of PEDOT/PSS/dopamine could be used for dopamine delivery, implicating potential application of PEDOT/PSS/dopamine-coated implantable electrodes in the treatment of some diseases associated with dopamine deficits, such as, electrodes for the treatment of Parkinson's disease during deep brain stimulation. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Interpolymer complexation: comparisons of bulk and interfacial structures.

PubMed

Cattoz, Beatrice; de Vos, Wiebe M; Cosgrove, Terence; Crossman, Martin; Espidel, Youssef; Prescott, Stuart W

2015-04-14

The interactions between the strong polyelectrolyte sodium poly(styrenesulfonate), NaPSS, and the neutral polymer poly(vinylpyrrolidone), PVP, were investigated in bulk and at the silica/solution interface using a combination of diffusion nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), solvent relaxation NMR, and ellipsometry. We show for the first time that complex formation occurs between NaPSS and PVP in solution; the complexes formed were shown not to be influenced by pH variation, whereas increasing the ionic strength increases the complexation of NaPSS but does not influence the PVP directly. The complexes formed contained a large proportion of NaPSS. Study of these interactions at the silica interface demonstrated that complexes also form at the nanoparticle interface where PVP is added in the system prior to NaPSS. For a constant PVP concentration and varying NaPSS concentration, the system remains stable until NaPSS is added in excess, which leads to depletion flocculation. Surface complex formation using the layer-by-layer technique was also reported at a planar silica interface.

Multiwall carbon nanotube and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) composite films for transistor and inverter devices.

PubMed

Yun, Dong-Jin; Hong, KiPyo; Kim, Se hyun; Yun, Won-Min; Jang, Jae-young; Kwon, Woo-Sung; Park, Chan-Eon; Rhee, Shi-Woo

2011-01-01

Highly conductive multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWNT)/Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polymerized with poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) films were prepared by spin coating a mixture solution. The solution was prepared by dispersing MWNT in the PEDOT:PSS solution in water using ultrasonication without any oxidation process. The effect of the MWNT loading in the solution on the film properties such as surface roughness, work function, surface energy, optical transparency, and conductivity was studied. The conductivity of MWNT/PEDOT:PSS composite film was increased with higher MWNT loading and the high conductivity of MWNT/PEDOT:PSS films enabled them to be used as a source/drain electrode in organic thin film transistor (OTFT). The pentacene TFT with MWNT/PEDOT:PSS S/D electrode showed much higher performance with mobility about 0.2 cm²/(V s) and on/off ratio about 5 × 10⁵ compared to that with PEDOT:PSS S/D electrode (∼0.05 cm²/(V s), 1 × 10⁵). The complementary inverters exhibited excellent characteristics, including high gain value of about 30.

Payload specialist station study. Volume 3: Program study cost estimates. Part 1: Work breakdown structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1976-01-01

The work breakdown structure (WBS) for the Payload Specialist Station (PSS) is presented. The WBS is divided into two elements--PSS contractor and mission unique requirements. In accordance with the study ground rules, it is assumed that a single contractor, hereafter referred to as PSS Contractor will perform the following: (1) provide C and D hardware (MFDS and elements of MMSE), except for GFE; (2) identify software requirements; (3) provide GSE and ground test software; and (4) perform systems engineering and integration in support of the Aft Flight Deck (AFD) C and D concept. The PSS Contractor WBS element encompasses a core or standardized PSS concept. Payload peculiar C and D requirements identified by users will originate as a part of the WBS element mission unique requirements; these requirements will be provided to the PSS Contractor for implementation.

The Effect of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate on PEDOT:PSS and Its Application to Organic Photovoltaic Solar Cells.

PubMed

Hwang, Ki-Hwan; Seo, Hyeon Jin; Nam, Sang-Hun; Boo, Jin-Hyo

2015-10-01

Recently, the use of PSS in flexible device electrodes has been reported. PSS treatment consists of a step in which a small amount of surfactant is added to enhance the adhesion between PSS and the substrate or TCO materials. However, basic research into the effect of the surfactant is lacking. We studied the effects of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) at controlled concentrations in aqueous PSS solution and that it enhanced the conductivity in the mixed thin films with surfactant and PSS. The thin films were prepared by the spin coating method. To study the structural effects on the resulting electrical properties, the thin films were investigated by FE-SEM (Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy) and AFM (Atomic Force Microscopy). At the same time, the electrical properties were investigated using a 4-point probe and solar simulator.

Adsorption of IgG on/in a PAH/PSS multilayer film: Layer structure and cell response.

PubMed

Feldötö, Zsombor; Lundin, Maria; Braesch-Andersen, Sten; Blomberg, Eva

2011-02-01

The binding of immunogloblulins (IgG) (mouse monoclonal recognizing IFNγ) on precoated polystyrene or silica surfaces by the layer-by-layer technique has been investigated with QCM-D and DPI. The aim of the work was to increase the sensitivity of the conventional enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot (ELISpot) assay. The polyelectrolytes used to build the multilayers were poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH)/poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSS) alternately adsorbed from 150mM NaCl. The multilayer build up is linear and the internal structure of the PAH/PSS multilayer is compact and rigid as observed by low relative water content (20-25%) and high layer refractive index (n∼1.5) after the formation of five bilayers. Incorporation of IgG within the PAH/PSS multilayer did not give rise to overcharging and did not affect the linear build up. ELISpot test on PAH/PSS multilayer modified polystyrene wells showed that the cytokine response was significantly smaller than on the regular PVDF backed polystyrene wells. This may be due to the compact and rigid nature of the PAH/PSS multilayer, which does not allow formation of the kind of three dimensional support needed to achieve bioactive IgG binding to the surface. Immunological tests of the polyelectrolyte multilayers in the absence of IgG showed that PSS terminated PAH/PSS multilayer did not induce any cytokine response whereas PAH terminated did, which suggests that PSS totally covers the surface from the cells point of view. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of ethylene glycol doping on performance of PEDOT:PSS/µT-n-Si heterojunction solar cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Prashant; Nakra, Rohan; Sivaiah, B.; Sardana, Sanjay K.; Prathap, P.; Rauthan, C. M. S.; Srivastava, Sanjay K.

2018-05-01

This study reports effect of co-solvent doping in poly (3, 4-ethyelenedioxythiophene):poly(dimethyl sulfoxide) (PEDOT:PSS) over the performance of Ag/PEDOT:PSS/µT-n-Si/In:Ga architecture based solar cell. PEDOT:PSS polymer is doped with varying concentration of ethylene glycol (EG). At 10% (volume) concentration performance of the device is highest with 4.69% power conversion efficiency. At higher or lower concentrations of ethylene glycol device performance deteriorates with sharp decline in short-circuit current density. Improvement in conductivity of the PEDOT:PSS polymer due to addition of co-solvent is the reason behind improvement in the performance of the device efficiency.

Peeling skin syndrome: genetic defects in late terminal differentiation of the epidermis.

PubMed

Bowden, Paul E

2011-03-01

In this issue, Israeli and colleagues confirm that homozygous mutations in corneodesmosin (CDSN) cause type B peeling skin syndrome (PSS), an autosomal recessive skin disorder. The deletion mutation described resulted in a frameshift, producing a downstream premature stop codon and early truncation of the protein. The recently described CDSN nonsense mutation in another PSS family also resulted in protein truncation and nonsense-mediated mRNA decay. Type B generalized PSS can now be clearly distinguished from acral PSS, caused by mutations in transglutaminase 5. This directly affects cornified envelope cross-linking rather than corneodesmosome adherence. These observations provide new insight into the molecular defects underlying two closely related forms of PSS.

Generalized peeling skin syndrome: Case report and review of the literature.

PubMed

Kharfi, Monia; Khaled, Aida; Ammar, Donia; Ezzine, Nadia; El Fekih, Nadia; Fazaa, Becima; Jaafoura, Hiabib; Kamoun, Mohamed Ridha

2010-03-15

Peeling skin syndrome (PSS) is a rare form of ichthyosis with a probable autosomal recessive inheritance that exhibits superficial, painless, continual, or seasonal cutaneous exfoliation. The syndrome generally appears at birth or in infancy. We report a case of generalized PSS and provide a literature review. A 34-year-old woman reported a lifelong history of generalized and painless peeling of the skin that worsened in summer. Her parents were third degree cousins. Her twin sister and her two cousins presented with the same condition. Physical examination showed widespread superficial sheets of variable size that could be easily removed without bleeding or pain. No underlying erythema was noted. Otherwise, the patient was in good health. Histological findings showed an epidermal cleavage within the stratum corneum. The generalized form of PSS is classified into 3 types, A, B, and C, according to the classification system of Traupe and Mevorah. We have tried to classify the cases of generalized PSS already reported in the literature into one of these three types. Thirteen reported cases probably presented PSS-type A. Sixteen patients are best described as PSS-type B. Two patients exhibit PSS-type C. Fifteen reported patients had an acral form of peeling skin syndrome. The classification of the eleven remaining patients was difficult to determine. Our patient presented clinical and histological features of generalized PSS-type A.

Sjögren's syndrome - not just Sicca: renal involvement in Sjögren's syndrome.

PubMed

Kaufman, I; Schwartz, D; Caspi, D; Paran, D

2008-01-01

To present a case of severe interstitial nephritis with proteinuria in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) and review the literature regarding renal disease and its management in pSS, aiming to suggest recommendations for treatment. A search of MEDLINE (PubMed) was performed for review articles and case reports using the MESH terms: Sjögren syndrome; renal disease; interstitial nephritis (IN); glomerulonephritis (GN). We describe a rare case of pSS presenting with hypokalaemic tetraparesis and proteinuria due to severe IN, successfully treated with high-dose steroids and azathioprine. Reviewing the literature, we identified 180 reported cases of renal involvement in pSS (selected based on the European criteria for pSS), 89 of which underwent renal biopsies revealing IN in 49 cases, GN in 33 samples, and both IN and GN in seven. Eighteen studies reported treatment experience of renal disease in 32 pSS cases. Seventeen patients were treated with corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide, and 15 patients received only steroids with improvement in the majority of cases. The present case, as well as the limited number of reports in the literature, suggest that renal involvement, including IN, in pSS may improve with immunosuppressive therapy. Further studies are required to determine indications for and dosages of immunosuppressive treatment in patients with renal involvement of pSS.

A dye-sensitized solar cell based on natural photosensitizers and a PEDOT:PSS/TiO2 film as a counter electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jafari, Fatemeh; Behjat, Abbas; Khoshroo, Ali R.; Ghoshani, Maral

2015-02-01

Poly(3, 4-ethylendioxythiophene)-poly(styrene sulfonate) mixed with TiO2 nanoparticles (PEDOT:PSS/TiO2) was used as a catalyst for tri-iodide reduction in dye-sensitized solar cells based on natural photosensitizers. A PEDOT:PSS/TiO2 film was coated on a conductive glass substrate by the spin coating method. The solar cells were fabricated, having the PEDOT:PSS/TiO2 film as a counter electrode and Pomegranate juice dye-sensitized TiO2 as an anode. The morphology of PEDOT:PSS/TiO2 films was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) images. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) was employed to characterize the catalytic activity of the PEDOT:PSS/TiO2 film. Based on the analysis of CV, the enhancements for the electrochemical and photochemical performance of the PEDOT:PSS/TiO2 electrode are attributed to the fact that the dispersed TiO2 nanoparticles in the PEDOT:PSS matrix provide an improved catalytic activity and a facilitated diffusion for tri-iodide ions. The energy conversion efficiency is significantly improved after TiO2 nanoparticle incorporation. This improvement might be attributed to an increase in the counter electrode catalytic activity. The highest efficiency of 0.73% was obtained by using 100 nm TiO2 nanoparticles in the counter electrode.

Poisoning severity score, APACHE II and GCS: effective clinical indices for estimating severity and predicting outcome of acute organophosphorus and carbamate poisoning.

PubMed

Sam, Kishore Gnana; Kondabolu, Krishnakanth; Pati, Dipanwita; Kamath, Asha; Pradeep Kumar, G; Rao, Padma G M

2009-07-01

Self-poisoning with organophosphorus (OP) compounds is a major cause of morbidity and mortality across South Asian countries. To develop uniform and effective management guidelines, the severity of acute OP poisoning should be assessed through scientific methods and a clinical database should be maintained. A prospective descriptive survey was carried out to assess the utility of severity scales in predicting the outcome of 71 organophosphate (OP) and carbamate poisoning patients admitted during a one year period at the Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, India. The Glasgow coma scale (GCS) scores, acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) scores, predicted mortality rate (PMR) and Poisoning severity score (PSS) were estimated within 24h of admission. Significant correlation (P<0.05) between PSS and GCS and APACHE II and PMR scores were observed with the PSS scores predicting mortality significantly (P< or =0.001). A total of 84.5% patients improved after treatment while 8.5% of the patients were discharged with severe morbidity. The mortality rate was 7.0%. Suicidal poisoning was observed to be the major cause (80.2%), while other reasons attributed were occupational (9.1%), accidental (6.6%), homicidal (1.6%) and unknown (2.5%) reasons. This study highlights the application of clinical indices like GCS, APACHE, PMR and severity scores in predicting mortality and may be considered for planning standard treatment guidelines.

Presence of enthesopathy in patients with primary Sjogren's syndrome: ultrasonographic study of a local cohort.

PubMed

Sag, Sinem; Sag, Mustafa Serdar; Tekeoglu, Ibrahim; Kamanlı, Ayhan; Nas, Kemal

2018-01-01

Musculoskeletal findings in Sjögren's syndrome are arthralgia, arthritis, myalgia, myositis, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue. Enthesis zones are important in the formation of pain in the musculoskeletal system. Musculoskeletal ultrasound (US) may show subclinical enthesitis in the synovial joints and in the axial skeleton before joint swelling in inflammatory diseases characterized by arthritis. In this study, we aimed to determine the presence of enthesopathy using the Madrid sonographic enthesitis index (MASEI) in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (PSS). Consecutive patients with PSS and age-matched healthy controls were included in this study. All the patients met the 2002 American College of Rheumatology/European League against Rheumatism classification criteria for PSS. The demographic characteristics of the patients were recorded. Six enthesis sites were evaluated using gray-scale and Doppler US with a linear transducer, and they were scored using the MASEI. They were assessed by the EULAR Sjögren's syndrome disease activity index (ESSDAI). We evaluated 40 patients with PSS (average age 48.67 ± 11.23 years) and 30 healthy controls (average age 45.40 ± 8.24 years). Patients with PSS had significantly higher MASEI scores than the healthy controls. Plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and distal patellar tendons were significantly thicker in the PSS group than in the healthy controls. The MASEI total score had a positive correlation with age. There was no correlation between MASEI total score and BMI and ESSDAI. In this study, it was shown that the MASEI scores assessed by US were significantly higher in patients with PSS than in healthy controls. Plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and distal patellar tendon were significantly thicker in the PSS group than in the healthy controls. This result suggests that PSS may be one of the causes of musculoskeletal pain that can be seen in patients with PSS. Our study was the first study to use an enthesis index ultrasonographically in patients with PSS. In addition, it is the first study to investigate the relationship between the presence of enthesopathy and disease activity by means of US.

Significant vertical phase separation in solvent-vapor-annealed poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) composite films leading to better conductivity and work function for high-performance indium tin oxide-free optoelectronics.

PubMed

Yeo, Jun-Seok; Yun, Jin-Mun; Kim, Dong-Yu; Park, Sungjun; Kim, Seok-Soon; Yoon, Myung-Han; Kim, Tae-Wook; Na, Seok-In

2012-05-01

In the present study, a novel polar-solvent vapor annealing (PSVA) was used to induce a significant structural rearrangement in poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) films in order to improve their electrical conductivity and work function. The effects of polar-solvent vapor annealing on PEDOT:PSS were systematically compared with those of a conventional solvent additive method (SAM) and investigated in detail by analyzing the changes in conductivity, morphology, top and bottom surface composition, conformational PEDOT chains, and work function. The results confirmed that PSVA induces significant phase separation between excess PSS and PEDOT chains and a spontaneous formation of a highly enriched PSS layer on the top surface of the PEDOT:PSS polymer blend, which in turn leads to better 3-dimensional connections between the conducting PEDOT chains and higher work function. The resultant PSVA-treated PEDOT:PSS anode films exhibited a significantly enhanced conductivity of up to 1057 S cm(-1) and a tunable high work function of up to 5.35 eV. The PSVA-treated PEDOT:PSS films were employed as transparent anodes in polymer light-emitting diodes (PLEDs) and polymer solar cells (PSCs). The cell performances of organic optoelectronic devices with the PSVA-treated PEDOT:PSS anodes were further improved due to the significant vertical phase separation and the self-organized PSS top surface in PSVA-treated PEDOT:PSS films, which can increase the anode conductivity and work function and allow the direct formation of a functional buffer layer between the active layer and the polymeric electrode. The results of the present study will allow better use and understanding of polymeric-blend materials and will further advance the realization of high-performance indium tin oxide (ITO)-free organic electronics.

The expression of death decoy receptor 3 was increased in the patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome.

PubMed

Liu, Jinlin; Zhao, Zhao; Zou, Yuqiong; Zhang, Mei; Zhou, Yonglie; Li, Yasong; Pang, Zhenzhen; Jin, Weidong

2015-05-01

Previous studies suggested a pathological role for the death decoy receptor 3 (DcR3) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatic arthritis (RA). Herein, the expression of DcR3 in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) and the relationship with clinical characteristics were investigated. The serum DcR3 levels of pSS patients and healthy controls were measured by ELISA. Pearson's correlation analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between the DcR3 levels with the clinical characterstics of pSS patients. Additionally, the DcR3 expression in salivary glands of pSS patients was investigated by the immunohistochemistry method. The serum DcR3 expression in pSS patients was significantly higher than healthy controls (p < 0.001), especially in new onset pSS patients (p = 0.036). Moreover, Pearson's correlation analysis show that DcR3 levels were positively correlated with age (p = 0.013), platelet (PLT) (p = 0.002), hemoglobin (Hb) (p = 0.004), Sjögren's syndrome disease damage activity index (SSDAI) score (p = 0.005), Sjögren's syndrome disease damage index (SSDDI) score (p < 0.001) and EULAR Sjögren's syndrome disease activity index (ESSDAI) score (p = 0.010). Furthermore, the DcR3 levels were significantly lower when the pSS patients were treated with the disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. At last, DcR3 expression in salivary glands of pSS patients was significantly higher than healthy controls. The DcR3 expression was significantly elevated in the pSS patients and positively correlated with the clinical characteristics, and it might be an important factor involved in the progression of pSS patients and could be a potential therapeutic target.

Improved Work Function of Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): Poly(styrenesulfonic acid) and its Effect on Hybrid Silicon/Organic Heterojunction Solar Cells.

PubMed

Shen, Xiaojuan; Chen, Ling; Pan, Jianmei; Hu, Yue; Li, Songjun; Zhao, Jie

2016-12-01

Hybrid silicon/organic solar cells have been recently extensively investigated due to their simple structure and low-cost fabrication process. However, the efficiency of the solar cells is greatly limited by the barrier height as well as the carrier recombination at the silicon/organic interface. In this work, hydrochloroplatinic acid (H 2 PtCl 6 ) is employed into the poly(3,4-ethlenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) solution, and the work function (WF) of the PEDOT:PSS layer has been successfully improved. Based on the Pt-modified PEDOT:PSS layer, the efficiency of the silicon/PEDOT:PSS cell can be increased to 11.46%, corresponding to ~20% enhancement to the one without platinum (Pt) modification. Theoretical and experimental results show that, when increasing the WF of the PEDO:PSS layer, the barrier height between the silicon/PEDOT:PSS interface can be effectively enhanced. Meanwhile, the carrier recombination at the interface is significantly reduced. These results can contribute to better understanding of the interfacial mechanism of silicon/PEDOT:PSS interface, and further improving the device performance of silicon/organic solar cells.

Improved Work Function of Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): Poly(styrenesulfonic acid) and its Effect on Hybrid Silicon/Organic Heterojunction Solar Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Xiaojuan; Chen, Ling; Pan, Jianmei; Hu, Yue; Li, Songjun; Zhao, Jie

2016-11-01

Hybrid silicon/organic solar cells have been recently extensively investigated due to their simple structure and low-cost fabrication process. However, the efficiency of the solar cells is greatly limited by the barrier height as well as the carrier recombination at the silicon/organic interface. In this work, hydrochloroplatinic acid (H2PtCl6) is employed into the poly(3,4-ethlenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) solution, and the work function (WF) of the PEDOT:PSS layer has been successfully improved. Based on the Pt-modified PEDOT:PSS layer, the efficiency of the silicon/PEDOT:PSS cell can be increased to 11.46%, corresponding to 20% enhancement to the one without platinum (Pt) modification. Theoretical and experimental results show that, when increasing the WF of the PEDO:PSS layer, the barrier height between the silicon/PEDOT:PSS interface can be effectively enhanced. Meanwhile, the carrier recombination at the interface is significantly reduced. These results can contribute to better understanding of the interfacial mechanism of silicon/PEDOT:PSS interface, and further improving the device performance of silicon/organic solar cells.

Self-reported Posttraumatic Growth Predicts Greater Subsequent Posttraumatic Stress Amidst War and Terrorism

PubMed Central

Gerhart, James; Hall, Brian; Rajan, Kumar B.; Vechiu, Catalina; Canetti, Daphna; Hobfoll, Stevan E.

2017-01-01

Background and Objective This study tested three alternative explanations for research indicating a positive, but heterogeneous relationship between self-reported posttraumatic growth (PTG) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PSS):a) the third-variable hypothesis that the relationship between PTG and PSS is a spurious one driven by positive relationships with resource loss, b) the growth over time hypothesis that the relationship between PTG and PSS is initially a positive one, but becomes negative over time, and c) the moderator hypothesis that resource loss moderates the relationship between PTG and PSS such that PTG is associated with lower levels of PSS as loss increases. Design and Method A nationally representative sample (N = 1622) of Israelis was assessed at 3 time points during a period of ongoing violence. PTG, resource loss, and the interaction between PTG and loss were examined as lagged predictors of PSS to test the proposed hypotheses. Results Results were inconsistent with all 3 hypotheses, showing that PTG positively predicted subsequent PSS when accounting for main and interactive effects of loss. Conclusions Our results suggest that self-reported PTG is a meaningful but counterintuitive predictor of poorer mental health following trauma. PMID:27575750

Composite films of oxidized multiwall carbon nanotube and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) as a contact electrode for transistor and inverter devices.

PubMed

Yun, Dong-Jin; Rhee, Shi-Woo

2012-02-01

Composite films of multiwall carbon nanotube (MWNT)/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polymerized with poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) were prepared by spin-coating a mixture solution. The effect of the MWNT loading and the MWNT oxidation, with acid solution or ultraviolet (UV)-ozone treatment, on the film properties such as surface roughness, work function, surface energy, optical transparency and conductivity were studied. Also pentacene thin film transistors and inverters were made with these composite films as a contact metal and the device characteristics were measured. The oxidation of MWNT reduced the conductivity of MWNT/PEDOT:PSS composite film but increased the work function and transparency. UV-ozone treated MWNT/PEDOT:PSS composite film showed higher conductivity (14000 Ω/□) and work function (4.9 eV) than acid-oxidized MWNT/PEDOT:PSS composite film and showed better performance as a source/drain electrode in organic thin film transistor (OTFT) than other types of MWNT/PEDOT:PSS composite films. Hole injection barrier of the UV-ozone treated MWNT/PEDOT:PSS composite film with pentacene was significantly lower than any other films because of the higher work function.

Risk of Sjögren's syndrome in Taiwanese female adults with irregular menstrual cycles: a population-based case-control study.

PubMed

Lu, Ming-Chi; Hsieh, Min-Chih; Koo, Malcolm; Lai, Ning-Sheng

2016-01-01

Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a progressive systemic autoimmune disorder with a strong female predominance. Hormonal influences are thought to play a role in the development of pSS. However, no studies have specifically evaluated the association between irregular menstrual cycles and pSS. Therefore, using a health claims database, this study investigated the risk of pSS in women with irregular menstrual cycles. We conducted a case-control study using the Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database. A total of 360 patients diagnosed with pSS (International Classification of Diseases, ninth revision, clinical modification, ICD-9-CM code 710.2) between 2001 and 2012 were identified. Controls were frequency-matched at a rate of 5:1 to the cases by five-year age interval and index year. Both cases and controls were retrospectively traced back until 2001 for the diagnosis of irregular menstrual cycles (ICD-9-CM code 626.4). The risk of pSS was assessed using multivariate logistic regression analyses. Irregular menstrual cycles were significantly associated with pSS [adjusted odds ratio, (AOR) = 1.38, p = 0.027], after adjusted for insured amount, urbanization level, and thyroid disorder. In addition, when the data were stratified by three age categories, only the patients in the age category of 45-55 years showed significant association between irregular menstrual cycles and pSS (AOR = 1.74, p = 0.005). In this nationwide, population-based case-control study, we found a significant increased risk of pSS in female patients with irregular menstrual cycles, particularly those in their mid-forties to mid-fifties.

A possible genetic association with chronic fatigue in primary Sjögren's syndrome: a candidate gene study.

PubMed

Norheim, Katrine Brække; Le Hellard, Stephanie; Nordmark, Gunnel; Harboe, Erna; Gøransson, Lasse; Brun, Johan G; Wahren-Herlenius, Marie; Jonsson, Roland; Omdal, Roald

2014-02-01

Fatigue is prevalent and disabling in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). Results from studies in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) indicate that genetic variation may influence fatigue. The aim of this study was to investigate single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variations in pSS patients with high and low fatigue. A panel of 85 SNPs in 12 genes was selected based on previous studies in CFS. A total of 207 pSS patients and 376 healthy controls were genotyped. One-hundred and ninety-three patients and 70 SNPs in 11 genes were available for analysis after quality control. Patients were dichotomized based on fatigue visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, with VAS <50 denominated "low fatigue" (n = 53) and VAS ≥50 denominated "high fatigue" (n = 140). We detected signals of association with pSS for one SNP in SLC25A40 (unadjusted p = 0.007) and two SNPs in PKN1 (both p = 0.03) in our pSS case versus control analysis. The association with SLC25A40 was stronger when only pSS high fatigue patients were analysed versus controls (p = 0.002). One SNP in PKN1 displayed an association in the case-only analysis of pSS high fatigue versus pSS low fatigue (p = 0.005). This candidate gene study in pSS did reveal a trend for associations between genetic variation in candidate genes and fatigue. The results will need to be replicated. More research on genetic associations with fatigue is warranted, and future trials should include larger cohorts and multicentre collaborations with sharing of genetic material to increase the statistical power.

Associations of perceived social support and positive psychological resources with fatigue symptom in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

PubMed Central

Xu, NeiLi; Zhao, Shuai; Xue, HongXia; Fu, WenYi; Liu, Li; Zhang, TianQi; Huang, Rui; Zhang, Ning

2017-01-01

Objective This study aimed to assess the association between perceived social support (PSS) and fatigue and the roles of hope, optimism, general self-efficacy and resilience as mediators or moderators on PSS-fatigue association among Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients in China. Methods A multi-center, cross-sectional study was conducted withinpatients diagnosed with RA in northeast China, in which 305 eligible inpatients were enrolled. The Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, Herth Hope Index, Life Orientation Test Revised, General Self-Efficacy Scale and Ego-Resiliency Scale were completed. The associations of PSS, hope, optimism, general self-efficacy and resilience with fatigue and the moderating roles of these positive psychological constructs were tested by hierarchical linear regression. Asymptotic and resampling strategies were utilized to assess the mediating roles of hope, optimism, general self-efficacy and resilience. Results The mean score of the MFI was 57.88 (SD = 9.50). PSS, hope, optimism and resilience were negatively associated with RA-related fatigue, whereas DAS28-CRP was positively associated. Only resilience positively moderated the PSS-fatigue association (B = 0.03, β = 0.13, P<0.01). Hope, optimism and resilience may act as partial mediators in the association between PSS and fatigue symptoms (hope: a*b = -0.16, BCa 95%CI: -0.27, -0.03; optimism: a*b = -0.20, BCa 95%CI: -0.30, -0.10; resilience: a*b = -0.12, BCa 95%CI: -0.21–0.04). Conclusions Fatigue is a severe symptom among RA patients. Resilience may positively moderate the PSS-fatigue association. Hope, optimism and resilience may act as partial mediators in the association. PSS, hope, optimism and resilience may contribute as effective recourses to alleviate fatigue, upon which PSS probably has the greatest effect. PMID:28291837

Associations of perceived social support and positive psychological resources with fatigue symptom in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Xu, NeiLi; Zhao, Shuai; Xue, HongXia; Fu, WenYi; Liu, Li; Zhang, TianQi; Huang, Rui; Zhang, Ning

2017-01-01

This study aimed to assess the association between perceived social support (PSS) and fatigue and the roles of hope, optimism, general self-efficacy and resilience as mediators or moderators on PSS-fatigue association among Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients in China. A multi-center, cross-sectional study was conducted withinpatients diagnosed with RA in northeast China, in which 305 eligible inpatients were enrolled. The Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, Herth Hope Index, Life Orientation Test Revised, General Self-Efficacy Scale and Ego-Resiliency Scale were completed. The associations of PSS, hope, optimism, general self-efficacy and resilience with fatigue and the moderating roles of these positive psychological constructs were tested by hierarchical linear regression. Asymptotic and resampling strategies were utilized to assess the mediating roles of hope, optimism, general self-efficacy and resilience. The mean score of the MFI was 57.88 (SD = 9.50). PSS, hope, optimism and resilience were negatively associated with RA-related fatigue, whereas DAS28-CRP was positively associated. Only resilience positively moderated the PSS-fatigue association (B = 0.03, β = 0.13, P<0.01). Hope, optimism and resilience may act as partial mediators in the association between PSS and fatigue symptoms (hope: a*b = -0.16, BCa 95%CI: -0.27, -0.03; optimism: a*b = -0.20, BCa 95%CI: -0.30, -0.10; resilience: a*b = -0.12, BCa 95%CI: -0.21-0.04). Fatigue is a severe symptom among RA patients. Resilience may positively moderate the PSS-fatigue association. Hope, optimism and resilience may act as partial mediators in the association. PSS, hope, optimism and resilience may contribute as effective recourses to alleviate fatigue, upon which PSS probably has the greatest effect.

Triplet photosensitizers: from molecular design to applications.

PubMed

Zhao, Jianzhang; Wu, Wanhua; Sun, Jifu; Guo, Song

2013-06-21

Triplet photosensitizers (PSs) are compounds that can be efficiently excited to the triplet excited state which subsequently act as catalysts in photochemical reactions. The name is originally derived from compounds that were used to transfer the triplet energy to other compounds that have only a small intrinsic triplet state yield. Triplet PSs are not only used for triplet energy transfer, but also for photocatalytic organic reactions, photodynamic therapy (PDT), photoinduced hydrogen production from water and triplet-triplet annihilation (TTA) upconversion. A good PS should exhibit strong absorption of the excitation light, a high yield of intersystem crossing (ISC) for efficient production of the triplet state, and a long triplet lifetime to allow for the reaction with a reactant molecule. Most transition metal complexes show efficient ISC, but small molar absorption coefficients in the visible spectral region and short-lived triplet excited states, which make them unsuitable as triplet PSs. One obstacle to the development of new triplet PSs is the difficulty in predicting the ISC of chromophores, especially of organic compounds without any heavy atoms. This review article summarizes some molecular design rationales for triplet PSs, based on the molecular structural factors that facilitate ISC. The design of transition metal complexes with large molar absorption coefficients in the visible spectral region and long-lived triplet excited states is presented. A new method of using a spin converter to construct heavy atom-free organic triplet PSs is discussed, with which ISC becomes predictable, C60 being an example. To enhance the performance of triplet PSs, energy funneling based triplet PSs are proposed, which show broadband absorption in the visible region. Applications of triplet PSs in photocatalytic organic reactions, hydrogen production, triplet-triplet annihilation upconversion and luminescent oxygen sensing are briefly introduced.

Investigate the effects of EG doping PEDOT/PSS on transmission and anti-reflection properties using terahertz pulsed spectroscopy.

PubMed

Sun, Yiwen; Yang, Shengxin; Du, Pengju; Yan, Fei; Qu, Junle; Zhu, Zexuan; Zuo, Jian; Zhang, Cunlin

2017-02-06

The conductivity of poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene)/poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT/PSS) is significantly enhanced on adding some organic solvent such as ethylene glycol (EG). In this paper, the optoelectronic properties of EG doped PEDOT/PSS on transmission and anti-reflection effects are investigated in detail by terahertz time domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS). The transmission line circuit theory gives us an insight into the THz transmission mechanisms of the main and second pulses. In particular, we show that the conductivities of 10% EG doped PEDOT/PSS are nearly frequency independent from 0.3 to 1.5 THz. To demonstrate applications of this property, we design and fabricate broadband terahertz neutral density filters and anti-reflection coatings based on 10% EG doped PEDOT/PSS thin films with varying thickness. Our measurements highlight the capability of THz-TDS to characterize the conductivity of EG doped PEDOT/PSS, which is essential for broadband optoelectronic devices in THz region.

Highly efficient flexible optoelectronic devices using metal nanowire-conducting polymer composite transparent electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Eui Dae; Nam, Yun Seok; Seo, Houn; Lee, Bo Ram; Yu, Jae Choul; Lee, Sang Yun; Kim, Ju-Young; Park, Jang-Ung; Song, Myoung Hoon

2015-09-01

Here, we report a comprehensive analysis of the electrical, optical, mechanical, and surface morphological properties of composite nanostrutures based on silver nanowires (AgNW) and PEDOT:PSS conducting polymer for the use as flexible and transparent electrodes. Compared to ITO or the single material of AgNW or PEDOT:PSS, the AgNW/PEDOT:PSS composite electrode showed high electrical conductivity with a low sheet resistance of 26.8 Ω/sq at 91% transmittance (at 550 nm), improves surface smoothness, and enhances mechanical properties assisted by an amphiphilic fluoro-surfactant. The polymeric light-emitting diodes (PLEDs) and organic solar cells (OSCs) using the AgNW/PEDOT:PSS composite electrode showed higher device performances than those with AgNW and PEDOT:PSS electrodes and excellent flexibility under bending test. These results indicates that the AgNW/PEDOT:PSS composite presented is a good candidate as next-generation transparent elelctrodes for applications into flexible optoelectronic devices. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Simultaneously Enhancing the Cohesion and Electrical Conductivity of PEDOT:PSS Conductive Polymer Films using DMSO Additives.

PubMed

Lee, Inhwa; Kim, Gun Woo; Yang, Minyang; Kim, Taek-Soo

2016-01-13

Conductive polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) ( PSS) has attracted significant attention as a hole transport and electrode layer that substitutes metal electrodes in flexible organic devices. However, its weak cohesion critically limits the reliable integration of PSS in flexible electronics, which highlights the importance of further investigation of the cohesion of PSS. Furthermore, the electrical conductivity of PSS is insufficient for high current-carrying devices such as organic photovoltaics (OPVs) and organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). In this study, we improve the cohesion and electrical conductivity through adding dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and we demonstrate the significant changes in the properties that are dependent on the wt % of DMSO. In particular, with the addition of 3 wt % DMSO, the maximum enhancements for cohesion and electrical conductivity are observed where the values increase by 470% and 6050%, respectively, due to the inter-PEDOT bridging mechanism. Furthermore, when OLED devices using the PSS films are fabricated using the 3 wt % DMSO, the display exhibits 18% increased current efficiency.

Development and validation of an exercise performance support system for people with lower extremity impairment.

PubMed

Minor, M A; Reid, J C; Griffin, J Z; Pittman, C B; Patrick, T B; Cutts, J H

1998-02-01

To identify innovative strategies to support appropriate, self-directed exercise that increase physical activity levels of people with arthritis. This article reports on one interactive, multimedia exercise performance support system (PSS) for people with lower extremity impairments in strength or flexibility. An interdisciplinary team developed the PSS using self-report of lower extremity musculoskeletal impairments (flexibility and strength) to produce an individualized exercise program with video and print educational materials. Initial evaluation has investigated the validity and reliability of program assessments and recommendations. PSS self-report and professional assessments were similar, with more impairments indicated by self-report. PSS exercise recommendations were similar to those made by 3 expert physical therapists using the same exercise data base. Results of PSS impairment assessments were stable over a 1-week period. PSS exercise recommendations appear to be reliable and a valid reflection of current exercise knowledge in rheumatology. Furthermore, users were able to complete the computer-based program with minimal assistance and reported it to be enjoyable and informative.

Validation of Bengali perceived stress scale among LGBT population.

PubMed

Mozumder, Muhammad Kamruzzaman

2017-08-29

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) population encounter more stressful life circumstances compared to general population. Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) can be a useful tool for measuring their stress. However, psychometric properties of PSS have never been tested on LGBT population. This cross sectional study employed a two-stage sampling strategy to collect data from 296 LGBT participants from six divisional districts of Bangladesh. Exploratory (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were carried out on PSS 10 along with analysis of reliability and validity. EFA revealed a two-factor structure of PSS for LGBT population explaining 43.55% - 51.45% of total variance. This measurement model was supported by multiple fit indices during CFA. Acceptable Cronbach's alpha indicated internal consistency reliability and high correlations with Self Reporting Questionnaire 20 demonstrated construct validity of PSS 10 for LGBT population. This study provided evidence of satisfactory psychometric properties of Bengali PSS 10 in terms of factor structure, internal consistency and validity among LGBT population.

Studies on surface morphology and electrical conductivity of PEDOT:PSS thin films in presence of gold nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhowal, Ashim Chandra; Kundu, Sarathi

2018-04-01

PEDOT:PSS is a water soluble conducting polymer consists of positively charged PEDOT and negatively charged PSS. However, this polymer suffers low conductivity problem which restrict its use. In this paper, electrical conductivity of PEDOT:PSS thin films is improved by using charged gold nanoparticles. The nanoparticles used are synthesized using lysozyme protein. The nanoparticles coated with lysozyme protein possess positive zeta potential. In the presence of gold nanoparticles due to electrostatic interaction between positively charged nanoparticles and negatively charged PSS chains, modification takes place in the surface morphology and electrical behaviors of PEDOT:PSS thin films. The changes in the polymer matrix conformations in the presence of nanoparticles are studied by Fourier transformed Infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy, whereas the surface morphology of prepared thin films before and after interaction with nanoparticles is investigated through atomic force microscopy (AFM). Four probe method is used to measure the variation of electrical conductivity from I-V characteristics curves.

Charge injection and accumulation in organic light-emitting diode with PEDOT:PSS anode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weis, Martin; Otsuka, Takako; Taguchi, Dai; Manaka, Takaaki; Iwamoto, Mitsumasa

2015-04-01

Organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays using flexible substrates have many attractive features. Since transparent conductive oxides do not fit the requirements of flexible devices, conductive polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) has been proposed as an alternative. The charge injection and accumulation in OLED devices with PEDOT:PSS anodes are investigated and compared with indium tin oxide anode devices. Higher current density and electroluminescence light intensity are achieved for the OLED device with a PEDOT:PSS anode. The electric field induced second-harmonic generation technique is used for direct observation of temporal evolution of electric fields. It is clearly demonstrated that the improvement in the device performance of the OLED device with a PEDOT:PSS anode is associated with the smooth charge injection and accumulation.

A highly conductive poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) film with the solvent bath treatment by dimethyl sulfoxide as cathode for polymer tantalum capacitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Xiaopin; Wang, Xiuyu; Li, Mingxiu; Chen, Tongning; Zhang, Hao; Chen, Qiang; Ding, Bonan; Liu, Yanpeng

2016-06-01

The highly conductive poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) films were prepared on porous tantalum pentoxide surface as cathode for polymer tantalum capacitors (PTC). The electrical performances of PTC with PEDOT:PSS films as cathode were optimized by dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) bath treatment. With the DMSO-bath treatment of PTC, the equivalent series resistance (ESR) of PTC decreased from 25 mΩ to 9 mΩ. The ultralow ESR led to better capacitance-frequency performance. The device reliability investigation revealed the enhanced environmental stability of PTC. The enhanced performances were attributed to the conductivity improvement of PEDOT:PSS cathode films and the removal of excess PSS from PEDOT:PSS films.

Improved electrospinning processing of PU/PEDOT:PSS for electronic textile applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Evke, Erin; Clippinger, Aaron; Spackman, Clayson; Samuel, Johnson; Ozisik, Rahmi

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(4-styrenesulfonate), PEDOT:PSS, is an electrically conductive polymer used in electronic textile (e-textile) applications, such as eletrochromic textiles, strain sensors, and resistive heaters. In the current study, PEDOT:PSS is blended with varying concentrations of polyurethane (PU) to investigate the flexibility of PU/PEDOT:PSS fibers that are produced via a modified electrospinning process where the jet is collected close to the tip of the needle, thereby, enabling the collection of straight fibers by a rotating spool. The electrical conductivity and mechanical properties of PU/PEDOT:PSS fibers are characterized to understand the effect of PU concentration and the processing parameters. This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. CMMI-1538730.

Development and Industrialization of InGaN/GaN LEDs on Patterned Sapphire Substrates for Low Cost Emitter Architecture

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Flemish, Joseph; Soer, Wouter

2015-11-30

Patterned sapphire substrate (PSS) technology has proven to be an effective approach to improve efficacy and reduce cost of light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The volume emission from the transparent substrate leads to high package efficiency, while the simple and robust architecture of PSS-based LEDs enables low cost. PSS substrates have gained wide use in mid-power LEDs over the past years. In this project, Lumileds has developed and industrialized PSS and epitaxy technology for high- power flip-chip LEDs to bring these benefits to a broader range of applications and accelerate the adoption of energy-efficient solid-state lighting (SSL). PSS geometries were designed formore » highly efficient light extraction in a flip-chip architecture and high-volume manufacturability, and corresponding sapphire patterning and epitaxy manufacturing processes were integrally developed. Concurrently, device and package architectures were developed to take advantage of the PSS flip-chip die in different types of products that meet application needs. The developed PSS and epitaxy technology has been fully implemented in manufacturing at Lumileds’ San Jose, CA location, and incorporated in illumination-grade LED products that have been successfully introduced to the market, including LUXEON Q and LUXEON FlipChip White.« less

Synthesis and characterization of Au-MWCNT/PEDOT: PSS composite film for optoelectronic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jasna, M.; Anjana, R.; Jayaraj, M. K.

2017-08-01

Recently, flexible organic optoelectronics have got great attention because of their light weight, mechanical flexibility and cost effective fabrication process. Conjugated polymers like PEDOT: PSS are widely used for the transparent electrode applications due to its chemical stability, high conductivity, flexibility and optical transparency in the visible region. Conductivity of the PEDOT: PSS polymer can be enhanced by adding organic solvents or conducting nano fillers like CNT, graphene, etc. Carbon nanotubes are good nano fillers to enhance the conductivity and mechanical strength of PEDOT: PSS composite film. Inthe present work, the effect of gold nano particles in PEDOT: PSS/CNT composite is studied. The conductivity enhancement in PEDOT: PSS/CNT thin films can be attributed to the formation of CNT network in the polymer matrix and conformational change of the PEDOT from benzoid to quinoid structure. Even though the conductivity was enhanced, the transparency of the composite thin films decreased with increase in CNT concentration. To overcome this problem, gold nano particles were attached to CNT walls via chemical route. AuMWCNT/PEDOT: PSS composite films were prepared by spin coating method. TEM images confirmed the decoration of gold nano particles on CNT walls. Electrical and optical properties of the composite films were studied. This simple solution processed conducting films are suitable for optoelectronic applications

Emotional intelligence, perceived stress and academic performance of Sri Lankan medical undergraduates.

PubMed

Ranasinghe, P; Wathurapatha, W S; Mathangasinghe, Y; Ponnamperuma, G

2017-02-20

Previous research has shown that higher Emotional Intelligence (EI) is associated with better academic and work performance. The present study intended to explore the relationship between EI, perceived stress and academic performance and associated factors among medical undergraduates. This descriptive cross-sectional research study was conducted among 471 medical undergraduates of 2nd, 4th and final years of University of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Students were rated on self administered Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test (SEIT). Examination results were used as the dichotomous outcome variable in a logistic regression analysis. Females had higher mean EI scores (p = 0.014). A positive correlation was found between the EI score and the number of extracurricular activities (r = 0.121, p = 0.008). Those who were satisfied regarding their choice to study medicine, and who were planning to do postgraduate studies had significantly higher EI scores and lower PSS scores (p <0.001). Among final year undergraduates, those who passed the Clinical Sciences examination in the first attempt had a higher EI score (p <0.001) and a lower PSS score (p <0.05). Results of the binary logistic-regression analysis in the entire study population indicated that female gender (OR:1.98) and being satisfied regarding their choice of the medical undergraduate programme (OR:3.69) were significantly associated with passing the examinations. However, PSS Score and engagement in extracurricular activities were not associated with 'Examination Results'. Higher EI was associated with better academic performance amongst final year medical students. In addition a higher EI was observed in those who had a higher level of self satisfaction. Self-perceived stress was lower in those with a higher EI. Enhancing EI might help to improve academic performance among final year medical student and also help to reduce the stress levels and cultivate better coping during professional life in the future.

More Cercospora Species Infect Soybeans across the Americas than Meets the Eye

PubMed Central

Soares, Ana Paula Gomes; Guillin, Eduardo A.; Borges, Leandro Luiz; da Silva, Amanda C. T.; de Almeida, Álvaro M. R.; Grijalba, Pablo E.; Gottlieb, Alexandra M.; Bluhm, Burton H.; de Oliveira, Luiz Orlando

2015-01-01

Diseases of soybean caused by Cercospora spp. are endemic throughout the world’s soybean production regions. Species diversity in the genus Cercospora has been underestimated due to overdependence on morphological characteristics, symptoms, and host associations. Currently, only two species (Cercospora kikuchii and C. sojina) are recognized to infect soybean; C. kikuchii causes Cercospora leaf blight (CLB) and purple seed stain (PSS), whereas C. sojina causes frogeye leaf spot. To assess cryptic speciation among pathogens causing CLB and PSS, phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses were performed with isolates from the top three soybean producing countries (USA, Brazil, and Argentina; collectively accounting for ~80% of global production). Eight nuclear genes and one mitochondrial gene were partially sequenced and analyzed. Additionally, amino acid substitutions conferring fungicide resistance were surveyed, and the production of cercosporin (a polyketide toxin produced by many Cercospora spp.) was assessed. From these analyses, the long-held assumption of C. kikuchii as the single causal agent of CLB and PSS was rejected experimentally. Four cercosporin-producing lineages were uncovered with origins (about 1 Mya) predicted to predate agriculture. Some of the Cercospora spp. newly associated with CLB and PSS appear to represent undescribed species; others were not previously reported to infect soybeans. Lineage 1, which contained the ex-type strain of C. kikuchii, was monophyletic and occurred in Argentina and Brazil. In contrast, lineages 2 and 3 were polyphyletic and contained wide-host range species complexes. Lineage 4 was monophyletic, thrived in Argentina and the USA, and included the generalist Cercospora cf. flagellaris. Interlineage recombination was detected, along with a high frequency of mutations linked to fungicide resistance in lineages 2 and 3. These findings point to cryptic Cercospora species as underappreciated global considerations for soybean production and phytosanitary vigilance, and urge a reassessment of host-specificity as a diagnostic tool for Cercospora. PMID:26252018

More Cercospora Species Infect Soybeans across the Americas than Meets the Eye.

PubMed

Soares, Ana Paula Gomes; Guillin, Eduardo A; Borges, Leandro Luiz; Silva, Amanda C T da; Almeida, Álvaro M R de; Grijalba, Pablo E; Gottlieb, Alexandra M; Bluhm, Burton H; Oliveira, Luiz Orlando de

2015-01-01

Diseases of soybean caused by Cercospora spp. are endemic throughout the world's soybean production regions. Species diversity in the genus Cercospora has been underestimated due to overdependence on morphological characteristics, symptoms, and host associations. Currently, only two species (Cercospora kikuchii and C. sojina) are recognized to infect soybean; C. kikuchii causes Cercospora leaf blight (CLB) and purple seed stain (PSS), whereas C. sojina causes frogeye leaf spot. To assess cryptic speciation among pathogens causing CLB and PSS, phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses were performed with isolates from the top three soybean producing countries (USA, Brazil, and Argentina; collectively accounting for ~80% of global production). Eight nuclear genes and one mitochondrial gene were partially sequenced and analyzed. Additionally, amino acid substitutions conferring fungicide resistance were surveyed, and the production of cercosporin (a polyketide toxin produced by many Cercospora spp.) was assessed. From these analyses, the long-held assumption of C. kikuchii as the single causal agent of CLB and PSS was rejected experimentally. Four cercosporin-producing lineages were uncovered with origins (about 1 Mya) predicted to predate agriculture. Some of the Cercospora spp. newly associated with CLB and PSS appear to represent undescribed species; others were not previously reported to infect soybeans. Lineage 1, which contained the ex-type strain of C. kikuchii, was monophyletic and occurred in Argentina and Brazil. In contrast, lineages 2 and 3 were polyphyletic and contained wide-host range species complexes. Lineage 4 was monophyletic, thrived in Argentina and the USA, and included the generalist Cercospora cf. flagellaris. Interlineage recombination was detected, along with a high frequency of mutations linked to fungicide resistance in lineages 2 and 3. These findings point to cryptic Cercospora species as underappreciated global considerations for soybean production and phytosanitary vigilance, and urge a reassessment of host-specificity as a diagnostic tool for Cercospora.

Elevated levels of faecal calprotectin in primary Sjögren's syndrome is common and associated with concomitant organic gastrointestinal disease.

PubMed

Andréasson, Kristofer; Ohlsson, Bodil; Mandl, Thomas

2016-01-12

Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a systemic rheumatic disease in which gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are common. Faecal calprotectin (FC) is a non-invasive biomarker that has been suggested to discriminate organic intestinal disease from functional disorders. The purpose of this study was to explore the usefulness of FC testing in patients with pSS. In total, 56 consecutive patients with pSS and 29 healthy control subjects were included in this cross-sectional study. FC was measured with a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. GI symptoms were evaluated with the Rome III questionnaire and the Visual Analogue Scale for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. In patients with pSS, disease activity was estimated using the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ESSDAI), and patient-reported outcomes were evaluated with the EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Patient-Reported Index. Patients with pSS had higher levels of FC than healthy control subjects (median 54 μg/g, interquartile range [IQR 20-128]; vs. 20 μg/g [20-43]; p = 0.002). Concomitant organic GI disease was found in 14 patients with pSS and included inflammatory bowel disease (n = 3), colonic adenoma (n = 2) and GI lymphoma (n = 1). Patients with organic GI disease had higher FC levels than the other patients with pSS (median 274 μg/g [IQR 61-363] vs. median 34 μg/g [IQR 20-76]; p < 0.001). Although patients with pSS reported abdominal discomfort more frequently than healthy control subjects did, such symptoms were not associated with organic GI disease or elevated FC levels. FC correlated moderately with ESSDAI. Excluding patients with organic GI disease, we did not identify any significant association between ESSDAI and FC levels. GI symptoms are frequent in pSS. Contrary to patient-reported outcomes, elevated FC levels in pSS indicate possible organic GI disease that warrants further investigation.

Improving uniformity and nanostructure of solution-processed thin films using ultrasonic substrate vibration post treatment (SVPT).

PubMed

Wang, Qin; Eslamian, Morteza

2016-04-01

The main goal of this paper is to introduce a novel mechanical method herein terms as substrate vibration post treatment (SVPT) technique, powered by ultrasonic vibration imposed on the substrate to enhance the characteristics and functionality of spun-on thin films or thin films made by similar casting techniques, such as drop and dip coating. In this technique, the as-casted wet films are placed on a substrate vibrated by an ultrasonic transducer with controlled power and duration to improve the film characteristics, such as uniformity and nanostructure. The performance of this technique is examined on spun-on PSS thin films used in polymer and perovskite solar cells and unprecedented results are presented. We first explore the influence of the vibration duration time on the characteristics of the films made by pristine PSS solution, where it is found that the optimized vibration duration for the pristine PSS film is about 10s, resulting in significant increase in the film electrical conductivity and lowered thickness and roughness. In order to further test the generality and merit of the method, thin films made using PSS solution modified with various types of surfactants and cured by the SVPT are studied. The results show that the application of the SVPT method combined with surfactant modification leads to an impressive twelve-fold increase in the conductivity of the PSS thin films compared with that of the pristine non-vibrated PSS thin films. The sole effect of the SVPT is a four-fold increase in the conductivity of pristine PSS film compared with that of the non-vibrated film. This remarkable enhancement in conductivity is further explained by the AFM phase images of PSS films, showing that the ultrasonic energy could loosen the Coulomb forces between PEDOT and PSS chains, resulting in phase separation and localized reordering of the conducting PEDOT chains leading to an increase in the electrical conductivity of the film. Highly conductive PSS thin film is a viable candidate as electrodes in emerging solution-processed solar cells. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Primary Sjögrens syndrome is associated with impaired autonomic response to orthostasis and sympathetic failure

PubMed Central

Ng, W.-F.; Stangroom, A.J.; Davidson, A.; Wilton, K.; Mitchell, S.; Newton, J.L.

2012-01-01

Background: Symptoms in keeping with autonomic dysfunction are commonly described by primary Sjögrens syndrome patients (pSS); whether objective abnormalities of autonomic function occur is unclear. This study set out to explore dynamic cardiovascular autonomic responses in pSS and their relationship with symptoms and quality of life. Methods: Twenty-one people from the UK pSS registry, 21 community controls and 21 patients with the autoimmune liver disease primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) (matched case-wise for age and sex) attended for assessment of autonomic responses to orthostasis and Valsalva manoeuvre (VM). pSS patients also completed EULAR Sjögrens Syndrome patient-reported index (ESSPRI), EULAR Sjögren’s syndrome disease activity index (ESSDAI), fatigue impact scale and EURO-QOL 5-dimension (EQ-5D). Results: Compared with controls, pSS patients had significantly lower baseline systolic blood pressure (SBP) (114 ± 13 vs. 127 ± 20; P = 0.02), which dropped to a significantly lower value (98 ± 22 vs. 119 ± 24, P = 0.009). When area under the curve (AUC) was calculated for when the SBP was below baseline this was significantly greater in pSS compared to both control groups (pSS vs. control vs. PBC: 153 ± 236 vs. 92 ± 85 vs. 1.2 ± 0.3, P = 0.005). Peak phase IV SBP during the VM was significantly lower in pSS (P = 0.007) indicating early sympathetic failure. Increased heart rate associated with fatigue (P = 0.02; r2 = 0.2) and EQ-5D. A shift in sympathetic-vagal balance associated with overall symptom burden (ESSPRI) (P = 0.04, r2 = 0.3) and EULAR sicca score (P = 0.016; r2 = 0.3), the latter also correlated with baroreceptor effectiveness (P = 0.03; r2 = 0.2) and diastolic blood pressure variability (P = 0.003; r2 = 0.4). Conclusion: pSS patients have impaired blood pressure response to standing. Dysautonomia correlates with PSS-associated symptoms and quality of life. PMID:22976617

Phagocyte-specific S100A8/A9 is upregulated in primary Sjögren's syndrome and triggers the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines in vitro.

PubMed

Nicaise, Charles; Weichselbaum, Laura; Schandene, Liliane; Gangji, Valérie; Dehavay, Florence; Bouchat, Joanna; Balau, Benoît; Vogl, Thomas; Soyfoo, Muhammad S

2017-01-01

To determine the role of S100A8/A9 in the pathogenesis of primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). The serum levels of S100A8/A9 were determined in pSS patients and healthy controls by ELISA. The expression of S100A8/A9 in salivary glands was assessed by immunohistochemistry. The phenotype of S100A8+ and S100A9+ cells was identified using double immunofluorescence. The effects of S100A8/A9 on cytokine production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from pSS patients were determined in vitro by flow cytometry. The effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines on S100A8/A9 secretion were additionally investigated in vitro by ELISA in PBMCs from pSS patients and control subjects. Serum levels of S100A8/A9 were significantly increased in pSS patients compared to healthy controls. The tissular expression of S100A8 and S100A9, identified in professional phagocytes (neutrophils, monocytes and plasmacytoid dendritic cells), was increased in the salivary glands of pSS patients and correlated with focus score. In vitro, recombinant S100A8/A9 increased the production of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-10, IL-17A and IL-22 by PBMCs. The S100A8/A9-induced increase in TNF-α production in pSS patients was significant relative to controls. Furthermore, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-17A stimulated release of S100A8/A9 from PBMCs in pSS patients. S100A8/A9 is increased in pSS patients contributing to the in vitro increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. As such, S100A8/A9 in concert with other cytokines might contribute to the pathogenesis of pSS.

The effect of emotional freedom technique on stress and anxiety in nursing students: A pilot study.

PubMed

Patterson, Susan Librizzi

2016-05-01

Stress and anxiety have been identified as significant issues experienced by student nurses during their education. Some studies have suggested that the stress experienced by nursing students is greater than that experienced by medical students, other non-nursing healthcare students, degreed nurses, and the female population in general. A recently introduced energy type therapy, emotional freedom technique (EFT), has shown some success in reducing symptoms of anxiety, stress, and fear in a variety of settings. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of EFT in decreasing anxiety and stress as a potential intervention to assist students in stress management. The study used a mixed method design of both qualitative and quantitative measures. Quantitatively, in a one group pretest-posttest design, participants received group instruction in the technique and were encouraged to repeat it daily. Self-reported anxiety was measured at baseline, and then weekly for four weeks using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). The qualitative survey was completed by participants at the end of the study in order to capture a more subjective experience. The pilot study was conducted in a two-year college in the southeastern region of the United States. All enrolled nursing students in an associate degree nursing program were invited to participate. Participation was voluntary, resulting in an original convenience sample of thirty-nine nursing students (N=39). Data collection instruments included a demographic questionnaire, pretest State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). A qualitative questionnaire was also administered at the end of the four weeks. STAI and PSS were administered weekly. Data analysis using RMANOVA was performed at the second, third and the fourth week. Decreases in anxiety as measured on both the STAI and PSS were statistically significant (p=.05). For PSS, STAI state and trait data, the reduction in self-reported stress was statistically significant with a mean difference baseline to week 4. Qualitative data suggested that nursing students experienced a decrease in feelings of stress and anxiety including a decrease in somatic symptoms. Overall, findings suggested that EFT can be an effective tool for stress management and anxiety relief in nursing students. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Layered composites of PEDOT/PSS/nanoparticles and PEDOT/PSS/phthalocyanines as electron mediators for sensors and biosensors

PubMed Central

García-Hernández, Celia; García-Cabezón, Cristina; Martín-Pedrosa, Fernando; De Saja, José Antonio

2016-01-01

The sensing properties of electrodes chemically modified with PEDOT/PSS towards catechol and hydroquinone sensing have been successfully improved by combining layers of PEDOT/PSS with layers of a secondary electrocatalytic material such as gold nanoparticles (PEDOT/PSS/AuNPs), copper phthalocyanine (PEDOT/PSS/CuPc) or lutetium bisphthalocyanine (PEDOT/PSS/LuPc2). Layered composites exhibit synergistic effects that strongly enhance the electrocatalytic activity as indicated by the increase in intensity and the shift of the redox peaks to lower potentials. A remarkable improvement has been achieved using PEDOT/PSS/LuPc2, which exhibits excellent electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of catechol. The kinetic studies demonstrated diffusion-controlled processes at the electrode surfaces. The kinetic parameters such as Tafel slopes and charge transfer coefficient (α) confirm the improved electrocatalytic activity of the layered electron mediators. The peak currents increased linearly with concentration of catechol and hydroquinone over the range of 1.5 × 10−4 to 4.0 × 10−6 mol·L−1 with a limit of detection on the scale of μmol·L−1. The layered composite hybrid systems were also found to be excellent electron mediators in biosensors containing tyrosinase and laccase, and they combine the recognition and biocatalytic properties of biomolecules with the unique catalytic features of composite materials. The observed increase in the intensity of the responses allowed detection limits of 1 × 10−7 mol·L−1 to be attained. PMID:28144543

Substance Use in Young Swiss Men: The Interplay of Perceived Social Support and Dispositional Characteristics.

PubMed

Studer, Joseph; Baggio, Stéphanie; Dupuis, Marc; Mohler-Kuo, Meichun; Daeppen, Jean-Bernard; Gmel, Gerhard

2017-05-12

Social environment plays a central role in substance use behaviors. However, it is not clear whether its role varies as a function of individual dispositional characteristics. To investigate the interaction between dispositional characteristics (i.e. sensation seeking, anxiety/neuroticism) and social environment (i.e. perceived social support [PSS]) in association with substance use. A representative sample of 5,377 young Swiss males completed a questionnaire assessing substance use, sensation seeking, anxiety/neuroticism, and PSS from friends and from a significant other. Sensation seeking and anxiety/neuroticism were positively related to most substance use outcomes. PSS from friends was significantly and positively related to most alcohol and cannabis use outcomes, and significantly and negatively associated with the use of hard drugs. PSS from a significant other was significantly and negatively associated with most alcohol and cannabis use outcomes. The associations of sensation seeking with drinking volume, alcohol use disorder and the use of illicit drugs other than cannabis were stronger in individuals reporting high levels of PSS from friends than those with low levels. The associations of sensation seeking with risky single-occasion drinking and the use of hard drugs were weaker in participants reporting high levels of PSS from a significant other than in those with low levels. Sensation seeking and anxiety/neuroticism may constitute risk factors for substance use and misuse. PSS from friends may amplify the risk for alcohol and illicit drug use (other than cannabis) associated with high sensation seeking, whereas the PSS from a significant other may reduce it.

Interrelation between the Poisoning Severity Score, carboxyhaemoglobin levels and in-hospital clinical course of carbon monoxide poisoning.

PubMed

Cevik, A A; Unluoglu, I; Yanturali, S; Kalkan, S; Sahin, A

2006-12-01

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the relationship between the Poisoning Severity Score (PSS) and carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) levels in patients with carbon monoxide poisoning (COP) using outcome as the measure. The study was designed as a retrospective chart review of patients with final diagnosis of COP. Correlation of PSS and COHb levels at presentation was evaluated with collected data. Majority of the cases were grade 1 (minor) PSS (134 cases, 73.6%) and 93.4% of these patients made a complete recovery. There were six deaths (mortality 3.3%) and six in-hospital major complications (IHMCs) (3.3%) (please specify whether the complications were in the patients who died). There is moderate correlation between PSS and outcome (p < 0.001, r = 0.493). Grade 3 (severe) PSS was significantly different from other grades for outcome (six mortalities and three IHMCs). Patients classified as grade 3 and patients who died had a significantly higher mean age (p < 0.05, 41.8 +/- 23.6 and p < 0.01, 60.1 +/- 20.3, respectively). Mean COHb level of grade 3 (33.2 +/- 13.9%) was significantly higher than that of other grades (p < 0.05). COHb levels according to outcome were not different (? within the patients in grade 3). Decreased level of consciousness, acidosis, tachycardia, high glucose and leucocyte levels showed significant relation with higher PSS, COHb level and adverse outcome. We conclude that the PSS is a reliable guide in COP. Value of the PSS in COP may be enhanced if additional factors and investigations are included.

Total dynamic response of a PSS vehicle negotiating asymmetric road excitations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Jian Jun; Khajepour, Amir; Esmailzadeh, Ebrahim

2012-12-01

A planar suspension system (PSS) is a novel automobile suspension system in which an individual spring-damper strut is implemented in both the vertical and longitudinal directions, respectively. The wheels in a vehicle with such a suspension system can move back and forth relative to the chassis. When a PSS vehicle experiences asymmetric road excitations, the relative longitudinal motion of wheels with respect to the chassis in two sides of the same axle are not identical, and thus the two wheels at one axle will not be aligned in the same axis. The total dynamic responses, including those of the bounce, pitch and the roll of the PSS vehicle, to the asymmetric road excitation may exhibit different characteristics from those of a conventional vehicle. This paper presents an investigation into the comprehensive dynamic behaviour of a vehicle with the PSS, in such a road condition, on both the straight and curved roads. The study was carried out using an 18 DOF full-car model incorporating a radial-spring tyre-ground contact model and a 2D tyre-ground dynamic friction model. Results demonstrate that the total dynamic behaviour of a PSS vehicle is generally comparable with that of the conventional vehicle, while PSS exhibits significant improvement in absorbing the impact forces along the longitudinal direction when compared to the conventional suspension system. The PSS vehicle is found to be more stable than the conventional vehicle in terms of the directional performance against the disturbance of the road potholes on a straight line manoeuvre, while exhibiting a very similar handling performance on a curved line.

Preparation of 2D MoSe2/PEDOT:PSS composite and its thermoelectric properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xia; Liu, Congcong; Wang, Tongzhou; Wang, Wenfang; Wang, Xiaodong; Jiang, Qinglin; Jiang, Fengxing; Xu, Jingkun

2017-11-01

Nowadays, inorganic/polymer composites have attracted significant interest in thermoelectric field, since the composite materials usually achieve their respective advantages complementary to each other. In this work, molybdenum diselenide (MoSe2) was synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method. Solution processible two-dimensional (2D) MoSe2 nanosheets (NSs) were successfully obtained using dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) solvent or lithium intercalation procedure. Combined with Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), MoSe2/PEDOT:PSS composite thin films were fabricated by direct vacuum-filtration method. Thermoelectric properties of composite thin films were investigated systematically and found that 2D MoSe2 NSs and PEDOT:PSS have the synergistic effect on improving thermoelectric properties. The maximum power factor was calculated to be 48.6 µW m-1 K-2 with 5 wt% 2D MoSe2 NSs embedding into PEDOT:PSS matrix, which is almost 69% higher than that of pure PEDOT:PSS. These results demonstrate that 2D inorganic/polymer composite method is one of promising strategies to get high-performance polymer-based thermoelectric composites.

Low-Temperature Cross-Linking of PEDOT:PSS Films Using Divinylsulfone.

PubMed

Mantione, Daniele; Del Agua, Isabel; Schaafsma, Wandert; ElMahmoudy, Mohammed; Uguz, Ilke; Sanchez-Sanchez, Ana; Sardon, Haritz; Castro, Begoña; Malliaras, George G; Mecerreyes, David

2017-05-31

Recent interest in bioelectronics has prompted the exploration of properties of conducting polymer films at the interface with biological milieus. Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) doped with poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) from a commercially available source has been used as a model system for these studies. Different cross-linking schemes have been used to stabilize films of this material against delamination and redispersion, but the cost is a decrease in the electrical conductivity and/or additional heat treatment. Here we introduce divinylsulfone (DVS) as a new cross-linker for PEDOT:PSS. Thanks to the higher reactiveness of the vinyl groups of DVS, the cross-linking can be performed at room temperature. In addition, DVS does not reduce electronic conductivity of PEDOT:PSS but rather increases it by acting as a secondary dopant. Cell culture studies show that PEDOT:PSS:DVS films are cytocompatible and support neuroregeneration. As an example, we showed that this material improved the transconductance value and stability of an organic electrochemical transistor (OECT) device. These results open the way for the utilization of DVS as an effective cross-linker for PEDOT:PSS in bioelectronics applications.

Charge injection and accumulation in organic light-emitting diode with PEDOT:PSS anode

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Weis, Martin, E-mail: martin.weis@stuba.sk; Otsuka, Takako; Taguchi, Dai

2015-04-21

Organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays using flexible substrates have many attractive features. Since transparent conductive oxides do not fit the requirements of flexible devices, conductive polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) has been proposed as an alternative. The charge injection and accumulation in OLED devices with PEDOT:PSS anodes are investigated and compared with indium tin oxide anode devices. Higher current density and electroluminescence light intensity are achieved for the OLED device with a PEDOT:PSS anode. The electric field induced second-harmonic generation technique is used for direct observation of temporal evolution of electric fields. It is clearly demonstrated that the improvement in the devicemore » performance of the OLED device with a PEDOT:PSS anode is associated with the smooth charge injection and accumulation.« less

CXCL13 levels in serum but not in saliva are elevated in Asian Indian patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome.

PubMed

Mandal, Santosh Kumar; Sandhya, Pulukool; Kabeerdoss, Jayakanthan; Ramya, Janardana; Mahasampath, Gowri; Danda, Debashish

2018-05-01

Human and animal model studies suggest CXCL13 is a potential biomarker in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). CXCL13 has not been studied in Indian patients with pSS. pSS cases classified by American European Consensus Group (AECG) or American college of Rheumatology(ACR) 2012 criteria, attending rheumatology clinic between July 2014 and July 2015 were included. Hospital staff and healthy, non-blood related family members of patients constituted the control group. pSS cases underwent clinical evaluation, laboratory investigations, ESSDAI and ESSPRI scoring. Unstimulated saliva was collected by the spitting method. Salivary and serum CXCL13 were quantified by indirect ELISA. CXCL13 positivity was determined using Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) curve. STATA13.1 (StataCorpLP,Texas,USA) software was used for statistical analysis. In this study, 45 pSS cases and 42 healthy controls were recruited. In pSS, median levels of serum CXCL13, but not salivary CXCL13 was significantly higher as compared to the corresponding levels in healthy controls (p < 0.001). Using cutoff of 43.03 pg/ml obtained by ROC, serum CXCL13 positivity was seen in 31/43(72.1%) cases and 10/34 (29.4%) controls, respectively. Serum CXCL13 levels among pSS patients on treatment, treatment naïve patients and healthy controls were statistically different. Serum CXCL13 positivity was associated with oral symptoms (p = 0.02), ocular signs (p = 0.03) and hyperglobulinemia (p = 0.01). There was no association of salivary CXCL13 level with any of the clinical variables. While serum CXCL13 was elevated in pSS, salivary CXCL13 was not. In conclusion, serum CXCL13 positivity was found to be associated with oral symptoms, ocular signs and hyperglobulinemia in pSS.

Presence of post-systolic shortening is an independent predictor of heart failure in patients following ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

PubMed

Brainin, Philip; Haahr-Pedersen, Sune; Sengeløv, Morten; Olsen, Flemming Javier; Fritz-Hansen, Thomas; Jensen, Jan Skov; Biering-Sørensen, Tor

2018-05-01

Following an ischemic event post systolic shortening (PSS) may occur. We investigated the association between PSS in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) following primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) and occurrence of cardiovascular events at follow-up. A total of 373 patients admitted with STEMI and treated with pPCI were prospectively included in the study cohort. All patients were examined by echocardiography a median of 2 days after admission (interquartile range, 1-3 days). PSS was measured by color tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) and speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) in six myocardial walls from all three apical projections. During a median follow-up period of 5.4 years (interquartile range, 4.1-6.0 years), 180 events occurred: 59 deaths, 70 heart failures (HF) and 51 new myocardial infarctions (MI). In multivariable analysis adjusting for: age, sex, peak troponin, left ventricle ejection fraction, TIMI flow grade, left ventricle mass index, hypertension and diabetes, presence of PSS by TDI in the culprit region was associated with a nearly twofold increased risk of HF (HR 1.90, 95% CI 1.02-3.53, P = 0.043) and the risk of HF increased incrementally with increasing numbers of walls displaying PSS. The increased risk of HF was confirmed when assessing the post-systolic index by STE (HR 1.29 95% CI 1.09-1.53, P = 0.003, per 1% increase). A regional analysis showed that PSS by TDI in the septal wall was the strongest predictor of HF (HR 1.77, 95% CI 1.08-2.92, P = 0.024). Presence of PSS was not associated with increased risk of death or MI. In patients with STEMI treated with pPCI, the presence of PSS examined by TDI and STE provides prognostic information on development of HF. Presence of PSS in the septal wall is the strongest predictor of HF.

Physical activity but not sedentary activity is reduced in primary Sjögren's syndrome.

PubMed

Ng, Wan-Fai; Miller, Ariana; Bowman, Simon J; Price, Elizabeth J; Kitas, George D; Pease, Colin; Emery, Paul; Lanyon, Peter; Hunter, John; Gupta, Monica; Giles, Ian; Isenberg, David; McLaren, John; Regan, Marian; Cooper, Annie; Young-Min, Steven A; McHugh, Neil; Vadivelu, Saravanan; Moots, Robert J; Coady, David; MacKay, Kirsten; Dasgupta, Bhaskar; Sutcliffe, Nurhan; Bombardieri, Michele; Pitzalis, Costantino; Griffiths, Bridget; Mitchell, Sheryl; Miyamoto, Samira Tatiyama; Trenell, Michael

2017-04-01

The aim of the study was to evaluate the levels of physical activity in individuals with primary Sjögren's syndrome (PSS) and its relationship to the clinical features of PSS. To this cross-sectional study, self-reported levels of physical activity from 273 PSS patients were measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-short form (IPAQ-SF) and were compared with healthy controls matched for age, sex and body mass index. Fatigue and other clinical aspects of PSS including disease status, dryness, daytime sleepiness, dysautonomia, anxiety and depression were assessed using validated tools. Individuals with PSS had significantly reduced levels of physical activity [median (interquartile range, IQR) 1572 (594-3158) versus 3708 (1732-8255) metabolic equivalent of task (MET) × min/week, p < 0.001], but similar levels of sedentary activity [median (IQR) min 300 (135-375) versus 343 (223-433) (MET) × min/week, p = 0.532] compared to healthy individuals. Differences in physical activity between PSS and controls increased at moderate [median (IQR) 0 (0-480) versus 1560 (570-3900) MET × min/week, p < 0.001] and vigorous intensities [median (IQR) 0 (0-480) versus 480 (0-1920) MET × min/week, p < 0.001]. Correlation analysis revealed a significant association between physical activity and fatigue, orthostatic intolerance, depressive symptoms and quality of life. Sedentary activity did not correlate with fatigue. Stepwise linear regression analysis identified symptoms of depression and daytime sleepiness as independent predictors of levels of physical activity. Physical activity is reduced in people with PSS and is associated with symptoms of depression and daytime sleepiness. Sedentary activity is not increased in PSS. Clinical care teams should explore the clinical utility of targeting low levels of physical activity in PSS.

Reviewing primary Sjögren's syndrome: beyond the dryness - From pathophysiology to diagnosis and treatment.

PubMed

Both, Tim; Dalm, Virgil A S H; van Hagen, P Martin; van Daele, Paul L A

2017-01-01

Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a systemic autoimmune disease, characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of the secretory glands. This process leads to sicca syndrome, which is the combination of dryness of the eyes, oral cavity, pharynx, larynx and/or vagina. Extraglandular manifestations may also be prevalent in patients with pSS, including cutaneous, musculoskeletal, pulmonary, renal, hematological and neurological involvement. The pathogenesis of pSS is currently not well understood, but increased activation of B cells followed by immune complex formation and autoantibody production are thought to play important roles. pSS is diagnosed using the American-European consensus group (AECG) classification criteria which include subjective symptoms and objective tests such as histopathology and serology. The treatment of pSS warrants an organ based approach, for which local treatment (teardrops, moistures) and systemic therapy (including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), glucocorticoids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDS) and biologicals) can be considered. Biologicals used in the treatment of pSS mainly affect the total numbers of B cells (B cell depletion (Rituximab)) or target proteins required for B cell proliferation and/or activation (e.g. B cell activating factor (BAFF)) resulting in decreased B cell activity. The aim of this review is to provide physicians a general overview concerning the pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of pSS patients.

Significantly improved photovoltaic performance in polymer bulk heterojunction solar cells with graphene oxide /PEDOT:PSS double decked hole transport layer

PubMed Central

Rafique, Saqib; Abdullah, Shahino Mah; Shahid, Muhammad Mehmood; Ansari, Mohammad Omaish; Sulaiman, Khaulah

2017-01-01

This work demonstrates the high performance graphene oxide (GO)/PEDOT:PSS doubled decked hole transport layer (HTL) in the PCDTBT:PC71BM based bulk heterojunction organic photovoltaic device. The devices were tested on merits of their power conversion efficiency (PCE), reproducibility, stability and further compared with the devices with individual GO or PEDOT:PSS HTLs. Solar cells employing GO/PEDOT:PSS HTL yielded a PCE of 4.28% as compared to either of individual GO or PEDOT:PSS HTLs where they demonstrated PCEs of 2.77 and 3.57%, respectively. In case of single GO HTL, an inhomogeneous coating of ITO caused the poor performance whereas PEDOT:PSS is known to be hygroscopic and acidic which upon direct contact with ITO reduced the device performance. The improvement in the photovoltaic performance is mainly ascribed to the increased charge carriers mobility, short circuit current, open circuit voltage, fill factor, and decreased series resistance. The well matched work function of GO and PEDOT:PSS is likely to facilitate the charge transportation and an overall reduction in the series resistance. Moreover, GO could effectively block the electrons due to its large band-gap of ~3.6 eV, leading to an increased shunt resistance. In addition, we also observed the improvement in the reproducibility and stability. PMID:28084304

Significantly improved photovoltaic performance in polymer bulk heterojunction solar cells with graphene oxide /PEDOT:PSS double decked hole transport layer.

PubMed

Rafique, Saqib; Abdullah, Shahino Mah; Shahid, Muhammad Mehmood; Ansari, Mohammad Omaish; Sulaiman, Khaulah

2017-01-13

This work demonstrates the high performance graphene oxide (GO)/PEDOT:PSS doubled decked hole transport layer (HTL) in the PCDTBT:PC 71 BM based bulk heterojunction organic photovoltaic device. The devices were tested on merits of their power conversion efficiency (PCE), reproducibility, stability and further compared with the devices with individual GO or PEDOT:PSS HTLs. Solar cells employing GO/PEDOT:PSS HTL yielded a PCE of 4.28% as compared to either of individual GO or PEDOT:PSS HTLs where they demonstrated PCEs of 2.77 and 3.57%, respectively. In case of single GO HTL, an inhomogeneous coating of ITO caused the poor performance whereas PEDOT:PSS is known to be hygroscopic and acidic which upon direct contact with ITO reduced the device performance. The improvement in the photovoltaic performance is mainly ascribed to the increased charge carriers mobility, short circuit current, open circuit voltage, fill factor, and decreased series resistance. The well matched work function of GO and PEDOT:PSS is likely to facilitate the charge transportation and an overall reduction in the series resistance. Moreover, GO could effectively block the electrons due to its large band-gap of ~3.6 eV, leading to an increased shunt resistance. In addition, we also observed the improvement in the reproducibility and stability.

Significantly improved photovoltaic performance in polymer bulk heterojunction solar cells with graphene oxide /PEDOT:PSS double decked hole transport layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rafique, Saqib; Abdullah, Shahino Mah; Shahid, Muhammad Mehmood; Ansari, Mohammad Omaish; Sulaiman, Khaulah

2017-01-01

This work demonstrates the high performance graphene oxide (GO)/PEDOT:PSS doubled decked hole transport layer (HTL) in the PCDTBT:PC71BM based bulk heterojunction organic photovoltaic device. The devices were tested on merits of their power conversion efficiency (PCE), reproducibility, stability and further compared with the devices with individual GO or PEDOT:PSS HTLs. Solar cells employing GO/PEDOT:PSS HTL yielded a PCE of 4.28% as compared to either of individual GO or PEDOT:PSS HTLs where they demonstrated PCEs of 2.77 and 3.57%, respectively. In case of single GO HTL, an inhomogeneous coating of ITO caused the poor performance whereas PEDOT:PSS is known to be hygroscopic and acidic which upon direct contact with ITO reduced the device performance. The improvement in the photovoltaic performance is mainly ascribed to the increased charge carriers mobility, short circuit current, open circuit voltage, fill factor, and decreased series resistance. The well matched work function of GO and PEDOT:PSS is likely to facilitate the charge transportation and an overall reduction in the series resistance. Moreover, GO could effectively block the electrons due to its large band-gap of ~3.6 eV, leading to an increased shunt resistance. In addition, we also observed the improvement in the reproducibility and stability.

Structural and electrical properties of Ag grid/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrene sulfonate) coatings for diode application through advanced printing technology.

PubMed

Duraisamy, Navaneethan; Ponniah, Ganeshthangaraj; Jo, Jeongdai; Choi, Kyung-Hyun

2013-08-01

This paper is focused on printed techniques for the fabrication of hybrid structure of silver (Ag) grid/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): Poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) on polyethylene terepthalate (PET) as a flexible substrate. Ag grid has been printed on PET substrate by using gravure offset printing process, followed by PEDOT:PSS thin film deposition on Ag grid through electrohydrodynamic atomization (EHDA) technique. The important parameters for achieving uniform hybrid structure of Ag grid/PEDOT:PSS through printed techniques have been clearly discussed. Field emission scanning electron microscope studies revealed the uniformity of printed Ag grid with homogeneous deposition of PEDOT:PSS on Ag grid. The optical properties of Ag grid/PEDOT:PSS were measured by UV-visible spectroscopy, which showed nearly 80-82% of transparency in the visible region and it was nearly same as PEDOT:PSS thin film on PET substrate. Current-voltage (I-V) analysis of fabricated hybrid device by using printed Ag grid/PEDOT:PSS as a bottom electrode showed good rectifying behavior with possible interfacial mechanisms. Capacitance-voltage (C-V) analysis was carried over different frequencies. These results suggest that fabrication of hybrid structure through printed techniques will play a significant role in mass production of printed electronic devices for commercial application by using flexible substrate.

Evaluation of maturity group III soybean lines for resistance to purple seed stain in Mississippi, 2010

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Purple seed stain (PSS) of soybean is an important disease caused by Cercospora kikuchii. PSS reduces seed quality and market grade, affects seed germination and vigor, and has been reported wherever soybeans are grown worldwide. In 2009, PSS caused 6.4 million bushels of yield losses in 16 southern...

Evaluation of maturity group IV soybean lines for resistance to purple seed stains in Mississippi 2010

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Purple seed stain (PSS) of soybean is an important disease caused by Cercospora kikuchii. PSS reduces seed quality and market grade, affects seed germination and vigor, and has been reported wherever soybeans are grown worldwide. In 2009, PSS caused 6.4 million bushels of yield losses in 16 southern...

Graphene, conducting polymer and their composites as transparent and current spreading electrode in GaN solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahala, Pramila; Kumar, Ajay; Nayak, Sasmita; Behura, Sanjay; Dhanavantri, Chenna; Jani, Omkar

2016-04-01

Understanding the physics of charge carrier transport at graphene/p-GaN interface is critical for achieving efficient device functionality. Currently, the graphene/p-GaN interface is being explored as light emitting diodes, however this interface can be probed as a potential photovoltaic cell. We report the intimate interfacing of mechanically exfoliated graphene (EG), conducting polymer (PEDOT:PSS) and composite of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and PEDOT:PSS with a wide band gap p-GaN layer. To explore their potential in energy harvesting, three heterojunction devices such as: (i) EG/p-GaN/sapphire, (ii) PEDOT:PSS/p-GaN/sapphire and (iii) PEDOT:PSS(rGO)/p-GaN/sapphire are designed and their photovoltaic characteristics are examined. It is interesting to observe that the EG/p-GaN/sapphire solar cell exhibits high open-circuit voltage of 0.545 V with low ideality factor and reverse saturation current. However, improved short circuit current density (13.7 mA/cm2) is noticed for PEDOT:PSS/p-GaN/sapphire solar cell because of enhanced conductivity accompanied by high transmittance for PEDOT:PSS. Further, the low series resistance for PEDOT:PSS(rGO)/p-GaN/sapphire is observed suggesting that the PEDOT:PSS and rGO composite is well dispersed and exhibits low interfacial resistances with p-GaN. The present investigation leverages the potential of graphene, conducting polymer and their composites as dual capability of (a) transparent and current spreading electrode and (b) an active top layer to make an intimate contact with wide bandgap p-type GaN for possible prospect towards high performance diodes, switches and solar cells.

Perceived social support and the psychological well-being of AIDS orphans in urban Kenya.

PubMed

Okawa, Sumiyo; Yasuoka, Junko; Ishikawa, Naoko; Poudel, Krishna C; Ragi, Allan; Jimba, Masamine

2011-09-01

Parental deaths due to AIDS seriously affect the psychological well-being of children. Social support may provide an effective resource in the care of vulnerable children in resource-limited settings. However, few studies have examined the relationships between social support and psychological well-being among AIDS orphans. This cross-sectional study was conducted to explore associations between perceived social support (PSS) and the psychological well-being of AIDS orphans, and to identify socio-demographic factors that are associated with PSS. Data were collected from 398 pairs of AIDS orphans (aged 10-18 years) and their caregivers in Nairobi, Kenya. The participants provided information on their socio-demographic characteristics, the children's PSS, and the children's psychological status (based on measures of depressive symptoms and self-esteem). Of the 398 pairs, 327 were included in the analysis. PSS scores of AIDS orphans showed significant correlations with depressive symptoms (ρ =-0.31, p<0.001) and self-esteem (ρ=0.32, p<0.001). Socio-demographic factors, such as HIV-positive status of children (β=3.714, p=0.014) and cohabitation with siblings (β=3.044, p=0.016), were also associated with higher PSS scores. In particular, HIV-infected children (n=37) had higher scores of PSS from a special person (β=2.208, p=0.004), and children living with biological siblings (n=269) also had higher scores of PSS from both a special person (β=1.411, p=0.029) and friends (β=1.276, p=0.039). In conclusion, this study showed that PSS is positively associated with the psychological well-being of AIDS orphans. Siblings and special persons can be effective sources of social support for AIDS orphans, which help to promote their psychological well-being.

The Adjuvant Effects of High-Molecule-Weight Polysaccharides Purified from Antrodia cinnamomea on Dendritic Cell Function and DNA Vaccines

PubMed Central

Lin, Chi-Chen; Pan, I-Hong; Li, Yi-Rong; Pan, Yi-Gen; Lin, Ming-Kuem; Lu, Yi-Huang; Wu, Hsin-Chieh; Chu, Ching-Liang

2015-01-01

The biological activity of the edible basidiomycete Antrodia cinnamomea (AC) has been studied extensively. Many effects, such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, have been reported from either crude extracts or compounds isolated from AC. However, research addressing the function of AC in enhancing immunity is rare. The aim of the present study is to investigate the active components and the mechanism involved in the immunostimulatory effect of AC. We found that polysaccharides (PS) in the water extract of AC played a major role in dendritic cell (DC) activation, which is a critical leukocyte in initiating immune responses. We further size purified and identified that the high-molecular weight PS fraction (greater than 100 kDa) exhibited the activating effect. The AC high-molecular weight PSs (AC hmwPSs) promoted pro-inflammatory cytokine production by DCs and the maturation of DCs. In addition, DC-induced antigen-specific T cell activation and Th1 differentiation were increased by AC hmwPSs. In studying the molecular mechanism, we confirmed the activation of the MAPK and NF-κB pathways in DCs after AC hmwPSs treatment. Furthermore, we demonstrated that TLR2 and TLR4 are required for the stimulatory activity of AC hmwPSs on DCs. In a mouse tumor model, we demonstrated that AC hmwPSs enhanced the anti-tumor efficacy of the HER-2/neu DNA vaccine by facilitating specific Th1 responses. Thus, we conclude that hmwPSs are the major components of AC that stimulate DCs via the TLR2/TLR4 and NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathways. The AC hmwPSs have potential to be applied as adjuvants. PMID:25723174

Improved efficiency of organic solar cells using Au NPs incorporated into PEDOT:PSS buffer layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Otieno, Francis; Shumbula, Ndivhuwo P.; Airo, Mildred; Mbuso, Mlambo; Moloto, Nosipho; Erasmus, Rudolph M.; Quandt, Alexander; Wamwangi, Daniel

2017-08-01

Au based plasmonic phenomenon inside the hole transport layer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) of an organic solar cell based on blend of poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and [6:6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid (PCBM) is investigated. The concentration of the Au nanoparticles synthesized by wet chemical reduction is one of the key factors to strong light trapping when the spherical gold nanoparticles are blended into the PEDOT:PSS solution. Studies of the influence of the concentration of nanoparticles distribution in the PEDOT:PSS were carried out using UV-Vis spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy. Electrical characteristics of the pristine device and of device with metallic nanostructures were analyzed from J -V characteristics to observe the plasmonic effects on the performance in the P3HT:PCBM organic solar cells. The origin of the photocurrent enhancements with varying Au nanoparticles concentrations on PEDOT:PSS are discussed.

Three novel electrochemical electrodes for the fabrication of conducting polymer/SWCNTs layered nanostructures and their thermoelectric performance.

PubMed

Shi, Hui; Liu, Congcong; Jiang, Qinglin; Xu, Jingkun; Lu, Baoyang; Jiang, Fengxing; Zhu, Zhengyou

2015-06-19

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), PSS/SWCNTs, and SWCNTs/ PSS nanofilms were used as working electrodes to electrodeposit polyaniline (PANI) in a mixed alcohol solution of isopropyl alcohol (IPA), boron trifluoride ethyl ether (BFEE), and polyethylene glycol (PEG). The thermoelectric (TE) performances of the resulting nanofilms were systematically investigated. SWCNTs/ PSS/PANI nanofilms showed a relatively high electrical conductivity value of 232.0 S cm(-1). The Seebeck coefficient was enhanced and exhibited the values of 33.8, 25.6, and 23.0 μV K(-1) for the SWCNTs/PANI, PEDOT:PSS/SWCNTs/PANI, and SWCNTs/ PSS/PANI films, respectively. The maximum power factor achieved was 12.3 μW m(-1) K(-2). This technique offers a facile and versatile approach to a class of layered nanostructures, and it may provide a general strategy for fabricating a new generation of conducting polymer/SWCNTs materials for further practical applications.

Regional cerebral blood flow assessed by single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) in dogs with congenital portosystemic shunt and hepatic encephalopathy.

PubMed

Or, Matan; Peremans, Kathelijne; Martlé, Valentine; Vandermeulen, Eva; Bosmans, Tim; Devriendt, Nausikaa; de Rooster, Hilde

2017-02-01

Regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in eight dogs with congenital portosystemic shunt (PSS) and hepatic encephalopathy (HE) was compared with rCBF in eight healthy control dogs using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with a 99m technetium-hexamethylpropylene amine oxime ( 99m Tc-HMPAO) tracer. SPECT scans were abnormal in all PSS dogs. Compared to the control group, rCBF in PSS dogs was significantly decreased in the temporal lobes and increased in the subcortical (thalamic and striatal) area. Brain perfusion imaging alterations observed in the dogs with PSS and HE are similar to those in human patients with HE. These findings suggest that dogs with HE and PSS have altered perfusion of mainly the subcortical and the temporal regions of the brain. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Instructional Effects of a Performance Support System Designed to Guide Preservice Teachers in Developing Technology Integration Strategies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kalota, Faisal; Hung, Wei-Chen

2013-01-01

The purpose of this formative evaluation was to investigate the experiences of preservice teachers utilizing performance support system (PSS) technology to develop knowledge related to classroom technology integration. A PSS provides end users just-in-time support to perform various tasks. Because teachers have time constraints, a PSS can be used…

Bioactive Mushroom Polysaccharides: A Review on Monosaccharide Composition, Biosynthesis and Regulation.

PubMed

Wang, Qiong; Wang, Feng; Xu, Zhenghong; Ding, Zhongyang

2017-06-13

Mushrooms are widely distributed around the world and are heavily consumed because of their nutritional value and medicinal properties. Polysaccharides (PSs) are an important component of mushrooms, a major factor in their bioactive properties, and have been intensively studied during the past two decades. Monosaccharide composition/combinations are important determinants of PS bioactivities. This review summarizes: (i) monosaccharide composition/combinations in various mushroom PSs, and their relationships with PS bioactivities; (ii) possible biosynthetic pathways of mushroom PSs and effects of key enzymes on monosaccharide composition; (iii) regulation strategies in PS biosynthesis, and prospects for controllable biosynthesis of PSs with enhanced bioactivities.

Exploring the potential of Product Service Systems to achieve household waste prevention on new housing developments in the UK.

PubMed

Gottberg, Annika; Longhurst, Philip J; Cook, Matthew B

2010-03-01

Product service systems (PSS) are cleaner product concepts which have been developed to achieve improvements in resource productivity which may be realized from modern trends in service delivery. However, there is a paucity of research on the waste prevention performance of PSS in UK household markets. This paper reports the findings of exploratory research which begins to address this gap in knowledge. An exploratory waste prevention assessment was completed on four experimental PSS which were developed in conjunction with a major UK house-builder for delivery on their new housing developments. The results of the assessment show that the selected PSS concepts have potential to prevent high value and harmful Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) arising in UK household waste streams. Consistent with the canon of exploratory research, the assessment also identifies a number of factors which are thought to influence PSS waste prevention performance. It is recognized that further research is needed to gain an in-depth understanding of these factors as well as to define policy measures which enable the conditions in which PSS prevent household waste on new housing developments in the UK to be created.

Highly Conductive PEDOT:PSS Transparent Hole Transporting Layer with Solvent Treatment for High Performance Silicon/Organic Hybrid Solar Cells.

PubMed

Li, Qingduan; Yang, Jianwei; Chen, Shuangshuang; Zou, Jizhao; Xie, Weiguang; Zeng, Xierong

2017-08-23

Efficient Si/organic hybrid solar cells were fabricated with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and surfactant-doped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): polystyrene (PEDOT:PSS). A post-treatment on PEDOT:PSS films with polar solvent was performed to increase the device performance. We found that the performance of hybrid solar cells increase with the polarity of solvent. A high conductivity of 1105 S cm - 1 of PEDOT:PSS was achieved by adopting methanol treatment, and the best efficiency of corresponding hybrid solar cells reaches 12.22%. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and RAMAN spectroscopy were utilized to conform to component changes of PEDOT:PSS films after solvent treatment. It was found that the removal of the insulator PSS from the film and the conformational changes are the determinants for the device performance enhancement. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to investigate the recombination resistance and capacitance of methanol-treated and untreated hybrid solar cells, indicating that methanol-treated devices had a larger recombination resistance and capacitance. Our findings bring a simple and efficient way for improving the performance of hybrid solar cell.

[A new German Scale for Assessing Parental Stress after Preterm Birth (PSS:NICU_German/2-scales)].

PubMed

Urlesberger, P; Schienle, A; Pichler, G; Baik, N; Schwaberger, B; Urlesberger, B; Pichler-Stachl, E

2017-04-01

Background Preterm birth is known to be a stressful and anxious situation for parents, which might have long-term impact on the psychological health of mothers and even on the development of their preterm infants. Objective The Parental Stressor Scale: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (PSS:NICU) was developed to assess parental stress after preterm birth through three subscales [1]. The aim of the present study was to examine the psychometric properties and the dimensionality of the German version of the PSS:NICU to develop a reliable German version of the PSS:NICU. Methods For the development (exploratory factor analysis) 100 parents of preterm infants answered the questionnaire. Results The Sights and Sounds subscale was removed from the German version of the PSS:NICU due to low number of items. NICU_German/2-scales was developed consisting of 2 subscales: Infant Behavior and Appearance (7 Items, Cronbach's α=0,82) and Parental Role Alteration (6 Items, Cronbach's α=0,87). Conclusions The PSS:NICU_German/2-scales is a reliable and economic scale for the assessment of parental stress after preterm birth. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Doped Interlayers for Improved Selectivity in Bulk Herterojunction Organic Photovoltaic Devices

DOE PAGES

Mauger, Scott A.; Glasser, Melodie P.; Tremolet de Villers, Bertrand J.; ...

2016-01-21

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is less selective for holes in inverted-architecture organic photovoltaic (OPV) than it is in a conventional-architecture OPV device due differences between the interfacial-PSS concentration at the top and bottom of the PEDOT:PSS layer. In this work, thin layers of polysulfonic acids are inserted between the P3HT:ICBA bulk heterojunction (BHJ) active layer and PEDOT:PSS to create a higher concentration of acid at this interface and, therefore, mimic the distribution of materials present in a conventional device. Upon thermal annealing, this acid layer oxidizes P3HT, creating a thin p-type interlayer of P3HT+/acid- on top of the BHJ. Using x-raymore » absorption spectroscopy, Kelvin probe and ellipsometry measurements, this P3HT+/acid- layer is shown to be insoluble in water, indicating it remains intact during the subsequent deposition of PEDOT:PSS. Current density - voltage measurements show this doped interlayer reduces injected dark current while increasing both open-circuit voltage and fill factor through the creation of a more hole selective BHJ-PEDOT:PSS interface.« less

Optical-Electrical-Chemical Engineering of PEDOT:PSS by Incorporation of Hydrophobic Nafion for Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells.

PubMed

Ma, Shuang; Qiao, Wenyuan; Cheng, Tai; Zhang, Bing; Yao, Jianxi; Alsaedi, Ahmed; Hayat, Tasawar; Ding, Yong; Tan, Zhan'ao; Dai, Songyuan

2018-01-31

In PIN-type perovskite solar cells (PSCs), the hydroscopicity and acidity of the poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrene-sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) hole transport layer (HTL) have critical influences on the device stability. To eliminate these problems, Nafion, the hydrophobic perfluorosulfonic copolymer, is incorporated into PEDOT:PSS by a simple spin-coating process. For the modified film, Nafion/PSSH (poly(styrene sulfonate) acid) acts as an electron-blocking layer on the surface and the PEDOT-rich domain tends to gather into larger particles with better interchain charge transfer inside the film. Consequently, the modified PEDOT:PSS HTL shows enhanced conductivity and light transmittance as well as more favorable work function, ending up with the increased short-circuit current density (J sc ) and open-circuit voltage (V oc ) of the device. Finally, PSCs with Nafion-modified HTLs achieve the best power conversion efficiency of 16.72%, with 23.76% improvement compared with PEDOT:PSS-only devices (13.51%). Most importantly, the device stability is obviously enhanced because of the hydrophobicity and chemical and mechanical stability of the Nafion polymer that is enriched on the surface of the PEDOT:PSS film.

Role of the IL-12/IL-35 balance in patients with Sjögren syndrome.

PubMed

Fogel, Olivier; Rivière, Elodie; Seror, Raphaèle; Nocturne, Gaetane; Boudaoud, Saida; Ly, Bineta; Gottenberg, Jacques-Eric; Le Guern, Véronique; Dubost, Jean-Jacques; Nititham, Joanne; Taylor, Kimberly E; Chanson, Philippe; Dieudé, Philippe; Criswell, Lindsey A; Jagla, Bernd; Thai, Alice; Mingueneau, Michael; Mariette, Xavier; Miceli-Richard, Corinne

2017-09-12

An interferon signature is involved in the pathogenesis of primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS), but whether the signature is type 1 or type 2 remains controversial. Mouse models and genetic studies suggest the involvement of T H 1 and type 2 interferon pathways. Likewise, polymorphisms of the IL-12A gene (IL12A), which encodes for IL-12p35, have been associated with pSS. The IL-12p35 subunit is shared by 2 heterodimers: IL-12 and IL-35. We sought to confirm genetic association of the IL12A polymorphism and pSS and elucidate involvement of the IL-12/IL-35 balance in patients with pSS by using functional studies. The genetic study involved 673 patients with pSS from 2 French pSS cohorts and 585 healthy French control subjects. Functional studies were performed on sorted monocytes, irrespective of whether they were stimulated. IL12A mRNA expression and IL-12 and IL-35 protein levels were assessed by using quantitative RT-PCR and ELISA and a multiplex kit for IL-35 and IL-12, respectively. We confirmed association of the IL12A rs485497 polymorphism and pSS and found an increased serum protein level of IL-12p70 in patients with pSS carrying the risk allele (P = .016). Serum levels of IL-12p70 were greater in patients than control subjects (P = .0001), especially in patients with more active disease (P = .05); conversely, IL-35 levels were decreased in patients (P = .0001), especially in patients with more active disease (P = .05). In blood cellular subsets both IL12p35 and EBV-induced gene protein 3 (EBI3) mRNAs were detected only in B cells, with a trend toward a lower level among patients with pSS. Our findings emphasize involvement of the IL-12/IL-35 balance in the pathogenesis of pSS. Serum IL-35 levels were associated with low disease activity, in contrast with serum IL-12p70 levels, which were associated with more active disease. Copyright © 2017 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Extracorporeal therapies in pediatric severe sepsis: findings from the pediatric health-care information system.

PubMed

Ruth, Amanda; McCracken, Courtney E; Fortenberry, James D; Hebbar, Kiran B

2015-11-10

Pediatric severe sepsis (PSS) continues to be a major health problem. Extracorporeal therapies (ETs), defined as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and RRenal replacement therapyenal replacement therapy (RRT), are becoming more available for utilization in a variety of health conditions. We aim to describe (1) rates of utilization of ET in PSS, (2) outcomes for PSS patients receiving ET, and (3) epidemiologic characteristics of patients receiving ET. We conducted a retrospective review of a prospectively collected database. Data from the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) database collected by the Children's Hospital Association (CHA) from 2004-2012 from 43 US children's hospitals' pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) were used. Patients with PSS were defined by (1) International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision (ICD-9) codes reflecting severe sepsis and septic shock and (2) ICD-9 codes of infection and organ dysfunction as defined by updated Angus criteria. Among the patients with PSS, those with a PHIS flag of ECMO or RRT were identified further as our main cohort. From 2004 to 2012, 636,842 patients were identified from 43 hospitals, and PSS prevalence was 7.7 % (49,153 patients). Nine point eight percent (4795 patients) received at least one form of ET, and the associated mortality rate was 39 %. Mortality rates were 47.8 % for those who received ECMO, 32.3 % in RRT, and 58.0 % in RRT + ECMO. Underlying co-morbidities were found in 3745 patients (78.1 %) who received ET (81 % for ECMO, 77.9 % in RRT, and 71.2 % in those who received both). There was a statistically significant increase in ECMO utilization in patients with at least three organ dysfunctions from 2004 to 2012 (6.9 % versus 10.3 %, P < 0.001) while RRT use declined (24.5 % versus 13.2 %, P < 0.001). After 2009, there was a significant increase in ECMO utilization (3.6 % in 2004-2008 versus 4.0 % in 2009-2012, P = 0.004). ECMO and RRT were used simultaneously in only 500 patients with PSS (1 %). ETs were used in a significant portion of PSS patients with multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) during this time period. Mortality was significant and increased with increasing organ failure. ECMO use in PSS patients with MODS increased from 2004 to 2012. Further evaluation of ET use in PSS is warranted.

Only-Child Status in Relation to Perceived Stress and Studying-Related Life Satisfaction among University Students in China: A Comparison with International Students.

PubMed

Chu, Janet Junqing; Khan, Mobarak Hossain; Jahn, Heiko J; Kraemer, Alexander

2015-01-01

University students in general face multiple challenges, which may affect their levels of perceived stress and life satisfaction. Chinese students currently face specific strains due to the One-Child Policy (OCP). The aim of this study was to assess (1) whether the levels of perceived stress and studying-related life satisfaction are associated with only-child (OC) status after controlling for demographic and socio-economic characteristics and (2) whether these associations differ between Chinese and international students. A cross-sectional health survey based on a self-administrated standardised questionnaire was conducted among 1,843 (1,543 Chinese, 300 international) students at two Chinese universities in 2010-2011. Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14) and Stock and Kraemer's Studying-related Life Satisfaction Scale were used to measure perceived stress and studying-related life satisfaction respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to examine the associations of OC status with perceived stress and studying-related life satisfaction by sex for Chinese students and international students separately. The Chinese non-only-children (NOCs) were more likely to come from small cities. Multivariable regression models indicate that the Chinese NOCs were more stressed than OCs (OR = 1.39, 1.11-1.74) with a stronger association in men (OR = 1.48, 1.08-2.02) than women (OR = 1.26, 0.89-1.77). NOCs were also more dissatisfied than their OC fellows in the Chinese subsample (OR = 1.37, 1.09-1.73). Among international students, no associations between OC status and perceived stress or studying-related life satisfaction were found. To promote equality between OCs and NOCs at Chinese universities, the causes of more stress and less studying-related life satisfaction among NOCs compared to OCs need further exploration.

Hepatic hepcidin gene expression in dogs with a congenital portosystemic shunt.

PubMed

Frowde, P E; Gow, A G; Burton, C A; Powell, R; Lipscomb, V J; House, A K; Mellanby, R J; Tivers, M S

2014-01-01

Microcytic anemia is common in dogs with a congenital portosystemic shunt (cPSS) and typically resolves after surgical attenuation of the anomalous vessel. However, the pathophysiology of the microcytic anemia remains poorly understood. Hepcidin has been a key role in controlling iron transport in both humans and animals and in mediating anemia of inflammatory disease in humans. The role of hepcidin in the development of microcytic anemia in dogs with a cPSS has not been examined. To determine whether hepatic hepcidin mRNA expression decreases, while red blood cell count (RBC) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) increase in dogs after surgical attenuation of a cPSS. Eighteen client-owned dogs with confirmed cPSS undergoing surgical attenuation. Prospective study. Red blood cell count (RBC) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV), together with hepatic gene expression of hepcidin, were measured in dogs before and after partial attenuation of a cPSS. There was a significant increase in both RBC (median pre 6.17 × 10(12) /L, median post 7.08 × 10(12) /L, P < .001) and MCV (median pre 61.5fl, median post 65.5fl, P = .006) after partial surgical attenuation of the cPSS. Despite the increase in both measured red blood cell parameters, hepatic gene expression of hepcidin remained unchanged. This study found no evidence that dysregulated production of hepcidin was associated with anemia in dogs with a cPSS. Copyright © 2014 by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

Assessing perceived stress in medical personnel: in search of an appropriate scale for the bengali population.

PubMed

Chakraborti, Amrita; Ray, Prasenjit; Sanyal, Debasish; Thakurta, Rajarshi Guha; Bhattacharayya, Amit K; Mallick, Asim Kumar; Das, Ranjan; Ali, Syed Naiyer

2013-01-01

The occurrence of stress and stress related anxiety and depression in medical personnel are being increasingly reported in literature. The perceived stress scale (PSS) is the most widely used psychological instrument for measuring the perception of stress. It is needed to assess perceived stress in our population using appropriately translated version of PSS. The objectives of study were to prepare a Bengali version of PSS-10 and to establish its psychometric properties in the study population. The study was conducted in a teaching hospital among medical students and interns (N=37). The translated Bengali version and the original English version of PSS-10 were separately handed over to the individual subjects. The scores were compared across different subgroups and psychometric properties of the translated version were assessed using SPSS 16. Internal consistency of PSS English (α=0.79) and Bengali (α=0.80) was satisfactory. Intra-rater reliability was adequate (κ>0.5) for most of the items, but showed an inadequate value (κ<0.5) for four items on the scale. After deleting these four items from the Bengali version, a new six-item PSS in Bengali was derived that showed good internal consistency (α=0.699). This new version needs to be validated in a larger study population. Perceived stress score using PSS-10 was considerably high in our study population, although there was no significant difference between the subgroups (male/female, intern/student).

Autonomic symptoms are common and are associated with overall symptom burden and disease activity in primary Sjögren's syndrome

PubMed Central

Newton, Julia L; Frith, James; Powell, Danielle; Hackett, Kate; Wilton, Katharine; Bowman, Simon; Price, Elizabeth; Pease, Colin; Andrews, Jacqueline; Emery, Paul; Hunter, John; Gupta, Monica; Vadivelu, Saravanan; Giles, Ian; Isenberg, David; Lanyon, Peter; Jones, Adrian; Regan, Marian; Cooper, Annie; Moots, Robert; Sutcliffe, Nurhan; Bombardieri, Michele; Pitzalis, Costantino; McLaren, John; Young-Min, Steven; Dasgupta, Bhaskar; Griffiths, Bridget; Lendrem, Dennis; Mitchell, Sheryl; Ng, Wan-Fai

2012-01-01

Objectives To determine the prevalence of autonomic dysfunction (dysautonomia) among patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (PSS) and the relationships between dysautonomia and other clinical features of PSS. Methods Multicentre, prospective, cross-sectional study of a UK cohort of 317 patients with clinically well-characterised PSS. Symptoms of autonomic dysfunction were assessed using a validated instrument, the Composite Autonomic Symptom Scale (COMPASS). The data were compared with an age- and sex-matched cohort of 317 community controls. The relationships between symptoms of dysautonomia and various clinical features of PSS were analysed using regression analysis. Results COMPASS scores were significantly higher in patients with PSS than in age- and sex-matched community controls (median (IQR) 35.5 (20.9–46.0) vs 14.8 (4.4–30.2), p<0.0001). Nearly 55% of patients (vs 20% of community controls, p<0.0001) had a COMPASS score >32.5, a cut-off value indicative of autonomic dysfunction. Furthermore, the COMPASS total score correlated independently with EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Patient Reported Index (a composite measure of the overall burden of symptoms experienced by patients with PSS) (β=0.38, p<0.001) and disease activity measured using the EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index (β=0.13, p<0.009). Conclusions Autonomic symptoms are common among patients with PSS and may contribute to the overall burden of symptoms and link with systemic disease activity. PMID:22562982

Assessing Stress in Cancer Patients: A Second-Order Factor Analysis Model for the Perceived Stress Scale

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Golden-Kreutz, Deanna M.; Browne, Michael W.; Frierson, Georita M.; Andersen, Barbara L.

2004-01-01

Using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), perceptions of global stress were assessed in 111women following breast cancer surgery and at 12 and 24 months later. This is the first study to factor analyze the PSS. The PSS data were factor analyzed each time using exploratory factor analysis with oblique direct quartimin rotation. Goodness-of-fit…

TH-CD-201-09: High Spatial Resolution Absorbed Dose to Water Measurements Using Optical Calorimetry in Megavoltage External Beam Therapy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Flores-Martinez, E; DeWerd, L; Radtke, J

2016-06-15

Purpose: To develop and implement a high spatial resolution calorimeter methodology to measure absorbed dose to water (ADW) using phase shifts (PSs) of light passing through a water phantom and to compare measurements with theoretical calculations. Methods: Radiation-induced temperature changes were measured using the PSs of a He-Ne laser beam passing through a (10×10×10) cm{sup 3} water phantom. PSs were measured using a Michelson interferometer and recording the time-dependent fringe patterns on a CCD camera. The phantom was positioned at the center of the radiation field. A Varian 21EX was used to deliver 500 MU from a 9 MeV beammore » using a (6×6) cm{sup 2} cone. A 127cm SSD was used and the PSs were measured at depths ranging from of 1.90cm to 2.10cm in steps of 0.05cm by taking profiles at the corresponding rows across the image. PSs were computed by taking the difference between pre- and post-irradiation image frames and then measuring the amplitude of the resulting image profiles. An amplitude-to-PS calibration curve was generated using a piezoelectric transducer to mechanically induce PSs between 0.05 and 1.50 radians in steps of 0.05 radians. The temperature dependence of the refractive index of water at 632.8nm was used to convert PSs to ADW. Measured results were compared with ADW values calculated using the linac output calibration and commissioning data. Results: Milli-radian resolution in PS measurement was achieved using the described methodology. Measured radiation-induced PSs ranged from 0.10 ± 0.01 to 0.12 ± 0.01 radians at the investigated depths. After converting PSs to ADW, measured and calculated ADW values agreed within the measurement uncertainty. Conclusion: This work shows that interferometer-based calorimetry measurements are capable of achieving sub-millimeter resolution measuring 2D temperature/dose distributions, which are particularly useful for characterizing beams from modalities such as SRS, proton therapy, or microbeams.« less

Microbiological and bioinformatics analysis of primary Sjogren's syndrome patients with normal salivation.

PubMed

Siddiqui, Huma; Chen, Tsute; Aliko, Ardita; Mydel, Piotr M; Jonsson, Roland; Olsen, Ingar

2016-01-01

Reduced salivation is considered a major clinical feature of most but not all cases of primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). Reduced saliva flow may lead to changes in the salivary microbiota. These changes have mainly been studied with culture that typically recovers only 65% of the bacteria present. This study was to use high throughput sequencing, covering both cultivated and not-yet-cultivated bacteria, to assess the bacterial microbiota of whole saliva in pSS patients with normal salivation. Bacteria of whole unstimulated saliva from nine pSS patients with normal salivation flow and from nine healthy controls were examined by high throughput sequencing of the hypervariable region V1V2 of 16S rRNA using the 454 GS Junior system. Raw sequence reads were subjected to a species-level, reference-based taxonomy assignment pipeline specially designed for studying the human oral microbial community. Each of the sequence reads was BLASTN-searched against a database consisting of reference sequences representing 1,156 oral and 12,013 non-oral species. Unassigned reads were then screened for high-quality non-chimeras and subjected to de novo species-level operational taxonomy unit (OTU) calling for potential novel species. Downstream analyses, including alpha and beta diversities, were analyzed using the Quantitative Insights into Microbial Ecology (QIIME) pipeline. To reveal significant differences between the microbiota of control saliva and Sjögren's saliva, a statistical method introduced in Metastats www.metastats.cbcb.umd.edu was used. Saliva of pSS patients with normal salivation had a significantly higher frequency of Firmicutes compared with controls ( p =0.004). Two other major phyla, Synergistetes and Spirochaetes, were significantly depleted in pSS ( p =0.001 for both). In addition, we saw a nearly 17% decrease in the number of genera in pSS (25 vs. 30). While Prevotella was almost equally abundant in both groups (25% in pSS and 22% in controls), about a twofold increase in pSS of Streptococcus (28% vs. 17%) and Veillonella (26% vs. 12%) was detected. Prevotella melaninogenica was the major species in controls (13%) while Veillonella atypica and the Veillonella parvula groups dominated in patient samples (14 and 14%). The scarcity in bacterial species in pSS compared with controls was also demonstrated by alpha and beta diversity analyses, as well as read abundance depicted in a phylogenetic tree. While Firmicutes was significantly higher in pSS patients than in controls, Synergistetes and Spirochaetes were significantly lower. The number of bacterial genera and species was also lower. These data showed that microbial dysbiosis is another key characteristic of pSS whole saliva which can occur independent of hyposalivation.

Structural, morphological and optical properties of PEDOT:PSS/QDs nano-composite films prepared by spin-casting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Najeeb, Mansoor Ani; Abdullah, Shahino Mah; Aziz, Fakhra; Ahmad, Zubair; Rafique, Saqib; Wageh, S.; Al-Ghamdi, Ahmed A.; Sulaiman, Khaulah; Touati, Farid; Shakoor, R. A.; Al-Thani, N. J.

2016-09-01

This paper describes the structural, morphological and optical properties of the nano-composite of poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) and quantum dots (QDs). The ZnSe and CdSe QDs have been synthesized, with the aid of Mercaptoacetic acid (MAA), by a colloidal method with an average size of 5 to 7 nm. QDs have been embedded in PEDOT:PSS using a simple solution processing approach and has been deposited as thin films by spin coating technique. The QDs embedded PEDOT:PSS enhances the light absorption spectra of samples, prominently in terms of absorption intensity which may consequently improve sensitivity of the optoelectronic devices.

Dynamic loading and stress life analysis of permanent space station modules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anisimov, A. V.; Krokhin, I. A.; Likhoded, A. I.; Malinin, A. A.; Panichkin, N. G.; Sidorov, V. V.; Titov, V. A.

2016-11-01

Some methodological approaches to solving several key problems of dynamic loading and structural strength analysis of Permanent Space Station (PSS)modules developed on the basis of the working experience of Soviet and Russian PSS and the International Space station (ISS) are presented. The solutions of the direct and semi-inverse problems of PSS structure dynamics are mathematically stated. Special attention is paid to the use of the results of ground structural strength tests of space station modules and the data on the actual flight actions on the station and its dynamic responses in the orbital operation regime. The procedure of determining the dynamics and operation life parameters of elements of the PSS modules is described.

Health-related quality of life, employment and disability in patients with Sjogren's syndrome.

PubMed

Meijer, Jiska M; Meiners, Petra M; Huddleston Slater, James J R; Spijkervet, Fred K L; Kallenberg, Cees G M; Vissink, Arjan; Bootsma, Hendrika

2009-09-01

To compare health-related quality of life (HR-QOL), employment and disability of primary and secondary SS (pSS and sSS, respectively) patients with the general Dutch population. HR-QOL, employment and disability were assessed in SS patients regularly attending the University Medical Center Groningen (n = 235). HR-QOL, employment and disability were evaluated with the Short Form-36 questionnaire (SF-36) and an employment and disability questionnaire. Results were compared with Dutch population data (matched for sex and age). Demographical and clinical data associated with HR-QOL, employment and disability were assessed. Response rate was 83%. SS patients scored lower on HR-QOL than the general Dutch population. sSS patients scored lower on physical functioning, bodily pain and general health than pSS patients. Predictors for reduced HR-QOL were fatigue, tendomyalgia, articular involvement, use of artificial saliva, use of anti-depressants, comorbidity, male sex and eligibility for disability compensation (DC). Employment was lower and DC rates were higher in SS patients compared with the Dutch population. SS has a large impact on HR-QOL, employment and disability.

Indium-tin-oxide-free tris(8-hydroxyquinoline) Al organic light-emitting diodes with 80% enhanced power efficiency

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cai, Min; Xiao, Teng; Liu, Rui

2011-10-11

Efficient indium tin oxide (ITO)-free small molecule organic light-emitting diodes (SMOLEDs) with multilayered highly conductive poly(3,4-ethylenedioxy thiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) as the anode are demonstrated. PEDOT:PSS/MoO{sub 3}/N,N'-diphenyl- N,N'-bis(1-naphthylphenyl)-1,1'-biphenyl-4,4'-diamine (NPD)/tris(8-hydroxyquinoline) Al (Alq{sub 3})/4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (BPhen)/LiF/Al SMOLEDs exhibited a peak power efficiency of 3.82 lm/W, 81% higher than that of similar ITO-based SMOLEDs (2.11 lm/W). The improved performance is believed to be due to the higher work function, lower refractive index, and decreased surface roughness of PEDOT:PSS vs ITO, and to Ohmic hole injection from PEDOT:PSS to the NPD layer via the MoO{sub 3} interlayer. The results demonstrate that PEDOT:PSS can substitute ITO in SMOLEDsmore » with strongly improved device performance.« less

Three novel electrochemical electrodes for the fabrication of conducting polymer/SWCNTs layered nanostructures and their thermoelectric performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Hui; Liu, Congcong; Jiang, Qinglin; Xu, Jingkun; Lu, Baoyang; Jiang, Fengxing; Zhu, Zhengyou

2015-06-01

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), PEDOT:PSS/SWCNTs, and SWCNTs/PEDOT:PSS nanofilms were used as working electrodes to electrodeposit polyaniline (PANI) in a mixed alcohol solution of isopropyl alcohol (IPA), boron trifluoride ethyl ether (BFEE), and polyethylene glycol (PEG). The thermoelectric (TE) performances of the resulting nanofilms were systematically investigated. SWCNTs/PEDOT:PSS/PANI nanofilms showed a relatively high electrical conductivity value of 232.0 S cm-1. The Seebeck coefficient was enhanced and exhibited the values of 33.8, 25.6, and 23.0 μV K-1 for the SWCNTs/PANI, PEDOT:PSS/SWCNTs/PANI, and SWCNTs/PEDOT:PSS/PANI films, respectively. The maximum power factor achieved was 12.3 μW m-1 K-2. This technique offers a facile and versatile approach to a class of layered nanostructures, and it may provide a general strategy for fabricating a new generation of conducting polymer/SWCNTs materials for further practical applications.

Enhancement of UV photodetector properties of ZnO nanorods/PEDOT:PSS Schottky junction by NGQD sensitization along with conductivity improvement of PEDOT:PSS by DMSO additive

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dhar, Saurab; Majumder, Tanmoy; Chakraborty, Pinak; Mondal, Suvra Prakash

2018-04-01

Schottky junction ultraviolet (UV) photodetector was fabricated by spin coating a hole conducting polymer, poly 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene: polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) on hydrothermally grown zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorod arrays. The UV detector performance was significantly improved two step process. Firstly, ZnO nanorods were modified by sensitizing N doped grapheme quantum dots (NGQDs) for better photoresponce behavior. Afterwards, the junction properties as well as photoresponse was enhanced by modifying electrical conductivity of PEDOT:PSS layer with organic solvent (DMSO). Our NGQD decorated ZnO NRs/DMSO-PEDOT:PSS Schottky junction device demonstrated superior external quantum efficiency (EQE ˜ 90063 %) and responsivity (Rλ˜247 A/W) at 340 nm wavelength and -1V external bias. The response and recovery times of the final photodetector device was very fast compared to GQD as well as NGQD modified and pristine ZnO nanorod based detectors.

Enhanced photoelectrochemical performance of inorganic-organic hybrid consisting of BiVO4 and PEDOT:PSS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trzciński, K.; Szkoda, M.; Siuzdak, K.; Sawczak, M.; Lisowska-Oleksiak, A.

2016-12-01

The PEDOT:PSS (poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate)) was electrodeposited on a thin layer of bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) prepared using the pulsed laser deposition technique onto FTO. The inorganic-organic junction was characterized by Raman spectroscopy, UV-vis spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Chronoamperometry curves, recorded under simulated solar light illumination, were performed to determine generated photocurrent during water and hydroquinone oxidation at the electrode surface. Experiments were performed for three types of electrode materials: (i) FTO/BiVO4, (ii) FTO/PEDOT:PSS and (iii) FTO/BiVO4/PEDOT:PSS in aqueous electrolyte. Almost 5 times higher photocurrent in electrolyte containing hole scavenger was generated after modification of BiVO4 photoanode with electrodeposited polymer. It is noteworthy that anodic photocurrent was stable even after 4 h of illumination. Cyclic voltammetry curves of FTO/BiVO4/PEDOT:PSS recorded before and after experiments performed under electrode illumination indicated that the organic part in tested junction is photo-corrosion resistant.

Autoclave Sterilization of PEDOT:PSS Electrophysiology Devices.

PubMed

Uguz, Ilke; Ganji, Mehran; Hama, Adel; Tanaka, Atsunori; Inal, Sahika; Youssef, Ahmed; Owens, Roisin M; Quilichini, Pascale P; Ghestem, Antoine; Bernard, Christophe; Dayeh, Shadi A; Malliaras, George G

2016-12-01

Autoclaving, the most widely available sterilization method, is applied to poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) doped with polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) electrophysiology devices. The process does not harm morphology or electrical properties, while it effectively kills E. coli intentionally cultured on the devices. This finding paves the way to widespread introduction of PEDOT:PSS electrophysiology devices to the clinic. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Size-tunable copper nanocluster aggregates and their application in hydrogen sulfide sensing on paper-based devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Po-Cheng; Li, Yu-Chi; Ma, Jia-Yin; Huang, Jia-Yu; Chen, Chien-Fu; Chang, Huan-Tsung

2016-04-01

Polystyrene sulfonate (PSS), a strong polyelectrolyte, was used to prepare red photoluminescent PSS-penicillamine (PA) copper (Cu) nanoclusters (NC) aggregates, which displayed high selectivity and sensitivity to the detection of hydrogen sulfide (H2S). The size of the PSS-PA-Cu NC aggregates could be readily controlled from 5.5 μm to 173 nm using different concentrations of PSS, which enabled better dispersity and higher sensitivity towards H2S. PSS-PA-Cu NC aggregates provided rapid H2S detection by using the strong Cu-S interaction to quench NC photoluminescence as a sensing mechanism. As a result, a detection limit of 650 nM, which is lower than the maximum level permitted in drinking water by the World Health Organization, was achieved for the analysis of H2S in spring-water samples. Moreover, highly dispersed PSS-PA-Cu NC aggregates could be incorporated into a plate-format paper-based analytical device which enables ultra-low sample volumes (5 μL) and feature shorter analysis times (30 min) compared to conventional solution-based methods. The advantages of low reagent consumption, rapid result readout, limited equipment, and long-term storage make this platform sensitive and simple enough to use without specialized training in resource constrained settings.

High Performance of PEDOT:PSS/n-Si Solar Cells Based on Textured Surface with AgNWs Electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Xiangyu; Zhang, Pengbo; Zhang, Juan; Wang, Jilei; Li, Gaofei; Fang, Xiaohong; Yang, Liyou; Chen, Xiaoyuan

2018-02-01

Hybrid heterojunction solar cells (HHSCs) have gained extensive research and attention due to simple device structure and low-cost technological processes. Here, HHSCs are presented based on a highly transparent conductive polymer poly(3,4ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate)(PEDOT:PSS) directly spin-coated on an n-type crystalline silicon with microscale surface textures, which are prepared by traditional chemical etching. We have studied interface properties between PEDOT:PSS and textured n-Si by varying coating conditions. Final power conversion efficiency (PCE) could arrive at 8.54% by these simple solution-based fabrication processes. The high conversion efficiency is attributed to the fully conformal contact between PEDOT:PSS film and textured silicon. Furthermore, the reflectance of the PEDOT:PSS layer on textured surface is analyzed by changing film thickness. In order to improve the performance of the device, silver nanowires were employed as electrodes because of its better optical transmittance and electrical conductivity. The highest PCE of 11.07% was achieved which displayed a 29.6% enhancement compared with traditional silver electrodes. These findings imply that the combination of PEDOT:PSS film and silver nanowire transparent electrodes pave a promising way for realizing high-efficiency and low-cost solar cells.

After aesthetic rhinoplasty: new looks and psychological outlooks on post-surgical satisfaction.

PubMed

Moses, S; Last, U; Mahler, D

1984-01-01

Thirty-four female patients who underwent rhinoplasty were followed through assessment of post-surgical satisfaction (pss), perception of subjective improvement, objective improvement (surgeon's ratings), and objective post-surgical nasal deformity. Assessments of pss and subjective improvement were obtained on 3 occasions: T1, 1 week after surgery, on cast removal; T2, 1 month after cast removal; and T3, 3 months after cast removal. The investigation was aimed at examination of the relationship of patients' subjective post-surgical appraisals of the operation with objective indices of outcome of rhinoplasty. Results indicated that at T1, pss is totally dissociated from objective outcome or its appraisal by the patient. At T2 an association between objective outcome and pss and subjective appraisal of outcome is evident, but seems to reflect the total reliance of the patients' judgment on surgeons' appraisals. At T3 a paradoxical trend is indicated: slim objective favorable outcomes correlate with high pss, while a considerable share of patients with whom a highly favorable outcome has been attained express relatively low pss. This paradoxical trend may be well understood when applying Cognitive Dissonance Theory. The whole pattern of results point again at highly complex and powerful psychological processes, some of them seemingly irrational, operating within patients when relating to rhinoplasty, a simple superficial surgical procedure.

Research on Intelligent Interface in Double-front Work Machines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamezaki, Mitsuhiro; Iwata, Hiroyasu; Sugano, Shigeki

This paper proposes a work state identification method with full independent of work environmental conditions and operator skill levels for construction machinery. Advanced operated-work machines, which have been designed for complicated tasks, require intelligent systems that can provide the quantitative work analysis needed to determine effective work procedures and that can provide operational and cognitive support for operators. Construction work environments are extremely complicated, however, and this makes state identification, which is a key technology for an intelligent system, difficult. We therefore defined primitive static states (PSS) that are determined using on-off information for the lever inputs and manipulator loads for each part of the grapple and front and that are completely independent of the various environmental conditions and variation in operator skill level that can cause an incorrect work state identification. To confirm the usefulness of PSS, we performed experiments with a demolition task by using our virtual reality simulator. We confirmed that PSS could robustly and accurately identify the work states and that untrained skills could be easily inferred from the results of PSS-based work analysis. We also confirmed in skill-training experiments that advice information based on PSS-based skill analysis greatly improved operator's work performance. We thus confirmed that PSS can adequately identify work states and are useful for work analysis and skill improvement.

A novel iron (Ⅱ) polyphthalocyanine catalyst assembled on graphene with significantly enhanced performance for oxygen reduction reaction in alkaline medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Lin; Li, Meng; Jiang, Liqing; Li, Yongfeng; Liu, Dajun; He, Xingquan; Cui, Lili

2014-12-01

To realize the large-scale commercial application of direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs), the catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) are the crucial obstacle. Here, an efficient non-noble-metal catalyst for ORR, denoted FePPc/PSS-Gr, has been obtained by anchoring p-phenyl-bis(3,4-dicyanophenyl) ether iron(Ⅱ) polyphthalocyanine (FePPc) on poly(sodium-p-styrenesulfonate) (PSS) modified graphene (PSS-Gr) through a solvothermally assisted π-π assembling approach. The Ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results reveal the π-π interaction between FePPc and PSS-Gr. The rotating disk electrode (RDE) and rotating ring disk electrode (RRDE) measurements show that the proposed catalyst possesses an excellent catalytic performance towards ORR comparable with the commercial Pt/C catalyst in alkaline medium, such as high onset potential (-0.08 V vs. SCE), half-wave potential (-0.19 V vs. SCE), better tolerance to methanol crossover, excellent stability (81.1%, retention after 10,000 s) and an efficient four-electron pathway. The enhanced electrocatalytic performance could be chiefly attributed to its large electrochemically accessible surface area, fast electron transfer rate of PSS-Gr, in particular, the synergistic effect between the FePPc moieties and the PSS-Gr sheets.

Surface Modification of Li-Rich Cathode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries with a PEDOT:PSS Conducting Polymer.

PubMed

Wu, Feng; Liu, Jianrui; Li, Li; Zhang, Xiaoxiao; Luo, Rui; Ye, Yusheng; Chen, Renjie

2016-09-07

Composites of lithium-rich Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2 and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) ( PSS) are synthesized through coprecipitation followed by a wet coating method. In the resulting samples, the amorphous conductive polymer films on the surface of the Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2 particles are 5-20 nm thick. The electrochemical properties of Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2 are obviously enhanced after PSS coating. The composite sample with an optimal 3 wt % coating exhibits rate capability and cycling properties that are better than those of Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2, with an excellent initial discharge capacity of 286.5 mA h g(-1) at a current density of 0.1 C and a discharge capacity that remained at 146.9 mA h g(-1) at 1 C after 100 cycles. The improved performances are ascribed to the high conductivity of the PSS coating layer, which can improve the conductivity of the composite material. The PSS layer also suppresses the formation and growth of a solid electrolyte interface. Surface modification with PSS is a feasible approach for improving the comprehensive properties of cathode materials.

High Performance of PEDOT:PSS/n-Si Solar Cells Based on Textured Surface with AgNWs Electrodes.

PubMed

Jiang, Xiangyu; Zhang, Pengbo; Zhang, Juan; Wang, Jilei; Li, Gaofei; Fang, Xiaohong; Yang, Liyou; Chen, Xiaoyuan

2018-02-14

Hybrid heterojunction solar cells (HHSCs) have gained extensive research and attention due to simple device structure and low-cost technological processes. Here, HHSCs are presented based on a highly transparent conductive polymer poly(3,4ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate)(PEDOT:PSS) directly spin-coated on an n-type crystalline silicon with microscale surface textures, which are prepared by traditional chemical etching. We have studied interface properties between PEDOT:PSS and textured n-Si by varying coating conditions. Final power conversion efficiency (PCE) could arrive at 8.54% by these simple solution-based fabrication processes. The high conversion efficiency is attributed to the fully conformal contact between PEDOT:PSS film and textured silicon. Furthermore, the reflectance of the PEDOT:PSS layer on textured surface is analyzed by changing film thickness. In order to improve the performance of the device, silver nanowires were employed as electrodes because of its better optical transmittance and electrical conductivity. The highest PCE of 11.07% was achieved which displayed a 29.6% enhancement compared with traditional silver electrodes. These findings imply that the combination of PEDOT:PSS film and silver nanowire transparent electrodes pave a promising way for realizing high-efficiency and low-cost solar cells.

Autoantibodies in SLE but not in scleroderma react with protein-stripped nucleosomes.

PubMed

Suer, Waltraud; Dähnrich, Cornelia; Schlumberger, Wolfgang; Stöcker, Winfried

2004-06-01

Autoantibodies against nucleosomes (ANuA) are known to be sensitive markers for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but their clinical relevance seemed to be limited because sera from patients with progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) also showed positive reactions with conventional ANuA ELISA test systems (anti-Nu1 ELISA). It was generally assumed thatANuA were associated with both diseases. Using discontinuous sucrose gradient centrifugation to generate pure nucleosomes, we discovered by chance that at the 30-50% sucrose interface an antigen (Nu2) banded which was demonstrably free of non-histone components and histone H1. The two different nucleosome preparations, Nu1 and Nu2, were used in parallel as antigenic substrates in standardised ELISA tests to analyse sera from SLE (295 patients), PSS (119) and patients with other rheumatic diseases (101). With Nu1, 62% of the SLE and 52% of the PSS sera showed positive reactions. Two sera from patients suffering from Sjögren's syndrome (SS) and one from polymyositis were also positive. Using the Nu2 preparation, 58% of the SLE but none of the PSS sera showed a positive reaction. One serum from a patient with SS was also positive. It could be shown that it was the PSS-specific autoantigen Scl-70 in the nucleosome preparation (Nu1) which contributed to the positive reactions of the PSS sera in conventional ANuA test systems, whereas in the Nu2 preparation no remaining Scl-70 was detectable. The present study definitely proved that ANuA are highly and specifically associated with SLE but not with PSS.

Effect of Nonionic Surfactant Additive in PEDOT:PSS on PFO Emission Layer in Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Light-Emitting Diode.

PubMed

Cho, Seong Rae; Porte, Yoann; Kim, Yun Cheol; Myoung, Jae-Min

2018-03-21

Poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene) (PFO) has attracted significant interests owing to its versatility in electronic devices. However, changes in its optical properties caused by its various phases and the formation of oxidation defects limit the application of PFO in light-emitting diodes (LEDs). We investigated the effects of the addition of Triton X-100 (hereinafter shortened as TX) in poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) to induce interlayer diffusion between PEDOT:PSS and PFO to enhance the stability of the PFO phase and suppress its oxidation. Photoluminescence (PL) measurement on PFO/TX-mixed PEDOT:PSS layers revealed that, upon increasing the concentration of TX in the PEDOT:PSS layer, the β phase of PFO could be suppressed in favor of the glassy phase and the wide PL emission centered at 535 nm caused by ketone defects formed by oxidation was decreased considerably. LEDs were then fabricated using PFO as an emission layer, TX-mixed PEDOT:PSS as hole-transport layer, and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods as electron-transport layer. As the TX concentration reached 3 wt %, the devices exhibited dramatic increases in current densities, which were attributed to the enhanced hole injection due to TX addition, along with a shift in the dominant emission wavelength from a green electroluminescence (EL) emission centered at 518 nm to a blue EL emission centered at 448 nm. The addition of TX in PEDOT:PSS induced a better hole injection in the PFO layer, and through interlayer diffusion, stabilized the glassy phase of PFO and limited the formation of oxidation defects.

Recent patents on light based therapies: photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy and photoimmunotherapy.

PubMed

Sanchez-Barcelo, Emilio J; Mediavilla, Maria D

2014-01-01

This article reviews the more recent patents in three kinds of therapeutic strategies using the application of visible light to irradiate photosensible substances (PSs) of different natures. The light-activation of these PSs is directly responsible for the desired therapeutic effects. This group of light therapies includes photodynamic therapy (PDT), photothermal therapy (PTT) and photoimmunotherapy (PIT). Therapeutic mechanisms triggered by the activation of the PSs depend basically (though not exclusively) on the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the activation of immune responses (PDT and PIT) or the local generation of heat (PTT). The main difference between PIT and PDT is that in PIT, monoclonal antibodies (MABs) are associated to PSs to improve the selective binding of the PSs to the target tissues. All these therapeutic strategies offer the possibility of destroying tumor tissue without damaging the surrounding healthy tissue, which is not achievable with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. PDT is also used as an alternative or adjuvant antimicrobial therapy together with the traditional antibiotic therapy since these organisms are unlikely to develop resistance to the ROS induced by PDT. Furthermore, PDT also induces an immune response against bacterial pathogens. The current challenge in PDT, PIT and PTT is to obtain the highest level of selectivity to act on targeted sick tissues with the minimum effects on the surrounding healthy tissue. The development of new PSs with high affinity for specific tissues, new PSs- MABs conjugates to bind to specific kinds of tumors, and new light-sensible nanoparticles with low toxicity, will increase the clinical utility of these therapies.

Primary Sjögren's syndrome and pregnancy: A report of 18 cases.

PubMed

Demarchi, Julia; Papasidero, Silvia B; Klajn, Diana; Alba, Paula; Babini, Alejandra M; Durigan, Virginia; Gobbi, Carla; Raiti, Laura

2017-08-24

Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a condition that predominantly affects women. Reports of pregnancy outcome in these patients are limited and contradictory. To describe pregnancy characteristics and outcomes and newborn morbidity in women with pSS. We included women with pSS who became pregnant after the onset of the symptoms of the disease. Clinical and serological characteristics, risk factors and previous maternal comorbidities are described. For each pregnancy in a woman with pSS, we recorded pregnancy course and outcome and newborn condition. We assessed 11 patients with 18 pregnancies after the onset of pSS symptoms. All of them presented FAN +; 10 anti-Ro / SSA + and 7 anti-La / SSB +. The mean age in years at the onset of symptoms was 24.9 (SD 6.9) and at the time of pregnancy was 30.3 (SD 5.4). Thirteen pregnancies happened before the diagnosis, reporting only one miscarriage. Two preterm births, 1 case of oligohydramnios, 2 of premature membrane rupture and 2 low birthweight babies were reported after the onset of pSS symptoms. There was 1 newborn with congenital atrioventricular block and another with neonatal cutaneous lupus. All the women with pregnancy complications (n=6) had anti-Ro/SSA antibodies. Almost half of the pregnancies assessed in women with pSS were associated with complications not attributable to factors other than the disease. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and Sociedad Española de Reumatología y Colegio Mexicano de Reumatología. All rights reserved.

Safe transition to surgery: working differently to make blood transfusion process safer for elective surgery.

PubMed

Badjie, Karafa S W; Rogers, James C; Jenkins, Sarah M; Bundy, Kevin L; Stubbs, James R; Cima, Robert R

2015-09-01

Our institutional policy allows patients who are scheduled for elective surgery with no history of a pregnancy or blood transfusion in the preceding 3 months to have a presurgical sample (PSS) collected and tested up to 56 days before their scheduled surgery; however, our PSS TS completion rate in eligible patients before the morning of surgery was 83%. In 2011, a team was charged to develop a standardized process along with other process improvements while ensuring no increase in transfusion-related events. The team followed the DMAIC framework in appraising the effectiveness and efficiency of the current state process including baseline data collection such as PSS TS completion rate, number of eligible patients needing a PSS TS on the day of surgery, benchmarking, SSBO utilization, and future state mapping. First quarter (Q1) 2011 versus Q1 2012 postimplementation results showed significant improvements of the process including a 53% decrease in PSS TS on the day of surgery; a 13% increase in PSS TS completion before the morning of surgery; a 26% reduction in total XM RBCs; and a 58.8% reduction in XM RBCs not issued, plus a 47% decrease in RBC wastage. Q1 2011 versus Q1 2013 showed a 41% reduction in total XM RBCs and an 88.4% reduction in XM RBCs not issued but overall RBCs issued versus returned increased slightly and represents a future opportunity for improvement. The redesigned, transformational process eliminated SSBO and improved ordering process and PSS TS completion rate as well as blood product ordering and utilization. © 2015 AABB.

Automatic dispersion, long-term stability of multi-walled carbon nanotubes in high concentration electrolytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Lan; He, Yi; Luo, Pingya; Zhang, Liyun; Yu, Yalu

2018-02-01

Nanoparticles have been known as the useful materials in working fluids for petroleum industry. But the stabilization of nano-scaled materials in water-based working fluids at high salinities is still a big challenge. In this study, we successfully prepared the anionic polymer/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) composites by covalently wrapping of MWNTs with poly (sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSS) to improve the stability of MWNTs in high concentration electrolytes. The PSS/MWNTs composites can automatically disperse in salinity up to 15 wt% NaCl and API brines (8 wt% NaCl + 2 wt% CaCl2). Hydrodynamic diameters of composites were measured as a function of ionic strength and API brines by dynamic light scattering (DLS). By varying the concentration of brines, hydrodynamic diameter of PSS/MWNTs composites in brines fluctuated between 545 ± 110 nm for 14 days and 673 ± 171 nm for 30 days. Above results showed that PSS/MWNTs could be well stable in high salts solutions for a long period of time. After wrapped with PSS, the diameters of nanotubes changed from 30 40 to 430 nm, the thickness of wrapped polymer is about 400 nm by analysis of morphologies. The zeta potentials of PSS/MWNTs composites in various salinity of brines kept at approximately - 41 - 52 mV. Therefore, the well dispersion of PSS/MWNTs in high salinity is due to large negative charges of poly (sodium 4-styrenesulfonate), which provide enough electrostatic repulsion and steric repulsion to hinder compression of electric double layer caused by high concentration electrolytes.

The experience of stuttering among Ultra-Orthodox and Secular/Traditional Jews.

PubMed

Freud, Debora; Ezrati-Vinacour, Ruth; Katz-Bernstein, Nitza; Fostick, Leah

2017-12-01

This groundbreaking research compares the experience of stuttering among adult male People Who Stutter (PWS) from the ultra-Orthodox (UO) Jewish community in Israel to those from Secular/Traditional (ST) backgrounds. Participants were 32 UO and 31 ST PWS, aged 18-67 years. Self-report questionnaires utilized: Perceived Stuttering Severity (PSS); Overall Assessment of the Speaker's Experience of Stuttering (OASES-A); Students' Life Satisfaction Scale (SLSS); Situation Avoidance Behavior Checklist (SABC). Demographic, religious, and stuttering information was collected. Groups were compared on scales, and correlations between scales and the PSS. Subjective stuttering severity ratings were significantly higher among the UO. A significant group effect was found for the OASES-A quality of life subscale, but not other subscales. Significant positive correlations were found between: 1) PSS and OASES-A Total Impact; 2) PSS and 3 OASES subscales; and 3) PSS and SABC (indicating increased avoidance with increased stuttering severity rating). A significant negative correlation was found between the PSS and SLSS, indicating lower life satisfaction with higher rates of stuttering severity among the ST. Interestingly, when tested by group, significant correlations between the PSS and all other study measures were observed only among the ST. UO participants showed higher subjective stuttering severity ratings, yet less impact on quality of life, and no correlation between subjective stuttering and other measures of stuttering experience. These novel findings may result from the combined protective effect of religiosity and socio-cultural characteristics on UO PWS' well-being, despite heightened concern about social consequences of stuttering within UO society. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Perceived stress and smoking-related behaviors and symptomatology in male and female smokers.

PubMed

Lawless, Michael H; Harrison, Katherine A; Grandits, Gregory A; Eberly, Lynn E; Allen, Sharon S

2015-12-01

Stress has been found to be a significant risk factor for cigarette smoking. Stress affects males and females differently, as does the use of smoking for stress reduction. Few studies have examined gender differences with the interrelation of perceived stress and smoking behaviors and nicotine related symptomatology. Our study investigates this association, as well as the influence of sociodemographic variables. This is a retrospective analysis of 62 smokers (41 males, 21 females) enrolled in a smoking cessation study. At the screening visit sociodemographic information, smoking behaviors and survey measures were completed. These included the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Minnesota Nicotine Withdrawal Scale (MNWS), and others. Analyses were conducted using multiple linear regression models. PSS score was found to have a negative association with number of cigarettes smoked in males (slope -0.29±0.08; p=0.0009) and females (slope -0.20±0.18; p=0.26) with no difference in effect between genders (p=0.64). Linear regression of MNWS on PSS revealed a positive association for both males (slope 0.41±0.068; p<0.0001) and females (slope 0.73±0.14; p<0.0001). There was a significant difference in effect between genders (p=0.04). A strong positive association was observed between perceived stress and nicotine withdrawal symptomatology in smokers of both sexes, with a larger effect seen in women. These findings emphasize the importance of stress reduction in smokers, which may lead to fewer withdrawal symptoms and more effective smoking cessation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The immunological response to syphilis differs by HIV status; a prospective observational cohort study.

PubMed

Kenyon, Chris; Osbak, Kara Krista; Crucitti, Tania; Kestens, Luc

2017-01-31

It is not known if there is a difference in the immune response to syphilis between HIV-infected and uninfected individuals. We prospectively recruited all patients with a new diagnosis of syphilis and tested their plasma for IFNα, IFNγ, IL-1β, IL-12p40, IL-12p70, IP-10, MCP-1, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-10 and IL-17A at baseline pre-treatment and 6 months following therapy. A total of 79 HIV-infected [44 primary/secondary syphilis (PSS) and 35 latent syphilis (LS)] and 12 HIV-uninfected (10 PSS and 2 LS) cases of syphilis and 30 HIV-infected controls were included in the study. At the baseline visit, compared to the control group, concentrations of IL-10 were significantly elevated in the HIV-infected and uninfected groups. The level of IL-10 was significantly higher in the HIV-infected compared to the HIV-uninfected PSS group (25.3 pg/mL (IQR, 4.56-41.76) vs 2.73 pg/mL (IQR, 1.55-9.02), P = 0.0192). In the HIV-infected PSS group (but not the HIV-infected LS or HIV-uninfected PSS groups) the IP-10, MIP-1b, IL-6 and IL-8 were raised compared to the controls. IL-10 levels decreased but did not return to control baseline values by 6 months in HIV infected PSS and LS and HIV uninfected PSS. PSS and LS in HIV-infected individuals is characterized by an increase in inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10. The increase of IL-10 is greater in HIV-infected than uninfected individuals. Further work is required to ascertain if this is part of an immunological profile that correlates with adverse outcomes such as serofast syphilis and neurosyphilis, in HIV-infected individuals.

Psychosocial stress as a risk factor for sepsis: a population-based cohort study.

PubMed

Ojard, Connor; Donnelly, John P; Safford, Monika M; Griffin, Russell; Wang, Henry E

2015-01-01

To characterize the relationship between stress and future risk of sepsis. We also evaluated the role of depression in this relationship. We used population-based data on 30,183 participants in the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke cohort, characterizing stress using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and depressive symptoms using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). We identified incident sepsis events as hospitalizations for a serious infection with the presence of at least two systemic inflammatory response syndrome criteria. We assessed associations between PSS and incidence of sepsis for 1 and 10 years of follow-up, adjusting for demographics and chronic medical conditions and assessing the role of health behaviors and CES-D in these relationships. In 2003 to 2012, 1500 participants experienced an episode of sepsis. Mean PSS and CES-D scores were 3.2 (2.9) and 1.2 (2.1). PSS was associated with increased 1-year adjusted incidence of sepsis (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.21 per PSS standard deviation, 95% confidence interval = 1.06-1.38); multivariable adjustment for health behaviors and CES-D did not change this association (1.20, 1.03-1.39). PSS was also associated with increased 10-year adjusted incidence of sepsis (HR = 1.07 per PSS standard deviation; 95% confidence interval = 1.02-1.13). Multivariable adjustment showed that health behaviors did not affect this long-term association, whereas the addition of CES-D reduced the association between PSS and sepsis during 10-year follow-up (HR = 1.04, 0.98-1.11). Increased stress was associated with higher 1-year adjusted incidence of sepsis, even after accounting for depressive symptoms. The association between stress and 10-year adjusted incidence of sepsis was also significant, but this association was reduced when adjusting for depressive symptoms. Reduction of stress may limit short-term sepsis risk.

Recognizing Academic Performance, Sleep Quality, Stress Level, and Mental Health using Personality Traits, Wearable Sensors and Mobile Phones

PubMed Central

Sano, Akane; Phillips, Andrew J.; Yu, Amy Z.; McHill, Andrew W.; Taylor, Sara; Jaques, Natasha; Czeisler, Charles A.; Klerman, Elizabeth B.; Picard, Rosalind W.

2017-01-01

What can wearable sensors and usage of smart phones tell us about academic performance, self-reported sleep quality, stress and mental health condition? To answer this question, we collected extensive subjective and objective data using mobile phones, surveys, and wearable sensors worn day and night from 66 participants, for 30 days each, totaling 1,980 days of data. We analyzed daily and monthly behavioral and physiological patterns and identified factors that affect academic performance (GPA), Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score, perceived stress scale (PSS), and mental health composite score (MCS) from SF-12, using these month-long data. We also examined how accurately the collected data classified the participants into groups of high/low GPA, good/poor sleep quality, high/low self-reported stress, high/low MCS using feature selection and machine learning techniques. We found associations among PSQI, PSS, MCS, and GPA and personality types. Classification accuracies using the objective data from wearable sensors and mobile phones ranged from 67–92%. PMID:28516162

Research of test fault diagnosis method for micro-satellite PSS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Haichao; Wang, Jinqi; Yang, Zhi; Yan, Meizhi

2017-11-01

Along with the increase in the number of micro-satellite and the shortening of the product's lifecycle, negative effects of satellite ground test failure become more and more serious. Real-time and efficient fault diagnosis becomes more and more necessary. PSS plays an important role in the satellite ground test's safety and reliability as one of the most important subsystems that guarantees the safety of micro-satellite energy. Take test fault diagnosis method of micro-satellite PSS as research object. On the basis of system features of PSS and classic fault diagnosis methods, propose a kind of fault diagnosis method based on the layered and loose coupling way. This article can provide certain reference for fault diagnosis methods research of other subsystems of micro-satellite.

Role of EDHF in the vasodilatory effect of loop diuretics in guinea-pig mesenteric resistance arteries

PubMed Central

Pourageaud, Fabrice; Bappel-Gozalbes, Catherine; Marthan, Roger; Freslon, Jean-Louis

2000-01-01

Relaxing effect of loop diuretics, piretanide and furosemide in comparison with acetylcholine (ACh) was investigated in guinea-pig isolated mesenteric resistance arteries. Concentration-response curves to ACh (0.001–10 μM) and diuretics (0.0001–1 μM) were constructed in noradrenaline (10–30 μM)-precontracted arteries incubated either in normal physiological salt solution (PSS) or in 30 mM KCl PSS (K-PSS). In PSS, maximal relaxations (Rmax) and pD2 to ACh were 87±2% and 7.1±0.1 (n=10). L-NG-nitro-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 100 μM) reduced Rmax by 20% (P<0.01, n=7) and pD2 by 10% (P<0.01). In contrast, indomethacin (10 μM) increased Rmax by 19% (P<0.01, n=8) and pD2 by 10% (P<0.05). Combination of L-NAME+indomethacin reversed the effect observed with either of these inhibitors used alone. In K-PSS, Rmax was attenuated by 40% (P<0.001, n=6) compared to PSS. L-NAME reduced Rmax by 65% (P<0.01, n=5) and increased pD2 by 15 fold. L-NAME+indomethacin suppressed the resistant relaxation. In PSS+L-NAME+indomethacin, inhibitors of small (SKCa; apamin, 0.1 μM) and large (BKCa; iberiotoxin and charybdotoxin, 0.1 μM) conductance Ca2+-sensitive K−-channels used alone had little effect on the ACh-response. Combination of apamin+iberiotoxin reduced Rmax by 40% (P<0.05, n=7) while apamin+charybdotoxin fully abolished the resistant relaxation. In PSS, piretanide and furosemide induced relaxation with Rmax: 89±3% vs 84±5% and pD2: 8.5±0.1 vs 7.7±0.2 (P<0.01) for piretanide (n=11) and furosemide (n=10), respectively. Endothelial abrasion suppressed relaxation to diuretics. L-NAME and indomethacin used alone or in combination did not significantly modify the response to diuretics. In K-PSS, piretanide-induced relaxation was abolished whereas that to furosemide was reduced by 70% (P<0.001, n=9) compared to PSS and was suppressed by L-NAME+indomethacin. In PSS+L-NAME+indomethacin, apamin slightly reduced relaxation to diuretics whereas charybdotoxin or iberiotoxin abolished the response. These results indicate that ACh-evoked relaxation is mediated by both NO/PGl2-dependent and -independent mechanisms. The EDHF-dependent component relies on activation of Ca2+-activated K+ channels, is sensitive to a combination of apamin+charybdotoxin and to a smaller degree to a combination of apamin+iberiotoxin. Loop diuretic-induced relaxation is endothelium-dependent, appears to be mediated by NO, PGl2 and EDHF for furosemide and EDHF only for piretanide. For the two diuretics, opening of BKCa channels may be involved in the relaxation. PMID:11082130

Stress predictors in two Asian dental schools with an integrated curriculum and traditional curriculum.

PubMed

Nguyen, T T T; Seki, N; Morio, I

2018-05-01

This study explored stress predictors and the role of instructional methods and institutional differences in perceived stress levels amongst students at two Asian dental schools. An anonymous questionnaire was distributed to undergraduate dental students at Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Japan and the University of Medicine and Pharmacy (UMP), Hochiminh City, Vietnam in 2016. Data concerning the students' demographic information and grades, and responses to the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Dental Environment Stress questionnaire (DES) were collected. The questionnaires were prepared in English and translated into Japanese and Vietnamese following a forward-backward translation process. Altogether 684 students answered the questionnaire with a response rate of 97% for TMDU and 89% for UMP. The mean DES score of UMP students was significantly higher than TMDU (P < .001). TMDU students with dentistry as their first programme choice had significantly lower PSS and DES scores in several categories than other TMDU students, whilst UMP clinical students reported higher stress scores in several areas than UMP preclinical students. Having dentistry as their first choice of educational programme was a significant stress predictor for Japanese students whilst the clinical practicum was a significant stress predictor for Vietnamese students. Previous academic performance was not a significant stress predictor for students at either dental school. Dental students of an integrated, active-learning curriculum reported lower stress levels than students of a traditional, discipline-based curriculum. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Layer-by-Layer Assembly of Fluorine-Free Polyelectrolyte-Surfactant Complexes for the Fabrication of Self-Healing Superhydrophobic Films.

PubMed

Wu, Mengchun; An, Ni; Li, Yang; Sun, Junqi

2016-11-29

Fluorine-free self-healing superhydrophobic films are of significance for practical applications because of their extended service life and cost-effective and eco-friendly preparation process. In this study, we report the fabrication of fluorine-free self-healing superhydrophobic films by layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly of poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSS)-1-octadecylamine (ODA) complexes (PSS-ODA) and poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH)-sodium dodecyl sulfonate (SDS) (PAH-SDS) complexes. The wettability of the LbL-assembled PSS-ODA/PAH-SDS films depends on the film structure and can be tailored by changing the NaCl concentration in aqueous dispersions of PSS-ODA complexes and the number of film deposition cycles. The freshly prepared PSS-ODA/PAH-SDS film with micro- and nanoscaled hierarchical structures is hydrophilic and gradually changes to superhydrophobic in air because the polyelectrolyte-complexed ODA and SDS surfactants tend to migrate to the film surface to cover the film with hydrophobic alkyl chains to lower its surface energy. The large amount of ODA and SDS surfactants loaded in the superhydrophobic PSS-ODA/PAH-SDS films and the autonomic migration of these surfactants to the film surface endow the resultant superhydrophobic films with an excellent self-healing ability to restore the damaged superhydrophobicity. The self-healing superhydrophobic PSS-ODA/PAH-SDS films are mechanically robust and can be deposited on various flat and nonflat substrates. The LbL assembly of oppositely charged polyelectrolyte-surfactant complexes provides a new way for the fabrication of fluorine-free self-healing superhydrophobic films with satisfactory mechanical stability, enhanced reliability, and extended service life.

Fatty infiltration of the minor salivary glands is a selective feature of aging but not Sjögren's syndrome.

PubMed

Leehan, Kerry M; Pezant, Nathan P; Rasmussen, Astrid; Grundahl, Kiely; Moore, Jacen S; Radfar, Lida; Lewis, David M; Stone, Donald U; Lessard, Christopher J; Rhodus, Nelson L; Segal, Barbara M; Kaufman, C Erick; Scofield, R Hal; Sivils, Kathy L; Montgomery, Courtney; Farris, A Darise

2017-12-01

Determine the presence and assess the extent of fatty infiltration of the minor salivary glands (SG) of primary SS patients (pSS) as compared to those with non-SS sicca (nSS). Minor SG biopsy samples from 134 subjects with pSS (n = 72) or nSS (n = 62) were imaged. Total area and fatty replacement area for each glandular cross-section (n = 4-6 cross-sections per subject) were measured using Image J (National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD). The observer was blinded to subject classification status. The average area of fatty infiltration calculated per subject was evaluated by logistic regression and general linearized models (GLM) to assess relationships between fatty infiltration and clinical exam results, extent of fibrosis and age. The average area of fatty infiltration for subjects with pSS (median% (range) 4.97 (0.05-30.2)) was not significantly different from that of those with nSS (3.75 (0.087-41.9). Infiltration severity varied widely, and subjects with fatty replacement greater than 6% were equivalently distributed between pSS and nSS participants (χ 2 p = .50). Age accounted for all apparent relationships between fatty infiltration and fibrosis or reduced saliva flow. The all-inclusive GLM for prediction of pSS versus non-SS classification including fibrosis, age, fatty replacement, and focus score was not significantly different from any desaturated model. In no iteration of the model did fatty replacement exert a significant effect on the capacity to predict pSS classification. Fatty infiltration is an age-associated phenomenon and not a selective feature of Sjögren's syndrome. Sicca patients who do not fulfil pSS criteria have similar rates of fatty infiltration of the minor SG.

Perceived Stress Scale: confirmatory factor analysis of the PSS14 and PSS10 versions in two samples of pregnant women from the BRISA cohort.

PubMed

Yokokura, Ana Valéria Carvalho Pires; Silva, Antônio Augusto Moura da; Fernandes, Juliana de Kássia Braga; Del-Ben, Cristina Marta; Figueiredo, Felipe Pinheiro de; Barbieri, Marco Antonio; Bettiol, Heloisa

2017-12-18

This study aimed to assess the dimensional structure, reliability, convergent validity, discriminant validity, and scalability of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). The sample consisted of 1,447 pregnant women in São Luís (Maranhão State) and 1,400 in Ribeirão Preto (São Paulo State), Brazil. The 14 and 10-item versions of the scale were assessed using confirmatory factor analysis, using weighted least squares means and variance (WLSMV). In both cities, the two-factor models (positive factors, measuring resilience to stressful situations, and negative factors, measuring stressful situations) showed better fit than the single-factor models. The two-factor models for the complete (PSS14) and reduced scale (PSS10) showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha ≥ 0.70). All the factor loadings were ≥ 0.50, except for items 8 and 12 of the negative dimension and item 13 of the positive dimension. The correlations between both dimensions of stress and psychological violence showed the expected magnitude (0.46-0.59), providing evidence of an adequate convergent construct validity. The correlations between the scales' positive and negative dimensions were around 0.74-0.78, less than 0.85, which suggests adequate discriminant validity. Extracted mean variance and scalability were slightly higher for PSS10 than for PSS14. The results were consistent in both cities. In conclusion, the single-factor solution is not recommended for assessing stress in pregnant women. The reduced, 10-item two-factor scale appears to be more appropriate for measuring perceived stress in pregnant women.

Measurement of Perceived Stress Among Pregnant Women: A Comparison of Two Different Instruments.

PubMed

Solivan, Amber E; Xiong, Xu; Harville, Emily W; Buekens, Pierre

2015-09-01

Assess the amount of agreement between the classification of stress from the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the Assessment of Stress portion of the Prenatal Psychosocial Profile (PPP) among pregnant women. A secondary data analysis on a cross-sectional study of 301 pregnant women from the New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas who were exposed to Hurricane Katrina was conducted. Women with complete data (219) were analyzed. Women scoring in the third tertile of each instrument were compared. The kappa statistic was used to assess agreement between instruments. Additional comparisons were made with three instruments that measure other important psychosocial constructs that could be related to stress: the Edinburgh Depression Scale (EDS) and the Assessments of Support (partner and other support) and Self-Esteem from the PPP. No significant difference was found between the two tests. The PSS and the PPP were both statistically significantly correlated to each other (ρ = 0.71, p < 0.01). Thirty-five women were classified discordantly resulting in a Kappa Coefficient of 0.61 (95% CI 0.50-0.72, p < 0.01). No significant differences were found between these two instruments in correlation with the EDS (PPP, r = 0.76; PSS, r = 0.72; p < 0.01 for each), partner support (PPP, r = -0.47; PSS r = -0.46; p < 0.01 for each), other support (PPP, r = -0.31; PSS r = -0.32; p < 0.01 for each) and self-esteem (PPP, r = -0.41; PSS, r = -0.52; p < 0.01 for each), respectively. Given the similarities between the PSS and PPP, researchers are encouraged to choose and administer one instrument to participants, or to use the instruments in combination as an external reliability check.

Al K x-ray production for incident /sup 16/O ions: The influence of target thickness effects on observed target x-ray yields

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gray, T.J.; Richard, P.; Gealy, G.

1979-04-01

Thin solid Al targets ranging in thickness from approx. 1 to 30 ..mu..g/cm/sup 2/ were bombarded by /sup 16/O ions wih incident energies from 0.25 to 2.25 MeV/amu. The effects of target thickness on the measured Al K x-ray yield for ions incident without an initial K-shell vacancy were determined. Comparisons of the data for Al K x-ray production in vanishingly thin targets (and 29-..mu..g/cm/sup 2/ targets) were made to perturbed-stationary-state calculations (PSS) for O ions on Al targets. The PSS calculations contained corrections for Coulomb deflection and binding energy (PSS(CB)) and for Coulomb deflection, binding energy, and polarization (PSS(CBP)).more » Further, two different PSS calculation procedures were employed: calculations without radial cutoffs employed in the binding-energy contribution (PSS), and calculations with radial cutoffs employed in the binding-energy correction (NPSS). The PSS(CBP) calculations agree with the measured Al K x-ray production cross section for data taken in the limit of a vanishingly thin target. The NPSS(CBP) calculations agree with the data taken for a 29-..mu..g/cm/sup 2/ Al target. The latter agreement is fortuitous, as the increase observed in the measured target x-ray yield for the 29-..mu..g/cm/sup 2/ target, in comparison to the yield extracted as rhox ..-->.. 0 at each bombarding energy, is due to K-shell--to--K-shell charge exchange. Comparisons are made with previously published data for /sup 16/O ions incident on finite-thickness Al targets.« less

Reversing an S-kink effect caused by interface degradation in organic solar cells through gold ion implantation in the PEDOT:PSS layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brenes-Badilla, D.; Coutinho, D. J.; Amorim, D. R. B.; Faria, R. M.; Salvadori, M. C.

2018-04-01

In this work, we performed a study on the recovery of the photovoltaic performance of an ITO/PEDOT:PSS/P3HT:PCBM/Ca/Al solar cell after the hole transport layer (PEDOT:PSS) had been degraded by contact with the environment. A device that was fully built in an inert environment exhibited a fill factor (FF) of 0.64, while the device whose hole transport layer was exposed to air presented a FF equal to 0.2. In addition, the J-V characteristic curve of the degraded device did not follow the photovoltaic pattern exhibiting the degenerate S shape. However, the elimination of the deleterious effect was achieved by bombarding gold ions on the contaminated surface of PEDOT:PSS by means of the Metal Plasma Immersion Ion Implantation technique. Due to the low energy of the ionic beam of gold, the implanted gold atoms were located at few nanometers off the surface, forming nanometric clusters, that is, gold nanoparticles. Most probably, the degradation of the J-V photovoltaic curve, represented by the S-kink effect, was caused by the appearance of a potential barrier at PEDOT:PSS/P3HT:PCBM interface, which was demolished by the gold nanoparticles that have work function close to HOMO of P3HT. This S-kink effect was also simulated by using an equivalent circuit model constituted by a two-diode circuit, one of which plays the role of the undesirable potential barrier formed at the PEDOT:PSS/P3HT:PCBM interface. Our analysis shows that deposition of gold nanoparticles next to the interface recovers the good hole injection condition from the PEDOT:PSS into the active layer, restoring the fill factor and the device efficiency.

Comparative study of GaN-based ultraviolet LEDs grown on different-sized patterned sapphire substrates with sputtered AlN nucleation layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Shengjun; Hu, Hongpo; Liu, Xingtong; Liu, Mengling; Ding, Xinghuo; Gui, Chengqun; Liu, Sheng; Guo, L. Jay

2017-11-01

GaN-based ultraviolet-light-emitting diodes (UV LEDs) with 375 nm emission were grown on different-sized patterned sapphire substrates (PSSs) with ex situ 15-nm-thick sputtered AlN nucleation layers by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). It was observed through in situ optical reflectance monitoring that the transition time from a three-dimensional (3D) island to a two-dimensional (2D) coalescence was prolonged when GaN was grown on a larger PSS, owing to a much longer lateral growth time of GaN. The full widths at half-maximum (FWHMs) of symmetric GaN(002) and asymmetric GaN(102) X-ray diffraction (XRD) rocking curves decreased as the PSS size increased. By cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis, it was found that the threading dislocation (TD) density in UV LEDs decreased with increasing pattern size and fill factor of the PSS, thereby resulting in a marked improvement in internal quantum efficiency (IQE). Finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations quantitatively demonstrated a progressive decrease in light extraction efficiency (LEE) as the PSS size increased. However, owing to the significantly reduced TD density in InGaN/AlInGaN multiple quantum wells (MQWs) and thus improved IQE, the light output power of the UV LED grown on a large PSS with a fill factor of 0.71 was 131.8% higher than that of the UV LED grown on a small PSS with a fill factor of 0.4, albeit the UV LED grown on a large PSS exhibited a much lower LEE.

A statistical model of false negative and false positive detection of phase singularities.

PubMed

Jacquemet, Vincent

2017-10-01

The complexity of cardiac fibrillation dynamics can be assessed by analyzing the distribution of phase singularities (PSs) observed using mapping systems. Interelectrode distance, however, limits the accuracy of PS detection. To investigate in a theoretical framework the PS false negative and false positive rates in relation to the characteristics of the mapping system and fibrillation dynamics, we propose a statistical model of phase maps with controllable number and locations of PSs. In this model, phase maps are generated from randomly distributed PSs with physiologically-plausible directions of rotation. Noise and distortion of the phase are added. PSs are detected using topological charge contour integrals on regular grids of varying resolutions. Over 100 × 10 6 realizations of the random field process are used to estimate average false negative and false positive rates using a Monte-Carlo approach. The false detection rates are shown to depend on the average distance between neighboring PSs expressed in units of interelectrode distance, following approximately a power law with exponents in the range of 1.14 to 2 for false negatives and around 2.8 for false positives. In the presence of noise or distortion of phase, false detection rates at high resolution tend to a non-zero noise-dependent lower bound. This model provides an easy-to-implement tool for benchmarking PS detection algorithms over a broad range of configurations with multiple PSs.

Perceived stress and its predictors in people with epilepsy.

PubMed

Moon, Hye-Jin; Seo, Jong-Geun; Park, Sung-Pa

2016-09-01

Perceived stress in people with epilepsy (PWE) is one of the major precipitants for seizures. We investigated the degree of perceived stress in PWE and its predictors. We also aimed to reveal the interrelationships among the predictors. This was a case-control study. Consecutive patients visiting a tertiary care epilepsy clinic completed self-reported questionnaires including the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Revised Stigma Scale (RSS), Korean version of the Neurological Disorders Depression Inventory for Epilepsy (K-NDDI-E), Generalized Anxiety Disorder - 7 (GAD-7), and short forms of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System - Sleep Disturbance (PROMIS-SD) and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System - Sleep-Related Impairment (PROMIS-SRI) scales. The mean score of the PSS was significantly lower in patients with well-controlled epilepsy (WCE) and higher in those with uncontrolled epilepsy compared with controls. Although several factors including demographic, socioeconomic, psychosomatic, and epilepsy-related factors were associated with the PSS score, the strongest predictor for the PSS score was the K-NDDI-E score, followed by the PROMIS-SRI score, the GAD-7 score, and seizure control. Psychosomatic factors exerted both a direct effect on the PSS score and an indirect effect on the PSS score through seizure control. Rapid detection and appropriate management of psychiatric and sleep-related problems in PWE may lessen stress and aid in preventing further seizures. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

In Situ Complementary Doping, Thermoelectric Improvements, and Strain-Induced Structure within Alternating PEDOT:PSS/PANI Layers.

PubMed

Andrei, Virgil; Bethke, Kevin; Madzharova, Fani; Bronneberg, Aafke Cecile; Kneipp, Janina; Rademann, Klaus

2017-09-27

Although the deposition of alternating layers from poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) and polyaniline (PANI) salts has recently provided a breakthrough in the field of conductive polymers, the cause for the conductivity improvement has remained unclear. In this work, we report a cooperative doping effect between alternating PANI base and PEDOT:PSS layers, resulting in electrical conductivities of 50-100 S cm -1 and power factors of up to 3.0 ± 0.5 μW m -1 K -2 , which surpass some of the recent values obtained for protonated PANI/PEDOT:PSS multilayers by a factor of 20. In this case, the simultaneous improvement in the electrical conductivity of both types of layers is caused by the in situ protonation of PANI, which corresponds to the removal of the excess acidic PSS chains from the PEDOT:PSS grains. The interplay between the functional groups' reactivity and the supramolecular chain reorganization leads to an array of preparation-dependent phenomena, including a stepwise increase in the film thickness, an alternation in the electrical conductivity, and the formation of a diverse surface landscape. The latter effect can be traced to a buildup of strain within the layers, which results in either the formation of folds or the shrinkage of the film. These results open new paths for designing nanostructured thin-film thermoelectrics.

Significant Enhancement in the Thermoelectric Properties of PEDOT:PSS Films through a Treatment with Organic Solutions of Inorganic Salts.

PubMed

Fan, Zeng; Du, Donghe; Yu, Zhimeng; Li, Pengcheng; Xia, Yijie; Ouyang, Jianyong

2016-09-07

Conducting polymers have promising thermoelectric application because they have many advantages including abundant elements, mechanical flexibility, and nontoxicity. The thermoelectric properties of conducting polymers strongly depend on their chemical structure and microstructure. Here, we report a novel and facile method to significantly enhance the thermoelectric properties of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) ( PSS) films through a treatment with organic solutions of inorganic salts. N,N-Dimethylformamide (DMF) and a common inorganic salt like zinc chloride (ZnCl2) are used as the solvent and solute of the solutions, respectively. The treatments can significantly increase both the Seebeck coefficient and electrical conductivity of the PSS films. The thermoelectric properties of the PSS films are sensitive to the experimental conditions, such as the salt concentration, treatment temperature, and the cation of the salts. After treatment at the optimal experimental conditions, the PSS films can exhibit a Seebeck coefficient of 26.1 μV/K and an electrical conductivity of over 1400 S/cm at room temperature. The corresponding power factor is 98.2 μW/(m·K(2)). The mechanism for the enhancement in the thermoelectric properties is attributed to the segregation of some PSSH chains from PSS and the conformation change of PEDOT chains as a result of the synergetic effects of inorganic salts and DMF.

Silicon surface passivation by PEDOT: PSS functionalized by SnO2 and TiO2 nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

García-Tecedor, M.; Karazhanov, S. Zh; Vásquez, G. C.; Haug, H.; Maestre, D.; Cremades, A.; Taeño, M.; Ramírez-Castellanos, J.; González-Calbet, J. M.; Piqueras, J.; You, C. C.; Marstein, E. S.

2018-01-01

In this paper, we present a study of silicon surface passivation based on the use of spin-coated hybrid composite layers. We investigate both undoped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly-(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), as well as PEDOT:PSS functionalized with semiconducting oxide nanomaterials (TiO2 and SnO2). The hybrid compound was deposited at room temperature by spin coating—a potentially lower cost, lower processing time and higher throughput alternative compared with the commonly used vacuum-based techniques. Photoluminescence imaging was used to characterize the electronic properties of the Si/PEDOT:PSS interface. Good surface passivation was achieved by PEDOT:PSS functionalized by semiconducting oxides. We show that control of the concentration of semiconducting oxide nanoparticles in the polymer is crucial in determining the passivation performance. A charge carrier lifetime of about 275 μs has been achieved when using SnO2 nanoparticles at a concentration of 0.5 wt.% as a filler in the composite film. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy dispersive x-ray in an SEM, and μ-Raman spectroscopy have been used for the morphological, chemical and structural characterization. Finally, a simple model of a photovoltaic device based on PEDOT:PSS functionalized with semiconducting oxide nanoparticles has been fabricated and electrically characterized.

Pretreatment with propylene glycol alginate sodium sulfate ameliorated concanavalin A-induced liver injury by regulating the PI3K/Akt pathway in mice.

PubMed

Xu, Shizan; Wu, Liwei; Zhang, Qinghui; Feng, Jiao; Li, Sainan; Li, Jingjing; Liu, Tong; Mo, Wenhui; Wang, Wenwen; Lu, Xiya; Yu, Qiang; Chen, Kan; Xia, Yujing; Lu, Jie; Xu, Ling; Zhou, Yingqun; Fan, Xiaoming; Guo, Chuanyong

2017-09-15

Propylene glycol alginate sodium sulfate (PSS), a sulfated polysaccharide possesses anti-inflammatory effects. Here, we investigated the effect of PSS on concanavalin A (Con A)-induced liver injury in mice and examined the underlying mechanisms. Balb/C mice were injected intravenously with Con A (25mg/kg) to generate a model of acute liver injury. PSS (25 or 50mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally 1h before the Con A administration. The levels of serum liver enzymes, inflammatory cytokines, and other marker proteins were determined, and liver injury was assessed histopathologically 2, 8, and 24h after Con A injection. Pretreatment with PSS reduced the levels of serum liver enzymes, inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β, and attenuated histopathological damage in Con A-induced liver injury in mice. The effects of Con A were mediated by apoptosis and autophagy, as indicated by changes in protein and gene expression of related factors after Con A injection. PSS activated the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) pathway and showed a protective function against apoptosis and autophagy. PSS ameliorated Con A-induced liver injury by downregulating inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α and IL-1β and regulating apoptosis and autophagy via the PI3K/Akt pathway. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Size-tunable copper nanocluster aggregates and their application in hydrogen sulfide sensing on paper-based devices

PubMed Central

Chen, Po-Cheng; Li, Yu-Chi; Ma, Jia-Yin; Huang, Jia-Yu; Chen, Chien-Fu; Chang, Huan-Tsung

2016-01-01

Polystyrene sulfonate (PSS), a strong polyelectrolyte, was used to prepare red photoluminescent PSS-penicillamine (PA) copper (Cu) nanoclusters (NC) aggregates, which displayed high selectivity and sensitivity to the detection of hydrogen sulfide (H2S). The size of the PSS-PA-Cu NC aggregates could be readily controlled from 5.5 μm to 173 nm using different concentrations of PSS, which enabled better dispersity and higher sensitivity towards H2S. PSS-PA-Cu NC aggregates provided rapid H2S detection by using the strong Cu-S interaction to quench NC photoluminescence as a sensing mechanism. As a result, a detection limit of 650 nM, which is lower than the maximum level permitted in drinking water by the World Health Organization, was achieved for the analysis of H2S in spring-water samples. Moreover, highly dispersed PSS-PA-Cu NC aggregates could be incorporated into a plate-format paper-based analytical device which enables ultra-low sample volumes (5 μL) and feature shorter analysis times (30 min) compared to conventional solution-based methods. The advantages of low reagent consumption, rapid result readout, limited equipment, and long-term storage make this platform sensitive and simple enough to use without specialized training in resource constrained settings. PMID:27113330

Facile synthesis of mesoporous silica sublayer with hierarchical pore structure on ceramic membrane using anionic polyelectrolyte.

PubMed

Kang, Taewook; Oh, Seogil; Kim, Honggon; Yi, Jongheop

2005-06-21

A facile method for introducing mesoporous silica sublayer onto the surface of a ceramic membrane for use in liquid-phase separation is described. To reduce the electrostatic repulsion between the mesoporous silica sol and the ceramic membrane in highly acidic conditions (pH < 2), thus facilitating the approach of hydrolyzed silica sol to the surface of the membrane, poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (Na+PSS-, denoted as PSS-) was used as an ionic linker. The use of PSS- led to a significant reduction in positive charge on the ceramic membrane, as confirmed by experimental titration data. Consistent with the titration results, the amount of mesoporous silica particles on the surface of the ceramic membrane was low, in the absence of PSS- treatment, whereas mesoporous silica sublayer with hierarchical pore structure was produced, when 1 wt % PSS- was used. The results show that mesoporous silica grows in the confined surface, eventually forming a multistacked surface architecture. The mesoporous silica sublayer contained uniform, ordered (P6 mm) mesopores of ca. 7.5 nm from mesoporous silica as well as macropores ( approximately mum) from interparticle voids, as evidenced by transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy analyses. The morphologies of the supported mesoporous silica could be manipulated, thus permitting the generation of uniform needlelike forms or uniform spheroid particles by varying the concentration of PSS-.

Silicon surface passivation by PEDOT: PSS functionalized by SnO2 and TiO2 nanoparticles.

PubMed

García-Tecedor, M; Karazhanov, S Zh; Vásquez, G C; Haug, H; Maestre, D; Cremades, A; Taeño, M; Ramírez-Castellanos, J; González-Calbet, J M; Piqueras, J; You, C C; Marstein, E S

2018-01-19

In this paper, we present a study of silicon surface passivation based on the use of spin-coated hybrid composite layers. We investigate both undoped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly-(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), as well as PEDOT:PSS functionalized with semiconducting oxide nanomaterials (TiO 2 and SnO 2 ). The hybrid compound was deposited at room temperature by spin coating-a potentially lower cost, lower processing time and higher throughput alternative compared with the commonly used vacuum-based techniques. Photoluminescence imaging was used to characterize the electronic properties of the Si/PEDOT:PSS interface. Good surface passivation was achieved by PEDOT:PSS functionalized by semiconducting oxides. We show that control of the concentration of semiconducting oxide nanoparticles in the polymer is crucial in determining the passivation performance. A charge carrier lifetime of about 275 μs has been achieved when using SnO 2 nanoparticles at a concentration of 0.5 wt.% as a filler in the composite film. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy dispersive x-ray in an SEM, and μ-Raman spectroscopy have been used for the morphological, chemical and structural characterization. Finally, a simple model of a photovoltaic device based on PEDOT:PSS functionalized with semiconducting oxide nanoparticles has been fabricated and electrically characterized.

Heuristic method of fabricating counter electrodes in dye-sensitized solar cells based on a PEDOT:PSS layer as a catalytic material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edalati, Sh; Houshangi far, A.; Torabi, N.; Baneshi, Z.; Behjat, A.

2017-02-01

Poly(3,4-ethylendioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) was deposited on a fluoride-doped tin oxide glass substrate using a heuristic method to fabricate platinum-free counter electrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). In this heuristic method a thin layer of PEDOT:PPS is obtained by spin coating the PEDOT:PSS on a Cu substrate and then removing the substrate with FeCl3. The characteristics of the deposited PEDOT:PSS were studied by energy dispersive x-ray analysis and scanning electron microscopy, which revealed the micro-electronic specifications of the cathode. The aforementioned DSSCs exhibited a solar conversion efficiency of 3.90%, which is far higher than that of DSSCs with pure PEDOT:PSS (1.89%). This enhancement is attributed not only to the micro-electronic specifications but also to the HNO3 treatment through our heuristic method. The results of cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Tafel polarization plots show the modified cathode has a dual function, including excellent conductivity and electrocatalytic activity for iodine reduction.

Metal-based anode for high performance bioelectrochemical systems through photo-electrochemical interaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Yuxiang; Feng, Huajun; Shen, Dongsheng; Long, Yuyang; Li, Na; Zhou, Yuyang; Ying, Xianbin; Gu, Yuan; Wang, Yanfeng

2016-08-01

This paper introduces a novel composite anode that uses light to enhance current generation and accelerate biofilm formation in bioelectrochemical systems. The composite anode is composed of 316L stainless steel substrate and a nanostructured α-Fe2O3 photocatalyst (PSS). The electrode properties, current generation, and biofilm properties of the anode are investigated. In terms of photocurrent, the optimal deposition and heat-treatment times are found to be 30 min and 2 min, respectively, which result in a maximum photocurrent of 0.6 A m-2. The start-up time of the PSS is 1.2 days and the maximum current density is 2.8 A m-2, twice and 25 times that of unmodified anode, respectively. The current density of the PSS remains stable during 20 days of illumination. Confocal laser scanning microscope images show that the PSS could benefit biofilm formation, while electrochemical impedance spectroscopy indicates that the PSS reduce the charge-transfer resistance of the anode. Our findings show that photo-electrochemical interaction is a promising way to enhance the biocompatibility of metal anodes for bioelectrochemical systems.

High-performance, polymer-based direct cellular interfaces for electrical stimulation and recording

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Seong-Min; Kim, Nara; Kim, Youngseok; Baik, Min-Seo; Yoo, Minsu; Kim, Dongyoon; Lee, Won-June; Kang, Dong-Hee; Kim, Sohee; Lee, Kwanghee; Yoon, Myung-Han

2018-04-01

Due to the trade-off between their electrical/electrochemical performance and underwater stability, realizing polymer-based, high-performance direct cellular interfaces for electrical stimulation and recording has been very challenging. Herein, we developed transparent and conductive direct cellular interfaces based on a water-stable, high-performance poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) film via solvent-assisted crystallization. The crystallized PEDOT:PSS on a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate exhibited excellent electrical/electrochemical/optical characteristics, long-term underwater stability without film dissolution/delamination, and good viability for primarily cultured cardiomyocytes and neurons over several weeks. Furthermore, the highly crystallized, nanofibrillar PEDOT:PSS networks enabled dramatically enlarged surface areas and electrochemical activities, which were successfully employed to modulate cardiomyocyte beating via direct electrical stimulation. Finally, the high-performance PEDOT:PSS layer was seamlessly incorporated into transparent microelectrode arrays for efficient, real-time recording of cardiomyocyte action potentials with a high signal fidelity. All these results demonstrate the strong potential of crystallized PEDOT:PSS as a crucial component for a variety of versatile bioelectronic interfaces.

Self-Consistent Charge Density Functional Tight-Binding Study of Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): Poly(styrenesulfonate) Ammonia Gas Sensor.

PubMed

Marutaphan, Ampaiwan; Seekaew, Yotsarayuth; Wongchoosuk, Chatchawal

2017-12-01

Geometric and electronic properties of 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT), styrene sulfonate (SS), and EDOT: SS oligomers up to 10 repeating units were studied by the self-consistent charge density functional tight-binding (SCC-DFTB) method. An application of PEDOT:PSS for ammonia (NH 3 ) detection was highlighted and investigated both experimentally and theoretically. The results showed an important role of H-bonds in EDOT:SS oligomers complex conformation. Electrical conductivity of EDOT increased with increasing oligomers and doping SS due to enhancement of π conjugation. Printed PEDOT:PSS gas sensor exhibited relatively high response and selectivity to NH 3 . The SCC-DFTB calculation suggested domination of direct charge transfer process in changing of PEDOT:PSS conductivity upon NH 3 exposure at room temperature. The NH 3 molecules preferred to bind with PEDOT:PSS via physisorption. The most favorable adsorption site for PEDOT:PSS-NH 3 interaction was found to be at the nitrogen atom of NH 3 and hydrogen atoms of SS with an average optimal binding distance of 2.00 Å.

Knitted Strain Sensor Textiles of Highly Conductive All-Polymeric Fibers.

PubMed

Seyedin, Shayan; Razal, Joselito M; Innis, Peter C; Jeiranikhameneh, Ali; Beirne, Stephen; Wallace, Gordon G

2015-09-30

A scaled-up fiber wet-spinning production of electrically conductive and highly stretchable PU/PEDOT:PSS fibers is demonstrated for the first time. The PU/PEDOT:PSS fibers possess the mechanical properties appropriate for knitting various textile structures. The knitted textiles exhibit strain sensing properties that were dependent upon the number of PU/PEDOT:PSS fibers used in knitting. The knitted textiles show sensitivity (as measured by the gauge factor) that increases with the number of PU/PEDOT:PSS fibers deployed. A highly stable sensor response was observed when four PU/PEDOT:PSS fibers were co-knitted with a commercial Spandex yarn. The knitted textile sensor can distinguish different magnitudes of applied strain with cyclically repeatable sensor responses at applied strains of up to 160%. When used in conjunction with a commercial wireless transmitter, the knitted textile responded well to the magnitude of bending deformations, demonstrating potential for remote strain sensing applications. The feasibility of an all-polymeric knitted textile wearable strain sensor was demonstrated in a knee sleeve prototype with application in personal training and rehabilitation following injury.

Preparation of graphene oxide/poly (3,4-ethylenedioxytriophene): Poly (styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) electrospun nanofibers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Efelina, Vita; Widianto, Eri; Rusdiana, Dadi

2016-04-19

Graphene oxide (GO)/Poly (3,4-Ethylenedioxytriophene):Poly (styrene Sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) nanofibers have been successfully fabricated by a simple electrospinning technique to develop conductive nanofibers with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) act as a carrier solution. Graphene oxide has been synthesized by Hummer’s method and has been confirmed by Raman Spectroscopy, FTIR and UV-Vis Spectroscopy. GO/PEDOT:PSS composite nanofibers. The structural and morphological properties were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The result of SEM show that GO/PEDOT:PSS nanofibers has a relatively uniform morphology nanofiber with diameter between 180 nm - 340 nm with smooth nanofiber surface. The produced nanofibers from this study can be utilized for various applicationsmore » such as flexible, conductive and transparent electrode.« less

Amphiphilic graft polymer with reduction breakable main chain prepared via click polymerization and grafting onto

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xiaojin; Dai, Yu

2018-06-01

Amphiphilic graft polymer PSS- g-Pal/PEG with reduction breakable main chain was synthesized via click polymerization of dialkynyl (containing disulfide bond) and diazide (containing pendant diol) and one-pot grafting onto of hydrophobic palmitate (Pal) and hydrophilic methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). PSS- g-Pal/PEG is able to form polymeric micelles by self-assembly in water via dialysis. Polymeric micelles are nano-sized spheres and the particle size is approximately 70 nm. Of note, polymeric micelles are reduction-responsive owing to the disulfide bonds in main chain of PSS- g-Pal/PEG. Therefore, polymeric micelles prepared from amphiphilic graft polymer PSS- g-Pal/PEG are able to fast release the drugs in the presence of the reducing agents such as DL-dithiothreitol (DTT).

Ion-beam-spurted dimethyl-sulfate-doped PEDOT:PSS composite-layer-aligning liquid crystal with low residual direct-current voltage

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Yang; Lee, Ju Hwan; Seo, Dae-Shik, E-mail: dsseo@yonsei.ac.kr

2016-09-05

Thin ion-beam (IB)-spurted dimethyl sulfate/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (DMS/PEDOT:PSS) layers with improved electro-optic performance are presented for aligning liquid crystals. IB spurting is effective for enhancing the conductivity of such layers, as well as the anchoring energy of the liquid crystals sandwiched between them. Compared with a commercial twisted-nematic cell assembled with polyimide alignment layers, the same cell assembled with 3.0-keV IB-spurted DMS/PEDOT:PSS alignment layers shows a 38% faster switching and a 93% lower residual direct current. The improved electro-optic performance here is likely due to the enhanced electric field effect and the charge-releasing ability of thin IB-spurted DMS/PEDOT:PSS layers.

Stimulation of immune systems by conjugated polymers and their potential as an alternative vaccine adjuvant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gong, Hua; Xiang, Jian; Xu, Ligeng; Song, Xuejiao; Dong, Ziliang; Peng, Rui; Liu, Zhuang

2015-11-01

Recently, conjugated polymers have been widely explored in the field of nanomedicine. Careful evaluations of their biological effects are thus urgently needed. Hereby, we systematically evaluated the biological effects of different types of conjugated polymers on macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs), which play critical roles in the innate and adaptive immune systems, respectively. While naked poly-(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) exhibits a high level of cytotoxicity, polyethylene glycol (PEG) modified PEDOT:PSS (PEDOT:PSS-PEG) shows greatly reduced toxicity to various types of cells. To our surprise, PEGylation of PEDOT:PSS could obviously enhance the cellular uptake of these nanoparticles, leading to subsequent immune stimulations of both macrophages and DCs. In contrast, another type of conjugated polymer, polypyrrole (PPy), is found to be an inert material with neither significant cytotoxicity nor noticeable immune-stimulation activity. Interestingly, utilizing ovalbumin (OVA) as a model antigen, it is further uncovered in our ex vivo experiment that PEDOT:PSS-PEG may serve as an adjuvant to greatly enhance the immunogenicity of OVA upon simple mixing. Our study on the one hand suggests the promise of developing novel nano-adjuvants based on conjugated polymers, and on the other hand highlights the importance of careful evaluations of the impacts of any new nanomaterials developed for nanomedicine on the immune systems.Recently, conjugated polymers have been widely explored in the field of nanomedicine. Careful evaluations of their biological effects are thus urgently needed. Hereby, we systematically evaluated the biological effects of different types of conjugated polymers on macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs), which play critical roles in the innate and adaptive immune systems, respectively. While naked poly-(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) exhibits a high level of cytotoxicity, polyethylene glycol (PEG) modified PEDOT:PSS (PEDOT:PSS-PEG) shows greatly reduced toxicity to various types of cells. To our surprise, PEGylation of PEDOT:PSS could obviously enhance the cellular uptake of these nanoparticles, leading to subsequent immune stimulations of both macrophages and DCs. In contrast, another type of conjugated polymer, polypyrrole (PPy), is found to be an inert material with neither significant cytotoxicity nor noticeable immune-stimulation activity. Interestingly, utilizing ovalbumin (OVA) as a model antigen, it is further uncovered in our ex vivo experiment that PEDOT:PSS-PEG may serve as an adjuvant to greatly enhance the immunogenicity of OVA upon simple mixing. Our study on the one hand suggests the promise of developing novel nano-adjuvants based on conjugated polymers, and on the other hand highlights the importance of careful evaluations of the impacts of any new nanomaterials developed for nanomedicine on the immune systems. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr06081h

Sustainability of a Community-Based CHOICE Program to Improve the Health and Nutrition Status of Mothers and Infants in Indonesia.

PubMed

Eder, Clara; Khatiwada, Lila Kumar; Schooley, Janine

2018-06-01

Objectives Few studies have been undertaken to determine whether and how project results are sustained. University of Notre Dame (ND) and Project Concern International conducted a Post-Project Sustainability Study (PSS) of a USAID-funded program (CHOICE), implemented in Indonesia, Banten province, between 2003 and 2007, in order to determine lasting effects and improve PSS methodologies. Methods Sustainability was measured through a comparison of data collected on mother-infant pairs in 2014 with final evaluation data from 2007; and through a comparison of 2014 data collected from the CHOICE villages and comparison villages. Results The analysis showed positive differences in multiple indicators in CHOICE villages between 2007 and 2014, including births attended by skilled personnel (Mean Difference 48.56, 95% CI 38.68 to 58.43) and treatment of diarrhea (MD 16.42, 95% CI - 0.94 to 33.37). However, only one statistically significant difference between intervention and comparison groups in 2014 was observed, infants with diarrhea whose mothers sought advice or treatment (MD - 5.48, 95% CI - 9.55 to 1.39), showing more mothers in intervention group sought advice or treatment. Because contextual factors were not studied in detail and baseline data was not available for the comparison villages, it is difficult to determine the reasons for the results. Given that longitudinal data was not collected, it is also difficult to determine whether results fluctuated between 2007 and 2014. Conclusions for practice This PSS contributes to the limited body of knowledge in sustainability research. Lessons learned from this study will increase potential for sustainable impact of projects, as more rigorous measurement will lead to greater overall understanding of how sustainability actually "happens".

Measurement of Perceived Stress in Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

PubMed

Dougherty, Bradley E; Cooley, San-San L; Davidorf, Frederick H

2017-03-01

To validate the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) using Rasch analysis. Study participants with AMD were recruited from the retina service of the Department of Ophthalmology at the Ohio State University during clinical visits for treatment or observation. Visual acuity with habitual distance correction was assessed. A 10-item version of the PSS was administered in large print or by reading the items to the patient. Rasch analysis was used to investigate the measurement properties of the PSS, including fit to the model, ability to separate between people with different levels of perceived stress, category response structure performance, and unidimensionality. A total of 137 patients with a diagnosis of AMD were enrolled. The mean (±SD) age of participants was 82 ± 9 years. Fifty-four percent were female. Median Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) visual acuity of the better eye was 65 letters (Snellen 20/50), with a range of approximately 20/800 to 20/15. Forty-seven percent of participants were receiving an anti-VEGF injection on the day of the study visit. The response category structure was appropriate. One item, "How often have you felt confident in your ability to handle your personal problems?" was removed due to poor fit statistics. The remaining nine items showed good fit to the model, acceptable measurement precision as assessed by the Rasch person separation statistic, and unidimensionality. There was some evidence of differential item functioning by age and visual acuity. The Perceived Stress Scale demonstrated acceptable measurement properties and may be useful for the measurement of perceived stress in patients with AMD.

Eligibility for clinical trials in primary Sjögren's syndrome: lessons from the UK Primary Sjögren's Syndrome Registry.

PubMed

Oni, Clare; Mitchell, Sheryl; James, Katherine; Ng, Wan-Fai; Griffiths, Bridget; Hindmarsh, Victoria; Price, Elizabeth; Pease, Colin T; Emery, Paul; Lanyon, Peter; Jones, Adrian; Bombardieri, Michele; Sutcliffe, Nurhan; Pitzalis, Costantino; Hunter, John; Gupta, Monica; McLaren, John; Cooper, Annie; Regan, Marian; Giles, Ian; Isenberg, David; Saravanan, Vadivelu; Coady, David; Dasgupta, Bhaskar; McHugh, Neil; Young-Min, Steven; Moots, Robert; Gendi, Nagui; Akil, Mohammed; Barone, Francesca; Fisher, Ben; Rauz, Saaeha; Richards, Andrea; Bowman, Simon J

2016-03-01

To identify numbers of participants in the UK Primary Sjögren's Syndrome Registry (UKPSSR) who would fulfil eligibility criteria for previous/current or potential clinical trials in primary SS (pSS) in order to optimize recruitment. We did a retrospective analysis of UKPSSR cohort data of 688 participants who had pSS with evaluable data. In relation to previous/current trials, 75.2% fulfilled eligibility for the Belimumab in Subjects with Primary Sjögren's Syndrome study (Belimumab), 41.4% fulfilled eligibility for the Trial of Remicade in primary Sjögren's syndrome study (Infliximab), 35.4% for the Efficacy of Tocilizumab in Primary Sjögren's Syndrome study (Tocilizumab), 31.6% for the Tolerance and Efficacy of Rituximab in Sjögren's Disease study (Rituximab), 26.9% for the Trial of anti-B-cell therapy in pSS study (Rituximab) and 26.6% for the Efficacy and Safety of Abatacept in Patients With Primary Sjögren's Syndrome study (Abatacept). If recent measures of outcome, such as the EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Patient Reported Index (ESSPRI) score ⩾5 (measure of patient symptoms) and the EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ESSDAI) score ⩾5 (measure of systemic disease activity) are incorporated into a study design, with requirements for an unstimulated salivary flow >0 and anti-Ro positivity, then the pool of eligible participants is reduced to 14.3%. The UKPSSR identified a number of options for trial design, including selection on ESSDAI ⩾5, ESSPRI ⩾5 and serological and other parameters. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Rheumatology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

The Role of Religion and Spirituality in Psychological Distress Prior to Surgery for Urologic Cancer

PubMed Central

Biegler, Kelly; Cohen, Lorenzo; Scott, Shellie; Hitzhusen, Katherine; Parker, Patricia; Gilts, Chelsea D.; Canada, Andrea; Pisters, Louis

2013-01-01

The present study examined the associations between religion and spirituality (R/S), presurgical distress, and other psychosocial factors such as engagement coping, avoidant coping, and social support. Participants were 115 men scheduled for surgery for urologic cancer. Before surgery, participants completed scales measuring intrinsic religiosity, organized religious activity, and nonorganized religious activity (IR, ORA, NORA); social support (Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey); and distress (Impact of Event Scale [IES], Perceived Stress Scale [PSS], Brief Symptom Inventory-18 [BSI-18], and Profile of Mood States [POMS]). R/S was positively associated with engagement coping. Social support was positively associated with engagement coping and inversely associated with POMS and PSS scores. Engagement coping was positively associated with IES and BSI scores, and avoidant coping was positively associated with all distress measures. R/S moderated the association between engagement coping and IES scores, such that the association between engagement coping and IES was not significant for men with high R/S scores (greater religious belief). R/S moderated the association between social support and distress; the inverse association between social support and PSS and POMS scores was only significant for men who scored high on R/S. This study replicated findings from previous studies suggesting that engagement and avoidant types of coping can lead to increased distress prior to surgery. Although R/S was associated with engagement coping, it was not associated with any of the distress measures. The finding that R/S moderated the associations between engagement coping and distress and social support and distress suggests that the association between R/S, coping style, social support, and adjustment to stressful life situations is not simplistic, and indirect associations should be explored. PMID:21964511

[Can quality of life in psychotherapy be measured with clinician-ratings? A comparison of patient- and clinician-ratings using the SF-8].

PubMed

Schulz, H; Harfst, T; Andreas, S; Kawski, S; Koch, U; Rabung, S

2009-10-01

Quality of life is a major criterion of the outcome of psychotherapeutic interventions. The concept of quality of life emphasizes patient self-ratings. However, they can be burdensome or inappropriate in some cases. Therefore we have compared self-ratings and clinician-ratings of quality of life. Self- and clinician-ratings of the SF-8 (1-week recall version) were measured from consecutive samples of 1 812 inpatients from eleven psychotherapeutic clinics at admission and at discharge six weeks later. A physical summary score (PSS) and a mental summary score (MSS) were calculated. Pearson product-moment correlations were used. Self- and clinician-ratings of the PSS correlate r=0.48 at admission and r=0.58 at discharge, of the MSS r=0.46 and r=0.51, respectively. Concerning single items we find the highest correlation for item 4 (bodily pain: r=0.53 and r=0.55), the lowest for item 6 (social functioning: r=0.26 and r=0.30). Change scores of the PSS correlate r=0.20, of the MSS r=0.32. Correlations differ between diagnostic groups: Correlations are low for patients with either schizophrenia (F2), depressive episode (F32) or personality disorder (F60-62), comparatively higher for patients with dysthymia. Comparing correlations across the 11 clinics reveals substantial differences, for the MSS ranging from r=0.38 to r=0.58 at admission and r=0.27 to r=0.68 at discharge. Patient self-ratings of quality of life as a psychotherapeutic outcome measure using the SF-8 Health Survey could not be substituted by clinician-ratings, they should be used as complements. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart . New York.

Validation of the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHO-DAS II) in Greek and its added value to the Short Form 36 (SF-36) in a sample of people with or without disabilities.

PubMed

Xenouli, Georgia; Xenoulis, Kostis; Sarafis, Pavlos; Niakas, Dimitris; Alexopoulos, Evangelos C

2016-07-01

There is controversy and ongoing interest on the measurement of functionality in the personal and social level. (1) to validate the Greek version of the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHO DAS II) and (2) to determine its added value to the physical and psychological health subscales of the Short Form 36 (SF-36). In a cross-sectional design, data were collected between December 2014 and March 2015 by using three questionnaires (WHO DAS II, SF-36, PSS-14) in a sample of people with disabilities (n = 101) and without disabilities (n = 109) in Athens, Greece. WHO DAS II internal consistency, construct and criterion-related validity were assessed by Cronbach alpha, exploratory factor analysis and correlations; its added value by multivariable linear regression. Cronbach Alpha's were satisfactory for the WHO DAS II, PSS-14 and SF-36 (0.85, 0.88 and 0.96 respectively). Exploratory factor analysis confirmed the existence of one or two factors in people with or without disabilities, respectively. WHO DAS II score showed significant negative correlation with the physical and mental health scale of SF-36 score, especially strong for physical health while was positively related to PSS-14 score. In multivariate analysis mental health appraisal was related to perceived stress in both groups. This study support the validity of the Greek version of WHO DAS II and warranted its use in assessment and follow up of people with disabilities, contributing to the development of suitable policies to cover their needs and providing comparable data with other surveys using the same instrument. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A mindfulness training program based on brief practices (M-PBI) to reduce stress in the workplace: a randomised controlled pilot study.

PubMed

Arredondo, M; Sabaté, M; Valveny, N; Langa, M; Dosantos, R; Moreno, J; Botella, L

2017-01-01

Work stress is a major contributor to absenteeism and reduced work productivity. A randomised and controlled study in employee-volunteers (with Perceived Stress Scale [PSS-14]>22) was performed to assess a mindfulness program based on brief integrated mindfulness practices (M-PBI) with the aim of reducing stress in the workplace. The PSS-14 of the employees before and after 8-weeks M-PBI program, as well as after a 20-week follow-up, was assessed (primary endpoint). The employees also carried the following questionnaires (secondary endpoints): Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ), Self-Compassion Scale (SCS), Experiences Questionnaire-Decentering (EQ-D), and Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey (MBI-GS). Heart Rate Variability (HRV) was measured during each session in a subgroup of employees (n = 10) of the interventional group randomly selected. A total of 40 employees (77.5% female median [SD] age of 36.6 [5.6] years) took part in this study: 21 and 19 in the intervention and control group, respectively. No differences in baseline characteristics were encountered between the groups. Results show a significant decrease in stress and increase in mindfulness over time in the intervention group (PSS-14 and FFMQ; p < 0.05 both). Additionally, an improvement in decentering (EQ-D), self-compassion (SCS) and burnout (MBI-GS) were also observed compared to the control group (p < 0.05 in all). HRV measurement also showed an improvement. In conclusion, a brief practices, 8-weeks M-BIP program is an effective tool to quickly reduce stress and improve well-being in a workplace.

JIM-13-0560 R1: Propensity scores for confounder adjustment when assessing the effects of medical interventions using non-experimental study designs

PubMed Central

Stürmer, Til; Wyss, Richard; Glynn, Robert J.; Brookhart, M. Alan

2014-01-01

Treatment effects, especially when comparing two or more therapeutic alternatives as in comparative effectiveness research, are likely to be heterogeneous across age, gender, co-morbidities, and co-medications. Propensity scores (PSs), an alternative to multivariable outcome models to control for measured confounding, have specific advantages in the presence of heterogeneous treatment effects. Implementing PSs using matching or weighting allows us to estimate different overall treatment effects in differently defined populations. Heterogeneous treatment effects can also be due to unmeasured confounding concentrated in those treated contrary to prediction. Sensitivity analyses based on PSs can help to assess such unmeasured confounding. PSs should be considered a primary or secondary analytic strategy in non-experimental medical research, including pharmacoepidemiology and non-experimental comparative effectiveness research. PMID:24520806

Degradation and Its Control of Ultraviolet Avalanche Photodiodes Using PEDOT:PSS/ZnSSe Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abe, Tomoki; Uchida, Shigeto; Tanaka, Keita; Fujisawa, Takanobu; Kasada, Hirofumi; Ando, Koshi; Akaiwa, Kazuaki; Ichino, Kunio

2018-05-01

We investigated device degradation in PEDOT:PSS/ZnSSe organic-inorganic hybrid ultraviolet avalanche photodiodes (UV-APDs). ZnSSe/n-GaAs wafers were grown by molecular beam epitaxy, and PEDOT:PSS window layers were formed by inkjet technique. We observed rapid degradation with APD-mode stress (˜ 30 V) in the N2 (4 N) atmosphere, while we observed no marked change in forward bias current stress and photocurrent stress. In the case of a vacuum condition, we observed no detectable degradation in the dark avalanche current with APD-mode stress. Therefore, the degradation in the PEDOT:PSS/ZnSSe interface under the APD-mode stress was caused by the residual water vapor or oxygen in the N2 atmosphere and could be controlled by vacuum packaging.

Gain-of-function mutations in the phosphatidylserine synthase 1 (PTDSS1) gene cause Lenz-Majewski syndrome.

PubMed

Sousa, Sérgio B; Jenkins, Dagan; Chanudet, Estelle; Tasseva, Guergana; Ishida, Miho; Anderson, Glenn; Docker, James; Ryten, Mina; Sa, Joaquim; Saraiva, Jorge M; Barnicoat, Angela; Scott, Richard; Calder, Alistair; Wattanasirichaigoon, Duangrurdee; Chrzanowska, Krystyna; Simandlová, Martina; Van Maldergem, Lionel; Stanier, Philip; Beales, Philip L; Vance, Jean E; Moore, Gudrun E

2014-01-01

Lenz-Majewski syndrome (LMS) is a syndrome of intellectual disability and multiple congenital anomalies that features generalized craniotubular hyperostosis. By using whole-exome sequencing and selecting variants consistent with the predicted dominant de novo etiology of LMS, we identified causative heterozygous missense mutations in PTDSS1, which encodes phosphatidylserine synthase 1 (PSS1). PSS1 is one of two enzymes involved in the production of phosphatidylserine. Phosphatidylserine synthesis was increased in intact fibroblasts from affected individuals, and end-product inhibition of PSS1 by phosphatidylserine was markedly reduced. Therefore, these mutations cause a gain-of-function effect associated with regulatory dysfunction of PSS1. We have identified LMS as the first human disease, to our knowledge, caused by disrupted phosphatidylserine metabolism. Our results point to an unexplored link between phosphatidylserine synthesis and bone metabolism.

Stable and null current hysteresis perovskite solar cells based nitrogen doped graphene oxide nanoribbons hole transport layer

PubMed Central

Kim, Jeongmo; Mat Teridi, Mohd Asri; Mohd Yusoff, Abd. Rashid bin; Jang, Jin

2016-01-01

Perovskite solar cells are becoming one of the leading technologies to reduce our dependency on traditional power sources. However, the frequently used component poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) has several shortcomings, such as an easily corroded indium-tin-oxide (ITO) interface at elevated temperatures and induced electrical inhomogeneity. Herein, we propose solution-processed nitrogen-doped graphene oxide nanoribbons (NGONRs) as a hole transport layer (HTL) in perovskite solar cells, replacing the conducting polymer PEDOT:PSS. The conversion efficiency of NGONR-based perovskite solar cells has outperformed a control device constructed using PEDOT:PSS. Moreover, our proposed NGONR-based devices also demonstrate a negligible current hysteresis along with improved stability. This work provides an effective route for substituting PEDOT:PSS as the effective HTL. PMID:27277388

Potential of Wood-Rotting Fungi to Attack Polystyrene Sulfonate and Its Depolymerisation by Gloeophyllum trabeum via Hydroquinone-Driven Fenton Chemistry

PubMed Central

Krueger, Martin C.; Hofmann, Ulrike; Moeder, Monika; Schlosser, Dietmar

2015-01-01

Synthetic polymers often pose environmental hazards due to low biodegradation rates and resulting accumulation. In this study, a selection of wood-rotting fungi representing different lignocellulose decay types was screened for oxidative biodegradation of the polymer polystyrene sulfonate (PSS). Brown-rot basidiomycetes showed PSS depolymerisation of up to 50 % reduction in number-average molecular mass (Mn) within 20 days. In-depth investigations with the most efficient depolymeriser, a Gloeophyllum trabeum strain, pointed at extracellular hydroquinone-driven Fenton chemistry responsible for depolymerisation. Detection of hydroxyl radicals present in the culture supernatants showed good compliance with depolymerisation over the time course of PSS degradation. 2,5-Dimethoxy-1,4-hydroquinone (2,5-DMHQ), which was detected in supernatants of active cultures via liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, was demonstrated to drive the Fenton processes in G. trabeum cultures. Up to 80% reduction in Mn of PSS where observed when fungal cultures were additionally supplemented with 2,5-dimethoxy benzoquinone, the oxidized from of 2,5-DMHQ. Furthermore, 2,5-DMHQ could initiate the Fenton's reagent-mediated PSS depolymerisation in cell-free systems. In contrast, white-rot fungi were unable to cause substantial depolymerising effects despite the expression of lignin-modifying exo-enzymes. Detailed investigations with laccase from Trametes versicolor revealed that only in presence of certain redox mediators limited PSS depolymerisation occurred. Our results indicate that brown-rot fungi might be suitable organisms for the biodegradation of recalcitrant synthetic polymeric pollutants. PMID:26147966

Examining the Relationship Between Pain Catastrophizing and Suicide Risk in Patients with Rheumatic Disease: the Mediating Role of Depression, Perceived Social Support, and Perceived Burdensomeness.

PubMed

Shim, Eun -Jung; Song, Yeong Wook; Park, Seung-Hee; Lee, Kwang-Min; Go, Dong Jin; Hahm, Bong-Jin

2017-08-01

Little research has examined the role of pain catastrophizing (PC) in predicting suicide among patients with rheumatic disease or the mechanisms through which it works. This study examines whether depression, perceived social support (PSS), and perceived burdensomeness (PB) mediate the relationship between PC and suicide risk. It also examines the relative importance of sociodemographic, clinical, and psychological factors in predicting suicide risk. Three hundred sixty patients from a rheumatology clinic in Korea completed measures of pain catastrophizing, social support, depression, and perceived burdensomeness. In hierarchical multiple regression analysis, the PC magnification, PB, physical disability, and PSS were significantly related to suicide risk. Results of the serial multiple mediation analysis indicated that the total indirect effect of PC magnification on suicide risk was significant while the direct effect was not. Four specific indirect effects of PC magnification were found to be statistically significant. First of all, PC magnification was associated with suicide risk through PB and through depression and PB. PC magnification was also associated with suicide risk through depression and PSS. Lastly, PC magnification was associated with suicide risk through depression, PSS, and PB. The identified pathways through which PC affects suicide risk suggest the importance of depression, PSS, and PB. Evaluation and intervention targeted at physical disability and the psychological factors of PC magnification, depression, PSS, and PB may be integrated into the management of suicide risk in patients with rheumatic disease.

Reduction of fatigue in Sjögren syndrome with rituximab: results of a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study.

PubMed

Dass, S; Bowman, S J; Vital, E M; Ikeda, K; Pease, C T; Hamburger, J; Richards, A; Rauz, S; Emery, P

2008-11-01

Primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS) causes significant systemic symptoms including fatigue as well as glandular dysfunction. There are currently no effective systemic therapies; however, open label series have suggested that rituximab may be beneficial for systemic and glandular manifestations. Therefore, we performed a double blind, placebo-controlled, randomised pilot study of the efficacy of rituximab in reducing fatigue in pSS. A total of 17 patients with pSS and a score on fatigue visual analogue scale (VAS) >50 were randomised to receive either 2 infusions of rituximab 1 g or placebo; patients also received oral and intravenous steroids. Outcome measures included: the proportion of patients with >20% reduction in fatigue VAS, changes in pSS related symptoms, health related quality of life and immunological parameters of pSS. These were measured 6 months after therapy. There was significant improvement from baseline in fatigue VAS in the rituximab group (p<0.001) in contrast to the placebo group (p = 0.147). There was a significant difference between the groups at 6 months in the social functioning score of SF-36 (p = 0.01) and a trend to significant difference in the mental health domain score of SF-36 (p = 0.06). There was one episode of serum sickness in the rituximab treated group. This is the first double blind study of rituximab in pSS to show benefit; further studies are justified.

Understanding the anchoring effect of Graphene, BN, C2N and C3N4 monolayers for lithium-polysulfides in Li-S batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Yanping; Li, Huanhuan; Yuan, Haiyan; Fan, Honghong; Li, Wenliang; Zhang, Jingping

2018-03-01

Recently, Li-S batteries with a high theoretical specific energy have attracted significant attention. However, their practical application is still seriously hindered by the shuttling effect of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) in the Li-S batteries system. Introducing anchoring materials into the cathode or separator, which can strongly attract LiPSs because of advisable binding energies, has been demonstrated as an effective strategy to alleviate the shuttling effect for achieving the excellent cycling performance of Li-S batteries. In this work, the complete mechanistic understanding of the interaction between non-metallic monolayer materials (N-MMLMs, including Graphene, BN, C2N and C3N4) and LiPSs is given in detail with the aid of density functional theory. The calculation results show that N-MMLM can combine the chemical interaction and the physical entrapment of sulfur species to suppress the shuttling effect. C3N4 and C2N are predicted to trap LiPSs via stronger interfacial interaction and alleviate the interactions between LiPSs and solvents as well as the consequent dissolution. The strong anchoring effect of C3N4/C2N comes from the bonding of Li-N/C-S and charge transfer. Further charge transfer study reveals that the C3N4/C2N can serve as an electrocatalyst, which effectively accelerates the kinetics of LiPSs redox reactions.

Modulation of PEDOT:PSS pH for efficient inverted perovskite solar cells with reduced potential loss and enhanced stability

DOE PAGES

Wang, Qin; Chueh, Chu -Chen; Eslamian, Morteza; ...

2016-11-02

Inverted p-i-n perovskite solar cells (PVSCs) using PEDOT:PSS as the hole-transporting layer (HTL) is one of the most widely adopted device structures thus far due to its facile processability and good compatibility for high throughput manufacturing processes. However, most of the PEDOT:PSS-based CH 3NH 3PbI 3 PVSCs reported to date suffered an inferior open-circuit voltage (V OC) (0.88-0.95 V) compared to that (1.05-1.12 V) obtained for common CH 3NH 3PbI 3 PVSCs, revealing a severe potential loss issue. Herein, we describe a simple method to alleviate this problem by tuning the pH value of PEDOT:PSS with a mild base, imidazole.more » Accompanied by the pH modulation, the blended imidazole concurrently tailors the surface texture and electronic properties of PEDOT:PSS to promote the quality and crystallization of the perovskite film deposited on top of it and enable better energy-level alignment at this corresponding interface. Consequently, the PVSC using this modified PEDOT:PSS HTL yields an enhanced power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 15.7% with an enlarged V OC of 1.06 V and improved long-term stability. Lastly, these outperform the pristine device showing a PCE of 12.7% with a much smaller V OC of 0.88 V and unsatisfactory environmental stability.« less

Inverted Planar Perovskite Solar Cells with a High Fill Factor and Negligible Hysteresis by the Dual Effect of NaCl-Doped PEDOT:PSS.

PubMed

Hu, Lijun; Sun, Kuan; Wang, Ming; Chen, Wei; Yang, Bo; Fu, Jiehao; Xiong, Zhuang; Li, Xinyi; Tang, Xiaosheng; Zang, Zhigang; Zhang, Shupeng; Sun, Lidong; Li, Meng

2017-12-20

The performance of inverted perovskite solar cells is highly dependent on hole extraction and surface properties of hole transport layers. To highlight the important role of hole transport layers, a facile and simple method is developed by adding sodium chloride (NaCl) into poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS). The average power conversion efficiency of the perovskite solar cells prepared on NaCl-doped PEDOT:PSS is 17.1% with negligible hysteresis, compared favorably to the control devices (15.1%). Particularly, they exhibit markedly improved V oc and fill factor (FF), with the best FF as high as 81.9%. The enhancement of photovoltaic performance is ascribed to two effects. Better conductivity and hole extraction of PEDOT:PSS are observed after NaCl doping. More intriguingly, the perovskite polycrystalline film shows a preferred orientation along the (001) direction on NaCl-doped PEDOT:PSS, leading to a more uniform thin film. The comparison of the crystal structure between NaCl and MAPbCl 3 indicates a lattice constant mismatch less than 2% and a matched chlorine atom arrangement on the (001) surface, which implies that the NaCl crystallites on the top surface of PEDOT:PSS might serve as seeds guiding the growth of perovskite crystals. This simple method is fully compatible with printing technologies to mass-produce perovskite solar cells with high efficiency and tunable crystal orientations.

Twisted nematic liquid crystal cells with rubbed poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrenesulfonate) films for active polarization control of terahertz waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sasaki, Tomoyuki; Okuyama, Hiroki; Sakamoto, Moritsugu; Noda, Kohei; Okamoto, Hiroyuki; Kawatsuki, Nobuhiro; Ono, Hiroshi

2017-04-01

We fabricated a terahertz (THz) polarization converter using a twisted nematic (TN) liquid crystal (LC) cell. Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT/PSS) films coated on quartz glass substrates were used as electrode layers in the TN LC cell. The PEDOT/PSS films were rubbed unidirectionally using a rayon cloth to align the nematic LC, thereby also serving as an alignment layer. The azimuthal surface anchoring strength of the PEDOT/PSS films was measured to be 5 × 10-4 J/m2 using the Néel wall method, which is similar to that of typical polymeric alignment layers. The optical constants of the PEDOT/PSS film in the THz range were also characterized using the Drude-Smith model, and the results indicated that the PEDOT/PSS films could be used both as transparent electrodes in the THz range and as alignment layers for the LC. The electro-optical properties of the fabricated TN LC cell were also investigated using a polarized visible laser and THz time-domain spectroscopic system. In particular, the transmission spectra and polarization conversion property of the TN LC cell in the THz range were theoretically analyzed based on a stratified model that considers optical anisotropy, absorption, and multiple interference. This work substantiates the advantages of TN LC cells with rubbed PEDOT/PSS films useful for THz polarization converters with electrical tunability.

Platinum-decorated reduced graphene oxide/polyaniline:poly(4-styrenesulfonate) hybrid paste for flexible dipole tag-antenna applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jun Seop; Kim, Minkyu; Lee, Choonghyeon; Cho, Sunghun; Oh, Jungkyun; Jang, Jyongsik

2015-02-01

With recent developments in technology, tremendous effort has been devoted to producing materials for flexible device systems. As a promising approach, solution-processed conducting polymers (CPs) have been extensively studied owing to their facile synthesis, high electrical conductivity, and various morphologies with diverse substrates. Here, we report the demonstration of platinum decorated reduced graphene oxide intercalated polyanililne:poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (Pt_rGO/PANI:PSS) hybrid paste for flexible electric devices. First, platinum decorated reduced graphene oxide (Pt_rGO) was fabricated through the chemical reduction of platinum cations and subsequent heat reduction of GO sheets. Then, the Pt_rGO was mixed with PANI:PSS solution dispersed in diethylene glycol (DEG) using sonication to form a hybrid PANI-based paste (Pt_rGO/PANI:PSS). The Pt_rGO/PANI:PSS was printed as a micropattern and exhibited high electrical conductivity (245.3 S cm-1) with flexible stability. Moreover, it was used in a dipole tag antenna application, where it displayed 0.15 GHz bandwidth and high transmitted power efficiency (99.6%).With recent developments in technology, tremendous effort has been devoted to producing materials for flexible device systems. As a promising approach, solution-processed conducting polymers (CPs) have been extensively studied owing to their facile synthesis, high electrical conductivity, and various morphologies with diverse substrates. Here, we report the demonstration of platinum decorated reduced graphene oxide intercalated polyanililne:poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (Pt_rGO/PANI:PSS) hybrid paste for flexible electric devices. First, platinum decorated reduced graphene oxide (Pt_rGO) was fabricated through the chemical reduction of platinum cations and subsequent heat reduction of GO sheets. Then, the Pt_rGO was mixed with PANI:PSS solution dispersed in diethylene glycol (DEG) using sonication to form a hybrid PANI-based paste (Pt_rGO/PANI:PSS). The Pt_rGO/PANI:PSS was printed as a micropattern and exhibited high electrical conductivity (245.3 S cm-1) with flexible stability. Moreover, it was used in a dipole tag antenna application, where it displayed 0.15 GHz bandwidth and high transmitted power efficiency (99.6%). Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: TEM images of Pr_rGOs, XRD spectra of various PANI-based hybrid materials, electrical conductivity of Pt_rGO/PANI:PSS with different Pt amounts, surface resistance changes of micropatterns, return loss of the antenna with bending deformation, and transmitted power efficiency of the antenna with bending cycles. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr06189f

Tinnitus in adolescents and its relation to the use of personal sound systems.

PubMed

Silvestre, Renata Almeida Araujo; Ribas, Angela; Marques, Jair Mendes; Lacerda, Adriana Bender Moreira de

References to recreational exposure to high sound pressure levels (SPL) and the risk of hearing loss and sensation of tinnitus has increased in the adolescent population. To identify the occurrence of tinnitus in adolescents who use personal sound systems (PSS). This was a descriptive cross-sectional study, using a sample of 153 normal-hearing adolescent students. Participants answered a self-adaministered questionnaire containing open and closed questions, addressing information regarding sound habits with the use of PSS and symptoms associated with this practice. The occurrence of a habit of using PSS was 93%. Comparing the exposed and unexposed groups, the incidence of tinnitus was 40% and 33% respectively, and 22% reported the occurrence of tinnitus induced by the use of PSS. There was no significant difference for the presence of tinnitus depending on the degree of exposure. Although no relation between the use of PSS with tinnitus has been observed, the prevalence of symptoms of up to 40%, including noise-induced episodes, reinforces the possibility of subclinical hearing loss induced by high NPS and, because of the irreversible nature of these losses, the urgency of educational and regulatory measures to reverse these habits and attitudes.

A methodological, task-based approach to Procedure-Specific Simulations training.

PubMed

Setty, Yaki; Salzman, Oren

2016-12-01

Procedure-Specific Simulations (PSS) are 3D realistic simulations that provide a platform to practice complete surgical procedures in a virtual-reality environment. While PSS have the potential to improve surgeons' proficiency, there are no existing standards or guidelines for PSS development in a structured manner. We employ a unique platform inspired by game design to develop virtual reality simulations in three dimensions of urethrovesical anastomosis during radical prostatectomy. 3D visualization is supported by a stereo vision, providing a fully realistic view of the simulation. The software can be executed for any robotic surgery platform. Specifically, we tested the simulation under windows environment on the RobotiX Mentor. Using urethrovesical anastomosis during radical prostatectomy simulation as a representative example, we present a task-based methodological approach to PSS training. The methodology provides tasks in increasing levels of difficulty from a novice level of basic anatomy identification, to an expert level that permits testing new surgical approaches. The modular methodology presented here can be easily extended to support more complex tasks. We foresee this methodology as a tool used to integrate PSS as a complementary training process for surgical procedures.

HSA/PSS coated gold nanorods as thermo-triggered drug delivery vehicles for combined cancer photothermal therapy and chemotherapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tu, Ting-Yu; Yang, Shu-Jyuan; Wang, Chung-Hao; Lee, Shin-Yu; Shieh, Ming-Jium

2018-02-01

Drug delivery systems combined multimodal therapy strategies are very promising in cancer theranostic applications. In this work, a new drug-delivery vehicles based on human serum albumin (HSA)-coated gold nanorods (GNR/PSS/HSA NPs) was developed. The success of coating was verified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), zeta potential and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Furthermore, it is demonstrated that doxorubicin (DOX) is successfully loaded among multilayered gold nanorods by the electrostatic and hydrophobic force, and DOX@GNR/PSS/HSA NPs were highly biocompatible and stable in various physiological solutions. The NPs possess strong absorbance in nearinfrared (NIR) region, and high photothermal conversion efficiency for outstanding photothermal therapy applications. A bimodal drug release triggered by proteinase or NIR irradiation has been revealed, resulting in a significant chemotherapeutic effect in tumor sites because of the preferential drug accumulation and triggered release. Importantly, the in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that DOX@GNR/PSS/HSA NPs, which combined photothermal and chemotherapy for cancer therapy, revealing a remarkably superior synergistic anticancer effect over either monotherapy. All these results suggested a considerable potential of DOX@GNR/PSS/HSA NPs nano-platform for antitumor therapy.

Flexible and Compressible PEDOT:PSS@Melamine Conductive Sponge Prepared via One-Step Dip Coating as Piezoresistive Pressure Sensor for Human Motion Detection.

PubMed

Ding, Yichun; Yang, Jack; Tolle, Charles R; Zhu, Zhengtao

2018-05-09

Flexible and wearable pressure sensor may offer convenient, timely, and portable solutions to human motion detection, yet it is a challenge to develop cost-effective materials for pressure sensor with high compressibility and sensitivity. Herein, a cost-efficient and scalable approach is reported to prepare a highly flexible and compressible conductive sponge for piezoresistive pressure sensor. The conductive sponge, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS)@melamine sponge (MS), is prepared by one-step dip coating the commercial melamine sponge (MS) in an aqueous dispersion of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS). Due to the interconnected porous structure of MS, the conductive PEDOT:PSS@MS has a high compressibility and a stable piezoresistive response at the compressive strain up to 80%, as well as good reproducibility over 1000 cycles. Thereafter, versatile pressure sensors fabricated using the conductive PEDOT:PSS@MS sponges are attached to the different parts of human body; the capabilities of these devices to detect a variety of human motions including speaking, finger bending, elbow bending, and walking are evaluated. Furthermore, prototype tactile sensory array based on these pressure sensors is demonstrated.

Distress Tolerance and Social Support in Adolescence: Predicting Risk for Internalizing and Externalizing Symptoms Following a Natural Disaster

PubMed Central

Cohen, Joseph R.; Danielson, Carla Kmett; Adams, Zachary W.; Ruggiero, Kenneth J.

2016-01-01

The purpose of the multi-measure, multi-wave, longitudinal study was to examine the interactive relation between behavioral distress tolerance (DT) and perceived social support (PSS) in 352 tornado-exposed adolescents aged 12–17 years (M=14.44; SD=1.74). At baseline, adolescents completed a computer-based task for DT, and self-report measures of PSS, depressed mood, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use, and interpersonal conflict. Symptoms also were assessed 4 and 12 months after baseline. Findings showed that lower levels of DT together with lower levels of PSS conferred risk for elevated symptoms of prospective depression (t(262)= −2.04, p=.04; reffect size=0.13) and PTSD (t(195)= −2.08, p=.04; reffect size=0.15) following a tornado. However, only PSS was significant in substance use t(139)=2.20, p=.03; reffect size=0.18) and conflict (t(138)=−4.05, p<.0001; reffect size=0.33) in our sample. Implications regarding adolescent DT, the transdiagnostic nature of PSS, and the clinical applications of our findings in the aftermath of a natural disaster are discussed. PMID:28163364

[Distribution of Apo E gene sequencing in patients with coronary heart disease of phlegm-stasis syndrome].

PubMed

Fang, Zhu-yuan; Jiang, Wei-min; Zhu, Chang-le

2011-09-01

To study the correlation between Apo E gene polymorphism and patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) of phlegm-stasis syndrome (PSS). 78 CHD patients were assigned to PSS (49 cases) and non-phlegm-stasis syndrome (NPSS). Polymorphisms of Apo E gene in 78 CHD patients and 100 healthy subjects were detected by complete DNA sequencing. Five gene types as E3/3, E4/4, E2/ 3, E2/4, and E3/4 were detected in the two groups. The frequencies of genotype E3/3 and epsilon 3 allele were significantly lower in CHD patients than in the healthy subjects (P<0.01). But the frequencies of genotype E3/4 and epsilon 4 allele were significantly higher in CHD patients than in the healthy subjects (P<0.01). In CHD patients, the frequencies of genotype E2/4 + E3/4 + E4/4 and epsilon 4 allele were higher in PSS than in NPSS. Apo E epsilon 4 allele was a susceptible allele to CHD, which was closely correlated to CHD PSS. It was inferred that it might be one of main susceptible alleles for CHD PSS.

Posttraumatic stress symptomatology as a mediator of the association between military sexual trauma and post-deployment physical health in women.

PubMed

Smith, Brian N; Shipherd, Jillian C; Schuster, Jennifer L; Vogt, Dawne S; King, Lynda A; King, Daniel W

2011-01-01

This study examined posttraumatic stress symptomatology (PSS) as a mediator of the association between military sexual trauma and post-deployment physical health. Relationships were examined in a sample of 83 female veterans of the first Gulf War (1990-1991) approximately 10 years post-deployment. Participants reported on the frequency of sexual harassment and sexual assault experienced during deployment. Physical health was measured using participants' self-reports of pre-deployment and post-deployment symptoms within 7 body systems. Sexual harassment exposure was not found to be associated with PSS-mediated associations with physical health symptoms. However, sexual assault during deployment was found to be associated with PSS and 4 of the 7 health symptom clusters assessed: gastrointestinal, genitourinary, musculoskeletal, and neurological symptoms. Furthermore, PSS was found to be a significant mediator of the sexual assault-physical health relationship in each of these domains, with the indirect path accounting for 74% to 100% of the relationship. The findings from the current study indicate that sexual assault has detrimental associations with physical health and that PSS plays a primary role in that relationship.

Report on the Status of Project AMOS (Acoustic, Meteorological, and Oceanographic Survey) (1 January 1953 - 31 December 1954)

DTIC Science & Technology

1955-03-21

the existence of Echo Bank. 11 with Mk 4 4 with 4embs ogly DOG : This event mtarted at 222G4Z March. One 3periffat •tu h ML 4 hunired and two bombs were...1WPLUMS OWUL1SI HAM101ul I - 1WRURHCY IN K&~OCVLS o - ~Ui 0 OF kUM PSS 54 -I PT. POVIN MUS or WAS "Its NAM POrN "a 0 - -PLM -iLIq 4W ,14 OF" T A O-Kfl

Is the C-terminal flanking peptide of rat cholecystokinin double sulphated?

PubMed

Adrian, T E; Domin, J; Bacarese-Hamilton, A J; Bloom, S R

1986-02-03

A specific radioimmunoassay was developed to the predicted nine amino acid C-terminal flanking peptide of cholecystokinin (peptide serine serine, PSS). In aqueous extracts of rat brain, PSS was undetectable unless the extracts were first treated with arylsulphatase, which also resulted in desulphation of cholecystokinin. The reverse-phase HPLC analysis of partially desulphated extracts showed the presence of two peaks intermediate to the naturally occurring and the completely desulphated forms. It is therefore proposed that the CCK-flanking peptide PSS has both tyrosine residues sulphated.

Primary Sjogren's syndrome and the risk of acute pancreatitis: a nationwide cohort study.

PubMed

Chang, Chi-Ching; Chang, Yu-Sheng; Wang, Shu-Hung; Lin, Shyr-Yi; Chen, Yi-Hsuan; Chen, Jin Hua

2017-08-11

Studies on the risk of acute pancreatitis in patients with primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS) are limited. We evaluated the effects of pSS on the risk of acute pancreatitis in a nationwide, population-based cohort in Taiwan. Population-based retrospective cohort study. We studied the claims data of the >97% Taiwan population from 2002 to 2012. We identified 9468 patients with pSS by using the catastrophic illness registry of the National Health Insurance Database in Taiwan. We also selected 37 872 controls that were randomly frequency matched by age (in 5 year bands), sex and index year from the general population. We analysed the risk of acute pancreatitis by using Cox proportional hazards regression models including sex, age and comorbidities. From 23.74 million people in the cohort, 9468 patients with pSS (87% women, mean age=55.6 years) and 37 872 controls were followed-up for 4.64 and 4.74 years, respectively. A total of 44 cases of acute pancreatitis were identified in the pSS cohort versus 105 cases in the non-pSS cohort. Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that the incidence rate of acute pancreatitis was significantly higher in the pSS cohort than in the non-pSS cohort (adjusted HR (aHR) 1.48, 95% CI 1.03 to 2.12). Cyclophosphamide use increased the risk of acute pancreatitis (aHR 5.27, 95% CI 1.16 to 23.86). By contrast, hydroxychloroquine reduced the risk of acute pancreatitis (aHR 0.23, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.55). This nationwide, retrospective cohort study demonstrated that the risk of acute pancreatitis was significantly higher in patients with pSS than in the general population. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

The Malay Version of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS)-10 is a Reliable and Valid Measure for Stress among Nurses in Malaysia.

PubMed

Sandhu, Sukhvinder Singh; Ismail, Noor Hassim; Rampal, Krishna Gopal

2015-11-01

The Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10) is widely used to assess stress perception. The aim of this study was to translate the original PSS-10 into Malay and assess the reliability and validity of the Malay version among nurses. The Malay version of the PSS-10 was distributed among 229 nurses from four government hospitals in Selangor State. Test-retest reliability and concurrent validity was conducted with 25 nurses with the Malay version of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS) 21. Cronbach's alpha, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), intraclass correlation coefficient and Pearson's r correlation coefficient were used to determine the psychometric properties of the Malay PSS-10. Two factor components were yielded through exploratory factor analysis with eigenvalues of 3.37 and 2.10, respectively. Both of the factors accounted for 54.6% of the variance. CFA yielded a two-factor structure with satisfactory goodness-of-fit indices [x 2 /df = 2.43; comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.92, goodness-of-fit Index (GFI) = 0.94; standardised root mean square residual (SRMR) = 0.07 and root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.08 (90% CI = 0.07-0.09)]. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the total items was 0.63 (0.82 for factor 1 and 0.72 for factor 2). The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.81 (95% CI: 0.62-0.91) for test-retest reliability testing after seven days. The total score and the negative component of the PSS-10 correlated significantly with the stress component of the DASS-21: (r = 0.61, P < 0.001) and (r = 0.56, P < 0.004), respectively. The Malay version of the PSS-10 demonstrated a satisfactory level of validity and reliability to assess stress perception. Therefore, this questionnaire is valid in assessing stress perception among nurses in Malaysia.

Plaque Structural Stress Estimations Improve Prediction of Future Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events After Intracoronary Imaging.

PubMed

Brown, Adam J; Teng, Zhongzhao; Calvert, Patrick A; Rajani, Nikil K; Hennessy, Orla; Nerlekar, Nitesh; Obaid, Daniel R; Costopoulos, Charis; Huang, Yuan; Hoole, Stephen P; Goddard, Martin; West, Nick E J; Gillard, Jonathan H; Bennett, Martin R

2016-06-01

Although plaque rupture is responsible for most myocardial infarctions, few high-risk plaques identified by intracoronary imaging actually result in future major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Nonimaging markers of individual plaque behavior are therefore required. Rupture occurs when plaque structural stress (PSS) exceeds material strength. We therefore assessed whether PSS could predict future MACE in high-risk nonculprit lesions identified on virtual-histology intravascular ultrasound. Baseline nonculprit lesion features associated with MACE during long-term follow-up (median: 1115 days) were determined in 170 patients undergoing 3-vessel virtual-histology intravascular ultrasound. MACE was associated with plaque burden ≥70% (hazard ratio: 8.6; 95% confidence interval, 2.5-30.6; P<0.001) and minimal luminal area ≤4 mm(2) (hazard ratio: 6.6; 95% confidence interval, 2.1-20.1; P=0.036), although absolute event rates for high-risk lesions remained <10%. PSS derived from virtual-histology intravascular ultrasound was subsequently estimated in nonculprit lesions responsible for MACE (n=22) versus matched control lesions (n=22). PSS showed marked heterogeneity across and between similar lesions but was significantly increased in MACE lesions at high-risk regions, including plaque burden ≥70% (13.9±11.5 versus 10.2±4.7; P<0.001) and thin-cap fibroatheroma (14.0±8.9 versus 11.6±4.5; P=0.02). Furthermore, PSS improved the ability of virtual-histology intravascular ultrasound to predict MACE in plaques with plaque burden ≥70% (adjusted log-rank, P=0.003) and minimal luminal area ≤4 mm(2) (P=0.002). Plaques responsible for MACE had larger superficial calcium inclusions, which acted to increase PSS (P<0.05). Baseline PSS is increased in plaques responsible for MACE and improves the ability of intracoronary imaging to predict events. Biomechanical modeling may complement plaque imaging for risk stratification of coronary nonculprit lesions. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

The application of pentaprism scanning technology on the manufacturing of M3MP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qi, Erhui; Hu, Haixiang; Hu, Haifei; Cole, Glen; Luo, Xiao; Ford, Virginia; Zhang, Xuejun

2016-10-01

The PSS (pentaprism scanning system) has advantages of simple structure, needless of reference flat, be able of on-site testing, etc, it plays an important role in large flat reflective mirror's manufacturing, especially the high accuracy testing of low order aberrations. The PSS system measures directly the slope information of the tested flat surface. Aimed at the unique requirement of M3MP, which is the prototype mirror of the tertiary mirror in TMT (Thirty Meter Telescope) project, this paper analyzed the slope distribution of low order aberrations, power and astigmatism, which is very important in the manufacturing process of M3MP. Then the sample route lines of PSS are reorganized and new data process algorism is implemented. All this work is done to improve PSS's measure sensitivity of power and astigmatism, for guiding the manufacturing process of M3MP.

Stable angular emission spectra in white organic light-emitting diodes using graphene/PEDOT:PSS composite electrode.

PubMed

Cho, Hyunsu; Lee, Hyunkoo; Lee, Jonghee; Sung, Woo Jin; Kwon, Byoung-Hwa; Joo, Chul-Woong; Shin, Jin-Wook; Han, Jun-Han; Moon, Jaehyun; Lee, Jeong-Ik; Cho, Seungmin; Cho, Nam Sung

2017-05-01

In this work, we suggest a graphene/ poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) composite as a transparent electrode for stabilizing white emission of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). Graphene/PEDOT:PSS composite electrodes have increased reflectance when compared to graphene itself, but their reflectance is still lower than that of ITO itself. Changes in the reflectance of the composite electrode have the advantage of suppressing the angular spectral distortion of white emission OLEDs and achieving an efficiency of 16.6% for white OLEDs, comparable to that achieved by graphene-only electrodes. By controlling the OLED structure to compensate for the two-beam interference effect, the CIE color coordinate change (Δxy) of OLEDs based on graphene/PEDOT:PSS composite electrodes is 0.018, less than that based on graphene-only electrode, i.e.,0.027.

Hybrid organic/inorganic position-sensitive detectors based on PEDOT:PSS/n-Si

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Javadi, Mohammad; Gholami, Mahdiyeh; Torbatiyan, Hadis; Abdi, Yaser

2018-03-01

Various configurations like p-n junctions, metal-semiconductor Schottky barriers, and metal-oxide-semiconductor structures have been widely used in position-sensitive detectors. In this report, we propose a PEDOT:PSS/n-Si heterojunction as a hybrid organic/inorganic configuration for position-sensitive detectors. The influence of the thickness of the PEDOT:PSS layer, the wavelength of incident light, and the intensity of illumination on the device performance are investigated. The hybrid PSD exhibits very high sensitivity (>100 mV/mm), excellent nonlinearity (<3%), and a response correlation coefficient (>0.995) with a response time of <4 ms to the inhomogeneous IR illumination. The presented hybrid configuration also benefits from a straightforward low-temperature fabrication process. These advantages of the PEDOT:PSS/n-Si heterojunction are very promising for developing a new class of position-sensitive detectors based on the hybrid organic/inorganic junctions.

Highly efficient solution-processed phosphorescent organic light-emitting devices with double-stacked hole injection layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yuehua; Hao, Lin; Zhang, Xinwen; Zhang, Xiaolin; Liu, Mengjiao; Zhang, Mengke; Wang, Jiong; Lai, Wen-Yong; Huang, Wei

2017-08-01

In this paper, solution-processed nickel oxide (NiOx) is used as hole-injection layers (HILs) in solution-processed phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes (PhOLEDs). Serious exciton quenching is verified at the NiOx/emitting layer (EML) interface, resulting in worse device performance. The device performance is significantly improved by inserting a layer of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonic acid) (PEDOT:PSS) between the EML and NiOx. The solution-processed blue PhOLED with the double-stacked NiOx/PEDOT:PSS HILs shows a maximum current efficiency of 30.5 cd/A, which is 75% and 30% higher than those of the devices with a single NiOx HIL and a PEDOT:PSS HIL, respectively. Improvement of device efficiency can be attributed to reducing exciton quenching of the PEDOT:PSS layer as well as the electron blocking effect of the NiOx layer.

Plasma cytokine concentrations in dogs with a congenital portosystemic shunt.

PubMed

Kilpatrick, Scott; Gow, Adam G; Foale, Rob D; Tappin, Simon W; Carruthers, Harvey; Reed, Nicola; Yool, Donald A; Woods, Samantha; Marques, Ana I; Jalan, Rajiv; Mellanby, Richard J

2014-04-01

Congenital portosystemic shunts (cPSS) are a well-recognised vascular anomaly in dogs. Recent studies have shown an association between inflammation and hepatic encephalopathy (HE), which is a common clinical syndrome in dogs with a cPSS. Pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-6 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α are frequently increased in the plasma of human patients with liver disease and have been implicated in the development of HE. In the current study, plasma concentrations of IL-2, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α were measured using a multiplex electrochemiluminescence immunoassay in 36 dogs with a cPSS and compared to 25 healthy dogs. There were no significant differences in plasma IL-2, IL-8 and TNF-α concentrations between the two groups; however, plasma concentrations of IL-6 were significantly higher in dogs with a cPSS compared to healthy dogs (P=0.02). Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

PUA/PSS multilayer coated CaCO3 microparticles as smart drug delivery vehicles.

PubMed

Du, Chao; Shi, Jun; Shi, Jin; Zhang, Li; Cao, Shaokui

2013-10-01

Hybrid CaCO3 microparticles coated by sodium poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS) and aliphatic poly(urethane-amine) (PUA) were developed as thermal-/pH-responsive drug delivery vehicles via LbL self-assembly technique. The DOX release from the CaCO3 microparticles was higher than 60% within 36 h, whereas the value of PUA/PSS-coated microparticles was only 20%. The results demonstrated that the PUA/PSS multilayer coating could reduce the drug release rate and significantly assuage the initial burst release of DOX. In addition, the drug release of the hybrid microparticles was found to be thermal-/pH-dual responsive. More interestingly, more than 90% of DOX was released in 36 h at pH2.1 and 55 °C owing to the combined action of the dissolution of the CaCO3 core and the shrinkage of aliphatic PUA. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Rear-Sided Passivation by SiNx:H Dielectric Layer for Improved Si/PEDOT:PSS Hybrid Heterojunction Solar Cells.

PubMed

Sun, Yiling; Gao, Pingqi; He, Jian; Zhou, Suqiong; Ying, Zhiqin; Yang, Xi; Xiang, Yong; Ye, Jichun

2016-12-01

Silicon/organic hybrid solar cells have recently attracted great attention because they combine the advantages of silicon (Si) and the organic cells. In this study, we added a patterned passivation layer of silicon nitride (SiNx:H) onto the rear surface of the Si substrate in a Si/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) ( PSS) hybrid solar cell, enabling an improvement of 0.6 % in the power conversion efficiency (PCE). The addition of the SiNx:H layer boosted the open circuit voltage (V oc) from 0.523 to 0.557 V, suggesting the well-passivation property of the patterned SiNx:H thin layer that was created by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition and lithography processes. The passivation properties that stemmed from front PSS, rear-SiNx:H, front PSS/rear-SiNx:H, etc. are thoroughly investigated, in consideration of the process-related variations.

Sexual and relational satisfaction in couples where the woman has polycystic ovary syndrome: a dyadic analysis.

PubMed

De Frène, V; Verhofstadt, L; Loeys, T; Stuyver, I; Buysse, A; De Sutter, P

2015-03-01

How are objective characteristics of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and PCOS-related concerns associated with the sexual and relational satisfaction of PCOS women and their partners? Both objective PCOS characteristics (parity, women's body mass index (BMI) and current unfulfilled wish to conceive) and PCOS-related concerns (women's infertility-related and acne-related concerns) were associated with sexual and/or relational satisfaction, although some associations differed for PCOS women and their partners. There is some evidence indicating an association between objective PCOS characteristics and sexual satisfaction of PCOS women, but this evidence is conflicting, scarce, and often validated questionnaires have not been used to evaluate sexual satisfaction. No evidence is available about the association of: (i) PCOS with relational satisfaction; (ii) PCOS-related concerns with sexual and relational satisfaction; and (iii) PCOS with sexual and relational satisfaction as experienced by partners of PCOS women. We set up a cross-sectional study from April 2007 until April 2009, including 31 overweight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m(2)) women with PCOS and at a reproductive age as well as their partners with whom they had a committed intimate relationship at the time of recruitment. The study was performed at the fertility center of the Ghent University Hospital. Objective PCOS characteristics were registered and PCOS-related concerns were evaluated by the PCOS Questionnaire. Sexual (SS) and relational (RS) satisfaction were measured by the Maudsley Marital Questionnaire (MMQ). Dyadic statistical analyses were performed using linear mixed models (α < 0.05). A lower parity tended to be associated with higher levels of sexual and relational satisfaction, with a significantly stronger association in PCOS women than in their partners (p(SS) = 0.015 and p(RS) = 0.009). A higher BMI tended to be associated with lower and higher satisfaction levels (sexual and relational) in PCOS women and their partners, respectively, with a significantly stronger association in the partners (p(SS) = 0.029 and p(RS) = 0.021). The presence of a current unfulfilled wish to conceive and a higher level of infertility-related concerns was significantly more strongly associated with a higher level of relational satisfaction for PCOS women than for their partners (p(RS) = 0.021 and p(RS) = 0.011, respectively). Higher levels of acne-related concern were significantly associated with lower levels of sexual satisfaction in both PCOS women (p(SS) = 0.025) and their partners (p(SS) = 0.002). The fact that this study was performed in a sample of PCOS women who were all overweight and the small sample size are important limitations. Data were partially missing in some couples but this limitation was dealt with by using linear mixed models. Our results suggest a differential association of PCOS with sexual and relational satisfaction between PCOS women and their partners. This should be kept in mind during the psychological guidance of couples dealing with PCOS. V.D.F. is holder of a Special PhD Fellowship of the Flemish Foundation for Scientific Research (FWO-Vlaanderen). P.D.S. is holder of a fundamental clinical research mandate of the Flemish Foundation for Scientific Research (FWO-Vlaanderen). This research also received financial support by Merck Serono and Artevelde University College Ghent. There are no competing interests. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

A novel approach to a fine particle coating using porous spherical silica as core particles.

PubMed

Ishida, Makoto; Uchiyama, Jumpei; Isaji, Keiko; Suzuki, Yuta; Ikematsu, Yasuyuki; Aoki, Shigeru

2014-08-01

Abstract The applicability of porous spherical silica (PSS) was evaluated as core particles for pharmaceutical products by comparing it with commercial core particles such as mannitol (NP-108), sucrose and microcrystalline cellulose spheres. We investigated the physical properties of core particles, such as particle size distribution, flow properties, crushing strength, plastic limit, drying rate, hygroscopic property and aggregation degree. It was found that PSS was a core particle of small particle size, low friability, high water adsorption capacity, rapid drying rate and lower occurrence of particle aggregation, although wettability is a factor to be carefully considered. The aggregation and taste-masking ability using PSS and NP-108 as core particles were evaluated at a fluidized-bed coating process. The functional coating under the excess spray rate shows different aggregation trends and dissolution profiles between PSS and NP-108; thereby, exhibiting the formation of uniform coating under the excess spray rate in the case of PSS. This expands the range of the acceptable spray feed rates to coat fine particles, and indicates the possibility of decreasing the coating time. The results obtained in this study suggested that the core particle, which has a property like that of PSS, was useful in overcoming such disadvantages as large particle size, which feels gritty in oral cavity; particle aggregation; and the long coating time of the particle coating process. These results will enable the practical fine particle coating method by increasing the range of optimum coating conditions and decreasing the coating time in fluidized bed technology.

Packaging signals in two single-stranded RNA viruses imply a conserved assembly mechanism and geometry of the packaged genome.

PubMed

Dykeman, Eric C; Stockley, Peter G; Twarock, Reidun

2013-09-09

The current paradigm for assembly of single-stranded RNA viruses is based on a mechanism involving non-sequence-specific packaging of genomic RNA driven by electrostatic interactions. Recent experiments, however, provide compelling evidence for sequence specificity in this process both in vitro and in vivo. The existence of multiple RNA packaging signals (PSs) within viral genomes has been proposed, which facilitates assembly by binding coat proteins in such a way that they promote the protein-protein contacts needed to build the capsid. The binding energy from these interactions enables the confinement or compaction of the genomic RNAs. Identifying the nature of such PSs is crucial for a full understanding of assembly, which is an as yet untapped potential drug target for this important class of pathogens. Here, for two related bacterial viruses, we determine the sequences and locations of their PSs using Hamiltonian paths, a concept from graph theory, in combination with bioinformatics and structural studies. Their PSs have a common secondary structure motif but distinct consensus sequences and positions within the respective genomes. Despite these differences, the distributions of PSs in both viruses imply defined conformations for the packaged RNA genomes in contact with the protein shell in the capsid, consistent with a recent asymmetric structure determination of the MS2 virion. The PS distributions identified moreover imply a preferred, evolutionarily conserved assembly pathway with respect to the RNA sequence with potentially profound implications for other single-stranded RNA viruses known to have RNA PSs, including many animal and human pathogens. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Device performance and lifetime of polymer:fullerene solar cells with UV-ozone-irradiated hole-collecting buffer layers.

PubMed

Lee, Seungsoo; Nam, Sungho; Lee, Hyena; Kim, Hwajeong; Kim, Youngkyoo

2011-11-18

We report the influence of UV-ozone irradiation of the hole-collecting buffer layers on the performance and lifetime of polymer:fullerene solar cells. UV-ozone irradiation was targeted at the surface of the poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) layers by varying the irradiation time up to 600 s. The change of the surface characteristics in the PEDOT:PSS after UV-ozone irradiation was measured by employing optical absorption spectroscopy, photoelectron yield spectroscopy, and contact angle measurements, while Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy techniques were introduced for more microscopic analysis. Results showed that the UV-ozone irradiation changed the chemical structure/composition of the surface of the PEDOT:PSS layers leading to the gradual increase of ionization potential with irradiation time in the presence of up-and-down variations in the contact angle (polarity). This surface property change was attributed to the formation of oxidative components, as evidenced by XPS and Auger electron images, which affected the sheet resistance of the PEDOT:PSS layers. Interestingly, device performance was slightly improved by short irradiation (up to 10 s), whereas it was gradually decreased by further irradiation. The short-duration illumination test showed that the lifetime of solar cells with the UV-ozone irradiated PEDOT:PSS layer was improved due to the protective role of the oxidative components formed upon UV-ozone irradiation against the attack of sulfonic acid groups in the PEDOT:PSS layer to the active layer. Copyright © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Align and random electrospun mat of PEDOT:PSS and PEDOT:PSS/RGO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarabi, Ghazale Asghari; Latifi, Masoud; Bagherzadeh, Roohollah

2018-01-01

In this research work we fabricated two ultrafine conductive nanofibrous layers to investigate the materilas composition and their properties for the preparation of supercapacitor materials application. In first layer, a polymer and a conductive polymer were used and second layer was a composition of polymer, conductive polymer and carbon-base material. In both cases align and randomized mat of conductive nanofibers were fabricated using electrospinning set up. Conductive poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/ polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) nanofibers were electrospun by dissolving fiber-forming polymer and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) in an aqueous dispersion of PEDOT:PSS. The effect of addition of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was considered for nanocomposite layer. The ultrafine conductive polymer fibers and conductive nanocomposite fibrous materials were also fabricated using an electrospinning process. A fixed collector and a rotating drum were used for random and align nanofibers production, respectively. The resulted fibers were characterized and analyzed by SEM, FTIR and two-point probe conductivity test. The average diameter of nanofibers measured by ImageJ software indicated that the average fiber diameter for first layer was 100 nm and for nanocomposite layer was about 85 nm. The presence of PEDOT:PSS and RGO in the nanofibers was confirmed by FT-IR spectroscopy. The conductivity of align and random layers was characterized. The conductivity of PEDOT:PSS nanofibers showed higher enhancement by addition of RGO in aqueous dispersion. The obtained results showed that alignment of fibrous materials can be considered as an engineering tool for tuning the conductivity of fibrous materials for many different applications such as supercapacitors, conductive and transparent materials.

Acute effect of passive static stretching on lower-body strength in moderately trained men.

PubMed

Gergley, Jeffrey C

2013-04-01

The purpose of this investigation was conducted to determine the acute effect of passive static stretching (PSS) of the lower-body musculature on lower-body strength in a 1 repetition maximum (1RM) squat exercise in young (18-24 years.) moderately trained men (n = 17). Two supervised warm-up treatments were applied before each performance testing session using a counterbalanced design on nonconsecutive days. The first treatment consisted of an active dynamic warm-up (AD) with resistance machines (i.e., leg extension/leg flexion) and free weights (i.e., barbell squat), whereas the second treatment added PSS of the lower body plus the AD treatment. One repetition maximum was determined using the maximum barbell squat following a progressive loading protocol. Subjects were also asked to subjectively evaluate their lower-body stability during 1RM testing sessions for both the AD and PSS treatments. A significant decrease in 1RM (8.36%) and lower-body stability (22.68%) was observed after the PSS treatment. Plausible explanations for this observation may be related to a more compliant muscle tendon unit and/or altered or impaired neurologic function in the active musculature. It is also possible that strength was impaired by the PSS because of joint instability. The findings of this study suggest that intensive stretching such as lower-body PSS should be avoided before training the lower body or performing the 1RM in the squat exercise in favor of an AD dynamic warm-up using resistance training equipment in the lower-body musculature.

Unraveling the Underlying Arrhythmia Mechanism in Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: Results From the STARLIGHT Study.

PubMed

Child, Nicholas; Clayton, Richard H; Roney, Caroline R; Laughner, Jacob I; Shuros, Allan; Neuzil, Petr; Petru, Jan; Jackson, Tom; Porter, Bradley; Bostock, Julian; Niederer, Steven A; Razavi, Reza S; Rinaldi, Christopher A; Taggart, Peter; Wright, Matthew J; Gill, Jaswinder

2018-06-01

The mechanisms that initiate and sustain persistent atrial fibrillation are not well characterized. Ablation results remain significantly worse than in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in which the mechanism is better understood and subsequent targeted therapy has been developed. The aim of this study was to characterize and quantify patterns of activation during atrial fibrillation using contact mapping. Patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (n=14; mean age, 61±8 years; ejection fraction, 59±10%) underwent simultaneous biatrial contact mapping with 64 electrode catheters. The atrial electrograms were transformed into phase, and subsequent spatiotemporal mapping was performed to identify phase singularities (PSs). PSs were located in both atria, but we observed more PSs in the left atrium compared with the right atrium (779±302, 552±235; P =0.015). Although some PSs of duration sufficient to complete >1 rotation were detected, the maximum PS duration was only 1150 ms, and the vast majority (97%) of PSs persisted for too short a period to complete a full rotation. Although in selected patients there was evidence of PS local clustering, overall, PSs were distributed globally throughout both chambers with no clear anatomic predisposition. In a subset of patients (n=7), analysis was repeated using an alternative established atrial PS mapping technique, which confirmed our initial findings. No sustained rotors or localized drivers were detected, and instead, the mechanism of arrhythmia maintenance was consistent with the multiple wavelet hypothesis, with passive activation of short-lived rotational activity. URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT01765075. © 2018 American Heart Association, Inc.

Investigating the chemical mist deposition technique for poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) on textured crystalline-silicon for organic/crystalline-silicon heterojunction solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hossain, Jaker; Ohki, Tatsuya; Ichikawa, Koki; Fujiyama, Kazuhiko; Ueno, Keiji; Fujii, Yasuhiko; Hanajiri, Tatsuro; Shirai, Hajime

2016-03-01

Chemical mist deposition (CMD) of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) was investigated in terms of cavitation frequency f, solvent, flow rate of nitrogen, substrate temperature Ts, and substrate dc bias Vs as variables for efficient PEDOT:PSS/crystalline silicon (c-Si) heterojunction solar cells. The high-speed-camera and differential mobility analysis characterizations revealed that the average size and flux of PEDOT:PSS mist depend on f, type of solvent, and Vs. Film deposition occurred when positive Vs was applied to the c-Si substrate at Ts of 30-40 °C, whereas no deposition of films occurred with negative Vs, implying that the film is deposited mainly from negatively charged mist. The uniform deposition of PEDOT:PSS films occurred on textured c-Si(100) substrates by adjusting Ts and Vs. The adhesion of CMD PEDOT:PSS film to c-Si was greatly enhanced by applying substrate dc bias Vs compared with that of spin-coated film. The CMD PEDOT:PSS/c-Si heterojunction solar cell devices on textured c-Si(100) in 2 × 2 cm2 exhibited a power conversion efficiency η of 11.0% with better uniformity of the solar cell parameters. Furthermore, η was increased to 12.5% by adding an AR coating layer of molybdenum oxide MoOx formed by CMD. These findings suggest that CMD with negatively charged mist has great potential for the uniform deposition of organic and inorganic materials on textured c-Si substrates by suitably adjusting Ts and Vs.

Solvent-induced changes in PEDOT:PSS films for organic electrochemical transistors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, Shiming; Kumar, Prajwal; Nouas, Amel Sarah

2015-01-01

Organic electrochemical transistors based on the conducting polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) doped with poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) are of interest for several bioelectronic applications. In this letter, we investigate the changes induced by immersion of PEDOT:PSS films, processed by spin coating from different mixtures, in water and other solvents of different polarities. We found that the film thickness decreases upon immersion in polar solvents, while the electrical conductivity remains unchanged. The decrease in film thickness is minimized via the addition of a cross-linking agent to the mixture used for the spin coating of the films.

High Performance of Supercapacitor from PEDOT:PSS Electrode and Redox Iodide Ion Electrolyte

PubMed Central

Gao, Xing; Zu, Lei; Cai, Xiaomin; Li, Ce; Lian, Huiqin; Liu, Yang; Wang, Xiaodong; Cui, Xiuguo

2018-01-01

Insufficient energy density and poor cyclic stability is still challenge for conductive polymer-based supercapacitor. Herein, high performance electrochemical system has been assembled by combining poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT):poly (styrene sulfonate) (PSS) redox electrode and potassium iodide redox electrolyte, which provide the maximum specific capacity of 51.3 mAh/g and the retention of specific capacity of 87.6% after 3000 cycles due to the synergic effect through a simultaneous redox reaction both in electrode and electrolyte, as well as the catalytic activity for reduction of triiodide of the PEDOT:PSS. PMID:29772662

Relation between secondary doping and phase separation in PEDOT:PSS films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Donoval, Martin; Micjan, Michal; Novota, Miroslav; Nevrela, Juraj; Kovacova, Sona; Pavuk, Milan; Juhasz, Peter; Jagelka, Martin; Kovac, Jaroslav; Jakabovic, Jan; Cigan, Marek; Weis, Martin

2017-02-01

Conductive copolymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) has been proposed as an alternative to transparent conductive oxides because of its flexibility, transparency, and low-cost production. Four different secondary dopants, namely N,N-dimethylformamide, ethyleneglycol, sorbitol, and dimethyl sulfoxide, have been used to improve the conductivity. The relation between the structure changes and conductivity enhancement is studied in detail. Atomic force microscopy study of the thin film surface reveals the phase separation of PEDOT and PSS. We demonstrate that secondary doping induces the phase separation as well as the conductivity enhancement.

Application of solvent modified PEDOT:PSS to graphene electrodes in organic solar cells.

PubMed

Park, Hyesung; Shi, Yumeng; Kong, Jing

2013-10-07

Graphene has been proposed as a promising transparent conducting electrode material in organic photovoltaic (OPV) solar cells to substitute the widely used indium tin oxide (ITO). Various studies have reported OPV devices with graphene electrodes showing comparable performances to ITO-based OPV cells. However, the fabrication reliability or device yield has not been widely discussed. In our investigation it was found that graphene-based OPVs tend to have much lower device yield than the ITO-based ones if similar fabrication processes are used. One possible reason could be due to the challenge faced in obtaining a uniform coating of PEDOT:PSS hole injection layer (HIL) on graphene. In fact, several attempts have been made to overcome this challenge. In this work, we report a facile method of solvent modification of PEDOT:PSS to achieve a homogeneous coating on graphene. A significant enhancement in the device yield was observed as compared to devices using normal aqueous solution based PEDOT:PSS; nevertheless, it was still only ∼50%. Further improvement was made by adding an additional electron blocking layer (EBL), molybdenum trioxide, after the coating of PEDOT:PSS. The observation in this work calls for further investigation to understand the role played by the HIL or EBL in graphene-based OPV devices.

Screen-Printed Fabrication of PEDOT:PSS/Silver Nanowire Composite Films for Transparent Heaters.

PubMed

He, Xin; He, Ruihui; Lan, Qiuming; Wu, Weijie; Duan, Feng; Xiao, Jundong; Zhang, Mei; Zeng, Qingguang; Wu, Jianhao; Liu, Junyan

2017-02-23

A transparent and flexible film heater was fabricated; based on a hybrid structure of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) and silver nanowires (Ag NWs) using a screen printing; which is a scalable production technology. The resulting film integrates the advantages of the two conductive materials; easy film-forming and strong adhesion to the substrate of the polymer PEDOT:PSS; and high conductivity of the Ag NWs. The fabricated composite films with different NW densities exhibited the transmittance within the range from 82.3% to 74.1% at 550 nm. By applying 40 V potential on the films; a stable temperature from 49 °C to 99 °C was generated within 30 s to 50 s. However; the surface temperature of the pristine PEDOT:PSS film did not increase compared to the room temperature. The composite film with the transmittance of 74.1% could be heated to the temperatures from 41 °C to 99 °C at the driven voltages from 15 V to 40 V; indicating that the film heater exhibited uniform heating and rapid thermal response. Therefore; the PEDOT:PSS/Ag NW composite film is a promising candidate for the application of the transparent and large-scale film heaters.

Nanoscale Polysulfides Reactors Achieved by Chemical Au-S Interaction: Improving the Performance of Li-S Batteries on the Electrode Level.

PubMed

Fan, Chao-Ying; Xiao, Pin; Li, Huan-Huan; Wang, Hai-Feng; Zhang, Lin-Lin; Sun, Hai-Zhu; Wu, Xing-Long; Xie, Hai-Ming; Zhang, Jing-Ping

2015-12-23

In this work, the chemical interaction of cathode and lithium polysulfides (LiPSs), which is a more targeted approach for completely preventing the shuttle of LiPSs in lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries, has been established on the electrode level. Through simply posttreating the ordinary sulfur cathode in atmospheric environment just for several minutes, the Au nanoparticles (Au NPs) were well-decorated on/in the surface and pores of the electrode composed of commercial acetylene black (CB) and sulfur powder. The Au NPs can covalently stabilize the sulfur/LiPSs, which is advantageous for restricting the shuttle effect. Moreover, the LiPSs reservoirs of Au NPs with high conductivity can significantly control the deposition of the trapped LiPSs, contributing to the uniform distribution of sulfur species upon charging/discharging. The slight modification of the cathode with <3 wt % Au NPs has favorably prospered the cycle capacity and stability of Li-S batteries. Moreover, this cathode exhibited an excellent anti-self-discharge ability. The slight decoration for the ordinary electrode, which can be easily accessed in the industrial process, provides a facile strategy for improving the performance of commercial carbon-based Li-S batteries toward practical application.

Graphene oxide/PEDOT:PSS composite hole transport layer for efficient and stable planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells.

PubMed

Lee, Da-Young; Na, Seok-In; Kim, Seok-Soon

2016-01-21

We investigated a graphene oxide (GO)/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) ( PSS) composite as a promising candidate for the practical application of a 2-D carbonaceous hole transport layer (HTL) to planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells (PeSCs) consisting of a transparent electrode/HTL/perovskite/fullerene/metal electrode. Both the insulating properties of GO and the non-uniform coating of the transparent electrode with GO cause the poor morphology of perovskite induced low power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 6.4%. On the other hand, PeSCs with a GO/PEDOT:PSS composite HTL, exhibited a higher PCE of 9.7% than that of a device fabricated with conventional PSS showing a PCE of 8.2%. The higher performance is attributed to the decreased series resistance (RS) and increased shunt resistance (RSh). The well-matched work-function between GO (4.9 eV) and PSS (5.1 eV) probably results in more efficient charge transport and an overall decrease in RS. The existence of GO with a large bandgap of ∼3.6 eV might induce the effective blocking of electrons, leading to an increase of RSh. Moreover, improvement in the long-term stability under atmospheric conditions was observed.

Buried MoO x/Ag Electrode Enables High-Efficiency Organic/Silicon Heterojunction Solar Cells with a High Fill Factor.

PubMed

Xia, Zhouhui; Gao, Peng; Sun, Teng; Wu, Haihua; Tan, Yeshu; Song, Tao; Lee, Shuit-Tong; Sun, Baoquan

2018-04-25

Silicon (Si)/organic heterojunction solar cells based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) and n-type Si have attracted wide interests because they promise cost-effectiveness and high-efficiency. However, the limited conductivity of PEDOT:PSS leads to an inefficient hole transport efficiency for the heterojunction device. Therefore, a high dense top-contact metal grid electrode is required to assure the efficient charge collection efficiency. Unfortunately, the large metal grid coverage ratio electrode would lead to undesirable optical loss. Here, we develop a strategy to balance PEDOT:PSS conductivity and grid optical transmittance via a buried molybdenum oxide/silver grid electrode. In addition, the grid electrode coverage ratio is optimized to reduce its light shading effect. The buried electrode dramatically reduces the device series resistance, which leads to a higher fill factor (FF). With the optimized buried electrode, a record FF of 80% is achieved for flat Si/PEDOT:PSS heterojunction devices. With further enhancement adhesion between the PEDOT:PSS film and Si substrate by a chemical cross-linkable silance, a power conversion efficiency of 16.3% for organic/textured Si heterojunction devices is achieved. Our results provide a path to overcome the inferior organic semiconductor property to enhance the organic/Si heterojunction solar cell.

Stimulation of immune systems by conjugated polymers and their potential as an alternative vaccine adjuvant.

PubMed

Gong, Hua; Xiang, Jian; Xu, Ligeng; Song, Xuejiao; Dong, Ziliang; Peng, Rui; Liu, Zhuang

2015-12-07

Recently, conjugated polymers have been widely explored in the field of nanomedicine. Careful evaluations of their biological effects are thus urgently needed. Hereby, we systematically evaluated the biological effects of different types of conjugated polymers on macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs), which play critical roles in the innate and adaptive immune systems, respectively. While naked poly-(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4-styrenesulfonate) ( PSS) exhibits a high level of cytotoxicity, polyethylene glycol (PEG) modified PSS (PEDOT:PSS-PEG) shows greatly reduced toxicity to various types of cells. To our surprise, PEGylation of PSS could obviously enhance the cellular uptake of these nanoparticles, leading to subsequent immune stimulations of both macrophages and DCs. In contrast, another type of conjugated polymer, polypyrrole (PPy), is found to be an inert material with neither significant cytotoxicity nor noticeable immune-stimulation activity. Interestingly, utilizing ovalbumin (OVA) as a model antigen, it is further uncovered in our ex vivo experiment that PSS-PEG may serve as an adjuvant to greatly enhance the immunogenicity of OVA upon simple mixing. Our study on the one hand suggests the promise of developing novel nano-adjuvants based on conjugated polymers, and on the other hand highlights the importance of careful evaluations of the impacts of any new nanomaterials developed for nanomedicine on the immune systems.

Hybrid UV-Ozone-Treated rGO-PEDOT:PSS as an Efficient Hole Transport Material in Inverted Planar Perovskite Solar Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Shuying; Huang, Xiaona; Sun, Haoxuan; Wu, Chunyang

2017-12-01

Inverted planar perovskite solar cells (PSCs), which are regarded as promising devices for new generation of photovoltaic systems, show many advantages, such as low-temperature film formation, low-cost fabrication, and smaller hysteresis compared with those of traditional n-i-p PSCs. As an important carrier transport layer in PSCs, the hole transport layer (HTL) considerably affects the device performance. Therefore, HTL modification becomes one of the most critical issues in improving the performance of PSCs. In this paper, we report an effective and environmentally friendly UV-ozone treatment method to enhance the hydrophilia of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with its excellent electrical performance. The treated rGO was applied to doped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) poly(styrene-sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) as HTL material of PSCs. Consequently, the performance of rGO/PEDOT:PSS-doped PSCs was improved significantly, with power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 10.7%, Jsc of 16.75 mA/cm2, Voc of 0.87 V, and FF of 75%. The PCE of this doped PSCs was 27% higher than that of the PSCs with pristine PEDOT:PSS as HTL. This performance was attributed to the excellent surface morphology and optimized hole mobility of the solution-processable rGO-modified PEDOT:PSS.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, Qin; Chueh, Chu -Chen; Eslamian, Morteza

Inverted p-i-n perovskite solar cells (PVSCs) using PEDOT:PSS as the hole-transporting layer (HTL) is one of the most widely adopted device structures thus far due to its facile processability and good compatibility for high throughput manufacturing processes. However, most of the PEDOT:PSS-based CH 3NH 3PbI 3 PVSCs reported to date suffered an inferior open-circuit voltage (V OC) (0.88-0.95 V) compared to that (1.05-1.12 V) obtained for common CH 3NH 3PbI 3 PVSCs, revealing a severe potential loss issue. Herein, we describe a simple method to alleviate this problem by tuning the pH value of PEDOT:PSS with a mild base, imidazole.more » Accompanied by the pH modulation, the blended imidazole concurrently tailors the surface texture and electronic properties of PEDOT:PSS to promote the quality and crystallization of the perovskite film deposited on top of it and enable better energy-level alignment at this corresponding interface. Consequently, the PVSC using this modified PEDOT:PSS HTL yields an enhanced power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 15.7% with an enlarged V OC of 1.06 V and improved long-term stability. Lastly, these outperform the pristine device showing a PCE of 12.7% with a much smaller V OC of 0.88 V and unsatisfactory environmental stability.« less

Ultralight Graphene Foam/Conductive Polymer Composites for Exceptional Electromagnetic Interference Shielding.

PubMed

Wu, Ying; Wang, Zhenyu; Liu, Xu; Shen, Xi; Zheng, Qingbin; Xue, Quan; Kim, Jang-Kyo

2017-03-15

Ultralight, high-performance electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding graphene foam (GF)/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) composites are developed by drop coating of PEDOT:PSS on cellular-structured, freestanding GFs. To enhance the wettability and the interfacial bonds with PEDOT:PSS, GFs are functionalized with 4-dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid. The GF/PEDOT:PSS composites possess an ultralow density of 18.2 × 10 -3 g/cm 3 and a high porosity of 98.8%, as well as an enhanced electrical conductivity by almost 4 folds from 11.8 to 43.2 S/cm after the incorporation of the conductive PEDOT:PSS. Benefiting from the excellent electrical conductivity, ultralight porous structure, and effective charge delocalization, the composites deliver remarkable EMI shielding performance with a shielding effectiveness (SE) of 91.9 dB and a specific SE (SSE) of 3124 dB·cm 3 /g, both of which are the highest among those reported in the literature for carbon-based polymer composites. The excellent electrical conductivities of composites arising from both the GFs with three-dimensionally interconnected conductive networks and the conductive polymer coating, as well as the left-handed composites with absolute permittivity and/or permeability larger than one give rise to significant microwave attenuation by absorption.

Measuring posttraumatic stress following childbirth: a critical evaluation of instruments.

PubMed

Stramrood, Claire A I; Huis In 't Veld, Elisabeth M J; Van Pampus, Maria G; Berger, Leonard W A R; Vingerhoets, Ad J J M; Schultz, Willibrord C M Weijmar; Van den Berg, Paul P; Van Sonderen, Eric L P; Paarlberg, K Marieke

2010-03-01

To evaluate instruments used to assess posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following childbirth with both quantitative (reliability analysis and factor analysis) and qualitative (comparison of operationalization) techniques. An unselected population of 428 women completed the Traumatic Event Scale-B (TES-B) and the PTSD Symptom Scale-Self Report (PSS-SR) 2-6 months after delivery. Assessment of internal consistency yielded similar results for the TES-B and PSS-SR (Cronbach's alpha = 0.87 and 0.82, respectively). Factor analysis revealed two rather than three DSM-IV symptom categories for both instruments: childbirth-related factors (re-experiencing/ avoidance) and symptoms of depression and anxiety (numbing/hyperarousal). Although the TES-B and the PSS-SR sum-scores show a strong relationship (Spearmans rho = 0.78), agreement between the instruments on the identification of PTSD cases is low (kappa = 0.24); discrepancy between TES-B and PSS-SR is largely due to differences in instruction to respondents, formulation of items, answer categories, and cut-off values. Large operationalization differences between TES-B and PSS-SR have been identified, i.e., in the formulation of questions, answer categories, cut-off values and instructions to respondents. Comparison between studies using different instruments for measuring PTSD following childbirth should be done with utmost caution.

Increased effective reflection and transmission at the GaN-sapphire interface of LEDs grown on patterned sapphire substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dongxue, Wu; Ping, Ma; Boting, Liu; Shuo, Zhang; Junxi, Wang; Jinmin, Li

2016-10-01

The effect of patterned sapphire substrate (PSS) on the top-surface (P-GaN-surface) and the bottom-surface (sapphire-surface) of the light output power (LOP) of GaN-based LEDs was investigated, in order to study the changes in reflection and transmission of the GaN-sapphire interface. Experimental research and computer simulations were combined to reveal a great enhancement in LOP from either the top or bottom surface of GaN-based LEDs, which are prepared on patterned sapphire substrates (PSS-LEDs). Furthermore, the results were compared to those of the conventional LEDs prepared on the planar sapphire substrates (CSS-LEDs). A detailed theoretical analysis was also presented to further support the explanation for the increase in both the effective reflection and transmission of PSS-GaN interface layers and to explain the causes of increased LOP values. Moreover, the bottom-surface of the PSS-LED chip shows slightly increased light output performance when compared to that of the top-surface. Therefore, the light extraction efficiency (LEE) can be further enhanced by integrating the method of PSS and flip-chip structure design. Project supported by the National High Technology Program of China (No. Y48A040000) and the National High Technology Program of China (No. Y48A040000).

Low-Temperature Synthesis of Anatase TiO2 Nanoparticles with Tunable Surface Charges for Enhancing Photocatalytic Activity

PubMed Central

Li, Ye; Qin, Zhenping; Guo, Hongxia; Yang, Hanxiao; Zhang, Guojun; Ji, Shulan; Zeng, Tingying

2014-01-01

In this work, the positively or negatively charged anatase TiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized via a low temperature precipitation-peptization process (LTPPP) in the presence of poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI) and poly(sodium4- styrenesulfonate) (PSS). X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern and high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) confirmed the anatase crystalline phase. The charges of the prepared TiO2, PEI-TiO2 and PSS-TiO2 nanoparticles were investigated by zeta potentials. The results showed that the zeta potentials of PEI-TiO2 nanoparticles can be tuned from +39.47 mV to +95.46 mV, and that of PSS-TiO2 nanoparticles can be adjusted from −56.63 mV to −119.32 mV. In comparison with TiO2, PSS-TiO2 exhibited dramatic adsorption and degradation of dye molecules, while the PEI modified TiO2 nanoparticles showed lower photocatalytic activity. The photocatalytic performances of these charged nanoparticles were elucidated by the results of UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS) and the photoluminescence (PL) spectra, which indicated that the PSS-TiO2 nanoparticles showed a lower recombination rate of electron-hole pairs than TiO2 and PEI-TiO2. PMID:25506839

Fully solution processed PEDOT:PSS and silver nanowire semitransparent electrodes for thin film solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vaagensmith, Bjorn

Building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), such as semitransparent organic solar cells (OSC) for power generating windows, is a promising method for implementing renewable energy under the looming threat of depleting fossil fuels. OSC require a solution processed transparent electrode to be cost effective; but typically employ a non-solution processed indium tin oxide (ITO) transparent electrode. PEDOT:PSS and silver nanowire transparent electrodes have emerged as a promising alternative to ITO and are solution processed compatible. However, PEDOT:PSS requires a strong acid treatment, which is incompatible with high throughput solution processed fabrication techniques. Silver nanowires suffer from a short lifetime when subject to electrical stress. The goals of this work were to fabricate a PEDOT:PSS electrodes without using strong acids, a silver nanowire electrode with a lifetime that can exceed 6000 hours of constant electrical stress, and use these two electrodes to fabricate a semitransparent OSC. Exploring optimal solvent blend additives in conjunction with solvent bend post treatments for PEDOT:PSS electrodes could provide an acid free method that results in comparable sheet resistance and transmittance of ITO electrodes. Silver nanowires fail under electrical stress due to sulfur corrosion and Joule heating (which melts and breaks apart electrical contact). A silver oxide layer coating the nanowires could hinder sulfur corrosion and help redistribute heat. Moreover, nanowires with thicker diameters could also exhibit higher heat tolerance and take longer to corrode. Four layer PEDOT:PSS electrodes with optimal solvent blend additives and post treatments were fabricated by spin coating. Silver nanowire electrodes of varying nanowire diameter with and without UV-ozone treatment were fabricated by spray coating and subject to electrical stress of 20 mA/cm2 constant current density. PEDOT:PSS electrodes exhibited a sheet resistance of 80 O/□ and average transmittance of 73%, which were too high and too low, respectively. Silver nanowire electrodes, on the other hand, were able to achieve sheet resistances below 50 O/□ while maintaining a direct transmittance above 80%. Silver nanowires electrodes with average nanowire diameters of 80 nm lasted 2 days longer with UV-ozone treatment than without; and silver nanowire electrodes with average nanowire diameters of 233 nm lasted for 6,312 hours, which met the 6000 hour goal. PEDOT:PSS transparent electrode needs to be improved where the sheet resistance is below 50 O/□ and transmittance above 80%. This could be achieved by adding silver nanoparticles (SNP) less than 40 nm in size, which would also have a plasmonic effect enabling the solar cell to absorb ultraviolet light. Then a fully solution processed semitransparent solar cell utilizing a PEDOT:PSS:SNP and silver nanowire transparent electrodes can be fabricated.

Only-Child Status in Relation to Perceived Stress and Studying-Related Life Satisfaction among University Students in China: A Comparison with International Students

PubMed Central

Chu, Janet Junqing; Khan, Mobarak Hossain; Jahn, Heiko J.; Kraemer, Alexander

2015-01-01

Objectives University students in general face multiple challenges, which may affect their levels of perceived stress and life satisfaction. Chinese students currently face specific strains due to the One-Child Policy (OCP). The aim of this study was to assess (1) whether the levels of perceived stress and studying-related life satisfaction are associated with only-child (OC) status after controlling for demographic and socio-economic characteristics and (2) whether these associations differ between Chinese and international students. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional health survey based on a self-administrated standardised questionnaire was conducted among 1,843 (1,543 Chinese, 300 international) students at two Chinese universities in 2010–2011. Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14) and Stock and Kraemer’s Studying-related Life Satisfaction Scale were used to measure perceived stress and studying-related life satisfaction respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to examine the associations of OC status with perceived stress and studying-related life satisfaction by sex for Chinese students and international students separately. Results The Chinese non-only-children (NOCs) were more likely to come from small cities. Multivariable regression models indicate that the Chinese NOCs were more stressed than OCs (OR = 1.39, 1.11–1.74) with a stronger association in men (OR = 1.48, 1.08–2.02) than women (OR = 1.26, 0.89–1.77). NOCs were also more dissatisfied than their OC fellows in the Chinese subsample (OR = 1.37, 1.09–1.73). Among international students, no associations between OC status and perceived stress or studying-related life satisfaction were found. Conclusions To promote equality between OCs and NOCs at Chinese universities, the causes of more stress and less studying-related life satisfaction among NOCs compared to OCs need further exploration. PMID:26675032

Stress management and mind-body medicine: a randomized controlled longitudinal evaluation of students' health and effects of a behavioral group intervention at a middle-size German university (SM-MESH).

PubMed

Esch, Tobias; Sonntag, Ulrike; Esch, Sonja Maren; Thees, Stefanie

2013-01-01

Student life can be stressful. Hence, we started a regular mind-body medical stress management program in 2006. By today, more than 500 students took part and evaluations showed significant results, especially with regard to a reduction of stress warning signals. For further analysis, we now decided to run a randomized controlled longitudinal trial. Participating students at Coburg University were randomized into an intervention (n = 24) or a waitlist control group (n = 19). The intervention group completed 3 sets (pre/post/follow-up) and the control group 2 sets (pre/post) of self-administered questionnaires. The questionnaires included: SF-12 Health Survey, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Sense of Coherence (SOC-L9), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) concerning stress, and the Stress Warning Signs (SWS) scale. Randomly selected participants of the intervention group were also queried in qualitative interviews. The intervention consisted of an 8 week stress management group program (mind-body medical stress reduction - MBMSR). Follow-up measures were taken after 6 months. Virtually, no drop-out occurred. Our study showed significant effects in the intervention group concerning SF-12 Mental Component Scale (p = 0.05), SF-12 Physical Component Scale (p = 0.001), VAS (in general, p = 0.001) and SWS (emotional reactions, p <0.001), underlined by qualitative results, which showed a higher quality of life. The effectiveness of an MBMSR program in a group of supposedly healthy students could be demonstrated. Findings suggest that stress management might be given importance at universities that care for the performance, the quality of life, and stress-health status of their students, acknowledging and accounting for the challenging circumstances of university life, as well as the specific needs of the modern student population. Copyright © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Multiple effects of ryanodine on intracellular free Ca2+ in smooth muscle cells from bovine and porcine coronary artery: modulation of sarcoplasmic reticulum function.

PubMed

Wagner-Mann, C; Hu, Q; Sturek, M

1992-04-01

1. The effects of ryanodine and caffeine on intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) were studied by use of fura-2 microfluorometry in single smooth muscle cells freshly dispersed from bovine and porcine coronary artery. 2. Bovine and porcine cells demonstrated similar sensitivities to 10 min of exposure to ryanodine in physiological salt solution (PSS), as determined by comparable dose-dependent decreases in the subsequent [Ca2+]i transient induced by 5 mM caffeine. 3. Ryanodine (10 microM) caused a significant increase in [Ca2+]i to a plateau level 27 +/- 3% and 38 +/- 4% above baseline [Ca2+]i (baseline [Ca2+]i = [Ca2+]i at 0 min) in porcine and bovine cells, respectively, when bathed in PSS. In bovine cells the time required to reach 1/2 the plateau level was only 3 min versus 6 min for porcine cells. 4. The ryanodine-induced plateau increase in [Ca2+]i was 35 +/- 5% above baseline for bovine cells bathed in 0 Ca PSS (PSS including 10 microM EGTA with no added Ca2+), but only 7 +/- 3% above baseline in porcine cells during 10 min exposure to 10 microM ryanodine. In bovine cells [Ca2+]i showed proportional increases when extracellular Ca2+ was increased from the normal 2 mM Ca2+ PSS to 5 and 10 mM. 5. Cells pretreated with caffeine in 0 Ca PSS, which depleted the caffeine-sensitive sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ store, showed no increase in [Ca2+]i when challenged with 10 microM ryanodine. The ryanodine-associated increase in [Ca2+]i, which was sustained in 0 Ca PSS during the 10 min ryanodine exposure in cells not pretreated with caffeine, suggests that ryanodine releases Ca2+ from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, but also inhibits Ca2+ efflux.6. Intracellular free Ba2+ ([Ba24],) was measured with fura-2 microfluorometry to define further the Ca2" efflux pathway inhibited by ryanodine; specifically, Ba2+ is not transported by the Ca2" pump, but will substitute for Ca2" in Na+-Ca24 exchange. In porcine cells pretreated with caffeine in 0 Ca PSS to deplete the caffeine-sensitive sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ store, depolarization with 80 mM K4 in 2 mM external Ba24 caused a 100 +/- 6% increase in fura-2 fluorescence ([Ba2+]j). During the 17.5 min 0 Ca PSS recovery from depolarization, exposure to 10 microM ryanodine inhibited the removal of [Ba24]i by 69 + 3% when compared with control (0 Ca PSS without ryanodine).7. It was concluded that in bovine and porcine smooth muscle cells: (a) ryanodine (> 10 microM) releases Ca24 from the sarcoplasmic reticulum; (b) ryanodine ( 10O microM) decreases Ca24 efflux, probably by inhibition of Na+-Ca2+ exchange; (c) the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca24 store may be larger in bovine than in porcine smooth muscle cells; thus, porcine cells have a relatively greater reliance on Ca24 influx to increase [Ca2+]i.

Response rates for mailout survey-driven studies in patients waiting for thyroid surgery.

PubMed

Eskander, Antoine; Freeman, Jeremy; Rotstein, Lorne; Higgins, Kevin; Enepekides, Danny; Gilbert, Ralph; Brown, Dale; Gullane, Patrick; Irish, Jonathan; Sawka, Anna M; Goldstein, David P

2011-12-01

In the surgical literature, mailout survey studies are becoming more prevalent. The objective of this article is to summarize response rates in patients waiting for thyroid surgery and to document the methodology of mailout survey questionnaires. The results reported here are from a study assessing clinical and sociodemographic factors associated with high levels of anxiety while patients are waiting for thyroid surgery. The surveys used in this study include a sociodemographic patient opinion questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS), the Illness Intrusiveness Ratings Scale (IIRS), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the Impact of Events Scale-Revised (IES-R). A modified Dillman tailored design approach was used. Assessment of nonresponders was performed. The methods used yielded a response rate of 54% with this patient population. Some differences were noted among responders and nonresponders. This response rate is comparable to but in the lower spectrum of that stated in the oncology literature likely owing to the increase in the length of the survey, number of sensitive questions, limitations in the number of mailouts, and limited familiarity with the surgeon requesting participation in research.

The effect of a positive reappraisal coping intervention and problem-solving skills training on coping strategies during waiting period of IUI treatment: An RCT.

PubMed

Ghasemi, Marzieh; Kordi, Masoumeh; Asgharipour, Negar; Esmaeili, Habibollah; Amirian, Maliheh

2017-11-01

Waiting period of fertility treatment is stressful, therefore it is necessary to use effective coping strategies to cope with waiting period of intrauterine insemination (IUI) treatment. The aim of this study was comparing the effect of the positive reappraisal coping intervention (PRCI) with the problem-solving skills training (PSS) on the coping strategies of IUI waiting period, in infertile women referred to Milad Infertility Center in Mashhad. In this randomized clinical trial, 108 women were evaluated into three groups. The control group received the routine care, but in PRCI group, two training sessions were held and they were asked to review the coping thoughts cards and fill out the daily monitoring forms during the waiting period, and in PSS group problem-solving skill were taught during 3 sessions. The coping strategies were compared between three groups on the 10 th day of IUI waiting period. Results showed that the mean score for problem-focused were significantly different between the control (28.54±9.70), PSS (33.71±9.31), and PRCI (30.74±10.96) (p=0.025) groups. There were significant differences between the PSS group and others groups, and mean emotion-focused were significantly different between the control (32.09±11.65), PSS (29.20±9.88), and PRCI (28.74±7.96) (p=0.036) groups. There were significant differences between the PRCI and the control group (p=0.047). PSS was more effective to increase problem-focused coping strategies than PRCI, therefore it is recommended that this intervention should be used in infertility treatment centers.

Etch-free patterning of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) for optoelectronics.

PubMed

Rutledge, Steven A; Helmy, Amr S

2015-02-25

Spatial control of the conductivity of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is demonstrated through the use of ultraviolet (UV) exposure. With appropriate UV exposure, electrical characterization shows that the in-plane sheet resistance of PEDOT:PSS films is increased by 4 orders of magnitude compared to unexposed regions. Characterization of the films using Raman spectroscopy identifies a significant reduction of the inter-ring stretching modes between PEDOT monomers and a morphological shift from the quinoid to benzoid form of PEDOT. Additional analysis using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicates a reduction in film doping and a decrease in C═C vibrational modes that are associated with PEDOT oligomer length. Height and phase images of these films obtained from atomic force microscopy exhibit a loss of phase segregation in the film between the PEDOT grains and PSS regions. Spectroscopic ellipsometry highlights an increase in both the real and imaginary components of the index upon UV exposure. This broad range of analysis consistently suggests that the increased resistivity can be attributed to a significant reduction in material doping caused by scission-driven decomposition of the conductive PEDOT chains. When flood exposure is combined with the use of an appropriate UV blocking mask, patterning in the conductivity of PEDOT:PSS films can be realized. In contrast to other patterning approaches, no resist development or etching is required for the electrical isolation of certain regions. To demonstrate the efficacy of this process, an organic light emitting diode was fabricated with UV-patterned PEDOT:PSS as a hole transport layer. The regions of unexposed PEDOT:PSS produced electroluminescence, whereas those exposed to UV remained unlit, enabling the realization of pixelated illumination with no removal of material.

Pseudo-spark switch (PSS) characteristics under different operation conditions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hamad, B. H., E-mail: dr.bassmahussain@gmail.com; Ahmad, A. K., E-mail: ahmad.kamal@sc.nahrainuniv.edu.iq; Lateef, K. H., E-mail: kamalhlatif@yahoo.com

2016-08-15

The present paper concentrates on the characteristics of the pseudospark switch (PSS) designed in a previous work. The special characteristics of PSS make it a replacement for other high voltage switches such as thyratrons and ordinary high-pressure spark gaps. PSS is characterized by short rise time and small jitter time. The pseudo park chamber consists of two hollow cylindrical electrodes made of a stainless steel material (type 306L) separated by an insulator. The insulator used in our design is a glazed ceramic 70 mm in diameter and 3.5 mm in thickness. A PSS with an anode voltage of 29.2 kV, and a currentmore » of 3.6 kA and 11 ns rise time was achieved and used successfully at a repetition rate of about 2.2 kHz. A simple trigger circuit designed, built, and used effectively reaching more than 1.56 kV trigger pulse which is sufficient to ignite the argon gas inside the cathode to cause a breakdown. A non-inductive dummy load is designed to be a new technique to find the accurate value of the PSS inductance. A jitter time of ±10 ns pulses is observed to occur in a reliable manner for more than 6 h of continuous operation. In this research, the important parameters of this switch like rise time, peak current, and anode voltage were studied at various values of charging capacitance. The lifetime of this system is depending on the kind of the electrode material and on the type of insulation material in the main gap of the pseudospark switch.« less

The role of perceived social support in loneliness and self-esteem among children affected by HIV/AIDS: a longitudinal multilevel analysis in rural China.

PubMed

Qiao, Shan; Li, Xiaoming; Zhao, Guoxiang; Zhao, Junfeng; Stanton, Bonita

2014-07-01

To delineate the trajectories of loneliness and self-esteem over time among children affected by parental HIV and AIDS, and to examine how their perceived social support (PSS) influenced initial scores and change rates of these two psychological outcomes. We collected longitudinal data from children affected by parental HIV/AIDS in rural central China. Children 6-18 years of age at baseline were eligible to participate in the study and were assessed annually for 3 years. Multilevel regression models for change were used to assess the effect of baseline PSS on the trajectories of loneliness and self-esteem over time. We employed maximum likelihood estimates to fit multilevel models and specified the between-individual covariance matrix as 'unstructured' to allow correlation among the different sources of variance. Statistics including -2 Log Likelihood, Akaike Information Criterion and Bayesian Information Criterion were used in evaluating the model fit. The results of multilevel analyses indicated that loneliness scores significantly declined over time. Controlling for demographic characteristics, children with higher PSS reported significantly lower baseline loneliness score and experienced a slower rate of decline in loneliness over time. Children with higher PSS were more likely to report higher self-esteem scores at baseline. However, the self-esteem scores remained stable over time controlling for baseline PSS and all the other variables. The positive effect of PSS on psychological adjustment may imply a promising approach for future intervention among children affected by HIV/AIDS, in which efforts to promote psychosocial well being could focus on children and families with lower social support. We also call for a greater understanding of children's psychological adjustment process in various contexts of social support and appropriate adaptations of evidence-based interventions to meet their diverse needs.

The effect of a positive reappraisal coping intervention and problem-solving skills training on coping strategies during waiting period of IUI treatment: An RCT

PubMed Central

Ghasemi, Marzieh; Kordi, Masoumeh; Asgharipour, Negar; Esmaeili, Habibollah; Amirian, Maliheh

2017-01-01

Background: Waiting period of fertility treatment is stressful, therefore it is necessary to use effective coping strategies to cope with waiting period of intrauterine insemination (IUI) treatment. Objective: The aim of this study was comparing the effect of the positive reappraisal coping intervention (PRCI) with the problem-solving skills training (PSS) on the coping strategies of IUI waiting period, in infertile women referred to Milad Infertility Center in Mashhad. Materials and Methods: In this randomized clinical trial, 108 women were evaluated into three groups. The control group received the routine care, but in PRCI group, two training sessions were held and they were asked to review the coping thoughts cards and fill out the daily monitoring forms during the waiting period, and in PSS group problem-solving skill were taught during 3 sessions. The coping strategies were compared between three groups on the 10th day of IUI waiting period. Results: Results showed that the mean score for problem-focused were significantly different between the control (28.54±9.70), PSS (33.71±9.31), and PRCI (30.74±10.96) (p=0.025) groups. There were significant differences between the PSS group and others groups, and mean emotion-focused were significantly different between the control (32.09±11.65), PSS (29.20±9.88), and PRCI (28.74±7.96) (p=0.036) groups. There were significant differences between the PRCI and the control group (p=0.047). Conclusion: PSS was more effective to increase problem-focused coping strategies than PRCI, therefore it is recommended that this intervention should be used in infertility treatment centers. PMID:29404530

The effect of problem-solving skill training on mental health and the success of treatment of infertile women under intrauterine insemination treatment

PubMed Central

Gojani, Marziyeh Ghasemi; Kordi, Masoume; Asgharipour, Negar; Esmaeili, Habibollah; Amirian, Maliheh; Eskandarnia, Elnaze

2017-01-01

INTRODUCTION: Using fertility treatment will cause high levels of anxiety and depression. The study was carried out with the objective of determining the effect of problem-solving skills (PSS) training on mental health and the success of treatment of infertile women under intrauterine insemination (IUI) treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: this randomized clinical trial was carried out on 72 women referring to Milad Infertility Center in Mashhad. Individuals were randomly assigned into control and intervention groups. PSS were taught in three sessions in the intervention group, and the control group received usual care. The success rate of therapy and the mean of anxiety and depression on the day of IUI operation were compared using the Beck Depression Inventory and Spielberger Anxiety Inventory in both groups. t-test, Mann–Whitney, paired t-test, Wilcoxon, and Chi-square tests were used to analyze the data. RESULTS: on the day of IUI operation, the mean score of state anxiety in the control group(5 0. 11 ± 8.51) and PSS (68.12 ± 11.49) was significant (P < 0.001), trait anxiety in the control group (46.41 ± 8.70) and PSS (44.00 ± 9.92) was significant (P < 0.001), and depression in the control group (17.44 ± 11.70) and PSS (12.99 ± 8.99) was significant (P < 0.001); however, the success of treatment in both groups (14.7% and PSS (26.5%) was not significantly different (P = 0.230). CONCLUSION: Considering the effect of problem-solving on reducing anxiety and depression, it is suggested that infertility center of this intervention should be used. PMID:29296608

Semi-quantitative analysis of salivary gland scintigraphy in Sjögren's syndrome diagnosis: a first-line tool.

PubMed

Angusti, Tiziana; Pilati, Emanuela; Parente, Antonella; Carignola, Renato; Manfredi, Matteo; Cauda, Simona; Pizzigati, Elena; Dubreuil, Julien; Giammarile, Francesco; Podio, Valerio; Skanjeti, Andrea

2017-09-01

The aim of this study was the assessment of semi-quantified salivary gland dynamic scintigraphy (SGdS) parameters independently and in an integrated way in order to predict primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). Forty-six consecutive patients (41 females; age 61 ± 11 years) with sicca syndrome were studied by SGdS after injection of 200 MBq of pertechnetate. In sixteen patients, pSS was diagnosed, according to American-European Consensus Group criteria (AECGc). Semi-quantitative parameters (uptake (UP) and excretion fraction (EF)) were obtained for each gland. ROC curves were used to determine the best cut-off value. The area under the curve (AUC) was used to estimate the accuracy of each semi-quantitative analysis. To assess the correlation between scintigraphic results and disease severity, semi-quantitative parameters were plotted versus Sjögren's syndrome disease activity index (ESSDAI). A nomogram was built to perform an integrated evaluation of all the scintigraphic semi-quantitative data. Both UP and EF of salivary glands were significantly lower in pSS patients compared to those in non-pSS (p < 0.001). ROC curve showed significantly large AUC for both the parameters (p < 0.05). Parotid UP and submandibular EF, assessed by univariated and multivariate logistic regression, showed a significant and independent correlation with pSS diagnosis (p value <0.05). No correlation was found between SGdS semi-quantitative parameters and ESSDAI. The proposed nomogram accuracy was 87%. SGdS is an accurate and reproducible tool for the diagnosis of pSS. ESSDAI was not shown to be correlated with SGdS data. SGdS should be the first-line imaging technique in patients with suspected pSS.

A prospective cohort study to refine and validate the Panic Screening Score for identifying panic attacks associated with unexplained chest pain in the emergency department

PubMed Central

Foldes-Busque, Guillaume; Denis, Isabelle; Poitras, Julien; Fleet, Richard P; Archambault, Patrick; Dionne, Clermont E

2013-01-01

Introduction Panic-like anxiety (panic attacks with or without panic disorder), a highly treatable condition, is the most prevalent condition associated with unexplained chest pain in the emergency department. Panic-like anxiety may be responsible for a significant portion of the negative consequences of unexplained chest pain, such as functional limitations and chronicity. However, more than 92% of panic-like anxiety cases remain undiagnosed at the time of discharge from the emergency department. The 4-item Panic Screening Score (PSS) questionnaire was derived in order to increase the identification of panic-like anxiety in emergency department patients with unexplained chest pain. Methods and analysis The goals of this prospective cohort study were to (1) refine the PSS; (2) validate the revised version of the PSS; (3) measure the reliability of the revised version of the PSS and (4) assess the acceptability of the instrument among emergency physicians. Eligible and consenting patients will be administered the PSS in a large emergency department. Patients will be contacted by phone for administration of the criterion standard for panic attacks as well as by a standardised interview to collect information for other predictors of panic attacks. Multivariate analysis will be used to refine the PSS. The new version will be prospectively validated in an independent sample and inter-rater agreement will be assessed in 10% of cases. The screening instrument acceptability will be assessed with the Ottawa Acceptability of Decision Rules Instrument. Ethics and dissemination This study protocol has been reviewed and approved by the Alphonse-Desjardins research ethics committee. The results of the study will be presented in scientific conferences and published in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Further dissemination via workshops and a dedicated website is planned. PMID:24163208

Hyperammonemia and Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome Predicts Presence of Hepatic Encephalopathy in Dogs with Congenital Portosystemic Shunts

PubMed Central

Tivers, Mickey S.; Handel, Ian; Gow, Adam G.; Lipscomb, Vicky J.; Jalan, Rajiv; Mellanby, Richard J.

2014-01-01

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with liver disease. The pathogenesis of he is incompletely understood although ammonia and inflammatory cytokines have been implicated as key mediators. To facilitate further mechanistic understanding of the pathogenesis of HE, a large number of animal models have been developed which often involve the surgical creation of an anastomosis between the hepatic portal vein and the caudal vena cava. One of the most common congenital abnormalities in dogs is a congenital portosystemic shunt (cpss), which closely mimics these surgical experimental models of HE. Dogs with a cPSS often have clinical signs which mimic clinical signs observed in humans with HE. Our hypothesis is that the pathogenesis of HE in dogs with a cPSS is similar to humans with HE. The aim of the study was to measure a range of clinical, haematological and biochemical parameters, which have been linked to the development of HE in humans, in dogs with a cPSS and a known HE grade. One hundred and twenty dogs with a cPSS were included in the study and multiple regression analysis of clinical, haematological and biochemical variables revealed that plasma ammonia concentrations and systemic inflammatory response syndrome scores predicted the presence of HE. Our findings further support the notion that the pathogenesis of canine and human HE share many similarities and indicate that dogs with cPSS may be an informative spontaneous model of human HE. Further investigations on dogs with cPSS may allow studies on HE to be undertaken without creating surgical models of HE thereby allowing the number of large animals used in animal experimentation to be reduced. PMID:24392080

Hyperammonemia and systemic inflammatory response syndrome predicts presence of hepatic encephalopathy in dogs with congenital portosystemic shunts.

PubMed

Tivers, Mickey S; Handel, Ian; Gow, Adam G; Lipscomb, Vicky J; Jalan, Rajiv; Mellanby, Richard J

2014-01-01

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with liver disease. The pathogenesis of he is incompletely understood although ammonia and inflammatory cytokines have been implicated as key mediators. To facilitate further mechanistic understanding of the pathogenesis of HE, a large number of animal models have been developed which often involve the surgical creation of an anastomosis between the hepatic portal vein and the caudal vena cava. One of the most common congenital abnormalities in dogs is a congenital portosystemic shunt (cpss), which closely mimics these surgical experimental models of HE. Dogs with a cPSS often have clinical signs which mimic clinical signs observed in humans with HE. Our hypothesis is that the pathogenesis of HE in dogs with a cPSS is similar to humans with HE. The aim of the study was to measure a range of clinical, haematological and biochemical parameters, which have been linked to the development of HE in humans, in dogs with a cPSS and a known HE grade. One hundred and twenty dogs with a cPSS were included in the study and multiple regression analysis of clinical, haematological and biochemical variables revealed that plasma ammonia concentrations and systemic inflammatory response syndrome scores predicted the presence of HE. Our findings further support the notion that the pathogenesis of canine and human HE share many similarities and indicate that dogs with cPSS may be an informative spontaneous model of human HE. Further investigations on dogs with cPSS may allow studies on HE to be undertaken without creating surgical models of HE thereby allowing the number of large animals used in animal experimentation to be reduced.

Alteration of phospholipid composition by combined defects in phosphatidylserine and cardiolipin synthases and physiological consequences in Escherichia coli.

PubMed Central

Shibuya, I; Miyazaki, C; Ohta, A

1985-01-01

Escherichia coli K-12 derivatives with a common genetic background carrying, either alone or in combination, the pss-1 allele coding for a temperature-sensitive phosphatidylserine synthase (A. Ohta and I. Shibuya, J. Bacteriol. 132:434-443, 1977) and cls- for a defective cardiolipin synthase (G. Pluschke et al., J. Biol. Chem. 253:5048-5055, 1978) were constructed. The phospholipid polar headgroup compositions of these strains were significantly different from each other depending on their genotypes and growth temperature, whereas other membrane characteristics such as the total phospholipid content, fatty acid composition, membrane protein profile, and lipopolysaccharide content were practically the same, suggesting that the phenotypes of these strains were the direct consequences of abnormalities in membrane phospholipid composition. The cls pss-1 double mutation caused an unusual accumulation of phosphatidylglycerol with an extremely low content of cardiolipin. The cls mutation alone was found to give a growth defect, and its introduction into a pss-1 mutant resulted in an enhanced temperature sensitivity of growth. Addition to a broth medium of a proper concentration of sucrose, NaCl, Mg2+, or Ca2+ allowed the growth of a pss-1 mutant at otherwise nonpermissive temperature, but a pss-1 cls double mutant required the combined addition of sucrose or NaCl and MgCl2 for full growth at 42 degrees C. The possible mechanisms for these physiological consequences of the mutations are discussed on a molecular basis. The remedial effects of culture supplements allowed the pss-1 mutants to grow at 42 degrees C resulting in enhanced abnormalities of membrane phospholipid composition. Images PMID:2982784

Tuning the Thermoelectric Properties of a Conducting Polymer through Blending with Open-Shell Molecular Dopants.

PubMed

Tomlinson, Edward P; Willmore, Matthew J; Zhu, Xiaoqin; Hilsmier, Stuart W A; Boudouris, Bryan W

2015-08-26

Polymer thermoelectric devices are emerging as promising platforms by which to convert thermal gradients into electricity directly, and poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene) doped with poly(styrenesulfonate) ( PSS) is a leading candidate in a number of these thermoelectric modules. Here, we implement the stable radical-bearing small molecule 4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-1-oxyl (TEMPO-OH) as an intermolecular dopant in order to tune the electrical conductivity, thermopower, and power factor of PSS thin films. Specifically, we demonstrate that, at moderate loadings (∼2%, by weight) of the open-shell TEMPO-OH molecule, the thermopower of PSS thin films is increased without a marked decline in the electrical conductivity of the material. This effect, in turn, allows for an optimization of the power factor in the composite organic materials, which is a factor of 2 greater than the pristine PSS thin films. Furthermore, because the loading of TEMPO-OH is relatively low, we observe that there is little change in either the crystalline nature or surface topography of the composite films relative to the pristine PSS films. Instead, we determine that the increase in the thermopower is due to the presence of stable radical sites within the PSS that persist despite the highly acidic environment that occurs due to the presence of the poly(styrenesulfonate) moiety. Additionally, the oxidation-reduction-active (redox-active) nature of the TEMPO-OH small molecules provides a means by which to filter charges of different energy values. Therefore, these results demonstrate that a synergistic combination of an open-shell species and a conjugated polymer allows for enhanced thermoelectric properties in macromolecular systems, and as such, it offers the promise of a new design pathway in polymer thermoelectric materials.

Homozygous deletion of six genes including corneodesmosin on chromosome 6p21.3 is associated with generalized peeling skin disease.

PubMed

Teye, Kwesi; Hamada, Takahiro; Krol, Rafal P; Numata, Sanae; Ishii, Norito; Matsuda, Mitsuhiro; Ohata, Chika; Furumura, Minao; Hashimoto, Takashi

2014-07-01

Peeling skin syndrome (PSS) is a rare autosomal recessive form of ichthyosis showing skin exfoliation. PSS is divided into acral and generalized PSS, and the latter is further classified into non-inflammatory type (PSS type A) and inflammatory type (PSS type B). PSS type B is now called peeling skin disease (PSD). Different loss-of-function mutations in the corneodesmosin (CDSN) gene have been reported to cause PSD. The aim of this study was to determine genetic basis of disease in a 14-year-old Japanese patient with PSD. Immunohistochemical study showed lack of corneodesmosin (CDSN) in the skin, and standard PCR for genomic DNA failed to amplify CDSN product, suggesting CDSN defect. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification and genomic quantitative real-time PCR analyses detected large homozygous deletion of 59,184bp extending from 40.6kb upstream to 13.2kb downstream of CDSN, which included 6 genes (TCF19, CCHCR1, PSORS1C2, PSORS1C1, CDSN and C6orf15). The continuous gene lost did not result in additional clinical features. Inverted repeats with 85% similarity flanking the deletion breakpoint were considered to mediate the deletion by non-homologous end joining or fork stalling and template switching/microhomology-mediated break-induced replication. Parents were clinically unaffected and were heterozygote carriers of the same deletion, which was absent in 284 ethnically matched control alleles. We also developed simple PCR method, which is useful for detection of this deletion. Although 5 other genes were also deleted, homozygous deletion of CDSN was considered to be responsible for this PSD. Copyright © 2014 Japanese Society for Investigative Dermatology. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Aberrant distribution patterns of corneodesmosomal components of tape-stripped corneocytes in atopic dermatitis and related skin conditions (ichthyosis vulgaris, Netherton syndrome and peeling skin syndrome type B).

PubMed

Igawa, Satomi; Kishibe, Mari; Honma, Masaru; Murakami, Masamoto; Mizuno, Yuki; Suga, Yasushi; Seishima, Mariko; Ohguchi, Yuka; Akiyama, Masashi; Hirose, Kenji; Ishida-Yamamoto, Akemi; Iizuka, Hajime

2013-10-01

Atopic dermatitis (AD), Netherton syndrome (NS) and peeling skin syndrome type B (PSS) may show some clinical phenotypic overlap. Corneodesmosomes are crucial for maintaining stratum corneum integrity and the components' localization can be visualized by immunostaining tape-stripped corneocytes. In normal skin, they are detected at the cell periphery. To determine whether AD, NS, PSS and ichthyosis vulgaris (IV) have differences in the corneodesmosomal components' distribution and corneocytes surface areas. Corneocytes were tape-stripped from a control group (n=12) and a disease group (37 AD cases, 3 IV cases, 4 NS cases, and 3 PSS cases), and analyzed with immunofluorescent microscopy. The distribution patterns of corneodesmosomal components: desmoglein 1, corneodesmosin, and desmocollin 1 were classified into four types: peripheral, sparse diffuse, dense diffuse and partial diffuse. Corneocyte surface areas were also measured. The corneodesmosome staining patterns were abnormal in the disease group. Other than in the 3 PSS cases, all three components showed similar patterns in each category. In lesional AD skin, the dense diffuse pattern was prominent. A high rate of the partial diffuse pattern, loss of linear cell-cell contacts, and irregular stripping manners were unique to NS. Only in PSS was corneodesmosin staining virtually absent. The corneocyte surface areas correlated significantly with the rate of combined sparse and dense diffuse patterns of desmoglein 1. This method may be used to assess abnormally differentiated corneocytes in AD and other diseases tested. In PSS samples, tape stripping analysis may serve as a non-invasive diagnostic test. Copyright © 2013 Japanese Society for Investigative Dermatology. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fatigue in primary Sjögren's syndrome is associated with lower levels of proinflammatory cytokines.

PubMed

Howard Tripp, Nadia; Tarn, Jessica; Natasari, Andini; Gillespie, Colin; Mitchell, Sheryl; Hackett, Katie L; Bowman, Simon J; Price, Elizabeth; Pease, Colin T; Emery, Paul; Lanyon, Peter; Hunter, John; Gupta, Monica; Bombardieri, Michele; Sutcliffe, Nurhan; Pitzalis, Costantino; McLaren, John; Cooper, Annie; Regan, Marian; Giles, Ian; Isenberg, David A; Saravanan, Vadivelu; Coady, David; Dasgupta, Bhaskar; McHugh, Neil; Young-Min, Steven; Moots, Robert; Gendi, Nagui; Akil, Mohammed; Griffiths, Bridget; Lendrem, Dennis W; Ng, Wan-Fai

2016-01-01

This article reports relationships between serum cytokine levels and patient-reported levels of fatigue, in the chronic immunological condition primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). Blood levels of 24 cytokines were measured in 159 patients with pSS from the United Kingdom Primary Sjögren's Syndrome Registry and 28 healthy non-fatigued controls. Differences between cytokines in cases and controls were evaluated using Wilcoxon test. Patient-reported scores for fatigue were evaluated, classified according to severity and compared with cytokine levels using analysis of variance. Logistic regression was used to determine the most important predictors of fatigue levels. 14 cytokines were significantly higher in patients with pSS (n=159) compared to non-fatigued healthy controls (n=28). While serum levels were elevated in patients with pSS compared to healthy controls, unexpectedly, the levels of 4 proinflammatory cytokines-interferon-γ-induced protein-10 (IP-10) (p=0.019), tumour necrosis factor-α (p=0.046), lymphotoxin-α (p=0.034) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) (p=0.022)-were inversely related to patient-reported levels of fatigue. A regression model predicting fatigue levels in pSS based on cytokine levels, disease-specific and clinical parameters, as well as anxiety, pain and depression, revealed IP-10, IFN-γ (both inversely), pain and depression (both positively) as the most important predictors of fatigue. This model correctly predicts fatigue levels with reasonable (67%) accuracy. Cytokines, pain and depression appear to be the most powerful predictors of fatigue in pSS. Our data challenge the notion that proinflammatory cytokines directly mediate fatigue in chronic immunological conditions. Instead, we hypothesise that mechanisms regulating inflammatory responses may be important.

Fatigue in primary Sjögren's syndrome is associated with lower levels of proinflammatory cytokines

PubMed Central

Howard Tripp, Nadia; Tarn, Jessica; Natasari, Andini; Gillespie, Colin; Mitchell, Sheryl; Hackett, Katie L; Bowman, Simon J; Price, Elizabeth; Pease, Colin T; Emery, Paul; Lanyon, Peter; Hunter, John; Gupta, Monica; Bombardieri, Michele; Sutcliffe, Nurhan; Pitzalis, Costantino; McLaren, John; Cooper, Annie; Regan, Marian; Giles, Ian; Isenberg, David A; Saravanan, Vadivelu; Coady, David; Dasgupta, Bhaskar; McHugh, Neil; Young-Min, Steven; Moots, Robert; Gendi, Nagui; Akil, Mohammed; Griffiths, Bridget; Lendrem, Dennis W; Ng, Wan-Fai

2016-01-01

Objectives This article reports relationships between serum cytokine levels and patient-reported levels of fatigue, in the chronic immunological condition primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). Methods Blood levels of 24 cytokines were measured in 159 patients with pSS from the United Kingdom Primary Sjögren's Syndrome Registry and 28 healthy non-fatigued controls. Differences between cytokines in cases and controls were evaluated using Wilcoxon test. Patient-reported scores for fatigue were evaluated, classified according to severity and compared with cytokine levels using analysis of variance. Logistic regression was used to determine the most important predictors of fatigue levels. Results 14 cytokines were significantly higher in patients with pSS (n=159) compared to non-fatigued healthy controls (n=28). While serum levels were elevated in patients with pSS compared to healthy controls, unexpectedly, the levels of 4 proinflammatory cytokines—interferon-γ-induced protein-10 (IP-10) (p=0.019), tumour necrosis factor-α (p=0.046), lymphotoxin-α (p=0.034) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) (p=0.022)—were inversely related to patient-reported levels of fatigue. A regression model predicting fatigue levels in pSS based on cytokine levels, disease-specific and clinical parameters, as well as anxiety, pain and depression, revealed IP-10, IFN-γ (both inversely), pain and depression (both positively) as the most important predictors of fatigue. This model correctly predicts fatigue levels with reasonable (67%) accuracy. Conclusions Cytokines, pain and depression appear to be the most powerful predictors of fatigue in pSS. Our data challenge the notion that proinflammatory cytokines directly mediate fatigue in chronic immunological conditions. Instead, we hypothesise that mechanisms regulating inflammatory responses may be important. PMID:27493792

[Analyses of the characteristics of esophageal motility in patients with pharyngeal paraesthesia who visit the Department of gastroenterology].

PubMed

Wang, Zhenjiang; Chen, Yuping; Guo, Tingting

2015-07-01

To investigate the influence of the local sensory abnormality in throat while the change of motility in the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) and lower esophageal sphincter (LES), as well as the change of esophageal body in pharyngeal paraesthesia. From January 2014 to January 2015 there were sixty-four patients who had pharyngeal susceptible syndrome (PSS) but without confirmed organic disease were enrolled as the PSS group, forty healthy volunteers as the control group. High resolution manometry (HRM) was utilized to distinguish esophageal motility patterns of PSS, including the muscular tension of LES and UES, the integrity, adaptability, amplitude, speed and duration of esophageal peristalsis at 10 swallows. The resting LES and UES pressures and the distal contractile integral (DCI) of esophagus in PSS group were lower than that in control group (P < 0.05). The esophageal peristalsis was decelerated and shortened in duration, and amplitude of contraction notably lower in PSS group compared with its counterpart (P < 0.05). The integrity of esophageal peristalsis was impaired in PSS with remarkable changes in motility patterns, involving ratio of major and minor interrupts, and synchronous contraction rate (P < 0.05). As for the time course from relaxation to the lowest pressure point of UES and time for restoration, no definite difference was noticed between the two groups (P > 0.05). The average peak pressure was similar in two groups (P > 0.05). Muscle tension around the UES has no obvious change when pharyngeal paraesthesia occurred, but the reduction of esophageal motor function, clearance ability, anti-reflux gastroesophageal junction, causing the abnormal reflux which hurt the pharyngeal surface mucosa maybe one of the most important reasons leading to pharyngeal paresthesia.

Development of a screening measure of stress for parents of children hospitalised in a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit.

PubMed

Rodríguez-Rey, Rocío; Alonso-Tapia, Jesús

2016-08-01

Having a child admitted to intensive care is a highly stressful experience for parents; however there is a lack of screening instruments of parental stress in that context, which would be useful for both, research and clinical purposes. (1) To validate a brief measure of parental stress based on the Parental Stressor Scale: Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PSS:PICU), (2) to study which environmental factors of the PICU are more stressful in a sample of Spanish parents, and (3) to study which variables are related to higher levels of stress among this group. 196 Spanish parents completed the Abbreviated PSS: PICU (A-PSS:PICU) and a general stress scale (the Perceived Stress Scale) upon their child's discharge to test the convergent validity of the tool. Three months later, they were assessed anxiety and depression using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and posttraumatic stress with the Davidson Trauma Scale in order to test the predictive validity of the A-PSS:PICU. Two factors emerged from Confirmatory Factor Analyses, (1) stress due to child's condition and (2) stress related to PICU's staff. The A-PSS:PICU showed adequate reliability and convergent and predictive validity. The most stressful aspects were the behaviours and emotional responses of their child and the loss of their parental role. Age, gender, child's condition, length of admission, spiritual beliefs, and mechanical ventilation were associated to parental stress scores. The A-PSS:PICU is a reliable and valid measure. Parental stress should be screened during a child's PICU admission to identify parents at risk of post-discharge distress. Copyright © 2016 Australian College of Critical Care Nurses Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Review of autoantigens in Sjögren's syndrome: an update.

PubMed

Tong, Louis; Koh, Vanessa; Thong, Bernard Yu-Hor

2017-01-01

Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation in exocrine glands, resulting in reduced secretion of tears and saliva, manifesting as xerophthalmia and xerostomia, respectively. It is commonly associated with Sjögren's syndrome type A (Ro) and Sjögren's syndrome type B (La) antigens. However, in most patients, the identity of the triggering antigen is not known. Factors such as genetics of histocompatibility, dysregulation of T-cells, B-cells and viral infections have been implicated. Several important studies on autoantigens in pSS have been published since a review in 2012, and the aim of this review is to provide an update on further peer-reviewed original articles in this field. Oxidative damage of Ro60 antigen may explain the epitope spreading during the immune activation in pSS. Immune-mediated destruction of the muscarinic receptor-3-expressing cells has been associated with a reduction in parasympathetic function, which could cause reduced secretory function of exocrine glands. Such a process also activates reactive oxidative species and antioxidants, which are linked to the triggering of inflammatory responses. Elevated levels of kallikrein, yet another antigen present in the lacrimal gland and other tissues, are similarly involved in triggering an autoimmune T-cell response against target glands. Studying additional antigens, the platelet-selectin and vasoactive intestinal peptides, in patients with pSS can help to elucidate the origin and process of autoimmunity, or even lead to potential biomarkers. In conclusion, the understanding of autoantigens has led to exciting major advances in the biology of pSS and may influence diagnosis and management of pSS in future.

The relationship between somatic symptoms and depression.

PubMed

Han, Hyeseung; Wang, Sheng-Min; Han, Changsu; Lee, Soo-Jung; Pae, Chi-Un

2014-01-01

We investigated the influence of somatic symptoms on the severity and clinical outcomes in female Korean patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) in routine practice. Two hundred and seven female patients with MDD were prospectively recruited. Patients with somatic symptoms (PSS) was defined as a total score ≥ 10 on the Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15), others were classified as non PSS (NPSS). The PHQ-9 for de-pression, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) for anxiety, the Clinical Global Impression-Severity (CGI-S) for clinical status, and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for health status were utilised. Of 207 participants, 126 (60.9%) were PSS and 81 (39.1%) were classified as NPSS. The proportion of patients showing severe symptoms (65.1% vs. 24.7%) and recurrence of depression (74.6% vs. 49.4%), the CGI-S (4.6 vs. 4.1), the PHQ-9 (16.8 vs. 11.1), and the GAD-7 (8.3 vs 6.7) scores were significantly higher in PSS than in NPSS, while the VAS (39.4 vs. 51.2) was significantly lower in PSS than in NPSS. The improvement of depressive symptoms (-1.3 vs. -2.0) measured by the changes in CGI-S was also significantly less in PSS than in NPSS after 6 months treatment. Our findings have shown the significant impact of somatic symptoms on the symptomatology as well as treatment outcomes in Korean female patients with MDD, indicating that clinicians should carefully evaluate somatic symptoms in patients with MDD in routine clinical practice. Due to the methodological shortcomings of the present study, further adequately powered and well-designed investigations are necessary.

pH responsive alginate polymeric rafts for controlled drug release by using box behnken response surface design

PubMed Central

Abbas, Ghulam; Hanif, Muhammad; Khan, Mahtab Ahmad

2017-01-01

Abstract Aim of the present work was to develop alginate raft forming tablets for controlled release pantoprazole sodium sesquihydrate (PSS). Box behnken design was used to optimize 15 formulations with three independent and three dependent variables. Physical tests of all formulations were within pharmacopoeial limits. Raft was characterized by their strength, thickness, resilience, acid neutralizing capacity, floating lag time and total floating time. Raft strength, thickness and resilience of optimized formulation AR9 were 7.43 ± 0.019 g, 5.8 ± 0.245 cm and greater than 480 min, respectively. Buffering and neutralizing capacity were 11.2 ± 1.01 and 6.5 ± 0.56 meq, respectively. Dissolution studies were performed by using simulated gastric fluid pH 1.2 and cumulative percentage release of optimized formulation AR9 was found 98%. First order release kinetics were followed and non-fickian diffusion was observed as value of n was greater than 0.45 in korsmeyer-peppas model. PSS, polymers, tablets and rafts were further characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). FTIR spectra of PSS, polymers and raft of optimized formulation AR9 showed peaks at 3223.09, 1688.17, 1586.67, 1302.64 and 1027.74 cm−1 due to –OH stretching, ester carbonyl group (C=O) stretching, existence of water and carboxylic group in raft, C–N stretching and –OH bending vibration showed no interaction between them. XRD showed diffraction lines indicates crystalline nature of PSS. DSC thermogram showed endothermic peaks at 250 °C for PSS. The developed raft was suitable for controlled release delivery of PSS. PMID:29491774

Evaluation of possible factors affecting contrast sensitivity function in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome.

PubMed

Arikan, Sedat; Gokmen, Ferhat; Comez, Arzu Taskiran; Gencer, Baran; Kara, Selcuk; Akbal, Ayla

2015-01-01

The contrast sensitivity (CS) function in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) may be impaired either frequently as a result of dry eye diseases or rarely as a result of optic neuropathy. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the CS function in pSS patients as well as to assess corneal aberrations and thickness of the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL). Fourteen eyes of 14 pSS patients (pSS group) and 14 eyes of 14 healthy participants (control group) were subjected to assessment of CS at the spatial frequencies of 1.5, 3.0, 6.0, 12, and 18 cycles/degree (cpd) using a functional visual acuity contrast test (FACT); measurement of corneal high-order aberrations (HOAs) in terms of coma-like, spherical-like, and total HOAs using Scheimpflug corneal topography; and measurement of the thickness of both the macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (mGCIPL) and pRNFL in all quadrants using optical coherence tomography. None of the participants were under treatment with artificial tears. The results of the CS test did not differ between the 2 groups at all spatial frequencies (p>0.05). In addition, there were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of corneal HOAs (p>0.05) and thickness of mGCIPL (p>0.05). However, among all quadrants, only the inferior quadrant of pRNFL in pSS patients was statistically significantly thinner than that in the healthy participants (p=0.04). The CS function in pSS patients can be maintained with normal thickness of both pRNFL and mGCIPL and with lack of increased corneal HOAs, which may be present even in the absence of artificial tear usage.

Yeast PAH1-encoded phosphatidate phosphatase controls the expression of CHO1-encoded phosphatidylserine synthase for membrane phospholipid synthesis.

PubMed

Han, Gil-Soo; Carman, George M

2017-08-11

The PAH1 -encoded phosphatidate phosphatase (PAP), which catalyzes the committed step for the synthesis of triacylglycerol in Saccharomyces cerevisiae , exerts a negative regulatory effect on the level of phosphatidate used for the de novo synthesis of membrane phospholipids. This raises the question whether PAP thereby affects the expression and activity of enzymes involved in phospholipid synthesis. Here, we examined the PAP-mediated regulation of CHO1 -encoded phosphatidylserine synthase (PSS), which catalyzes the committed step for the synthesis of major phospholipids via the CDP-diacylglycerol pathway. The lack of PAP in the pah1 Δ mutant highly elevated PSS activity, exhibiting a growth-dependent up-regulation from the exponential to the stationary phase of growth. Immunoblot analysis showed that the elevation of PSS activity results from an increase in the level of the enzyme encoded by CHO1 Truncation analysis and site-directed mutagenesis of the CHO1 promoter indicated that Cho1 expression in the pah1 Δ mutant is induced through the inositol-sensitive upstream activation sequence (UAS INO ), a cis -acting element for the phosphatidate-controlled Henry (Ino2-Ino4/Opi1) regulatory circuit. The abrogation of Cho1 induction and PSS activity by a CHO1 UAS INO mutation suppressed pah1 Δ effects on lipid synthesis, nuclear/endoplasmic reticulum membrane morphology, and lipid droplet formation, but not on growth at elevated temperature. Loss of the DGK1 -encoded diacylglycerol kinase, which converts diacylglycerol to phosphatidate, partially suppressed the pah1 Δ-mediated induction of Cho1 and PSS activity. Collectively, these data showed that PAP activity controls the expression of PSS for membrane phospholipid synthesis. © 2017 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

In vitro photodynamic inactivation effects of benzylidene cyclopentanone photosensitizers on clinical fluconazole-resistant Candida albicans.

PubMed

Zhou, Shaona; Sun, Zhiyuan; Ye, Zulin; Wang, Ying; Wang, Leili; Xing, Limei; Qiu, Haixia; Huang, Naiyan; Luo, Yanping; Zhao, Yuxia; Gu, Ying

2018-06-01

The incidence of Candida infections has increased for various reasons, including, the more frequent use of immunosuppresants or broad-spectrum antibiotics. Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) is a promising approach for treating localized Candida infections. The PDI efficacies of three benzylidene cyclopentanone-based (BCB) photosensitizers (PSs: P1, P2 and Y1) against three fluconazole-resistant C. albicans (cal-1, cal-2, and cal-3) and one control C. albicans (ATCC 90028), respectively, were evaluated using an established plate dilution method. The binding of PSs to C. albicans was determined by fluorescence spectroscopy. The mechanism of antifungal PDI was investigated using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Three BCB PSs all bound rapidly to C. albicans. After incubation with PSs for 30 min and irradiation with a 532 nm laser for 10 min (40 mW cm -2 , 24 J cm -2 ), the fungicidal activity was achieved as 7.5 μM for P1 and P2, and 25 μM for Y1. CLSM confirmed that P1 and Y1 were located in intracellular components, including mitochondria, while P2 bound to the protoplast exterior and failed to enter the cells. TEM revealed the damage of mitochondria ultrastructures after P1- or Y1-mediated PDI, consistenting with the CLSM results. However, most cells became edematous, enlarged or deformation after P2-mediated PDI. The three BCB PSs all have remarkable PDI effects on C. albicans. The best effect is obtained by P1, which has one cationic charge with a proper lipophilicity. The respective subcellular localization of the three PSs led to different PDI mechanisms. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Electrical transport characterization of PEDOT:PSS/n-Si Schottky diodes and their applications in solar cells.

PubMed

Khurelbaatar, Zagarzusem; Hyung, Jung-Hwan; Kim, Gil-Sung; Park, No-Won; Shim, Kyu-Hwan; Lee, Sang-Kwon

2014-06-01

We demonstrate locally contacted PEDOT:PSS Schottky diodes with excellent rectifying behavior, fabricated on n-type Si substrates using a spin-coating process and a reactive-ion etching process. Electrical transport characterizations of these Schottky diodes were investigated by both current-voltage (I-V) and capacitance-voltage (C-V) measurements. We found that these devices exhibit excellent modulation in the current with an on/off ratio of - 10(6). Schottky junction solar cells composed of PEDOT:PSS and n-Si structures were also examined. From the current density-voltage (J-V) measurement of a solar cell under illumination, the short circuit current (I(sc)), open circuit voltage (V(oc)), and conversion efficiency (eta) were - 19.7 mA/cm2, - 578.5 mV, and - 6.5%, respectively. The simple and low-cost fabrication process of the PEDOT:PSS/n-Si Schottky junctions makes them a promising candidate for further high performance solar cell applications.

Psychosomatic symptoms and stressful working conditions among Palestinian nurses: a cross-sectional study

PubMed Central

Jaradat, Yousef; Nijem, Khaldoun; Lien, Lars; Stigum, Hein; Bjertness, Espen; Bast-Pettersen, Rita

2016-01-01

Background: High levels of perceived stressful working conditions have been found to have an adverse effect on physical and mental health. Objectives: To examine the associations between self-reported stressful working conditions and Psychosomatic Symptoms (PSS), and to investigate possible gender differences. Methods: The present cross-sectional study comprises 430 nurses employed in Hebron district, Palestine. Self-reported stressful working conditions were recorded, and a Psychosomatic Symptoms Check list was used to assess prevalence of PSS. Findings: Median score on the psychosomatic symptom checklist for the group was 11, (range 1–21). Women reported more symptoms than men, with medians 11.6 and 10.0, respectively (p = .0001). PSS were associated with more self-reported stressful working conditions for both men (p < .0001) and women (p < .0001). The association was strongest among men. Conclusions: PSS were associated with high self-reported stressful working conditions, and this association was strongest among the men. PMID:27160155

Postprandial hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia secondary to a congenital portosystemic shunt.

PubMed

Senniappan, Senthil; Pitt, Katherine; Shah, Pratik; Arya, Ved; Jaiswal, Sanjay; Haddad, Munther; Hind, Jonathan; Dhawan, Anil; Davenport, Mark; Hussain, Khalid

2015-01-01

Portosystemic shunts (PSS) are abnormal vascular connections between the portal vein or its tributaries and the systemic vein that allow mesenteric blood to reach the systemic circulation without first passing through the liver. PSS can be associated with various syndromes and can lead to serious complications. We report a rare case of a child with PSS and recurrent hypoglycaemia. A 20-month-old girl with Down's syndrome presented with recurrent hypoglycaemic episodes. She had multiple anomalies including a ventricular septal defect, oesophageal atresia and tracheo-esophageal fistula, gastro-oesophageal reflux, and conjugated hyperbilirubinaemia. The initial investigations suggested hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia (HH). She did not respond to diazoxide. An oral glucose tolerance test suggested postprandial HH. Further vascular imaging showed a side-to-side portocaval shunt (Abernethy malformation) with relative hypoperfusion of the liver. Hypoglycaemia resolved following surgical closure of the portocaval shunt. PSS can rarely be associated with HH, possibly due to lack of insulin degradation in the liver. Surgical closure of the shunt resolves the hypoglycaemia. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Effect of incorporation of ethylene glycol into PEDOT:PSS on electron phonon coupling and conductivity

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lin, Yow-Jon, E-mail: rzr2390@yahoo.com.tw; Ni, Wei-Shih; Lee, Jhe-You

2015-06-07

The effect of incorporation of ethylene glycol (EG) into poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) on electron phonon coupling and conductivity is investigated. It is shown that the carrier density (N{sub C}) increases significantly and the carrier mobility (μ) increases slightly at 300 K. The increased intensity of the Raman spectrum between 1400 and 1450 cm{sup −1}, following EG treatment (that is, the quinoid-dominated structures of the PEDOT chain), leads to an increase in the number of polarons (bipolarons), which leads to an increase in N{sub C}. In addition, μ in PEDOT:PSS samples with or without EG addition exhibits a strong temperature dependence, which demonstrates themore » dominance of tunneling (hopping) at low (high) temperatures. The high conductivity of PEDOT:PSS samples with the addition of EG is attributed to the combined effect of the modification of the electron-phonon coupling and the increase in N{sub C} (μ)« less

Hollow multilayer microcapsules for pH-/thermally responsive drug delivery using aliphatic poly(urethane-amine) as smart component.

PubMed

Shi, Jun; Du, Chao; Shi, Jin; Wang, Yaming; Cao, Shaokui

2013-04-01

Hollow multilayer microcapsules made of aliphatic poly(urethane-amine) (PUA) and sodium poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS), templated on PSS-doped CaCO3 particles, are prepared for pH-/thermally responsive drug delivery. The electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bonding under weak-acid conditions between aliphatic PUA and PSS contribute to the formation of multilayer microcapsules. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results demonstrate an obvious variation of the hollow multilayer microcapsules in response to changes in temperature and pH value. Drug-release behaviors using DOX as a model drug demonstrate that the drug release increases on decreasing the pH value because of the interaction weakness between aliphatic PUA and PSS in acidic conditions. Moreover, the drug release is higher at 55 °C than that at 37 °C for the sake of the shrinkage of aliphatic PUA above its lower critical solution temperature (LCST). Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-Poly(styrenesulfonate) Interlayer Insertion Enables Organic Quaternary Memory.

PubMed

Cheng, Xue-Feng; Hou, Xiang; Qian, Wen-Hu; He, Jing-Hui; Xu, Qing-Feng; Li, Hua; Li, Na-Jun; Chen, Dong-Yun; Lu, Jian-Mei

2017-08-23

Herein, for the first time, quaternary resistive memory based on an organic molecule is achieved via surface engineering. A layer of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT-PSS) was inserted between the indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode and the organic layer (squaraine, SA-Bu) to form an ITO/PEDOT-PSS/SA-Bu/Al architecture. The modified resistive random-access memory (RRAM) devices achieve quaternary memory switching with the highest yield (∼41%) to date. Surface morphology, crystallinity, and mosaicity of the deposited organic grains are greatly improved after insertion of a PEDOT-PSS interlayer, which provides better contacts at the grain boundaries as well as the electrode/active layer interface. The PEDOT-PSS interlayer also reduces the hole injection barrier from the electrode to the active layer. Thus, the threshold voltage of each switching is greatly reduced, allowing for more quaternary switching in a certain voltage window. Our results provide a simple yet powerful strategy as an alternative to molecular design to achieve organic quaternary resistive memory.

The role of polymer films on the oxidation of magnetite nanoparticles

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Letti, C.J.; Paterno, L.G.; Pereira-da-Silva, M.A.

2017-02-15

A detailed investigation about the role of polymer films on the oxidation process of magnetite nanoparticles (∼7 nm diameter), under laser irradiation is performed employing micro Raman spectroscopy. To support this investigation, Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-np are synthesized by the co-precipitation method and assembled layer-by-layer with sodium sulfonated polystyrene (PSS). Polymer films (Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-np/PSS){sub n} with n=2,3,5,7,10 and 25 bilayers are employed as a model system to study the oxidation process under laser irradiation. Raman data are further processed by principal component analysis. Our findings suggest that PSS protects Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-np from oxidation when compared to powder samples, evenmore » for the sample with the greater number of bilayers. Further, the oxidation of magnetite to maghemite occurs preferably for thinner films up to 7 bilayers, while the onset for the formation of the hematite phase depends on the laser intensity for thicker films. Water takes part on the oxidation processes of magnetite, the oxidation/phase transformation of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-np is intensified in films with more bilayers, since more water is included in those films. Encapsulation of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-np by PSS in layer-by-layer films showed to be very efficient to avoid the oxidation process in nanosized magnetite. - Graphical abstract: Encapsulation of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-np by PSS in layer-by-layer films avoids the oxidation and phase transformation of nanosized magnetite. - Highlights: • (Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-np/PSS){sub n} nanofilms, with n=2 up to 25, where layer-by-layer assembled. • The influence of film architecture on the Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-np oxidation was investigated through Raman spectroscopy. • Encapsulation of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-np by PSS showed to be very efficient to avoid the Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-np oxidation.« less

A pharmacoeconomic approach to assessing the costs and benefits of air quality interventions that improve health: a case study

PubMed Central

Lomas, James; Schmitt, Laetitia; Jones, Sally; McGeorge, Maureen; Bates, Elizabeth; Holland, Mike; Cooper, Duncan; Crowther, Richard; Ashmore, Mike; Rojas-Rueda, David; Weatherly, Helen; Richardson, Gerry; Bojke, Laura

2016-01-01

Objective This paper explores the use of pharmacoeconomic methods of valuation to health impacts resulting from exposure to poor air quality. In using such methods, interventions that reduce exposure to poor air quality can be directly compared, in terms of value for money (or cost-effectiveness), with competing demands for finite resources, including other public health interventions. Design Using results estimated as part of a health impact assessment regarding a West Yorkshire Low Emission Zone strategy, this paper quantifies cost-saving and health-improving implications of transport policy through its impact on air quality. Data source Estimates of health-related quality of life and the National Health Service (NHS)/Personal Social Services (PSS) costs for identified health events were based on data from Leeds and Bradford using peer-reviewed publications or Office for National Statistics releases. Population Inhabitants of the area within the outer ring roads of Leeds and Bradford. Main outcomes measures NHS and PSS costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Results Averting an all-cause mortality death generates 8.4 QALYs. Each coronary event avoided saves £28 000 in NHS/PSS costs and generates 1.1 QALYs. For every fewer case of childhood asthma, there will be NHS/PSS cost saving of £3000 and a health benefit of 0.9 QALYs. A single term, low birthweight birth avoided saves £2000 in NHS/PSS costs. Preventing a preterm birth saves £24 000 in NHS/PSS costs and generates 1.3 QALYs. A scenario modelled in the West Yorkshire Low Emission Zone Feasibility Study, where pre-EURO 4 buses and HGVs are upgraded to EURO 6 by 2016 generates an annual benefit of £2.08 million and a one-off benefit of £3.3 million compared with a net present value cost of implementation of £6.3 million. Conclusions Interventions to improve air quality and health should be evaluated and where improvement of population health is the primary objective, cost-effectiveness analysis using a NHS/PSS costs and QALYs framework is an appropriate methodology. PMID:27329439

The effect of a low-fat spread with added plant sterols on vascular function markers: results of the Investigating Vascular Function Effects of Plant Sterols (INVEST) study12345

PubMed Central

Ras, Rouyanne T; Fuchs, Dagmar; Koppenol, Wieneke P; Garczarek, Ursula; Greyling, Arno; Keicher, Christian; Verhoeven, Carole; Bouzamondo, Hakim; Wagner, Frank; Trautwein, Elke A

2015-01-01

Background: Plant sterols (PSs) lower LDL cholesterol, an established risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). No direct evidence is available supporting a reduced risk of CAD for foods with added PSs. Endothelial dysfunction is seen as an early indicator of atherosclerotic damage. Objectives: This study was primarily designed to investigate the effect of a low-fat spread with added PSs on brachial artery endothelial function as measured by flow-mediated dilation (FMD). Second, effects on arterial stiffness, blood pressure, serum lipids, and plasma PS concentrations were investigated. We hypothesized that PSs would not worsen FMD but would rather modestly improve FMD. Design: This study had a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel design. After a 4-wk run-in period, 240 hypercholesterolemic but otherwise healthy men and women consumed 20 g/d of low-fat spread without (control) or with added PSs (3 g/d) during 12 wk. Pre- and postintervention, vascular function measurements and blood sampling were performed. Results: In total, 232 participants completed the study period. For the primary endpoint FMD, 199 participants were included in the statistical analysis. PS intake did not affect FMD (+0.01 percentage points; 95% CI: −0.73, 0.75) compared with control. Measures of arterial stiffness (pulse wave velocity and augmentation index) and blood pressure were also not significantly changed compared with control. After PS intervention, LDL cholesterol significantly decreased on average by 0.26 mmol/L (95% CI: −0.40, −0.12) or 6.7% compared with control. Plasma sitosterol and campesterol concentrations significantly increased in the PS group up to on average 11.5 μmol/L and 13.9 μmol/L (expressed as geometric means), respectively. Conclusions: The intake of a low-fat spread with added PSs neither improved nor worsened FMD or other vascular function markers in hypercholesterolemic men and women. As expected, serum LDL cholesterol decreased, whereas plasma PSs increased after PS intake. This study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01803178. PMID:25809853

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and later-life depression: perceived social support as a potential protective factor.

PubMed

Cheong, E Von; Sinnott, Carol; Dahly, Darren; Kearney, Patricia M

2017-09-01

To investigate associations between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and later-life depressive symptoms; and to explore whether perceived social support (PSS) moderates these. We analysed baseline data from the Mitchelstown (Ireland) 2010-2011 cohort of 2047 men and women aged 50-69 years. Self-reported measures included ACEs (Centre for Disease Control ACE questionnaire), PSS (Oslo Social Support Scale) and depressive symptoms (CES-D). The primary exposure was self-report of at least one ACE. We also investigated the effects of ACE exposure by ACE scores and ACE subtypes abuse, neglect and household dysfunction. Associations between each of these exposures and depressive symptoms were estimated using logistic regression, adjusted for socio-demographic factors. We tested whether the estimated associations varied across levels of PSS (poor, moderate and strong). 23.7% of participants reported at least one ACE (95% CI 21.9% to 25.6%). ACE exposures (overall, subtype or ACE scores) were associated with a higher odds of depressive symptoms, but only among individuals with poor PSS. Exposure to any ACE (vs none) was associated with almost three times the odds of depressive symptoms (adjusted OR 2.85; 95% CI 1.64 to 4.95) among individuals reporting poor PSS, while among those reporting moderate and strong PSS, the adjusted ORs were 2.21 (95% CI 1.52 to 3.22) and 1.39 (95% CI 0.85 to 2.29), respectively. This pattern of results was similar when exposures were based on ACE subtype and ACE scores, though the interaction was clearly strongest among those reporting abuse. ACEs are common among older adults in Ireland and are associated with higher odds of later-life depressive symptoms, particularly among those with poor PSS. Interventions that enhance social support, or possibly perceptions of social support, may help reduce the burden of depression in older populations with ACE exposure, particularly in those reporting abuse. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

The Role of Correction in the Conservative Treatment of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis.

PubMed

Ng, Shu-Yan; Nan, Xiao-Feng; Lee, Sang-Gil; Tournavitis, Nico

2017-01-01

Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercises (PSSE) and bracing have been found to be effective in the stabilization of curves in patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS). Yet, the difference among the many PSSEs and braces has not been studied. The present review attempts to investigate the role of curve correction in the outcome of treatment for PSSEs and braces. A PubMed manual search has been conducted for studies on the role of correction in the effectiveness of PSSE and bracing. For the PSSEs, the key words used were "adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, correction, physiotherapy, physical therapy, exercise, and rehabilitation." For bracing, the key words used were "adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, correction and brace". Only papers that were published from 2001-2017 were included and reviewed, as there were very few relevant papers dating earlier than 2001. The search found no studies on the role of correction on the effectiveness of different PSSEs. The effectiveness of different PSSEs might or might not be related to the magnitude of curve correction during the exercises. However, many studies showed a relationship between the magnitude of in-brace correction and the outcome of the brace treatment. The role of correction on the effectiveness of PSSE has not been studied. In-brace correction, however, has been found to be associated with the outcome of brace treatment. An in-brace correction of < 10% was associated with an increased rate of failure of brace treatment, whereas an in-brace correction of >40-50% was associated with an increased rate of brace treatment success ( i.e . stabilization or improvement of curves). Thus, in the treatment of AIS, patients should be advised to use highly corrective braces, in conjunction with PSSE since exercises have been found to help stabilize the curves during weaning of the brace. Presently, no specific PSSE can be recommended. Braces of high in-brace correction should be used in conjunction with PSSEs in the treatment of AIS. No specific PSSE can be recommended as comparison studies of the effectiveness of different PSSEs are not found at the time of this study.

Astrometric observations of Saturn's satellites from McDonald Observatory, 1972

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abbot, R. I.; Mulholland, J. D.; Shelus, P. J.

1975-01-01

Observations of Saturn's satellites have been reduced by means of secondary reference stars obtained by reduction of Palomar Sky Survey plates. This involved the use of 29 SAO stars and plate overlap technique to determine the coordinates of 59 fainter stars in the satellite field. Fourteen plate constants were determined for each of the two PSS plates. Comparison of two plate measurement and reduction techniques on the satellite measures appears to demonstrate the existence of a serious background gradient effect and the utility of microdensitometry to eliminate this error source in positional determinations of close satellites.

Proteomic analysis of saliva: a unique tool to distinguish primary Sjögren's syndrome from secondary Sjögren's syndrome and other sicca syndromes

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Introduction A growing interest has arisen in salivary proteomics as a tool for the identification of biomarkers for primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). Nonetheless, only a limited number of preclinical validation studies have been performed, limiting the possibility of translating proteomic results into clinical practice. The primary aim of this study was to refine the diagnostic power of a panel of candidate salivary biomarkers described in pSS with respect to both healthy volunteers and pathological controls. We also explored the pathogenetic function of the detected putative biomarkers both in the local exocrinopathy and in the systemic inflammatory processes of SS. Methods One hundred and eighty patients were included in the study overall. In the first "exploratory phase", we enrolled 40 females with pSS, 40 sex- and age-matched healthy volunteers, 10 patients with sicca non-SS and 15 secondary SS (sSS) patients. The testing cohort of the second "challenge phase" of the study was represented by 75 unselected, consecutive subjects: 19 pSS, 21 healthy volunteers, 10 sicca non-SS and 25 sSS patients. Salivary proteomic analysis was performed combining two-dimensional electrophoresis (2DE) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). Western blot (WB) analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were employed to validate 2DE results. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) Knowledge base was adopted to associate candidate biomarkers in a signalling pathogenetic network. Results A total of 28, 6, 7 and 12 protein spots were found to be significantly different in pSS samples with respect to healthy volunteers, non-SS sicca syndrome, SSc-sSS and rheumatoid arthritis-sSS, leading to the identification of 15 differently expressed proteins. Among them, α-amylases precursor, carbonic anhydrase VI, β-2 microglobulin, glyceraldehydes-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G3PDH), epidermal fatty acid binding protein (E-FABP) and immunoglobulin k light chain (IGK-light chain) apparently showed the most significant differences in pSS when compared to healthy volunteers and non-SS pathological controls. On the other hand, as expected, pSS and sSS salivary profiles shared a great number of similarities. Conclusions This study demonstrated that salivary fluid might represent a novel ideal milieu for the detection of a diagnostic panel of candidate biomarkers for pSS, and to gain an insight into the pathogenetic processes underlying glandular and systemic autoimmune disorders. PMID:22117835

Photodynamic Cancer Therapy—Recent Advances

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abrahamse, Heidi

2011-09-01

The basic principle of the photodynamic effect was discovered over a hundred years ago leading to the pioneering work on PDT in Europe. It was only during the 1980s, however, when "photoradiation therapy" was investigated as a possible treatment modality for cancer. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a photochemotherapeutic process which requires the use of a photosensitizer (PS) that, upon entry into a cancer cell is targeted by laser irradiation to initiate a series of events that contribute to cell death. PSs are light-sensitive dyes activated by a light source at a specific wavelength and can be classified as first or second generation PSs based on its origin and synthetic pathway. The principle of PS activation lies in a photochemical reaction resulting from excitation of the PS producing singlet oxygen which in turn reacts and damages cell organelles and biomolecules required for cell function and ultimately leading to cell destruction. Several first and second generation PSs have been studied in several different cancer types in the quest to optimize treatment. PSs including haematoporphyrin derivative (HpD), aminolevulinic acid (ALA), chlorins, bacteriochlorins, phthalocyanines, naphthalocyanines, pheophorbiedes and purpurins all require selective uptake and retention by cancer cells prior to activation by a light source and subsequent cell death induction. Photodynamic diagnosis (PDD) is based on the fluorescence effect exhibited by PSs upon irradiation and is often used concurrently with PDT to detect and locate tumours. Both laser and light emitting diodes (LED) have been used for PDT depending on the location of the tumour. Internal cancers more often require the use of laser light delivery using fibre optics as delivery system while external PDT often make use of LEDs. Normal cells have a lower uptake of the PS in comparison to tumour cells, however the acute cytotoxic effect of the compound on the recovery rate of normal cells is not known. Subcellular localization of PS is of vital importance when cell death mechanism is identified. Programmed cell death (PCD) viz. apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy have all been identified as inducible cell death mechanisms during PDT. While apoptosis is probably the preferred cell death mechanism, understanding the molecular differences and identifying the cross-talk between these mechanisms are crucial to the development of new PSs aimed at improving the killing efficiency and overall effectiveness of PDT as a cancer treatment modality. This paper reviews the process of PDT cancer therapy, the available PSs, their effectiveness for different cancers as well as the cell death mechanisms identified during PDT of different cancers associated with specific PSs.

Photodynamic Cancer Therapy - Recent Advances

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Abrahamse, Heidi

The basic principle of the photodynamic effect was discovered over a hundred years ago leading to the pioneering work on PDT in Europe. It was only during the 1980s, however, when 'photoradiation therapy' was investigated as a possible treatment modality for cancer. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a photochemotherapeutic process which requires the use of a photosensitizer (PS) that, upon entry into a cancer cell is targeted by laser irradiation to initiate a series of events that contribute to cell death. PSs are light-sensitive dyes activated by a light source at a specific wavelength and can be classified as first ormore » second generation PSs based on its origin and synthetic pathway. The principle of PS activation lies in a photochemical reaction resulting from excitation of the PS producing singlet oxygen which in turn reacts and damages cell organelles and biomolecules required for cell function and ultimately leading to cell destruction. Several first and second generation PSs have been studied in several different cancer types in the quest to optimize treatment. PSs including haematoporphyrin derivative (HpD), aminolevulinic acid (ALA), chlorins, bacteriochlorins, phthalocyanines, naphthalocyanines, pheophorbiedes and purpurins all require selective uptake and retention by cancer cells prior to activation by a light source and subsequent cell death induction. Photodynamic diagnosis (PDD) is based on the fluorescence effect exhibited by PSs upon irradiation and is often used concurrently with PDT to detect and locate tumours. Both laser and light emitting diodes (LED) have been used for PDT depending on the location of the tumour. Internal cancers more often require the use of laser light delivery using fibre optics as delivery system while external PDT often make use of LEDs. Normal cells have a lower uptake of the PS in comparison to tumour cells, however the acute cytotoxic effect of the compound on the recovery rate of normal cells is not known. Subcellular localization of PS is of vital importance when cell death mechanism is identified. Programmed cell death (PCD) viz. apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy have all been identified as inducible cell death mechanisms during PDT. While apoptosis is probably the preferred cell death mechanism, understanding the molecular differences and identifying the cross-talk between these mechanisms are crucial to the development of new PSs aimed at improving the killing efficiency and overall effectiveness of PDT as a cancer treatment modality. This paper reviews the process of PDT cancer therapy, the available PSs, their effectiveness for different cancers as well as the cell death mechanisms identified during PDT of different cancers associated with specific PSs.« less

The predictive factors for perceived social support among cancer patients and caregiver burden of their family caregivers in Turkish population.

PubMed

Oven Ustaalioglu, Basak; Acar, Ezgi; Caliskan, Mecit

2018-03-01

We aimed to identify the predictive factors for the perceived family social support among cancer patients and caregiver burden of their family caregivers. Participants were 302 cancer patients and their family caregivers. Family social support scale was used for cancer patients, burden interview was used for family caregivers.All subjects also completed Beck depression invantery. The related socio-demographical factors with perceived social support (PSS) and caregiver burden were evaluated by correlation analysis. To find independent factors predicting caregiver burden and PSS, logistic regression analysis were conducted. Depression scores was higher among patients than their family caregivers (12.5 vs. 8). PSS was lower in depressed patients (p < .001). Family caregiver burden were also higher in depressive groups (p < .001). Among patients only the depression was negatively correlated with PSS (p < .001, r = -2.97). Presence of depression (p < .001, r = 0.381) was positively correlated and family caregiver role was negatively correlated (p < .001, r = -0.208) with caregiver burden. Presence of depression was the independent predictor for both, lower PSS for patients and higher burden for caregivers. The results of this study is noteworthy because it may help for planning any supportive care program not only for patients but together with their caregiver at the same time during chemotherapy period in Turkish population.

Sensitive and Selective NH₃ Monitoring at Room Temperature Using ZnO Ceramic Nanofibers Decorated with Poly(styrene sulfonate).

PubMed

Andre, Rafaela S; Kwak, Dongwook; Dong, Qiuchen; Zhong, Wei; Correa, Daniel S; Mattoso, Luiz H C; Lei, Yu

2018-04-01

Ammonia (NH₃) gas is a prominent air pollutant that is frequently found in industrial and livestock production environments. Due to the importance in controlling pollution and protecting public health, the development of new platforms for sensing NH₃ at room temperature has attracted great attention. In this study, a sensitive NH₃ gas device with enhanced selectivity is developed based on zinc oxide nanofibers (ZnO NFs) decorated with poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS) and operated at room temperature. ZnO NFs were prepared by electrospinning followed by calcination at 500 °C for 3 h. The electrospun ZnO NFs are characterized to evaluate the properties of the as-prepared sensing materials. The loading of PSS to prepare ZnO NFs/PSS composite is also optimized based on the best sensing performance. Under the optimal composition, ZnO NFs/PSS displays rapid, reversible, and sensitive response upon NH₃ exposure at room temperature. The device shows a dynamic linear range up to 100 ppm and a limit of detection of 3.22 ppm and enhanced selectivity toward NH₃ in synthetic air, against NO₂ and CO, compared to pure ZnO NFs. Additionally, a sensing mechanism is proposed to illustrate the sensing performance using ZnO NFs/PSS composite. Therefore, this study provides a simple methodology to design a sensitive platform for NH₃ monitoring at room temperature.

Activation of IFN pathways and plasmacytoid dendritic cell recruitment in target organs of primary Sjögren's syndrome.

PubMed

Gottenberg, Jacques-Eric; Cagnard, Nicolas; Lucchesi, Carlo; Letourneur, Franck; Mistou, Sylvie; Lazure, Thierry; Jacques, Sebastien; Ba, Nathalie; Ittah, Marc; Lepajolec, Christine; Labetoulle, Marc; Ardizzone, Marc; Sibilia, Jean; Fournier, Catherine; Chiocchia, Gilles; Mariette, Xavier

2006-02-21

Gene expression analysis of target organs might help provide new insights into the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. We used global gene expression profiling of minor salivary glands to identify patterns of gene expression in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS), a common and prototypic systemic autoimmune disease. Gene expression analysis allowed for differentiating most patients with pSS from controls. The expression of 23 genes in the IFN pathways, including two Toll-like receptors (TLR8 and TLR9), was significantly different between patients and controls. Furthermore, the increased expression of IFN-inducible genes, BAFF and IFN-induced transmembrane protein 1, was also demonstrated in ocular epithelial cells by quantitative RT-PCR. In vitro activation showed that these genes were effectively modulated by IFNs in salivary gland epithelial cells, the target cells of autoimmunity in pSS. The activation of IFN pathways led us to investigate whether plasmacytoid dendritic cells were recruited in salivary glands. These IFN-producing cells were detected by immunohistochemistry in all patients with pSS, whereas none was observed in controls. In conclusion, our results support the pathogenic interaction between the innate and adaptive immune system in pSS. The persistence of the IFN signature might be related to a vicious circle, in which the environment interacts with genetic factors to drive the stimulation of salivary TLRs.

Activation of IFN pathways and plasmacytoid dendritic cell recruitment in target organs of primary Sjögren’s syndrome

PubMed Central

Gottenberg, Jacques-Eric; Cagnard, Nicolas; Lucchesi, Carlo; Letourneur, Franck; Mistou, Sylvie; Lazure, Thierry; Jacques, Sebastien; Ba, Nathalie; Ittah, Marc; Lepajolec, Christine; Labetoulle, Marc; Ardizzone, Marc; Sibilia, Jean; Fournier, Catherine; Chiocchia, Gilles; Mariette, Xavier

2006-01-01

Gene expression analysis of target organs might help provide new insights into the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. We used global gene expression profiling of minor salivary glands to identify patterns of gene expression in patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS), a common and prototypic systemic autoimmune disease. Gene expression analysis allowed for differentiating most patients with pSS from controls. The expression of 23 genes in the IFN pathways, including two Toll-like receptors (TLR8 and TLR9), was significantly different between patients and controls. Furthermore, the increased expression of IFN-inducible genes, BAFF and IFN-induced transmembrane protein 1, was also demonstrated in ocular epithelial cells by quantitative RT-PCR. In vitro activation showed that these genes were effectively modulated by IFNs in salivary gland epithelial cells, the target cells of autoimmunity in pSS. The activation of IFN pathways led us to investigate whether plasmacytoid dendritic cells were recruited in salivary glands. These IFN-producing cells were detected by immunohistochemistry in all patients with pSS, whereas none was observed in controls. In conclusion, our results support the pathogenic interaction between the innate and adaptive immune system in pSS. The persistence of the IFN signature might be related to a vicious circle, in which the environment interacts with genetic factors to drive the stimulation of salivary TLRs. PMID:16477017

Improved Efficiency of Polymer Solar Cells by means of Coating Hole Transporting Layer as Double Layer Deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chonsut, T.; Kayunkid, N.; Rahong, S.; Rangkasikorn, A.; Wirunchit, S.; Kaewprajak, A.; Kumnorkaew, P.; Nukeaw, J.

2017-09-01

Polymer solar cells is one of the promising technologies that gain tremendous attentions in the field of renewable energy. Optimization of thickness for each layer is an important factor determining the efficiency of the solar cells. In this work, the optimum thickness of Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythione): poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), a famous polymer widely used as hole transporting layer in polymer solar cells, is determined through the analyzing of device’s photovoltaic parameters, e.g. short circuit current density (Jsc), open circuit voltage (Voc), fill factor (FF) as well as power conversion efficiency (PCE). The solar cells were prepared with multilayer of ITO/PEDOT:PSS/PCDTBT:PC70BM/TiOx/Al by rapid convective deposition. In such preparation technique, the thickness of the thin film is controlled by the deposition speed. The faster deposition speed is used, the thicker film is obtained. Furthermore, double layer deposition of PEDOT:PSS was introduced as an approach to improve solar cell efficiency. The results obviously reveal that, with the increase of PEDOT:PSS thickness, the increments of Jsc and FF play the important role to improve PCE from 3.21% to 4.03%. Interestingly, using double layer deposition of PEDOT:PSS shows the ability to enhance the performance of the solar cells to 6.12% under simulated AM 1.5G illumination of 100 mW/cm2.

Carboxymethyl chitosan/conducting polymer as water-soluble composite binder for LiFePO4 cathode in lithium ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Haoxiang; He, Aiqin; Lu, Jidian; Sun, Minghao; He, Jiarong; Zhang, Lingzhi

2016-12-01

A water-soluble conductive composite binder consisting of carboxymethyl chitosan (CCTS) as a binder and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) as a conduction-promoting agent is reported for the LiFePO4 (LFP) cathode in Li-ion batteries. The introduction of conductive PEDOT:PSS as a conductive composite binder facilitates the formation of homogeneous and continuous conducting bridges throughout the electrode and raises the compaction density of the electrode sheet by decreasing the amounts of the commonly used conducting agent of acetylene black. The optimized replacement ratios of acetylene black with PEDOT:PSS (acetylene black/PEDOT:PSS = 1:1, by weight) are obtained by measuring electrical conductivity, peel strength and compaction density of the electrode sheets. The LFP half-cell with the optimized conductive binder exhibits better cycling and rate performance and more favorable electrochemical kinetics than that using only acetylene black conducting agent. The pilot application of PEDOT:PSS/CCTS binder in 10 Ah CCTS-LFP prismatic cell exhibits a comparable cycling performance, retaining 89.7% of capacity at 1 C/2 C (charge/discharge) rate as compared with 90% for commercial PVDF-LFP over 1000 cycles, and better rate capability than that of commercial PVDF-LFP, retaining 98% capacity of 1 C at 7 C rate as compared with 95.4% for PVDF-LFP.

Structure of Polyelectrolyte Brushes in the Presence of Multivalent Counterions

DOE PAGES

Yu, Jing; Mao, Jun; Yuan, Guangcui; ...

2016-07-20

Polyelectrolyte brushes are of great importance to a wide range of fields, ranging from colloidal stabilization to responsive and tunable materials to lubrication. Here, we synthesized high-density polystyrenesulfonate (PSS) brushes using surface initiated atom transfer radical polymerization and performed neutron reflectivity (NR) and surface force measurements using a surface forces apparatus (SFA) to investigate the effect of monovalent Na +, divalent Ca 2+, Mg 2+, and Ba 2+, and trivalent Y 3+ counterions on the structure of the PSS brushes. NR and SFA results demonstrate that in monovalent salt solution the behavior of the PSS brushes agrees with scaling theorymore » well, exhibiting two distinct regimes: the osmotic and salted brush regimes. Introducing trivalent Y 3+ cations causes an abrupt shrinkage of the PSS brush due to the uptake of Y 3+ counterions. The uptake of Y 3+ counterions and shrinkage of the brush are reversible upon increasing the concentration of monovalent salt. Divalent cations, Mg 2+, Ca 2+, and Ba 2+, while all significantly affecting the structure of PSS brushes, show strong ion specific effects that are related to the specific interactions between the divalent cations and the sulfonate groups. Our results demonstrate that the presence of multivalent counterions, even at relatively low concentrations, can strongly affect the structure of polyelectrolyte brushes. Finally, the results also highlight the importance of ion specificity to the structure of polyelectrolyte brushes in solution.« less

The first Korean patient with Potocki-Shaffer syndrome: a rare cause of multiple exostoses.

PubMed

Sohn, Young Bae; Yim, Shin-Young; Cho, Eun-Hae; Kim, Ok-Hwa

2015-02-01

Potocki-Shaffer syndrome (PSS, OMIM #601224) is a rare contiguous gene deletion syndrome caused by haploinsufficiency of genes located on the 11p11.2p12. Affected individuals have a number of characteristic features including multiple exostoses, biparietal foramina, abnormalities of genitourinary system, hypotonia, developmental delay, and intellectual disability. We report here on the first Korean case of an 8-yr-old boy with PSS diagnosed by high resolution microarray. Initial evaluation was done at age 6 months because of a history of developmental delay, hypotonia, and dysmorphic face. Coronal craniosynostosis and enlarged parietal foramina were found on skull radiographs. At age 6 yr, he had severe global developmental delay. Multiple exostoses of long bones were detected during a radiological check-up. Based on the clinical and radiological features, PSS was highly suspected. Subsequently, chromosomal microarray analysis identified an 8.6 Mb deletion at 11p11.2 [arr 11p12p11.2 (Chr11:39,204,770-47,791,278)×1]. The patient continued rehabilitation therapy for profound developmental delay. The progression of multiple exostosis has being monitored. This case confirms and extends data on the genetic basis of PSS. In clinical and radiologic aspect, a patient with multiple exostoses accompanying with syndromic features, including craniofacial abnormalities and mental retardation, the diagnosis of PSS should be considered.

Management and classification of type II congenital portosystemic shunts.

PubMed

Lautz, Timothy B; Tantemsapya, Niramol; Rowell, Erin; Superina, Riccardo A

2011-02-01

Congenital portosystemic shunts (PSS) with preserved intrahepatic portal flow (type II) present with a range of clinical signs. The indications for and benefits of repair of PSS remain incompletely understood. A more comprehensive classification may also benefit comparative analyses from different institutions. All children treated at our institution for type II congenital PSS from 1999 through 2009 were reviewed for presentation, treatment, and outcome. Ten children (7 boys) with type II PSS were identified at a median age of 5.5 years. Hyperammonemia with varying degrees of neurocognitive dysfunction occurred in 80%. The shunt arose from a branch of the portal vein (type IIa; n = 2), from the main portal vein (type IIb; n = 7), or from a splenic or mesenteric vein (type IIc; n = 1). Management included operative ligation (n = 6), endovascular occlusion (n = 3), or a combined approach (n = 1). Shunt occlusion was successful in all cases. Serum ammonia decreased from 130 ± 115 μmol/L preoperatively to 31 ± 15 μmol/L postoperatively (P = .03). Additional benefits included resolution of neurocognitive dysfunction (n = 3), liver nodules (n = 1), and vaginal bleeding (n = 1). Correction of type II PSS relieves a wide array of symptoms. Surgery is indicated for patients with clinically significant shunting. A refined classification system will permit future comparison of patients with similar physiology. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of psychometric properties of the malay version perceived stress scale in two occupational settings in malaysia.

PubMed

Al-Dubai, Sar; Ganasegeran, K; Barua, A; Rizal, Am; Rampal, Kg

2014-07-01

The 10-item version of Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) is a widely used tool to measure stress. The Malay version of the PSS-10 has been validated among Malaysian Medical Students. However, studies have not been conducted to assess its validity in occupational settings. The aim of this study is to assess the psychometric properties of the Malay version of the PSS-10 in two occupational setting in Malaysia. This study was conducted among 191 medical residents and 513 railway workers. An exploratory factor analysis was performed using the principal component method with varimax rotation. Correlation analyses, Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin, Bartlett's test of Sphericity and Cronbach's alpha were obtained. Statistical analysis was carried out using statistical package for the social sciences version 16 (SPSS, Chicago, IL, USA) software. Analysis yielded two factor structure of the Malay version of PSS-10 in both occupational groups. The two factors accounted for 59.2% and 64.8% of the variance in the medical residents and the railway workers respectively. Factor loadings were greater than 0.59 in both occupational groups. Cronbach's alpha co-efficient was 0.70 for medical residents and 0.71 for railway workers. The Malay version of PSS-10 had adequate psychometric properties and can be used to measure stress among occupational settings in Malaysia.

Evaluation of Psychometric Properties of the Malay Version Perceived Stress Scale in Two Occupational Settings In Malaysia

PubMed Central

Al-Dubai, SAR; Ganasegeran, K; Barua, A; Rizal, AM; Rampal, KG

2014-01-01

Background: The 10-item version of Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) is a widely used tool to measure stress. The Malay version of the PSS-10 has been validated among Malaysian Medical Students. However, studies have not been conducted to assess its validity in occupational settings. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the psychometric properties of the Malay version of the PSS-10 in two occupational setting in Malaysia. Subjects and Methods: This study was conducted among 191 medical residents and 513 railway workers. An exploratory factor analysis was performed using the principal component method with varimax rotation. Correlation analyses, Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin, Bartlett's test of Sphericity and Cronbach's alpha were obtained. Statistical analysis was carried out using statistical package for the social sciences version 16 (SPSS, Chicago, IL, USA) software. Results: Analysis yielded two factor structure of the Malay version of PSS-10 in both occupational groups. The two factors accounted for 59.2% and 64.8% of the variance in the medical residents and the railway workers respectively. Factor loadings were greater than 0.59 in both occupational groups. Cronbach's alpha co-efficient was 0.70 for medical residents and 0.71 for railway workers. Conclusion: The Malay version of PSS-10 had adequate psychometric properties and can be used to measure stress among occupational settings in Malaysia. PMID:25184074

Inverted, Organic WORM Device Based on PEDOT:PSS with Very Low Turn-On Voltage

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nawrocki, Robert A.; Galiger, Erin M.; Ostrowski, David P.

An organic Write-Once-Read-Many (WORM) device based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) as the active layer was fabricated with an inverted architecture. Insertion of an ultrathin layer of poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) between the bottom electrode and the PEDOT:PSS resulted in a systematic and substantial decrease in turn-on voltage, from 7.0 V to less than 1.0 V. An optimal thickness of the PMMA layer was found to yield the lowest consistent turn-on voltage of ~0.8 V, with 0.5 V being the lowest value of all fabricated devices. The switching mechanism was attributed to filamentary doping of the PEDOT:PSS. Insertion of the PMMA acted tomore » protect the underlying ZnO from being etched by the acidic PEDOT:PSS as well as to improve its wetting properties. Moreover, devices were demonstrated on both ITO and aluminum bottom electrodes, with aluminum yielding the highest ON/OFF ratios in the study. Owing to their inverted architecture, the devices demonstrated good stability, and the retention time of the ON-state was determined to be greater than twenty months while stored in air for devices with ITO bottom electrodes. Blade-coating was demonstrated as a viable processing technique for applications requiring rapid or large-area manufacturing in addition to deposition via spin-coating.« less

Gold nanoparticle-polymer nanocomposites synthesized by room temperature atmospheric pressure plasma and their potential for fuel cell electrocatalytic application

PubMed Central

Zhang, Ri-Chao; Sun, Dan; Zhang, Ruirui; Lin, Wen-Feng; Macias-Montero, Manuel; Patel, Jenish; Askari, Sadegh; McDonald, Calum; Mariotti, Davide; Maguire, Paul

2017-01-01

Conductive polymers have been increasingly used as fuel cell catalyst support due to their electrical conductivity, large surface areas and stability. The incorporation of metal nanoparticles into a polymer matrix can effectively increase the specific surface area of these materials and hence improve the catalytic efficiency. In this work, a nanoparticle loaded conductive polymer nanocomposite was obtained by a one-step synthesis approach based on room temperature direct current plasma-liquid interaction. Gold nanoparticles were directly synthesized from HAuCl4 precursor in poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS). The resulting AuNPs/PEDOT:PSS nanocomposites were subsequently characterized under a practical alkaline direct ethanol fuel cell operation condition for its potential application as an electrocatalyst. Results show that AuNPs sizes within the PEDOT:PSS matrix are dependent on the plasma treatment time and precursor concentration, which in turn affect the nanocomposites electrical conductivity and their catalytic performance. Under certain synthesis conditions, unique nanoscale AuNPs/PEDOT:PSS core-shell structures could also be produced, indicating the interaction at the AuNPs/polymer interface. The enhanced catalytic activity shown by AuNPs/PEDOT:PSS has been attributed to the effective electron transfer and reactive species diffusion through the porous polymer network, as well as the synergistic interfacial interaction at the metal/polymer and metal/metal interfaces. PMID:28436454

Solution-Processed Ag Nanowires + PEDOT:PSS Hybrid Electrode for Cu(In,Ga)Se₂ Thin-Film Solar Cells.

PubMed

Shin, Donghyeop; Kim, Taegeon; Ahn, Byung Tae; Han, Seung Min

2015-06-24

To reduce the cost of the Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells while maximizing the efficiency, we report the use of an Ag nanowires (NWs) + poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) ( PSS) hybrid transparent electrode, which was deposited using all-solution-processed, low-cost, scalable methods. This is the first demonstration of an Ag NWs + PSS transparent electrode applied to CIGS solar cells. The spin-coated 10-nm-thick PSS conducting polymer layer in our hybrid electrode functioned as a filler of empty space of an electrostatically sprayed Ag NW network. Coating of PSS on the Ag NW network resulted in an increase in the short-circuit current from 15.4 to 26.5 mA/cm(2), but the open-circuit voltage and shunt resistance still needed to be improved. The limited open-circuit voltage was found to be due to interfacial recombination that is due to the ineffective hole-blocking ability of the CdS film. To suppress the interfacial recombination between Ag NWs and the CdS film, a Zn(S,O,OH) film was introduced as a hole-blocking layer between the CdS film and Ag NW network. The open-circuit voltage of the cell sharply improved from 0.35 to 0.6 V, which resulted in the best cell efficiency of 11.6%.

Reaction enthalpy from the binding of multivalent cations to anionic polyelectrolytes in dilute solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hansch, Markus; Kaub, Hans Peter; Deck, Sascha; Carl, Nico; Huber, Klaus

2018-03-01

Dilute solutions of sodium poly(styrene sulfonate) (NaPSS) in the presence of Al3+, Ca2+, and Ba2+ were analysed by means of isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) in order to investigate the heat effect of bond formation between those cations and the anionic SO3- residues of NaPSS. The selection of the cations was guided by the solution behavior of the corresponding PSS salts from a preceding study [M. Hansch et al., J. Chem. Phys. 148(1), 014901 (2018)], where bonds between Ba2+ and anionic PSS showed an increasing solubility with decreasing temperature and Al3+ exhibited the inverse trend. Unlike to Al3+ and Ba2+, Ca2+ is expected to behave as a purely electrostatically interacting bivalent cation and was thus included in the present study. Results from ITC satisfactorily succeeded to explain the temperature-dependent solution behavior of the salts with Al3+ and Ba2+ and confirmed the non-specific behavior of Ca2+. Additional ITC experiments with salts of Ca2+ and Ba2+ and sodium poly(acrylate) complemented the results on PSS by data from a chemically different polyanion. Availability of these joint sets of polyanion-cation combinations not only offers the chance to identify common features and subtle differences in the solution behavior of polyelectrolytes in the presence of multi-valent cations but also points to a new class of responsive materials.

Effect of liquid immersion of PEDOT: PSS-coated polyester fabric on surface resistance and wettability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Getnet Tadesse, Melkie; Loghin, Carmen; Chen, Yan; Wang, Lichuan; Catalin, Dumitras; Nierstrasz, Vincent

2017-06-01

Coating of textile fabrics with poly (3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly (styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is one of the methods used for obtaining functional or smart applications. In this work, we prepared PEDOT:PSS polymer with certain additives such as polyethylene glycol, methanol (MeOH), and ethylene glycol on polyester fabric substrates by a simple immersion process. Surface resistance was measured and analyzed with analysis of variance to determine the coating parameters at 95% confidence level. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) study of the samples were performed. Contact angle and washing fastness measurements were conducted, to observe the wettability and washing fastness of the samples, respectively. Surface resistance values were decreased by a factor of 100, due to conductive enhancers. As the immersion time and temperature condition varies, surface resistance showed no difference, statistically. FTIR analysis supports the idea that the mechanism responsible for the conductivity enhancement is the partial replacement of PSS from PEDOT chain by forming a hydrogen bond with hydroxyl ion (OH) of the conductive enhancers. A SEM images showed that PEDOT:PSS is well distributed to the surface of the fabrics. Contact angle measurements showed morphology change in the samples. The conductivity was reasonably stable after 10 washing cycles. Altogether, an effective simple immersion of coated polyester fabric is presented to achieve functional textiles that offer a broad range of possible applications.

Enzymatic triggered release of an HIV-1 entry inhibitor from prostate specific antigen degradable microparticles.

PubMed

Clark, Meredith R; Aliyar, Hyder A; Lee, Chang-won; Jay, Julie I; Gupta, Kavita M; Watson, Karen M; Stewart, Russell J; Buckheit, Robert W; Kiser, Patrick F

2011-07-15

This paper describes the design, construction and characterization of the first anti-HIV drug delivery system that is triggered to release its contents in the presence of human semen. Microgel particles were synthesized with a crosslinker containing a peptide substrate for the seminal serine protease prostate specific antigen (PSA) and were loaded with the HIV-1 entry inhibitor sodium poly(styrene-4-sulfonate) (pSS). The particles were composed of N-2-hydroxyproplymethacrylamide and bis-methacrylamide functionalized peptides based on the PSA substrates GISSFYSSK and GISSQYSSK. Exposure to human seminal plasma (HSP) degraded the microgel network and triggered the release of the entrapped antiviral polymer. Particles with the crosslinker composed of the substrate GISSFYSSK showed 17 times faster degradation in seminal plasma than that of the crosslinker composed of GISSQYSSK. The microgel particles containing 1 mol% GISSFYSSK peptide crosslinker showed complete degradation in 30 h in the presence of HSP at 37°C and pSS released from the microgels within 30 min reached a concentration of 10 μg/mL, equivalent to the published IC(90) for pSS. The released pSS inactivated HIV-1 in the presence of HSP. The solid phase synthesis of the crosslinkers, preparation of the particles by inverse microemulsion polymerization, HSP-triggered release of pSS and inactivation of HIV-1 studies are described. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Gold nanoparticle-polymer nanocomposites synthesized by room temperature atmospheric pressure plasma and their potential for fuel cell electrocatalytic application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Ri-Chao; Sun, Dan; Zhang, Ruirui; Lin, Wen-Feng; Macias-Montero, Manuel; Patel, Jenish; Askari, Sadegh; McDonald, Calum; Mariotti, Davide; Maguire, Paul

2017-04-01

Conductive polymers have been increasingly used as fuel cell catalyst support due to their electrical conductivity, large surface areas and stability. The incorporation of metal nanoparticles into a polymer matrix can effectively increase the specific surface area of these materials and hence improve the catalytic efficiency. In this work, a nanoparticle loaded conductive polymer nanocomposite was obtained by a one-step synthesis approach based on room temperature direct current plasma-liquid interaction. Gold nanoparticles were directly synthesized from HAuCl4 precursor in poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS). The resulting AuNPs/PEDOT:PSS nanocomposites were subsequently characterized under a practical alkaline direct ethanol fuel cell operation condition for its potential application as an electrocatalyst. Results show that AuNPs sizes within the PEDOT:PSS matrix are dependent on the plasma treatment time and precursor concentration, which in turn affect the nanocomposites electrical conductivity and their catalytic performance. Under certain synthesis conditions, unique nanoscale AuNPs/PEDOT:PSS core-shell structures could also be produced, indicating the interaction at the AuNPs/polymer interface. The enhanced catalytic activity shown by AuNPs/PEDOT:PSS has been attributed to the effective electron transfer and reactive species diffusion through the porous polymer network, as well as the synergistic interfacial interaction at the metal/polymer and metal/metal interfaces.

The TRACTISS Protocol: a randomised double blind placebo controlled clinical TRial of Anti-B-Cell Therapy In patients with primary Sjögren’s Syndrome

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome (PSS) mainly affects women (9:1 female:male ratio) and is one of the commonest autoimmune diseases with a prevalence of 0.1 – 0.6% of adult women. For patients with PSS there is currently no effective therapy that can alter the progression of the disease. The aim of the TRACTISS study is to establish whether in patients with PSS, treatment with rituximab improves clinical outcomes. Methods/design TRACTISS is a UK multi-centre, double-blind, randomised, controlled, parallel group trial of 110 patients with PSS. Patients will be randomised on a 1:1 basis to receive two courses of either rituximab or placebo infusion in addition to standard therapy, and will be followed up for up to 48 weeks. The primary objective is to assess the extent to which rituximab improves symptoms of fatigue and oral dryness. Secondary outcomes include ocular dryness, salivary flow rates, lacrimal flow, patient quality of life, measures of disease damage and disease activity, serological and peripheral blood biomarkers, and glandular histology and composition. Discussion The TRACTISS trial will provide direct evidence as to whether rituximab in patients with PSS leads to an improvement in patient symptoms and a reduction in disease damage and activity. Trial registration UKCRN Portfolio ID: 9809 ISRCTN65360827. PMID:24438039

Aerobic and resistance training improves mood state among adults living with HIV.

PubMed

Jaggers, J R; Hand, G A; Dudgeon, W D; Burgess, S; Phillips, K D; Durstine, J L; Blair, S N

2015-02-01

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effects of combined aerobic and resistance exercise training among self-reported mood disturbances, perceived stress, frequency of self-reported symptoms, and symptom distress in a sample of HIV+ adults. For this purpose, 49 participants were randomly assigned into an exercise (EX) or control (CON) group. Those in the EX group completed 50 min of supervised aerobic and resistance training at a moderate intensity twice a week for 6 weeks. The CON group reported to the university and engaged in sedentary activities. Data were collected at baseline before randomization and 6 weeks post intervention. Measures included the symptom distress scale (SDS), perceived stress scale (PSS), profile of mood states (POMS) total score, and the POMS sub-scale for depression and fatigue. A 2 way ANOVA was used to compare between and within group interactions. The EX group showed a significant decrease in reported depression scores (p=0.03) and total POMS (p=0.003). The CON group reported no change in POMS or SDS, but showed a significant increase in PSS. These findings indicate that combination aerobic and resistance training completed at a moderate intensity at least twice a week provides additional psychological benefits independent of disease status and related symptoms. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

A systematic review of non-pharmacological interventions for primary Sjögren's syndrome.

PubMed

Hackett, Katie L; Deane, Katherine H O; Strassheim, Victoria; Deary, Vincent; Rapley, Tim; Newton, Julia L; Ng, Wan-Fai

2015-11-01

To evaluate the effects of non-pharmacological interventions for primary SS (pSS) on outcomes falling within the World Health Organization International Classification of Functioning Disability and Health domains. We searched the following databases from inception to September 2014: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews; Medline; Embase; PsychINFO; CINAHL; and clinical trials registers. We included randomized controlled trials of any non-pharmacological intervention. Two authors independently reviewed titles and abstracts against the inclusion/exclusion criteria and independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. A total of 1463 studies were identified, from which 17 full text articles were screened and 5 studies were included in the review; a total of 130 participants were randomized. The included studies investigated the effectiveness of an oral lubricating device for dry mouth, acupuncture for dry mouth, lacrimal punctum plugs for dry eyes and psychodynamic group therapy for coping with symptoms. Overall, the studies were of low quality and at high risk of bias. Although one study showed punctum plugs to improve dry eyes, the sample size was relatively small. Further high-quality studies to evaluate non-pharmacological interventions for PSS are needed. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Rheumatology.

Remittent hyperammonemia in congenital portosystemic shunt.

PubMed

Ferrero, Giovanni Battista; Porta, Francesco; Biamino, Elisa; Mussa, Alessandro; Garelli, Emanuela; Chiappe, Francesca; Veltri, Andrea; Silengo, Margherita Cirillo; Gennari, Fabrizio

2010-03-01

Congenital portosystemic shunts (PSS) are rare vascular anomalies with different gross anatomy. Persistent patent ductus venosus (PDV) represents an uncommon cause of intrahepatic PSS. The diagnosis of this condition may not be obvious because of its wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from asymptomatic to life-threatening disease. We report the case of three boys with neuropsychological symptoms associated with mild fasting hyperammonemia. An oral protein load allowed the detection of a detoxication defect due to PSS related to PDV. This simple procedure can be worthwhile of attention in patients with mental retardation, behavior disturbances, and learning difficulties after exclusion of common causes of inherited hyperammonemia, namely, urea cycle disorders, organic acidemias, and fatty acid oxidation defects.

High work function transparent middle electrode for organic tandem solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moet, D. J. D.; de Bruyn, P.; Blom, P. W. M.

2010-04-01

The use of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) in combination with ZnO as middle electrode in solution-processed organic tandem solar cells requires a pH modification of the PEDOT:PSS dispersion. We demonstrate that this neutralization leads to a reduced work function of PEDOT:PSS, which does not affect the performance of polythiophene:fullerene solar cells, but results in a lower open-circuit voltage of devices based on a polyfluorene derivative with a higher ionization potential. The introduction of a thin layer of a perfluorinated ionomer recovers the anode work function and gives an open-circuit voltage of 1.92 V for a double junction polyfluorene-based solar cell.

PEDOT: PSS: rGO nanocomposite as a hole transport layer (HTLs) for P3HT:PCBM based organic solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tiwari, D. C.; Dwivedi, Shailendra Kumar; Dipak, Pukhrambam; Chandel, Tarun

2018-05-01

This paper reports the fabrication process of organic solar cell (OSCs) having structure ITO/PEDOT:PSS:rGO/P3HT:PCBM/Al. In this cell, poly (3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly (styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT: PSS) is ultrasonically mixed with thermally reduced graphene oxide (rGO), which was used as a hole transport layer (HTLs). In order to investigate structural, morphological and optical properties of nanocomposite, XRD, FE-SEM and UV-vis spectroscopy were carried out. We have observed, Jsc = 6.5mA/cm2, Voc = 212 mV, FF=0.31 and PCE of 0.43% from fabricated organic solar cell.

Development of the perceived stress scale for people living with HIV/AIDS in China.

PubMed

Su, Xiaoyou; Lau, Joseph T F; Mak, Winnie W S; Chen, Lin; Feng, Tiejian; Chen, Xi; Liu, Chuliang; Liu, Jun; Liu, De; Cheng, Jinquan

2008-12-01

Stress among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) is associated with psychological morbidity. There are only a few stress scales specially developed for PLWHA and none of them is in Chinese. This study develops and validates a new Chinese Perceived Stress Scale among PLWHA (PSSHIV) in Shenzhen of Guangdong Province and Hengyang of Hunan Province in China during September 2006 through July 2007. In-depth interviews were administered to 58 PLWHA (33 males, mean age, 32) to generate the items, while 215 other PLWHA were interviewed in another survey to validate the instrument (136 males, mean age, 33). Exploratory factor analysis yielded 8 factors (percent variance explained, 71.47%), namely: social/psychological problems, sexual relationship, functional problems, social acceptance/rejection issues, work-related issues, family/offspring issues, accessibility to treatment, and treatment outcomes. The Cronbach alpha values ranged from 0.76 to 0.94 for the overall scale and the 8 subscales. The scores of the overall scale, the social/psychological problems, and functional problems subscales of the PSSHIV were significantly correlated with the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS), and all domains of the Medical Outcomes Study HIV Health Survey (MOS-HIV) (correlation coefficient = 0.50 to 0.71 for positive correlations, and -0.73 to -0.21 for negative correlations, p < 0.05). The other 6 subscales of the PSSHIV were significantly correlated with the PSS, subscales of the DASS, and MOS-HIV (correlation coefficient = 0.16 to 0.39 for positive correlation, -0.58 to -0.15 for negative correlation, p < 0.05). This new instrument collected information from the PLWHA from qualitative interviews and the items are specific to the HIV/AIDS context. PSSHIV can be used for assessing the level of stress faced by PLWHA in China.

Research on purple seed stain of soybean: germplasm screening and genetic resistance

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Soybean purple seed stain (PSS) causes seed decay and purple seed discoloration, resulting in overall poor seed quality and reduced market grade and value. It is a prevalent disease that also affects seed vigor and stand establishment. PSS is caused by the fungus Cercospora kikuchii and other Cercos...

The Problem Solving Studio: An Apprenticeship Environment for Aspiring Engineers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Le Doux, Joseph M.; Waller, Alisha A.

2016-01-01

This paper describes the problem-solving studio (PSS) learning environment. PSS was designed to teach students how to solve difficult analytical engineering problems without resorting to rote memorization of algorithms, while at the same time developing their deep conceptual understanding of the course topics. There are several key features of…

78 FR 11688 - Biweekly Notice, Applications and Amendments to Facility Operating Licenses and Combined Licenses...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-02-19

... controverted. In addition, the requestor/petitioner shall provide a brief explanation of the bases for the... safety-related function of preserving containment integrity by isolation of the PSS lines penetrating... maintaining the ability of the PSS to perform its safety-related containment isolation function. The...

Comparative Aging Study of Organic Solar Cells Utilizing Polyaniline and PEDOT:PSS as Hole Transport Layers.

PubMed

Abdulrazzaq, Omar; Bourdo, Shawn E; Woo, Myungwu; Saini, Viney; Berry, Brian C; Ghosh, Anindya; Biris, Alexandru S

2015-12-23

The aging effect on P3HT:PCBM organic solar cells was investigated with camphorsulfonic doped polyaniline (PANI:CSA) or poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) ( PSS) used as the hole transport layer (HTL). The cells were encapsulated and exposed to a continuous normal atmosphere on a dark shelf and then characterized intermittently for more than two years. The photovoltaic results revealed that the cells with PSS HTL showed better initial results than the cells with PANI:CSA HTL. Over time, PSS-based cells exhibited faster degradation than PANI:CSA-based cells, where the average efficiency of six cells dropped to zero in less than one and a half years. On the other hand, PANI:CSA-based cells exhibited a much more stable performance with an average efficiency drop of only 15% of their initial values after one and a half years and 63% after two years. A single-diode model was utilized to fit the experimental data with the theoretical curve to extract the diode parameters, such as the ideality factor, to explain the effect of aging on the diode's performance.

GO/PEDOT:PSS nanocomposites: effect of different dispersing agents on rheological, thermal, wettability and electrochemical properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giuri, Antonella; Masi, Sofia; Colella, Silvia; Listorti, Andrea; Rizzo, Aurora; Liscio, Andrea; Treossi, Emanuele; Palermo, Vincenzo; Gigli, Giuseppe; Mele, Claudio; Esposito Corcione, Carola

2017-04-01

In this work glucose (G), α-cyclodextrin (α-CD) and sodium salt of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMCNa) are used as dispersing agents for graphene oxide (GO), exploring the influence of both saccharide units and geometric/steric hindrance on the rheological, thermal, wettability and electrochemical properties of a GO/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) nanocomposite. By acting on the saccharide-based additives, we can modulate the rheological, thermal, and wettability properties of the GO/PEDOT:PSS nanocomposite. Firstly, the influence of all the additives on the rheological behaviour of GO and PEDOT:PSS was investigated separately in order to understand the effect of the dispersing agent on both the components of the ternary nanocomposite, individually. Subsequently, steady shear and dynamic frequency tests were conducted on all the nanocomposite solutions, characterized by thermal, wettability and morphological analysis. Finally, the electrochemical properties of the GO/PEDOT composites with different dispersing agents for supercapacitors were investigated using cyclic voltammetry (CV). The CV results revealed that GO/PEDOT with glucose exhibited the highest specific capacitance among the systems investigated.

Three dimensional characterization of GaN-based light emitting diode grown on patterned sapphire substrate by confocal Raman and photoluminescence spectromicroscopy.

PubMed

Li, Heng; Cheng, Hui-Yu; Chen, Wei-Liang; Huang, Yi-Hsin; Li, Chi-Kang; Chang, Chiao-Yun; Wu, Yuh-Renn; Lu, Tien-Chang; Chang, Yu-Ming

2017-03-30

We performed depth-resolved PL and Raman spectral mappings of a GaN-based LED structure grown on a patterned sapphire substrate (PSS). Our results showed that the Raman mapping in the PSS-GaN heterointerface and the PL mapping in the In x Ga 1-x N/GaN MQWs active layer are spatially correlated. Based on the 3D construction of E 2 (high) Raman peak intensity and frequency shift, V-shaped pits in the MQWs can be traced down to the dislocations originated in the cone tip area of PSS. Detail analysis of the PL peak distribution further revealed that the indium composition in the MQWs is related to the residual strain propagating from the PSS-GaN heterointerface toward the LED surface. Numerical simulation based on the indium composition distribution also led to a radiative recombination rate distribution that shows agreement with the experimental PL intensity distribution in the In x Ga 1-x N/GaN MQWs active layer.

Immobilization of nanobeads on a surface to control the size, shape and distribution of pores in electrochemically generated sol-gel films.

PubMed

Ciabocco, Michela; Berrettoni, Mario; Zamponi, Silvia; Cox, James A

2015-07-01

Electrochemically assisted deposition of an ormosil film at a potential where hydrogen ion is generated as the catalyst yields insulating films on electrodes. When the base electrode is modified with 20-nm poly(styrene sulfonate), PSS, beads bound to the surface with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) and using (CH 3 ) 3 SiOCH 3 as the precursor, the resulting film of organically modified silica (ormosil) has cylindrical channels that reflect both the diameter of the PSS and the distribution of the APTES-PSS on the electrode. At an electrode modified by a 20-min immersion in 0.5 mmol dm -3 APTES followed by a 30-s immersion in PSS, a 20-min electrolysis at 1.5 V in acidified (CH 3 ) 3 SiOCH 3 resulted in an ormosil film with 20-nm pores separated by 100 nm. Cyclic voltammetry of Ru(CN) 6 4- at scan rates above 5 mVs -1 yielded currents controlled primarily by linear diffusion. Below 5 mVs -1 , convection rather than the expected factor, radial diffusion, apparently limited the current.

Water-Enabled Healing of Conducting Polymer Films.

PubMed

Zhang, Shiming; Cicoira, Fabio

2017-10-01

The conducting polymer polyethylenedioxythiophene doped with polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) has become one of the most successful organic conductive materials due to its high air stability, high electrical conductivity, and biocompatibility. In recent years, a great deal of attention has been paid to its fundamental physicochemical properties, but its healability has not been explored in depth. This communication reports the first observation of mechanical and electrical healability of PEDOT:PSS thin films. Upon reaching a certain thickness (about 1 µm), PEDOT:PSS thin films damaged with a sharp blade can be electrically healed by simply wetting the damaged area with water. The process is rapid, with a response time on the order of 150 ms. Significantly, after being wetted the films are transformed into autonomic self-healing materials without the need of external stimulation. This work reveals a new property of PEDOT:PSS and enables its immediate use in flexible and biocompatible electronics, such as electronic skin and bioimplanted electronics, placing conducting polymers on the front line for healing applications in electronics. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Silicon surface passivation by polystyrenesulfonate thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jianhui; Shen, Yanjiao; Guo, Jianxin; Chen, Bingbing; Fan, Jiandong; Li, Feng; Liu, Haixu; Xu, Ying; Mai, Yaohua

2017-02-01

The use of polystyrenesulfonate (PSS) thin films in a high-quality passivation scheme involving the suppression of minority carrier recombination at the silicon surface is presented. PSS has been used as a dispersant for aqueous poly-3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene. In this work, PSS is coated as a form of thin film on a Si surface. A millisecond level minority carrier lifetime on a high resistivity Si wafer is obtained. The film thickness, oxygen content, and relative humidity are found to be important factors affecting the passivation quality. While applied to low resistivity silicon wafers, which are widely used for photovoltaic cell fabrication, this scheme yields relatively shorter lifetime, for example, 2.40 ms on n-type and 2.05 ms on p-type wafers with a resistivity of 1-5 Ω.cm. However, these lifetimes are still high enough to obtain high implied open circuit voltages (Voc) of 708 mV and 697 mV for n-type and p-type wafers, respectively. The formation of oxides at the PSS/Si interface is suggested to be responsible for the passivation mechanism.

Analysis of the PEDOT:PSS/Si nanowire hybrid solar cell with a tail state model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ho, Kuan-Ying; Li, Chi-Kang; Syu, Hong-Jhang; Lai, Yi; Lin, Ching-Fuh; Wu, Yuh-Renn

2016-12-01

In this paper, the electrical properties of the poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS)/silicon nanowire hybrid solar cell have been analyzed and an optimized structure is proposed. In addition, the planar PEDOT:PSS/c-Si hybrid solar cell is also modeled for comparison. We first developed a simulation software which is capable of modeling organic/inorganic hybrid solar cells by including Gaussian shape density of states into Poisson and drift-diffusion solver to present the tail states and trap states in the organic material. Therefore, the model can handle carrier transport, generation, and recombination in both organic and inorganic materials. Our results show that at the applied voltage near open-circuit voltage (Voc), the recombination rate becomes much higher at the PEDOT:PSS/Si interface region, which limits the fill factor and Voc. Hence, a modified structure with a p-type amorphous silicon (a-Si) layer attached on the interface of Si layer and an n+-type Si layer inserted near the bottom contact are proposed. The highest conversion efficiency of 16.10% can be achieved if both structures are applied.

Avidin/PSS membrane microcapsules with biotin-binding activity.

PubMed

Endo, Yoshihiro; Sato, Katsuhiko; Sugimoto, Kentaro; Anzai, Jun-ichi

2011-08-15

Polyelectrolyte microcapsules with avidin-poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS) membrane were prepared by a layer-by-layer deposition technique. The uptake and release of biotin-labeled fluorescein (b-FITC) as well as immobilization of biotin-labeled glucose oxidase (b-GOx) to the microcapsule were studied. The polyelectrolyte microcapsules were prepared by coating the surface of calcium carbonate (CaCO(3)) microparticles with an avidin/PSS multilayer membrane, followed by dissolution of CaCO(3) core in an ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid solution. Inner and outer poly(allylamine)/PSS films were required to isolate the microcapsules, whereas microcapsules could not be formed without the support. The uptake of b-FITC into the microcapsule was highly enhanced through a strong binding of b-FITC to avidin as compared with the uptake of biotin-free FITC. Release of b-FITC from the microcapsule was accelerated upon addition of biotin due to a competitive binding of the added biotin to the binding site of avidin. Similarly, the surface of microcapsule was modified with b-GOx with retaining its catalytic activity. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Three dimensional characterization of GaN-based light emitting diode grown on patterned sapphire substrate by confocal Raman and photoluminescence spectromicroscopy

PubMed Central

Li, Heng; Cheng, Hui-Yu; Chen, Wei-Liang; Huang, Yi-Hsin; Li, Chi-Kang; Chang, Chiao-Yun; Wu, Yuh-Renn; Lu, Tien-Chang; Chang, Yu-Ming

2017-01-01

We performed depth-resolved PL and Raman spectral mappings of a GaN-based LED structure grown on a patterned sapphire substrate (PSS). Our results showed that the Raman mapping in the PSS-GaN heterointerface and the PL mapping in the InxGa1−xN/GaN MQWs active layer are spatially correlated. Based on the 3D construction of E2(high) Raman peak intensity and frequency shift, V-shaped pits in the MQWs can be traced down to the dislocations originated in the cone tip area of PSS. Detail analysis of the PL peak distribution further revealed that the indium composition in the MQWs is related to the residual strain propagating from the PSS-GaN heterointerface toward the LED surface. Numerical simulation based on the indium composition distribution also led to a radiative recombination rate distribution that shows agreement with the experimental PL intensity distribution in the InxGa1−xN/GaN MQWs active layer. PMID:28358119

Depressive symptoms and poor social support have a synergistic effect on event-free survival in patients with heart failure.

PubMed

Chung, Misook L; Lennie, Terry A; Dekker, Rebecca L; Wu, Jia-Rong; Moser, Debra K

2011-01-01

Depressive symptoms and poor social support are predictors of increased morbidity and mortality in patients with heart failure (HF). However, the combined contribution of depressive symptoms and social support event-free survival of patients with HF has not been examined. To compare event-free survival in 4 groups of patients with HF stratified by depressive symptoms and perceived social support (PSS). A total of 220 patients completed the Beck Depression Inventory-II and the Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale and were followed for up to 4 years to collect data on death and hospitalizations. Depressive symptoms (hazard ratio = 1.73, P = .008) and PSS (hazard ratio = 1.51, P = .048) were independent predictors of event-free survival. Depressed patients with low PSS had 2.1 times higher risk of events than non-depressed patients with high PSS (P = .003). Depressive symptoms and poor social support had a negative additive effect on event-free survival in patients with HF. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Copper diffusion and mechanical toughness at Cu-silica interfaces glued with polyelectrolyte nanolayers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gandhi, D. D.; Singh, A. P.; Lane, M.; Eizenberg, M.; Ramanath, G.

2007-04-01

We demonstrate the use of polyallylamine hydrochloride (PAH)-polystyrene sulfonate (PSS) nanolayers to block Cu transport into silica. Cu/PSS-PAH/SiO2 structures show fourfold enhancement in device failure times during bias thermal annealing at 200 °C at an applied electric field of 2 MV/cm, when compared with structures with pristine Cu-SiO2 interfaces. Although the bonding at both Cu-PSS and PAH-SiO2 interfaces are strong, the interfacial toughness measured by the four-point bend tests is ˜2 Jm-2. Spectroscopic analysis of fracture surfaces reveals that weak electrostatic bonding at the PSS-PAH interface is responsible for the low toughness. Similar behavior is observed for Cu-SiO2 interfaces modified with other polyelectrolyte bilayers that inhibit Cu diffusion. Thus, while strong bonding at Cu-barrier and barrier-dielectric interfaces may be sufficient for blocking copper transport across polyelectrolyte bilayers, strong interlayer molecular bonding is a necessary condition for interface toughening. These findings are of importance for harnessing MNLs for use in future device wiring applications.

Basic Characteristics and Spatial Patterns of Pseudo-Settlements--Taking Dalian as An Example.

PubMed

Gao, Jiaji; Zhang, Yingjia; Li, Xueming

2016-01-20

A person's living behavior patterns are closely related to three types of settlements: real-life settlements, imagined settlements, and pseudo-settlements. The term "pseudo-settlement" (PS) refers to the places that are selectively recorded and represented after the mass media chose and restructure the residence information. As the mass media rapidly develops and people's way of obtaining information gradually change, PS has already become one of the main ways for people to recognize and understand real-life settlements, as well as describe their impressions of imagined settlements. PS also has a profound impact on tourism, employment, investment, migration, real estate development, etc. Thus, the study of PSs has important theoretical and practical significance. This paper proposes to put forward residential quarters where the mass media is displayed as the object of study and establishes the pseudo-settlement index system of Dalian in and elaborate analysis of the concept of PSs. From three aspects, including pseudo-buildings, pseudo-districts and pseudo-culture, this paper uses the ArcGIS 10.0 kernel density (spacial analyst) to analyze and interpret the basic characteristics and spatial patterns of 14 elements of the PS in Dalian. Through systemic clustering analysis, it identifies eight major types of PSs in Dalian. Then it systematically elaborates current situations and characteristics of the spatial pattern of PSs in Dalian, namely: regionally concentrated, widely scattered and blank spaces without pseudo-settlements. Finally, this paper discusses the mechanism of formation of PSs in Dalian.

P-doped organic semiconductor: Potential replacement for PEDOT:PSS in organic photodetectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herrbach, J.; Revaux, A.; Vuillaume, D.; Kahn, A.

2016-08-01

In this work, we present an alternative to the use of PEDOT:PSS as hole transport and electron blocking layers in organic photodetectors processed by solution. As Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is known to be sensitive to humidity, oxygen, and UV, removing this layer is essential for lifetime improvements. As a first step to achieving this goal, we need to find an alternative layer that fulfills the same role in order to obtain a working diode with similar or better performance. As a replacement, a layer of poly[(4,8-bis-(2-ethylhexyloxy)-benzo(1,2-b:4,5-b')dithiophene)-2,6-diyl-alt-(4-(2-ethylhexanoyl)-thieno[3,4-b]thiophene-)-2-6-diyl)] (PBDTTT-c) p-doped with the dopant tris-[1-(trifluoroethanoyl)-2-(trifluoromethyl)ethane-1,2-dithiolene] (Mo(tfd-COCF3)3) is used. This p-doped layer effectively lowers the hole injection barrier, and the low electron affinity of the polymer prevents the injection of electrons into the active layer. We show similar device performance under light and the improvements of detection performance with the doped layer in comparison with PEDOT:PSS, leading to a detectivity of 1.9 × 1013 cm (Hz)1/2 (W)-1, competitive with silicon diodes used in imaging applications. Moreover, contrary to PEDOT:PSS, no localization of the p-doped layer is needed, leading to a diode active area defined by the patterned electrodes.

Enhancement of the Optoelectronic Properties of PEDOT: PSS-PbS Nanoparticles Composite Thin Films Through Nanoparticles' Capping Ligand Exchange

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

García-Gutiérrez, Diana F.; Hernández-Casillas, Laura P.; Sepúlveda-Guzmán, Selene; Vazquez-Rodriguez, Sofia; García-Gutiérrez, Domingo I.

2018-02-01

The influence of the capping ligand on nanoparticles' optical and electronic properties is a topic of great interest currently being investigated by several research groups in different countries. In the present study, PbS nanoparticles originally synthesized with oleic acid, myristic acid and hexanoic acid underwent a ligand exchange process to replace the original carboxylic acid for uc(l)-cysteine as the capping layer, and were thoroughly characterized by means of transmission electron microscopy and its related techniques, such as energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy and scanning-transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared, Raman and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Afterwards, these PbS nanoparticles were dispersed into a poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonic acid) (PEDOT:PSS) matrix to fabricate a composite thin film which displayed the optical absorption properties of the PbS nanoparticles and the electrical transport properties of the PEDOT:PSS matrix, in order to evaluate the impact of the nanoparticles' capping ligand on the optoelectronic properties of the fabricated composite thin films. Composite thin films with PbS nanoparticles showing uc(l)-cysteine as the capping layer displayed clear photoresponse and a threefold increment in their conductivities compared to pristine PEDOT:PSS. The properties of PEDOT:PSS, known as a hole transport layer in most organic photovoltaic devices, were enhanced by adding PbS nanoparticles with different capping ligands, producing a promising composite material for optoelectronic applications by proper selection of the nanoparticles' capping layer.

Primary Sjogren's syndrome with central nervous system involvement.

PubMed

Alhomoud, Iftetah A; Bohlega, Saeed A; Alkawi, Mohammed Z; Alsemari, Abdulaziz M; Omer, Saleh M; Alsenani, Fahmi M

2009-08-01

To describe the clinical, laboratory, and radiological features of Primary Sjogren's syndrome (PSS) with central nervous system (CNS) involvement. A retrospective case series of 12 female patients with PSS and CNS involvement at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from 1991-2009. The diagnosis of PSS is defined by the American-European Diagnostic Criteria. We analyzed the clinical, radiological, and immunological features. The mean age was 40 years (range 16-58 years); all patient were females and presented with active neurological symptoms. The neurological involvement preceded the classic sicca symptoms (33%). Eight patients (66%) presented with myelopathy, 9 patients (75%) had optic neuritis, and the rest had variable neurological signs. Immunological tests (anti-Sjogren's syndrome A and anti-Sjogren's syndrome B) were high in 7 patients (58%). Minor salivary gland biopsy revealed inflammatory cell infiltrate in 11 patients (92%). Brain MRI showed scattered white matter changes in 7 patients (58%). Spine MRI showed multiple foci of hyperintensity in T2-weighted image in 6 patients (50%), and long segment of hyperintensity at the cervical spinal cord in 2 patients (16%). Our findings demonstrate that CNS involvements in PSS have great clinical variability and could precede the classic sicca symptoms by years. Primary Sjogren's syndrome can mimic multiple sclerosis (primary progressive multiple sclerosis or relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis), therefore a screening test for PSS should be considered in suspected cases. A well-defined management protocol awaits studies with larger case numbers.

Performance and Long-Term Stability of Pd/PSS and Pd/Al2O3 Membranes for Hydrogen Separation

PubMed Central

Liguori, Simona; Iulianelli, Adolfo; Dalena, Francesco; Pinacci, Pietro; Drago, Francesca; Broglia, Maria; Huang, Yan; Basile, Angelo

2014-01-01

The present work is focused on the investigation of the performance and long-term stability of two composite palladium membranes under different operating conditions. One membrane (Pd/porous stainless steel (PSS)) is characterized by a ~10 µm-thick palladium layer on a porous stainless steel substrate, which is pretreated by means of surface modification and oxidation; the other membrane (Pd/Al2O3) is constituted by a ~7 µm-thick palladium layer on an asymmetric microporous Al2O3 substrate. The operating temperature and pressure ranges, used for studying the performance of these two kinds of membranes, are 350–450 °C and 200–800 kPa, respectively. The H2 permeances and the H2/N2 selectivities of both membranes were investigated and compared with literature data. At 400 °C and 200 kPa as pressure difference, Pd/PSS and Pd/Al2O3 membranes exhibited an H2/N2 ideal selectivity equal to 11700 and 6200, respectively, showing stability for 600 h. Thereafter, H2/N2 selectivity of both membranes progressively decreased and after around 2000 h, dropped dramatically to 55 and 310 for the Pd/PSS and Pd/Al2O3 membranes, respectively. As evidenced by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analyses, the pinholes appear on the whole surface of the Pd/PSS membrane and this is probably due to release of sulphur from the graphite seal rings. PMID:24957126

Fully Textile, PEDOT:PSS Based Electrodes for Wearable ECG Monitoring Systems.

PubMed

Pani, Danilo; Dessi, Alessia; Saenz-Cogollo, Jose F; Barabino, Gianluca; Fraboni, Beatrice; Bonfiglio, Annalisa

2016-03-01

To evaluate a novel kind of textile electrodes based on woven fabrics treated with PSS, through an easy fabrication process, testing these electrodes for biopotential recordings. Fabrication is based on raw fabric soaking in PSS using a second dopant, squeezing and annealing. The electrodes have been tested on human volunteers, in terms of both skin contact impedance and quality of the ECG signals recorded at rest and during physical activity (power spectral density, baseline wandering, QRS detectability, and broadband noise). The electrodes are able to operate in both wet and dry conditions. Dry electrodes are more prone to noise artifacts, especially during physical exercise and mainly due to the unstable contact between the electrode and the skin. Wet (saline) electrodes present a stable and reproducible behavior, which is comparable or better than that of traditional disposable gelled Ag/AgCl electrodes. The achieved results reveal the capability of this kind of electrodes to work without the electrolyte, providing a valuable interface with the skin, due to mixed electronic and ionic conductivity of PSS. These electrodes can be effectively used for acquiring ECG signals. Textile electrodes based on PSS represent an important milestone in wearable monitoring, as they present an easy and reproducible fabrication process, very good performance in wet and dry (at rest) conditions and a superior level of comfort with respect to textile electrodes proposed so far. This paves the way to their integration into smart garments.

"Alarm-corrected" ergonomic armrest use could improve learning curves of novices on robotic simulator.

PubMed

Yang, Kun; Perez, Manuela; Hossu, Gabriela; Hubert, Nicolas; Perrenot, Cyril; Hubert, Jacques

2017-01-01

In robotic surgery, the professional ergonomic habit of using an armrest reduces operator fatigue and increases the precision of motion. We designed and validated a pressure surveillance system (PSS) based on force sensors to investigate armrest use. The objective was to evaluate whether adding an alarm to the PSS system could shorten ergonomic training and improve performance. Twenty robot and simulator-naïve participants were recruited and randomized in two groups (A and B). The PSS was installed on a robotic simulator, the dV-Trainer, to detect contact with the armrest. The Group A members completed three tasks on the dV-Trainer without the alarm, making 15 attempts at each task. The Group B members practiced the first two tasks with the alarm and then completed the final tasks without the alarm. The simulator provided an overall score reflecting the trainees' performance. We used the new concept of an "armrest load" score to describe the ergonomic habit of using the armrest. Group B had a significantly higher performance score (p < 0.001) and armrest load score (p < 0.001) than Group A from the fifth attempt of the first task to the end of the experiment. Based on the conditioned reflex effect, the alarm associated with the PSS rectified ergonomic errors and accelerated professional ergonomic habit acquisition. The combination of the PSS and alarm is effective in significantly shortening the learning curve in the robotic training process.

Electromechanical properties of polyamide/lycra fabric treated with PEDOT:PSS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tadesse, M. G.; Mengistie, D. A.; Loghin, C.; Chen, Y.; Wang, L.; Catalin, D.; Müller, C.; Nierstrasz, V.

2017-10-01

One of the challenges in smart textiles is to develop suitable multifunctional materials that can address simultaneously several characteristics such as durability, stretchability, lightweight, and conductivity. Conductive polymers which showed success in different technological fields like polymer solar cells and light emitting diodes are promising in many smart textile applications. In this work, we treated a common polyamide/lycra knitted fabric with PEDOT:PSS for stretchable e-textiles. PEDOT:PSS, with DMSO as a conductivity enhancer and different ratios of water-based polyurethane dispersions as a binder, was applied to the fabric with simple immersion and coating applications. The effect of different application methods and binder ratio on the surface resistance of the fabric was monitored with four point probe electrical surface resistance measurement systems. Samples prepared by immersion technique are more uniform and have higher conductivity than those prepared by a coating technique. SEM images showed that PEDOT:PSS is incorporated into the structure in the immersion method while in the coating it is majorly present on the surface of the fabric. The tensile measurement showed that the acidic PEDOT:PSS and polyurethane dispersion coating has no adverse effect on the tensile strength of the fabric. The coated samples can be stretched up to 700% while still reasonably conductive. The resistance increases only by a small amount when samples were stretched cyclically by stretching 100%. Generally, samples prepared by the immersion method maintained better conductivity while stretching than those by a coating method. The washing fastness of the samples was also assessed.

Basic Characteristics and Spatial Patterns of Pseudo-Settlements—Taking Dalian as An Example

PubMed Central

Gao, Jiaji; Zhang, Yingjia; Li, Xueming

2016-01-01

A person’s living behavior patterns are closely related to three types of settlements: real-life settlements, imagined settlements, and pseudo-settlements. The term “pseudo-settlement” (PS) refers to the places that are selectively recorded and represented after the mass media chose and restructure the residence information. As the mass media rapidly develops and people’s way of obtaining information gradually change, PS has already become one of the main ways for people to recognize and understand real-life settlements, as well as describe their impressions of imagined settlements. PS also has a profound impact on tourism, employment, investment, migration, real estate development, etc. Thus, the study of PSs has important theoretical and practical significance. This paper proposes to put forward residential quarters where the mass media is displayed as the object of study and establishes the pseudo-settlement index system of Dalian in and elaborate analysis of the concept of PSs. From three aspects, including pseudo-buildings, pseudo-districts and pseudo-culture, this paper uses the ArcGIS 10.0 kernel density (spacial analyst) to analyze and interpret the basic characteristics and spatial patterns of 14 elements of the PS in Dalian. Through systemic clustering analysis, it identifies eight major types of PSs in Dalian. Then it systematically elaborates current situations and characteristics of the spatial pattern of PSs in Dalian, namely: regionally concentrated, widely scattered and blank spaces without pseudo-settlements. Finally, this paper discusses the mechanism of formation of PSs in Dalian. PMID:26805859

Influences of device structures on microstructure-correlated photovoltaic characteristics of organic solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Fu-Chiao; Yang, Cheng-Chi; Tseng, Po-Tsung; Chou, Wei-Yang; Cheng, Horng-Long

2017-02-01

Photovoltaic characteristics of organic solar cells (OSCs) are correlated with microstructural qualities of active layers (ALs). Numerous efforts focused on improving process conditions of ALs to attain effective microstructures to achieve high-efficiency OSCs. Aside from AL process conditions, layer properties under AL can also influence microstructural qualities of AL. In this study, we adopted poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT):(6,6)-phenyl C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) mixture as AL, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) as hole extraction layer, and branched polyethyleneimine (BPEI) as electron extraction layer to prepare OSCs with different device structures, that is, normal type (PEDOT:PSS/P3HT:PCBM/BPEI) and inverted type (BPEI/P3HT:PCBM/PEDOT:PSS) structures. We discovered that although devices have similar layer components, they have different photovoltaic characteristics. Inverted devices demonstrated higher power conversion efficiency than normal devices. Various methods, including absorption spectroscopy and microscopy, were used to study AL microstructures of different devices. We observed that P3HT crystallites grown on BPEI had longer vertical size and shorter horizontal size compared with those grown on PEDOT:PSS; these properties could result from larger interfacial tension of P3HT with BPEI than with PEDOT:PSS. Observed shape of P3HT crystallites in inverted devices facilitated efficient charge transport to electrodes and suppressed current leakage. As a result, inverted devices generated improved photovoltaic performance.

Neural stem cell differentiation by electrical stimulation using a cross-linked PEDOT substrate: Expanding the use of biocompatible conjugated conductive polymers for neural tissue engineering.

PubMed

Pires, Filipa; Ferreira, Quirina; Rodrigues, Carlos A V; Morgado, Jorge; Ferreira, Frederico Castelo

2015-06-01

The use of conjugated polymers allows versatile interactions between cells and flexible processable materials, while providing a platform for electrical stimulation, which is particularly relevant when targeting differentiation of neural stem cells and further application for therapy or drug screening. Materials were tested for cytotoxicity following the ISO10993-5. PSS was cross-linked. ReNcellVM neural stem cells (NSC) were seeded in laminin coated surfaces, cultured for 4 days in the presence of EGF (20 ng/mL), FGF-2 (20 ng/mL) and B27 (20 μg/mL) and differentiated over eight additional days in the absence of those factors under 100Hz pulsed DC electrical stimulation, 1V with 10 ms pulses. NSC and neuron elongation aspect ratio as well as neurite length were assessed using ImageJ. Cells were immune-stained for Tuj1 and GFAP. F8T2, MEH-PPV, P3HT and cross-linked PSS (x PSS) were assessed as non-cytotoxic. L929 fibroblast population was 1.3 higher for x PSS than for glass control, while F8T2 presents moderate proliferation. The population of neurons (Tuj1) was 1.6 times higher with longer neurites (73 vs 108 μm) for cells cultured under electrical stimulus, with cultured NSC. Such stimulus led also to longer neurons. x PSS was, for the first time, used to elongate human NSC through the application of pulsed current, impacting on their differentiation towards neurons and contributing to longer neurites. The range of conductive conjugated polymers known as non-cytotoxic was expanded. x PSS was introduced as a stable material, easily processed from solution, to interface with biological systems, in particular NSC, without the need of in-situ polymerization. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Proximal Soil Sensing – A Contribution for Species Habitat Distribution Modelling of Earthworms in Agricultural Soils?

PubMed Central

Schirrmann, Michael; Joschko, Monika; Gebbers, Robin; Kramer, Eckart; Zörner, Mirjam; Barkusky, Dietmar; Timmer, Jens

2016-01-01

Background Earthworms are important for maintaining soil ecosystem functioning and serve as indicators of soil fertility. However, detection of earthworms is time-consuming, which hinders the assessment of earthworm abundances with high sampling density over entire fields. Recent developments of mobile terrestrial sensor platforms for proximal soil sensing (PSS) provided new tools for collecting dense spatial information of soils using various sensing principles. Yet, the potential of PSS for assessing earthworm habitats is largely unexplored. This study investigates whether PSS data contribute to the spatial prediction of earthworm abundances in species distribution models of agricultural soils. Methodology/Principal Findings Proximal soil sensing data, e.g., soil electrical conductivity (EC), pH, and near infrared absorbance (NIR), were collected in real-time in a field with two management strategies (reduced tillage / conventional tillage) and sandy to loam soils. PSS was related to observations from a long-term (11 years) earthworm observation study conducted at 42 plots. Earthworms were sampled from 0.5 x 0.5 x 0.2 m³ soil blocks and identified to species level. Sensor data were highly correlated with earthworm abundances observed in reduced tillage but less correlated with earthworm abundances observed in conventional tillage. This may indicate that management influences the sensor-earthworm relationship. Generalized additive models and state-space models showed that modelling based on data fusion from EC, pH, and NIR sensors produced better results than modelling without sensor data or data from just a single sensor. Regarding the individual earthworm species, particular sensor combinations were more appropriate than others due to the different habitat requirements of the earthworms. Earthworm species with soil-specific habitat preferences were spatially predicted with higher accuracy by PSS than more ubiquitous species. Conclusions/Significance Our findings suggest that PSS contributes to the spatial modelling of earthworm abundances at field scale and that it will support species distribution modelling in the attempt to understand the soil-earthworm relationships in agroecosystems. PMID:27355340

Fatigue and depression predict physician visits and work disability in women with primary Sjögren's syndrome: results from a cohort study.

PubMed

Westhoff, Gisela; Dörner, Thomas; Zink, Angela

2012-02-01

Patients with primary SS (pSS) are frequently suffering from multiple enduring disorders that raise the risk of work disability and require treatment by various health-care specialists. We aimed at determining predictors of physician visits and work disability in pSS patients. Physician visits within the past 6 months, employment status and sick leave were compared among 176 female pSS patients and 115 age-matched controls. Dryness, pain, fatigue and depression were assessed by rating scales of the EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Patient Reported Index (ESSPRI), the Profile of Fatigue and Discomfort (PROFAD) and Patient Health Questionnaire depression measurements (PHQ-9). Factors associated with an increased number of physician visits and inability to work were determined by multivariate logistic regression analysis. Patients and controls were comparable in age and education, but differed significantly in the prevalence of depression (38.1 vs 7.9%, P < 0.001), the number of physician visits [17.0 (10.0) vs 6.5 (4.5); P < 0.001] and gainful employment (≤64 years: 52.8 vs 77.1% P < 0.001). Multivariate regression analyses revealed that depression (PHQ-9) and/or fatigue, particularly lack of stamina, but not dryness, were significantly associated with physician visits and working status in pSS patients. Patients with high ratings for the statement 'I have had difficulties to keep going, was easily worn out or lacking in energy' had a highly increased risk of not being gainfully employed (adjusted OR 4.1; 95% CI 1.5, 11.2; P < 0.001). In pSS, lack of stamina and/or depression cause a higher level of individual and societal burden than dry eyes and mouth. Fatigue and depression deserve more recognition as treatment targets in pSS.

Proximal Soil Sensing - A Contribution for Species Habitat Distribution Modelling of Earthworms in Agricultural Soils?

PubMed

Schirrmann, Michael; Joschko, Monika; Gebbers, Robin; Kramer, Eckart; Zörner, Mirjam; Barkusky, Dietmar; Timmer, Jens

2016-01-01

Earthworms are important for maintaining soil ecosystem functioning and serve as indicators of soil fertility. However, detection of earthworms is time-consuming, which hinders the assessment of earthworm abundances with high sampling density over entire fields. Recent developments of mobile terrestrial sensor platforms for proximal soil sensing (PSS) provided new tools for collecting dense spatial information of soils using various sensing principles. Yet, the potential of PSS for assessing earthworm habitats is largely unexplored. This study investigates whether PSS data contribute to the spatial prediction of earthworm abundances in species distribution models of agricultural soils. Proximal soil sensing data, e.g., soil electrical conductivity (EC), pH, and near infrared absorbance (NIR), were collected in real-time in a field with two management strategies (reduced tillage / conventional tillage) and sandy to loam soils. PSS was related to observations from a long-term (11 years) earthworm observation study conducted at 42 plots. Earthworms were sampled from 0.5 x 0.5 x 0.2 m³ soil blocks and identified to species level. Sensor data were highly correlated with earthworm abundances observed in reduced tillage but less correlated with earthworm abundances observed in conventional tillage. This may indicate that management influences the sensor-earthworm relationship. Generalized additive models and state-space models showed that modelling based on data fusion from EC, pH, and NIR sensors produced better results than modelling without sensor data or data from just a single sensor. Regarding the individual earthworm species, particular sensor combinations were more appropriate than others due to the different habitat requirements of the earthworms. Earthworm species with soil-specific habitat preferences were spatially predicted with higher accuracy by PSS than more ubiquitous species. Our findings suggest that PSS contributes to the spatial modelling of earthworm abundances at field scale and that it will support species distribution modelling in the attempt to understand the soil-earthworm relationships in agroecosystems.

Relationships between molecular structure and kinetic and thermodynamic controls in lipid systems. Part II: Phase behavior and transformation paths of SSS, PSS and PPS saturated triacylglycerols--effect of chain length mismatch.

PubMed

Bouzidi, Laziz; Narine, Suresh S

2012-01-01

The kinetic phase behavior and phase transformation paths of purified tristearoylglycerol (SSS), 3-palmitoyl-1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycerol (PSS) and 1,2-dipalmitoyl-3-stearoyl-sn-glycerol (PPS) were investigated in terms of polymorphism, crystallization and melting. The details of the phase transformation paths were obtained using the heating cycles of two sets of experiments: (a) cooling rate was varied and heating rate fixed and (b) cooling rate was fixed and heating rate varied. Kinetic effects were manifest in all measured properties, underscoring the complexity of the phase transformation paths for each TAG, and the intricate thermodynamics-molecular relationships. For the first time, XRD data obtained for SSS, PSS and PPS TAGs, cooled at rates higher than 0.5°C/min, suggested the formation of a transient structure similar to the so-called α(2)-phase which has been observed in mixed saturated-unsaturated TAGs quenched from the melt. The more stable phases (β' in PSS and PPS, and β in SSS) were only observed for cooling rates lower than 1.0°C/min. The kinetic and thermodynamic differences observed in the crystallization, structure and melting of SSS, PSS and PPS are proposed to be mainly due to the disturbances introduced at the "terrace" level via methyl-end group interactions, i.e., the missing of two or four CH(2) groups compared to SSS. The symmetrical SSS with a relatively flat "terrace" crystallizes preferably in the most stable β-form. Two missing CH(2) groups at the sn-1 position (PSS) introduces enough structural disturbances to promote the relative prevalence and persistence of the β'-phase, and four missing CH(2) groups at the sn-1 and sn-2 positions (PPS) is relatively too large of a disturbance and therefore favors the α-form. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Theoretical analysis of the performance of glucose sensors with layer-by-layer assembled outer membranes.

PubMed

Croce, Robert A; Vaddiraju, Santhisagar; Papadimitrakopoulos, Fotios; Jain, Faquir C

2012-10-01

The performance of implantable electrochemical glucose sensors is highly dependent on the flux-limiting (glucose, H(2)O(2), O(2)) properties of their outer membranes. A careful understanding of the diffusion profiles of the participating species throughout the sensor architecture (enzyme and membrane layer) plays a crucial role in designing a robust sensor for both in vitro and in vivo operation. This paper reports the results from the mathematical modeling of Clark's first generation amperometric glucose sensor coated with layer-by-layer assembled outer membranes in order to obtain and compare the diffusion profiles of various participating species and their effect on sensor performance. Devices coated with highly glucose permeable (HAs/Fe(3+)) membranes were compared with devices coated with PSS/PDDA membranes, which have an order of magnitude lower permeability. The simulation showed that the low glucose permeable membrane (PSS/PDDA) sensors exhibited a 27% higher amperometric response than the high glucose permeable (HAs/Fe(3+)) sensors. Upon closer inspection of H(2)O(2)diffusion profiles, this non-typical higher response from PSS/PDDA is not due to either a larger glucose flux or comparatively larger O(2) concentrations within the sensor geometry, but rather is attributed to a 48% higher H(2)O(2) concentration in the glucose oxidase enzyme layer of PSS/PDDA coated sensors as compared to HAs/Fe(3+) coated ones. These simulated results corroborate our experimental findings reported previously. The high concentration of H(2)O(2) in the PSS/PDDA coated sensors is due to the low permeability of H(2)O(2) through the PSS/PDDA membrane, which also led to an undesired increase in sensor response time. Additionally, it was found that this phenomenon occurs for all enzyme thicknesses investigated (15, 20 and 25 nm), signifying the need for a holistic approach in designing outer membranes for amperometric biosensors.

Health-related utility values of patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome and its predictors.

PubMed

Lendrem, Dennis; Mitchell, Sheryl; McMeekin, Peter; Bowman, Simon; Price, Elizabeth; Pease, Colin T; Emery, Paul; Andrews, Jacqueline; Lanyon, Peter; Hunter, John; Gupta, Monica; Bombardieri, Michele; Sutcliffe, Nurhan; Pitzalis, Costantino; McLaren, John; Cooper, Annie; Regan, Marian; Giles, Ian; Isenberg, David; Vadivelu, Saravanan; Coady, David; Dasgupta, Bhaskar; McHugh, Neil; Young-Min, Steven; Moots, Robert; Gendi, Nagui; Akil, Mohammed; Griffiths, Bridget; Ng, Wan-Fai

2014-07-01

EuroQoL-5 dimension (EQ-5D) is a standardised preference-based tool for measurement of health-related quality of life and EQ-5D utility values can be converted to quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) to aid cost-utility analysis. This study aimed to evaluate the EQ-5D utility values of 639 patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (PSS) in the UK. Prospective data collected using a standardised pro forma were compared with UK normative data. Relationships between utility values and the clinical and laboratory features of PSS were explored. The proportion of patients with PSS reporting any problem in mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression were 42.2%, 16.7%, 56.6%, 80.6% and 49.4%, respectively, compared with 5.4%, 1.6%, 7.9%, 30.2% and 15.7% for the UK general population. The median EQ-5D utility value was 0.691 (IQR 0.587-0.796, range -0.239 to 1.000) with a bimodal distribution. Bivariate correlation analysis revealed significant correlations between EQ-5D utility values and many clinical features of PSS, but most strongly with pain, depression and fatigue (R values>0.5). After adjusting for age and sex differences, multiple regression analysis identified pain and depression as the two most important predictors of EQ-5D utility values, accounting for 48% of the variability. Anxiety, fatigue and body mass index were other statistically significant predictors, but they accounted for <5% in variability. This is the first report on the EQ-5D utility values of patients with PSS. These patients have significantly impaired utility values compared with the UK general population. EQ-5D utility values are significantly related to pain and depression scores in PSS. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Electrocatalytic Zinc Composites as the Efficient Counter Electrodes of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells: Study on the Electrochemical Performances and Density Functional Theory Calculations.

PubMed

Li, Chun-Ting; Chang, Hung-Yu; Li, Yu-Yan; Huang, Yi-June; Tsai, Yu-Lin; Vittal, R; Sheng, Yu-Jane; Ho, Kuo-Chuan

2015-12-30

Highly efficient zinc compounds (Zn3N2, ZnO, ZnS, and ZnSe) have been investigated as low-cost electrocatalysts for the counter electrodes (CE) of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Among them, Zn3N2 and ZnSe are introduced for the first time in DSSCs. The zinc compounds were separately mixed with a conducting binder, poly(3,4-ethylene-dioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) ( PSS), and thereby four composite films of Zn3N2/PEDOT:PSS, ZnO/PEDOT:PSS, ZnS/PEDOT:PSS, and ZnSe/ PSS were coated on the tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) substrates through a simple drop-coating process. In the composite film, nanoparticles of the zinc compound form active sites for the electrocatalytic reduction of triiodide ions, and PSS provides a continuous conductive matrix for fast electron transfer. By varying the weight percentage (5-20 wt %) of a zinc compound with respect to the weight of the PSS, the optimized concentration of a zinc compound was found to be 10 wt % in all four cases, based on the photovoltaic performances of the corresponding DSSCs. At this concentration (10 wt %), the composites films with Zn3N2 (Zn3N2-10), ZnO (ZnO-10), ZnS (ZnS-10), and ZnSe (ZnSe-10) rendered, for their DSSCs, power conversion efficiencies (η) of 8.73%, 7.54%, 7.40%, and 8.13%, respectively. The difference in the power conversion efficiency is explained based on the electrocatalytic abilities of those composite films as determined by cyclic voltammetry (CV), Tafel polarization plots, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. The energy band gaps of the zinc compounds, obtained by density functional theory (DFT) calculations, were used to explain the electrocatalytic behaviors of the compounds. Among all the zinc-based composites, the one with Zn3N2-10 showed the best electrocatalytic ability and thereby rendered for its DSSC the highest η of 8.73%, which is even higher than that of the cell with the traditional Pt CE (8.50%). Therefore, Zn3N2 can be considered as a promising inexpensive electrocatalyst to replace the rare and expensive Pt.

A first-in-man PET study of [18F]PSS232, a fluorinated ABP688 derivative for imaging metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 5.

PubMed

Warnock, Geoffrey; Sommerauer, Michael; Mu, Linjing; Pla Gonzalez, Gloria; Geistlich, Susanne; Treyer, Valerie; Schibli, Roger; Buck, Alfred; Krämer, Stefanie D; Ametamey, Simon M

2018-06-01

Non-invasive imaging of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGlu 5 ) in the brain using PET is of interest in e.g., anxiety, depression, and Parkinson's disease. Widespread application of the most widely used mGlu 5 tracer, [ 11 C]ABP688, is limited by the short physical half-life of carbon-11. [ 18 F]PSS232 is a fluorinated analog with promising preclinical properties and high selectivity and specificity for mGlu 5 . In this first-in-man study, we evaluated the brain uptake pattern and kinetics of [ 18 F]PSS232 in healthy volunteers. [ 18 F]PSS232 PET was performed with ten healthy male volunteers aged 20-40 years. Seven of the subjects received a bolus injection and the remainder a bolus/infusion protocol. Cerebral blood flow was determined in seven subjects using [ 15 O]water PET. Arterial blood activity was measured using an online blood counter. Tracer kinetics were evaluated by compartment modeling and parametric maps were generated for both tracers. At 90 min post-injection, 59.2 ± 11.1% of total radioactivity in plasma corresponded to intact tracer. The regional first pass extraction fraction of [ 18 F]PSS232 ranged from 0.41 ± 0.06 to 0.55 ± 0.03 and brain distribution pattern matched that of [ 11 C]ABP688. Uptake kinetics followed a simple two-tissue compartment model. The volume of distribution of total tracer (V T , ml/cm 3 ) ranged from 1.18 ± 0.20 for white matter to 2.91 ± 0.51 for putamen. The respective mean distribution volume ratios (DVR) with cerebellum as the reference tissue were 0.88 ± 0.06 and 2.12 ± 0.10, respectively. The tissue/cerebellum ratios of a bolus/infusion protocol (30/70 dose ratio) were close to the DVR values. Brain uptake of [ 18 F]PSS232 matched the distribution of mGlu 5 and followed a two-tissue compartment model. The well-defined kinetics and the possibility to use reference tissue models, obviating the need for arterial blood sampling, make [ 18 F]PSS232 a promising fluorine-18 labeled radioligand for measuring mGlu 5 density in humans.

The Thai version of the PSS-10: An Investigation of its psychometric properties.

PubMed

Wongpakaran, Nahathai; Wongpakaran, Tinakon

2010-06-12

Among the stress instruments that measure the degree to which life events are perceived as stressful, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) is widely used. The goal of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of a Thai version of the PSS-10 (T-PSS-10) with a clinical and non-clinical sample. Internal consistency, test-retest reliability, concurrent validity, and the factorial structure of the scale were tested. A total sample of 479 adult participants was recruited for the study: 368 medical students and 111 patients from two hospitals in Northern Thailand. The T-PSS-10 was used along with the Thai version of State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), the Thai Version of the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and the Thai Depression Inventory (TDI). Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) yielded 2 factors with eigenvalues of 5.05 and 1.60, accounting for 66 percent of variance. Factor 1 consisted of 6 items representing "stress"; whereas Factor 2 consisted of 4 items representing "control". The item loadings ranged from 0.547 to 0.881. Investigation of the fit indices associated with Maximum Likelihood (ML) estimation revealed that the two-factor solution was adequate [chi2 = 35.035 (df = 26, N = 368, p < 0.111)]; Goodness-of-Fit Index (GFI) = 0.981; Root Mean Square Residual (RMR) = 0.022; Standardized Root Mean square Residual (SRMR) = 0.037, Comparative Fit Index (CFI) = 0.989; Normed Fit Index (NFI) = 0.96, Non-Normed Fit Index (NNFI) = 0.981, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) = 0.031. It was found that the T-PSS-10 had a significant positive correlation with the STAI (r = 0.60, p < 0.0001), and the TDI (r = 0.55, p < 0.0001); and was significantly negatively correlated with the RSES (r = -0.46, p < 0.0001, N = 368). The overall Cronbach's alpha was 0.85. The ICC was 0.82 (95% CI, 0.72 and 0.88) at 4 week-retest reliability. The Thai version of the PSS-10 demonstrated excellent goodness-of-fit for the two factor solution model, as well as good reliability and validity for estimating the level of stress perception with a Thai population. Limitations of the study are discussed.

B cell subsets and dysfunction of regulatory B cells in IgG4-related diseases and primary Sjögren's syndrome: the similarities and differences.

PubMed

Lin, Wei; Jin, Lixia; Chen, Hua; Wu, Qingjun; Fei, Yunyun; Zheng, Wenjie; Wang, Qian; Li, Ping; Li, Yongzhe; Zhang, Wen; Zhao, Yan; Zeng, Xiaofeng; Zhang, Fengchun

2014-05-29

IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a multisystem-involved autoimmune disease. Abnormally activated and differentiated B cells may play important roles. Regulatory B cells (Breg) are newly defined B cell subgroups with immunosuppressive functions. In this study, we investigated the differences of B cell subsets, the expressions of co-stimulatory molecules on B cells, and the function of Breg cells in patients with IgG4-RD, primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) as well as in healthy controls (HC). Newly diagnosed IgG4-RD patients (n = 48) were enrolled, 38 untreated pSS patients and 30 healthy volunteers were recruited as disease and healthy controls. To analyze B cell subsets and B cell activity, PBMCs were surface stained and detected by flow cytometry. The function of Breg cells was tested by coculturing isolated CD19 + CD24(hi)CD38(hi) Breg cells with purified CD4 + CD25- T cells. Serum cytokines were measured by ELISA and cytometric bead array. Relationship between clinical data and laboratory findings were analyzed as well. Compared with pSS patients and HC, IgG4-RD patients had a lower frequency of peripheral Breg cells. Interestingly, CD19 + CD24-CD38(hi) B cell subsets were significantly higher in peripheral B cells from IgG4-RD patients than in pSS patients and HC, which correlated with serum IgG4 levels. The expression of BAFF-R and CD40 on B cells was significantly lower in IgG4-RD patients compared with those in pSS patients and HC. Unlike HC, Breg cells from pSS patients lacked suppressive functions. B cells in patients with IgG4-RD and pSS display a variety of abnormalities, including disturbed B cell subpopulations, abnormal expression of key signaling molecules, co-stimulatory molecules, and inflammatory cytokines. In addition, a significantly increased B cell subset, CD19 + CD24-CD38(hi) B cells, may play an important role in the pathogenesis of IgG4-RD.

Comparative analysis of the 2016 ACR-EULAR and the 2002 AECG classification criteria for Sjögren's syndrome: Findings from the NIH cohort.

PubMed

Billings, M; Amin Hadavand, M; Alevizos, I

2018-03-01

The introduction of new classification criteria for Sjögren's syndrome, known as the 2016 American College of Rheumatology/European League against Rheumatism Classification Criteria (ACR-EULAR), created a need for the evaluation of its performance in an external cohort. The purpose of this study was to compare the performance of the 2016 ACR-EULAR classification set with the widely used American-European Consensus Group Classification criteria (AECG) in the cohort at the National Institutes of Health, USA, and to compare the performance of the sets in classifying both primary and secondary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS and sSS). The study cohort at the NIH (N = 1,303) was enrolled for clinical suspicion of SS. Participants were classified as SS, pSS, and sSS according to both classification sets. Performance of 2016 ACR-EULAR and AECG sets was compared holding each as gold standard to the other. Statistical analysis of test diagnostics and agreement between the two sets were undertaken. By the AECG set, 701 were classified as having SS (627 pSS, 74 sSS) and 714 were classified with SS (647 pSS, 67 sSS) by the 2016 ACR-EULAR set. Sensitivity and specificity of the two sets were comparable in classifying SS, pSS, and sSS. There was high agreement between the two sets for classifying SS (κ = 0.79), pSS (κ = 0.81), and sSS (κ = 0.87). The specificity of the 2016 ACR-EULAR set was significantly higher for classifying sSS than pSS, while the sensitivity was similar for the two disease groups. However, this pattern was also exhibited by the AECG set. There was high agreement between the two classification sets with comparable performance diagnostics. There was no evidence of superior performance value by the new 2016 ACR-EULAR set over the AECG set, and the two sets were found to be equivalent. Findings from our cohort indicate that 2016 ACR-EULAR classification could be extended to classification of sSS. Published 2018. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

A pharmacoeconomic approach to assessing the costs and benefits of air quality interventions that improve health: a case study.

PubMed

Lomas, James; Schmitt, Laetitia; Jones, Sally; McGeorge, Maureen; Bates, Elizabeth; Holland, Mike; Cooper, Duncan; Crowther, Richard; Ashmore, Mike; Rojas-Rueda, David; Weatherly, Helen; Richardson, Gerry; Bojke, Laura

2016-06-21

This paper explores the use of pharmacoeconomic methods of valuation to health impacts resulting from exposure to poor air quality. In using such methods, interventions that reduce exposure to poor air quality can be directly compared, in terms of value for money (or cost-effectiveness), with competing demands for finite resources, including other public health interventions. Using results estimated as part of a health impact assessment regarding a West Yorkshire Low Emission Zone strategy, this paper quantifies cost-saving and health-improving implications of transport policy through its impact on air quality. Estimates of health-related quality of life and the National Health Service (NHS)/Personal Social Services (PSS) costs for identified health events were based on data from Leeds and Bradford using peer-reviewed publications or Office for National Statistics releases. Inhabitants of the area within the outer ring roads of Leeds and Bradford. NHS and PSS costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Averting an all-cause mortality death generates 8.4 QALYs. Each coronary event avoided saves £28 000 in NHS/PSS costs and generates 1.1 QALYs. For every fewer case of childhood asthma, there will be NHS/PSS cost saving of £3000 and a health benefit of 0.9 QALYs. A single term, low birthweight birth avoided saves £2000 in NHS/PSS costs. Preventing a preterm birth saves £24 000 in NHS/PSS costs and generates 1.3 QALYs. A scenario modelled in the West Yorkshire Low Emission Zone Feasibility Study, where pre-EURO 4 buses and HGVs are upgraded to EURO 6 by 2016 generates an annual benefit of £2.08 million and a one-off benefit of £3.3 million compared with a net present value cost of implementation of £6.3 million. Interventions to improve air quality and health should be evaluated and where improvement of population health is the primary objective, cost-effectiveness analysis using a NHS/PSS costs and QALYs framework is an appropriate methodology. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Results from Archive Data From SMART-1 Combined with Recent Missions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Foing, Bernard

2013-04-01

We highlight new results from combined data analysis using SMART-1 archive with data from other recent lunar missions. We concentrate on results obtained on the lunar farside, the poles and about the coupling between impact, volcanic and tectonic processes. SMART-1 demonstrated the use of Solar Electric Propulsion for deep space, tested new technologies for spacecraft and instruments miniaturisation, and provided an opportunity for science [1-24] until impact on 3 September 2006. To date, 77 refereed papers and more than 330 conference or technical papers have been published based on SMART-1 (see ADS on SMART-1 scitech website). The SMART-1 data are accessible on the ESA Planetary Science Archive PSA [13]. The lunar North and South polar illumination was mapped and monitored over the entire year, permitting to identify "SMART-1 peaks of quasi-eternal light", then charcterised with subsequent missions. The surface mineralogy maps of the central and northern parts of the South-Pole Aitken basin, was based on Clementine and SMART-1 AMIE images for additional geomorphological and stratigraphic information. [1] Foing etal (2001) EMP 85-523 [2] Racca et al (2002) EMP 85-379 [3] Racca et al. (2002) PSS 50-1323 [4] Grande et al. (2003) PSS 51-427 [5] Dunkin et al. (2003) PSS 51-435 [6] Huovelin et al. (2002) PSS 50-1345 [7] Shkuratov et al (2003) JGRE 108-E4-1 [8] Foing et al (2003) ASR 31-2323 [9] Grande et al (2007) PSS 55-494 [10] Pinet et al (2005) PSS 53-1309 [11] Josset etal (2006) ASR 37-14 [12] Foing et al (2006) ASR 37-6 [13] Heather et al, EPSC-DPS 2011-873 [13b] http://www.rssd.esa.int/psa [14] Muinonen et al (2011) A&A531-150 [15] Souchon et al EPSC-DPS 2011-928 [16] Grieger (2010) cosp 38-417 [17] Bussey et al (2011) LPICO-1621-5 [18] Pluchino et al MSAItS 16-152 [19] Qiao (2011) AcASn 52, 539 [20] Vaananen et al (2009) SolarPhys 260-479 [21] Alha et al (2012)NIMPA 664, 358 [22] Bhattacharya et al EPSC-DPS 2011-1842 [23] Burchell et al (2010) Icarus207-28 [24] Borst et al (2012) PSS 68, 76

[Determination of cytomegalovirus IgG synthesis by the albumin correction in the aqueous humor of posner-schlossmann syndrome].

PubMed

Wang, X L; Wang, Z J; Tang, L; Cao, W W; Sun, X H

2017-02-11

Objective: To evaluate the usefulness of albumin correction in determination of cytomegalovirus IgG in the aqueous humor of Posner-Schlossman syndrome (PSS) patients. Methods: Cases series studies. Forty-two patients (26 men and 16 women) who were diagnosed as PSS were enrolled from Oct. 2009 to Oct. 2015 at the Eye and ENT Hospital. During the same period, 20 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and 30 patients with bacterial endophthalmitis or retinal necrosis were enrolled as negative control group and inflammatory disease control group, respectively. Aqueous humor and serum samples were assayed to detect CMV IgG by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and albumin by scattering immunonephelometry. CMV DNA in aqueous humor was assayed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The ratio which was calculated as the (aqueous humor CMV IgG/serum CMV IgG)/(aqueous humor concentration of albumin/serum albumin concentration) over 0.6 was considered as intraocular antibody formation. Performance of differentiating control eyes from eyes with CMV-positive PSS was evaluated by the receiver operating characteristic curve. The ANOVA test, Mann-Whitney test and Chi-square test were performed to compare the differences among groups. Results: The detectable rate of CMV IgG antibody in the aqueous humor was 76.2%, 100.0% and 10.0% in PSS, inflammatory disease control and POAG groups, respectively. The levels of CMV IgG antibody in the PSS groups were significantly higher than that of POAG groups ( Z= 4.23, P< 0.001).The positive rate corrected by the albumin was 71.4%, 3.3% and 0.0%.The corrected positive rate in PSS groups was significantly higher than that of the inflammatory disease control and POAG groups (χ(2)=30.38, P< 0.01; χ(2)= 24.89, P< 0.01), with a sensitivity of 75.0% and a specificity of 98.0%. The area under the curve for calibrated ratio was 0.942 (95% CI : 0.859 to 0.984) which was higher than that of CMV IgG ( Z= 6.19, P< 0.001).The corrected positive rate of CMV IgG antibody (71.4%) was higher than that of CMV DNA (47.6%, χ(2)=4.003, P= 0.045). Conclusions: CMV IgG antibody ratio which was corrected by aqueous humor and serum albumin could effectively improve aqueous antibody specificity in PSS patients. Furthermore, CMV IgG antibody ratio combined with PCR could improve the sensitivity of CMV detection. All of which help clarify the CMV infection in PSS in CMV DNA negative eyes. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2017, 53: 104-108) .

A dual-stimuli-responsive fluorescent switch ultrathin film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Zhixiong; Liang, Ruizheng; Liu, Wendi; Yan, Dongpeng; Wei, Min

2015-10-01

Stimuli-responsive fluorescent switches have shown broad applications in optical devices, biological materials and intelligent responses. Herein, we describe the design and fabrication of a dual-stimuli-responsive fluorescent switch ultrathin film (UTF) via a three-step layer-by-layer (LBL) technique: (i) encapsulation of spiropyran (SP) within an amphiphilic block copolymer (PTBEM) to give the (SP@PTBEM) micelle; (ii) the mixture of riboflavin (Rf) and poly(styrene 4-sulfonate) (PSS) to enhance the adhesion ability of small molecules; (iii) assembly of negatively charged SP@PTBEM and Rf-PSS with cationic layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanoplatelets to obtain the (Rf-PSS/LDH/SP@PTBEM)n UTFs (n: bilayer number). The assembly process of the UTFs and their luminescence properties, as monitored by fluorescence spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), present a uniform and ordered layered structure with stepwise growth. The resulting Rf-PSS/LDH/SP@PTBEM UTF serves as a three-state switchable multicolor (green, yellow, and red) luminescent system based on stimulation from UV/Vis light and pH, with an acceptable reversibility. Therefore, this work provides a facile way to fabricate stimuli-responsive solid-state film switches with tunable-color luminescence, which have potential applications in the areas of displays, sensors, and rewritable optical memory and fluorescent logic devices.Stimuli-responsive fluorescent switches have shown broad applications in optical devices, biological materials and intelligent responses. Herein, we describe the design and fabrication of a dual-stimuli-responsive fluorescent switch ultrathin film (UTF) via a three-step layer-by-layer (LBL) technique: (i) encapsulation of spiropyran (SP) within an amphiphilic block copolymer (PTBEM) to give the (SP@PTBEM) micelle; (ii) the mixture of riboflavin (Rf) and poly(styrene 4-sulfonate) (PSS) to enhance the adhesion ability of small molecules; (iii) assembly of negatively charged SP@PTBEM and Rf-PSS with cationic layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanoplatelets to obtain the (Rf-PSS/LDH/SP@PTBEM)n UTFs (n: bilayer number). The assembly process of the UTFs and their luminescence properties, as monitored by fluorescence spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), present a uniform and ordered layered structure with stepwise growth. The resulting Rf-PSS/LDH/SP@PTBEM UTF serves as a three-state switchable multicolor (green, yellow, and red) luminescent system based on stimulation from UV/Vis light and pH, with an acceptable reversibility. Therefore, this work provides a facile way to fabricate stimuli-responsive solid-state film switches with tunable-color luminescence, which have potential applications in the areas of displays, sensors, and rewritable optical memory and fluorescent logic devices. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr05376e

Reaction of maturity group V soybean lines to purple seed stains in Mississippi 2010

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

In 2009, soybean purple seed stain (PSS) caused 6.4 million bushels of yield losses in 16 southern states. This disease severely reduces seed market grade and affects seed germination and vigor. PSS is caused by Cercospora kikuchii and is an economy important disease. To identify new sources of resi...

78 FR 22913 - Review of Copyright Royalty Judges Determination

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-17

... time of the commencement of the PSS SDARS hearing, of the original participants, only Music Choice... involved the participants Music Choice and SoundExchange.\\2\\ As set forth above, under 17 U.S.C. 801(b)(1... SDARS. In the proceeding, Music Choice proposed a PSS royalty rate of 2.6% of gross revenues. Final...

Reversible structural transformation and enhanced performance of PEDOT:PSS-based hybrid solar cells driven by light intensity.

PubMed

Thomas, Joseph Palathinkal; Srivastava, Saurabh; Zhao, Liyan; Abd-Ellah, Marwa; McGillivray, Donald; Kang, Jung Soo; Rahman, Md Anisur; Moghimi, Nafiseh; Heinig, Nina F; Leung, Kam Tong

2015-04-15

Hybrid solar cells made of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) ( PSS) and appropriate amounts of a cosolvent and a fluorosurfactant on planar n-type silicon substrates showed a photoconversion efficiency (PCE) of above 13%. These cells also exhibited stable, reproducible, and high external quantum efficiency (EQE) that was not sensitive to light-bias intensity (LBI). In contrast, solar cells made of pristine PSS showed low PCE and high EQE only under certain measurement conditions. The EQE was found to degrade with increasing LBI. Here we report that the LBI-sensitive variation of EQE of the low-PCE cells is related to a reversible structural transformation from a quinoid to a benzoid structure of PEDOT.

Osmotic and Salted Brush Phase of Polyelectrolyte Brushes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Helm, Christane A.; Ahrens, Heiko; Förster, Stephan

2004-03-01

Amphiphilic block copolymers consisting of a fluid hydrophobic Poly(ethyletylene) (PEE), and a Poly(styrenesulfonate) (PSS) part form monolayers at the air/water interface. With x-ray reflectivity it is shown that the hydrophobic blocks of PEE_114PSS_83 and PEE_144PSS_136 constitute a nm-thick melt, while the polyelectrolyte forms an osmotically swollen brush with counterion incorporation. A slight thickness increase on monolayer compression is found which can be explained by the strong stretching of the brushes. Only at high salt conditions (above 0.1 M), the brush shrinks and the thickness scales with the molecular area (exponent -1/3), and with the salt concentration (exponent ca. -1/5). With Grazing Incidence Diffraction, the lateral order of the polyelectrolyte chains can be detected.

PEDOT:PSS/GO nanocomposites: Determination of the aspect ratio by indirect measurements

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Giuri, Antonella; Colella, Silvia; Listorti, Andrea

2016-05-18

Polymer nanocomposites properties significantly depend on the average size of the fillers dispersed into the matrix and on the grade of the dispersion, the latter influenced by the process techniques. In this work, we determined the aspect ratio of graphene oxide (GO) dispersed into Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), starting from the indirect measurement of the rheological behavior of polymer/filler mixtures, as a function of the shear rate and the volumetric composition. PEDOT:PSS+GO nanocomposite films were also realized by spin coating on different substrates and characterized by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), in order to analyze the quality of themore » dispersion, even by direct measurements.« less

High work-function hole transport layers by self-assembly using a fluorinated additive

DOE PAGES

Mauger, Scott A.; Li, Jun; Özmen, Özge Tüzün; ...

2013-10-30

The hole transport polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) derives many of its favorable properties from a PSS-rich interfacial layer that forms spontaneously during coating. Since PEDOT:PSS is only usable as a blend it is not possible to study PEDOT:PSS without this interfacial layer. Through the use of the self-doped polymer sulfonated poly(thiophene-3-[2-(2-methoxyethoxy) ethoxy]-2,5-diyl) (S-P3MEET) and a polyfluorinated ionomer (PFI) it is possible to compare transparent conducting organic films with and without interfacial layers and to understand their function. Using neutron reflectometry, we show that PFI preferentially segregates at the top surface of the film during coating and forms a thermally stable surfacemore » layer. Because of this distribution we find that even small amounts of PFI increase the electron work function of the HTL. We also find that annealing at 150°C and above reduces the work function compared to samples heated at lower temperatures. Using near edge x-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy and gas chromatography we show that this reduction in work function is due to S-P3MEET being doped by PFI. Organic photovoltaic devices with S-P3MEET/PFI hole transport layers yield higher power conversion efficiency than devices with pure S-P3MEET or PEDOT:PSS hole transport layers. Additionally, devices with a doped interface layer of S-P3MEET/PFI show superior performance to those with un-doped S-P3MEET.« less

Interaction of Phase Singularities on Spiral Wave Tail: Reconsideration of Capturing the Excitable Gap.

PubMed

Tomii, Naoki; Yamazaki, Masatoshi; Arafune, Tatsuhiko; Kamiya, Kaichiro; Nakazawa, Kazuo; Honjo, Haruo; Shibata, Nitaro; Sakuma, Ichiro

2018-03-09

The action mechanism of stimulation toward spiral waves (SWs) owing to the complex excitation patterns that occur just after point stimulation has not yet been experimentally clarified. This study sought to test our hypothesis that the effect of capturing excitable gap of SW by stimulation can also be explained as the interaction of original phase singularity (PS) and PSs induced by the stimulation on the wave tail (WT) of the original SW. Phase variance analysis was used to quantitatively analyze the post-shock PS trajectories. In a two-dimensional subepicardial layer of Langendorff-perfused rabbit hearts, optical mapping was utilized to record the excitation pattern during stimulation. After SW was induced by S1-S2 shock, single biphasic point stimulation S3 was applied. In 70 of the S1-S2-S3 stimulation episodes applied on six hearts, the original PS was clearly observed just before the S3 point stimulation in 37 episodes. Pairwise PSs were newly induced by the S3 in 20 episodes. The original PS collided with the newly-induced PSs in 16 episodes; otherwise, they did not interact with the original PS. SW shift occurred most efficiently when the S3 shock was applied at the relative refractory period, and PS shifted in the direction of WT. Quantitative tracking of PS clarified that stimulation in desirable conditions induces pairwise PSs on WT and that the collision of PSs causes SW shift along the WT. Results of this study indicate the importance of the interaction of shock-induced excitation with the WT for effective stimulation.

PSS-3D1D: an improved 3D1D profile method of protein fold recognition for the annotation of twilight zone sequences.

PubMed

Ganesan, K; Parthasarathy, S

2011-12-01

Annotation of any newly determined protein sequence depends on the pairwise sequence identity with known sequences. However, for the twilight zone sequences which have only 15-25% identity, the pair-wise comparison methods are inadequate and the annotation becomes a challenging task. Such sequences can be annotated by using methods that recognize their fold. Bowie et al. described a 3D1D profile method in which the amino acid sequences that fold into a known 3D structure are identified by their compatibility to that known 3D structure. We have improved the above method by using the predicted secondary structure information and employ it for fold recognition from the twilight zone sequences. In our Protein Secondary Structure 3D1D (PSS-3D1D) method, a score (w) for the predicted secondary structure of the query sequence is included in finding the compatibility of the query sequence to the known fold 3D structures. In the benchmarks, the PSS-3D1D method shows a maximum of 21% improvement in predicting correctly the α + β class of folds from the sequences with twilight zone level of identity, when compared with the 3D1D profile method. Hence, the PSS-3D1D method could offer more clues than the 3D1D method for the annotation of twilight zone sequences. The web based PSS-3D1D method is freely available in the PredictFold server at http://bioinfo.bdu.ac.in/servers/ .

The Differential Diagnosis of Dry Eyes, Dry Mouth, and Parotidomegaly: A Comprehensive Review.

PubMed

Cornec, Divi; Saraux, Alain; Jousse-Joulin, Sandrine; Pers, Jacques-Olivier; Boisramé-Gastrin, Sylvie; Renaudineau, Yves; Gauvin, Yves; Roguedas-Contios, Anne-Marie; Genestet, Steeve; Chastaing, Myriam; Cochener, Béatrice; Devauchelle-Pensec, Valérie

2015-12-01

Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a frequent autoimmune systemic disease, clinically characterized by eyes and mouth dryness in all patients, salivary gland swelling or extraglandular systemic manifestations in half of the patients, and development of lymphoma in 5 to 10 % of the patients. However, patients presenting with sicca symptoms or salivary gland swelling may have a variety of conditions that may require very different investigations, treatments, or follow-up. Eye and/or mouth dryness is a frequent complaint in clinical setting, and its frequency increases with age. When evaluating a patient with suspected pSS, the first step is to rule out its differential diagnoses, before looking for positive arguments for the disease. Knowledge of normal and abnormal lachrymal and salivary gland physiology allows the clinician to prescribe the most adapted procedures for evaluating their function and structure. New tests have been developed in recent years for evaluating these patients, notably new ocular surface staining scores or salivary gland ultrasonography. We describe the different diagnoses performed in our monocentric cohort of 240 patients with suspected pSS. The most frequent diagnoses are pSS, other systemic autoimmune diseases, idiopathic sicca syndrome and drug-induced sicca syndrome. However, other diseases are important to rule out due to their specific management, such as sarcoidosis, granulomatosis with polyangeitis, IgG4-related disease, chronic hepatitis C virus or human immunodeficiency virus infections, graft-versus-host disease, and head and neck radiation therapy. At the light of these data, we propose a core of minimal investigations to be performed when evaluating a patient with suspected pSS.

Persistence of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis during Manufacture and Ripening of Cheddar Cheese

PubMed Central

Donaghy, J. A.; Totton, N. L.; Rowe, M. T.

2004-01-01

Model Cheddar cheeses were prepared from pasteurized milk artificially contaminated with high 104 to 105 CFU/ml) and low (101 to 102 CFU/ml) inocula of three different Mycobacterium paratuberculosis strains. A reference strain, NCTC 8578, and two strains (806PSS and 796PSS) previously isolated from pasteurized milk for retail sale were investigated in this study. The manufactured Cheddar cheeses were similar in pH, salt, moisture, and fat composition to commercial Cheddar. The survival of M. paratuberculosis cells was monitored over a 27-week ripening period by plating homogenized cheese samples onto HEYM agar medium supplemented with the antibiotics vancomycin, amphotericin B, and nalidixic acid without a decontamination step. A concentration effect was observed in M. paratuberculosis numbers between the inoculated milk and the 1-day old cheeses for each strain. For all manufactured cheeses, a slow gradual decrease in M. paratuberculosis CFU in cheese was observed over the ripening period. In all cases where high levels (>3.6 log10) of M. paratuberculosis were present in 1-day cheeses, the organism was culturable after the 27-week ripening period. The D values calculated for strains 806PSS, 796PSS, and NCTC 8578 were 107, 96, and 90 days, respectively. At low levels of contamination, M. paratuberculosis was only culturable from 27-week-old cheese spiked with strain 806PSS. M. paratuberculosis was recovered from the whey fraction in 10 of the 12 manufactured cheeses. Up to 4% of the initial M. paratuberculosis load was recovered in the culture-positive whey fractions at either the high or low initial inoculum. PMID:15294829

Cognition, depression, fatigue, and quality of life in primary Sjögren's syndrome: correlations.

PubMed

Koçer, Belgin; Tezcan, Mehmet Engin; Batur, Hale Zeynep; Haznedaroğlu, Şeminur; Göker, Berna; İrkeç, Ceyla; Çetinkaya, Rümeysa

2016-12-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence and pattern of cognitive dysfunction observed in primary Sjögren's syndrome (PSS) and to examine the relationships between cognitive abilities, depression, fatigue, and quality of life. Thirty-two subjects with PSS were compared with 19 healthy controls on comprehensive neuropsychological, depression, fatigue, health state, and daily-life activities tests. There was low performance in Clock Drawing, COWAT, Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT), Colorless Word Reading (Stroop1) and Recognizing Colors (Stroop2) Patterns of STROOP test, SDLT, Auditory-Verbal Learning Test (AVLT), immediate and long-term verbal memory, Benton Judgment of Line Orientation Test (BJLOT), and in all the patterns of RCFT in PSS patients compared to the healthy control group ( p  < .05). It was observed an increased depression frequency and fatigue severity, impairment in health condition, and a decreased quality of life in PSS cases compared to the healthy controls ( p  < .05). All the depression, fatigue severity, and quality of life tests showed a significant positive correlation with each other ( p  < .05). A significant negative correlation between Clock Drawing and SF-36-BP ( p  = .031, r  = -.382) and SF-36-GH ( p  = .027, r  = -.392) was observed. Clock Drawing, PASAT, and AVLT are very useful tests to determine the subclinical and clinical cognitive dysfunction to evaluate attention, information processing speed, executive functions, and short-term and long-term verbal memory in PSS patients. Depression and fatigue may not affect the neuropsychological tests performance.

Free-Standing Conducting Polymer Films for High-Performance Energy Devices.

PubMed

Li, Zaifang; Ma, Guoqiang; Ge, Ru; Qin, Fei; Dong, Xinyun; Meng, Wei; Liu, Tiefeng; Tong, Jinhui; Jiang, Fangyuan; Zhou, Yifeng; Li, Ke; Min, Xue; Huo, Kaifu; Zhou, Yinhua

2016-01-18

Thick, uniform, easily processed, highly conductive polymer films are desirable as electrodes for solar cells as well as polymer capacitors. Here, a novel scalable strategy is developed to prepare highly conductive thick poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (HCT-PEDOT:PSS) films with layered structure that display a conductivity of 1400 S cm(-1) and a low sheet resistance of 0.59 ohm sq(-1). Organic solar cells with laminated HCT-PEDOT:PSS exhibit a performance comparable to the reference devices with vacuum-deposited Ag top electrodes. More importantly, the HCT-PEDOT:PSS film delivers a specific capacitance of 120 F g(-1) at a current density of 0.4 A g(-1). All-solid-state flexible symmetric supercapacitors with the HCT-PEDOT:PSS films display a high volumetric energy density of 6.80 mWh cm(-3) at a power density of 100 mW cm(-3) and 3.15 mWh cm(-3) at a very high power density of 16160 mW cm(-3) that outperforms previous reported solid-state supercapacitors based on PEDOT materials. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Adaptation of light-harvesting functions of unicellular green algae to different light qualities.

PubMed

Ueno, Yoshifumi; Aikawa, Shimpei; Kondo, Akihiko; Akimoto, Seiji

2018-05-28

Oxygenic photosynthetic organisms perform photosynthesis efficiently by distributing captured light energy to photosystems (PSs) at an appropriate balance. Maintaining photosynthetic efficiency under changing light conditions requires modification of light-harvesting and energy-transfer processes. In the current study, we examined how green algae regulate their light-harvesting functions in response to different light qualities. We measured low-temperature time-resolved fluorescence spectra of unicellular green algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and Chlorella variabilis cells grown under different light qualities. By observing the delayed fluorescence spectra, we demonstrated that both types of green algae primarily modified the associations between light-harvesting chlorophyll protein complexes (LHCs) and PSs (PSII and PSI). Under blue light, Chlamydomonas transferred more energy from LHC to chlorophyll (Chl) located far from the PSII reaction center, while energy was transferred from LHC to PSI via different energy-transfer pathways in Chlorella. Under green light, both green algae exhibited enhanced energy transfer from LHCs to both PSs. Red light induced fluorescence quenching within PSs in Chlamydomonas and LHCs in Chlorella. In Chlorella, energy transfer from PSII to PSI appears to play an important role in balancing excitation between PSII and PSI.

Characterization of Piezoresistive PEDOT:PSS Pressure Sensors with Inter-Digitated and Cross-Point Electrode Structures

PubMed Central

Wang, Jer-Chyi; Karmakar, Rajat Subhra; Lu, Yu-Jen; Huang, Chiung-Yin; Wei, Kuo-Chen

2015-01-01

The piezoresistive characteristics of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) pressure sensors with inter-digitated (IDE) and cross-point electrode (CPE) structures have been investigated. A small variation of the resistance of the pressure sensors with IDE without bottom indium-tin-oxide (b-ITO) film and with CPE structures was observed owing to the single carrier-conducting pathway. For the IDE pressure sensors with b-ITO, the piezoresistive characteristics at low and high pressure were similar to those of the pressure sensors with IDE without b-ITO and with CPE structures, respectively, leading to increased piezoresistive pressure sensitivity as the PEDOT:PSS film thickness decreased. A maximum sensitivity of more than 42 kΩ/Pa was achieved. When the normal pressure was applied, the increased number of conducting points or the reduced distance between the PEDOT oligomers within the PEDOT:PSS film resulted in a decrease of the resistance. The piezoresistive pressure sensors with a single carrier-conducting pathway, i.e., IDE without b-ITO and CPE structures, exhibited a small relaxation time and a superior reversible operation, which can be advantageous for fast piezoresistive response applications. PMID:25569756

Characterization of piezoresistive PEDOT:PSS pressure sensors with inter-digitated and cross-point electrode structures.

PubMed

Wang, Jer-Chyi; Karmakar, Rajat Subhra; Lu, Yu-Jen; Huang, Chiung-Yin; Wei, Kuo-Chen

2015-01-05

The piezoresistive characteristics of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) pressure sensors with inter-digitated (IDE) and cross-point electrode (CPE) structures have been investigated. A small variation of the resistance of the pressure sensors with IDE without bottom indium-tin-oxide (b-ITO) film and with CPE structures was observed owing to the single carrier-conducting pathway. For the IDE pressure sensors with b-ITO, the piezoresistive characteristics at low and high pressure were similar to those of the pressure sensors with IDE without b-ITO and with CPE structures, respectively, leading to increased piezoresistive pressure sensitivity as the PEDOT:PSS film thickness decreased. A maximum sensitivity of more than 42 kΩ/Pa was achieved. When the normal pressure was applied, the increased number of conducting points or the reduced distance between the PEDOT oligomers within the PEDOT:PSS film resulted in a decrease of the resistance. The piezoresistive pressure sensors with a single carrier-conducting pathway, i.e., IDE without b-ITO and CPE structures, exhibited a small relaxation time and a superior reversible operation, which can be advantageous for fast piezoresistive response applications.

Weather radar performance monitoring using a metallic-grid ground-scatterer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Falconi, Marta Tecla; Montopoli, Mario; Marzano, Frank Silvio; Baldini, Luca

2017-10-01

The use of ground return signals is investigated for checks on the calibration of power measurements of a polarimetric C-band radar. To this aim, a peculiar permanent single scatterer (PSS) consisting of a big metallic roof with a periodic mesh grid structure and having a hemisphere-like shape is considered. The latter is positioned in the near-field region of the weather radar and its use, as a reference calibrator, shows fairly good results in terms of reflectivity and differential reflectivity monitoring. In addition, the use of PSS indirectly allows to check for the radar antenna de-pointing which is another issue usually underestimated when dealing with weather radars. Because of the periodic structure of the considered PSS, simulations of its electromagnetic behavior were relatively easy to perform. To this goal, we used an electromagnetic Computer-Aided-Design (CAD) with an ad-hoc numerical implementation of a full-wave solution to model our PSS in terms of reflectivity and differential reflectivity factor. Comparison of model results and experimental measurements are then shown in this work. Our preliminary investigation can pave the way for future studies aiming at characterizing ground-clutter returns in a more accurate way for radar calibration purposes.

Whole-exome sequencing in a single proband reveals a mutation in the CHST8 gene in autosomal recessive peeling skin syndrome

PubMed Central

Cabral, Rita M.; Kurban, Mazen; Wajid, Muhammad; Shimomura, Yutaka; Petukhova, Lynn; Christiano, Angela M.

2015-01-01

Generalized peeling skin syndrome (PSS) is an autosomal recessive genodermatosis characterized by lifelong, continuous shedding of the upper epidermis. Using whole-genome homozygozity mapping and whole-exome sequencing, we identified a novel homozygous missense mutation (c.229C>T, R77W) within the CHST8 gene, in a large consanguineous family with non-inflammatory PSS type A. CHST8 encodes a Golgi transmembrane N-acetylgalactosamine-4-O-sulfotransferase (GalNAc4-ST1), which we show by immunofluorescence staining to be expressed throughout normal epidermis. A colorimetric assay for total sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) quantification, comparing human keratinocytes (CCD1106 KERTr) expressing wild type and mutant recombinant GalNAc4-ST1, revealed decreased levels of total sulfated GAGs in cells expressing mutant GalNAc4-ST1, suggesting loss of function. Western blotting revealed lower expression levels of mutant recombinant GalNAc4-ST1 compared to wild type, suggesting that accelerated degradation may result in loss of function, leading to PSS type A. This is the first report describing a mutation as the cause of PSS type A. PMID:22289416

Whole-exome sequencing in a single proband reveals a mutation in the CHST8 gene in autosomal recessive peeling skin syndrome.

PubMed

Cabral, Rita M; Kurban, Mazen; Wajid, Muhammad; Shimomura, Yutaka; Petukhova, Lynn; Christiano, Angela M

2012-04-01

Generalized peeling skin syndrome (PSS) is an autosomal recessive genodermatosis characterized by lifelong, continuous shedding of the upper epidermis. Using whole-genome homozygozity mapping and whole-exome sequencing, we identified a novel homozygous missense mutation (c.229C>T, R77W) within the CHST8 gene, in a large consanguineous family with non-inflammatory PSS type A. CHST8 encodes a Golgi transmembrane N-acetylgalactosamine-4-O-sulfotransferase (GalNAc4-ST1), which we show by immunofluorescence staining to be expressed throughout normal epidermis. A colorimetric assay for total sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) quantification, comparing human keratinocytes (CCD1106 KERTr) expressing wild type and mutant recombinant GalNAc4-ST1, revealed decreased levels of total sulfated GAGs in cells expressing mutant GalNAc4-ST1, suggesting loss of function. Western blotting revealed lower expression levels of mutant recombinant GalNAc4-ST1 compared to wild type, suggesting that accelerated degradation may result in loss of function, leading to PSS type A. This is the first report describing a mutation as the cause of PSS type A. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Solution-processed highly conductive PEDOT:PSS/AgNW/GO transparent film for efficient organic-Si hybrid solar cells.

PubMed

Xu, Qiaojing; Song, Tao; Cui, Wei; Liu, Yuqiang; Xu, Weidong; Lee, Shuit-Tong; Sun, Baoquan

2015-02-11

Hybrid solar cells based on n-Si/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene- sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) heterojunction promise to be a low cost photovoltaic technology by using simple device structure and easy fabrication process. However, due to the low conductivity of PEDOT:PSS, a metal grid deposited by vacuum evaporation method is still required to enhance the charge collection efficiency, which complicates the device fabrication process. Here, a solution-processed graphene oxide (GO)-welded silver nanowires (AgNWs) transparent conductive electrode (TCE) was employed to replace the vacuum deposited metal grid. A unique "sandwich" structure was developed by embedding an AgNW network between PEDOT:PSS and GO with a figure-of-merit of 8.6×10(-3) Ω(-1), which was even higher than that of sputtered indium tin oxide electrode (6.6×10(-3) Ω(-1)). A champion power conversion efficiency of 13.3% was achieved, because of the decreased series resistance of the TCEs as well as the enhanced built-in potential (Vbi) in the hybrid solar cells. The TCEs were obtained by facile low-temperature solution process method, which was compatible with cost-effective mass production technology.

Improved PEDOT:PSS/c-Si hybrid solar cell using inverted structure and effective passivation

PubMed Central

Zhang, Xisheng; Yang, Dong; Yang, Zhou; Guo, Xiaojia; Liu, Bin; Ren, Xiaodong; Liu, Shengzhong (Frank)

2016-01-01

The PEDOT:PSS is often used as the window layer in the normal structured PEDOT:PSS/c-Si hybrid solar cell (HSC), leading to significantly reduced response, especially in red and near-infrared region. By depositing the PEDOT:PSS on the rear side of the c-Si wafer, we developed an inverted structured HSC with much higher solar cell response in the red and near-infrared spectrum. Passivating the other side with hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) before electrode deposition, the minority carrier lifetime has been significantly increased and the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the inverted HSC is improved to as high as 16.1% with an open-circuit voltage (Voc) of 634 mV, fill factor (FF) of 70.5%, and short-circuit current density (Jsc) of 36.2 mA cm−2, an improvement of 33% over the control device. The improvements are ascribed to inverted configuration and a-Si:H passivation, which can increase photon carrier generation and reduce carrier recombination, respectively. Both of them will benefit the photovoltaic performance and should be considered as effective design strategies to improve the performance of organic/c-Si HSCs. PMID:27725714

Platinum salt sensitivity in refinery workers: incidence and effects of smoking and exposure.

PubMed Central

Calverley, A E; Rees, D; Dowdeswell, R J; Linnett, P J; Kielkowski, D

1995-01-01

OBJECTIVE--To measure the incidence of platinum salt sensitivity (PSS) in refinery workers and examine the influence of cigarette smoking and exposure to platinum salts on sensitisation. DESIGN--A prospective cohort study with examination of workers at quarterly intervals for 18 months, and again at 24 months. SETTING--A South African primary platinum refinery. SUBJECTS--78 new recruits, selected by the refinery's usual procedure, without apparent atopy and in good respiratory health. RESULTS--After 24 months 32 (41%) subjects had been diagnosed PSS and were subsequently medically separated. Twenty two (28%) cases were confirmed by positive skin prick test to platinum salts, 10 (13%) cases were symptomatic but skin prick negative. Incidence of cases per 100 person-months was 1.9 skin prick positive and 0.8 negative. Risk of sensitisation was about eight times greater for smokers than non-smokers, and six times greater for high exposure than low exposure. CONCLUSION--Smoking and intensity of exposure were definitely associated with development of PSS. Positive responses to platinum salt skin prick test had a 100% positive predictive value for symptoms and signs of PSS if exposure continued. PMID:7489056

The effect of multivalent counterions to the structure of highly dense polystyrene sulfonate brushes

DOE PAGES

Yu, Jing; Mao, Jun; Yuan, Guangcui; ...

2016-02-23

Surface tethered polyelectrolyte brushes are scientifically interesting and technologically relevant to many applications, ranging from colloidal stabilization to responsive and tunable materials to lubrication. Many applications operate in environments containing multi-valent ions, media in which our scientific understanding is not yet well-developed. In this paper, we synthesized high-density polystyrene sulfonate (PSS) brushes via surface initiated atom-transfer radical polymerization, and performed neutron reflectivity (NR) measurements to investigate and compare the effects of mono-valent Rb + and tri-valent Y 3+ counterions to the structure of the densely tethered PSS brushes. Our NR results show that in mono-valent RbNO 3 solution, the densemore » PSS brush retained its full thickness up to a salt concentration of 1 M, whereas it immediately collapsed upon adding 1.67 mM of tri-valent Y 3+. Increasing the concentration of Y 3+ beyond this level did not lead to any significant further structure change of the PSS brush. Finally, our findings demonstrate that the presence of multi-valent counterions can significantly alter the structure of polyelectrolyte brushes, in a manner different from mono-valent ions, which has implications for the functionality of the brushes.« less

Renal Tubular Acidosis in Patients with Primary Sjögren's Syndrome.

PubMed

Jung, Su Woong; Park, Eun Ji; Kim, Jin Sug; Lee, Tae Won; Ihm, Chun Gyoo; Lee, Sang Ho; Moon, Ju-Young; Kim, Yang Gyun; Jeong, Kyung Hwan

2017-09-01

Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of the exocrine glands resulting in decreased saliva and tear production. It uncommonly involves the kidneys in various forms, including tubulointerstitial nephritis, renal tubular acidosis, Fanconi syndrome, and rarely glomerulonephritis. Its clinical symptoms include muscle weakness, periodic paralysis, and bone pain due to metabolic acidosis and electrolyte imbalance. Herein, we describe the cases of two women with pSS whose presenting symptoms involve the kidneys. They had hypokalemia and normal anion gap metabolic acidosis due to distal renal tubular acidosis and positive anti-SS-A and anti-SS-B autoantibodies. Since one of them experienced femoral fracture due to osteomalacia secondary to renal tubular acidosis, an earlier diagnosis of pSS is important in preventing serious complications.

Cationic Biomimetic Particles of Polystyrene/Cationic Bilayer/Gramicidin for Optimal Bactericidal Activity.

PubMed

Xavier, Gabriel R S; Carmona-Ribeiro, Ana M

2017-12-02

Nanostructured particles of polystyrene sulfate (PSS) covered by a cationic lipid bilayer of dioctadecyldimethylammonium bromide (DODAB) incorporated gramicidin D (Gr) yielding optimal and broadened bactericidal activity against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus . The adsorption of DODAB/Gr bilayer onto PSS nanoparticles (NPs) increased the zeta-average diameter by 8-10 nm, changed the zeta-potential of the NPs from negative to positive, and yielded a narrow size distributions for the PSS/DODAB/Gr NPs, which displayed broad and maximal microbicidal activity at very small concentrations of the antimicrobials, namely, 0.057 and 0.0057 mM DODAB and Gr, respectively. The results emphasized the advantages of highly-organized, nanostructured, and cationic particles to achieve hybrid combinations of antimicrobials with broad spectrum activity at considerably reduced DODAB and Gr concentrations.

Semitransparent Fully Air Processed Perovskite Solar Cells.

PubMed

Bu, Lingling; Liu, Zonghao; Zhang, Meng; Li, Wenhui; Zhu, Aili; Cai, Fensha; Zhao, Zhixin; Zhou, Yinhua

2015-08-19

Semitransparent solar cells are highly attractive for application as power-generating windows. In this work, we present semitransparent perovskite solar cells that employ conducting polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) ( PSS) film as the transparent counter electrode. The PSS electrode is prepared by transfer lamination technique using plastic wrap as the transfer medium. The use of the transfer lamination technique avoids the damage of the CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite film by direct contact of PSS aqueous solution. The semitransparent perovskite solar cells yield a power conversion efficiency of 10.1% at an area of about 0.06 cm(2) and 2.9% at an area of 1 cm(2). The device structure and the fabrication technique provide a facile way to produce semitransparent perovskite solar cells.

Planar silver nanowire, carbon nanotube and PEDOT:PSS nanocomposite transparent electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stapleton, Andrew J.; Yambem, Soniya D.; Johns, Ashley H.; Afre, Rakesh A.; Ellis, Amanda V.; Shapter, Joe G.; Andersson, Gunther G.; Quinton, Jamie S.; Burn, Paul L.; Meredith, Paul; Lewis, David A.

2015-04-01

Highly conductive, transparent and flexible planar electrodes were fabricated using interwoven silver nanowires and single-walled carbon nanotubes (AgNW:SWCNT) in a PEDOT:PSS matrix via an epoxy transfer method from a silicon template. The planar electrodes achieved a sheet resistance of 6.6 ± 0.0 Ω/□ and an average transmission of 86% between 400 and 800 nm. A high figure of merit of 367 Ω-1 is reported for the electrodes, which is much higher than that measured for indium tin oxide and reported for other AgNW composites. The AgNW:SWCNT:PEDOT:PSS electrode was used to fabricate low temperature (annealing free) devices demonstrating their potential to function with a range of organic semiconducting polymer:fullerene bulk heterojunction blend systems.

Planar silver nanowire, carbon nanotube and PEDOT:PSS nanocomposite transparent electrodes

PubMed Central

Stapleton, Andrew J; Yambem, Soniya D; Johns, Ashley H; Afre, Rakesh A; Ellis, Amanda V; Shapter, Joe G; Andersson, Gunther G; Quinton, Jamie S; Burn, Paul L; Meredith, Paul

2015-01-01

Highly conductive, transparent and flexible planar electrodes were fabricated using interwoven silver nanowires and single-walled carbon nanotubes (AgNW:SWCNT) in a PEDOT:PSS matrix via an epoxy transfer method from a silicon template. The planar electrodes achieved a sheet resistance of 6.6 ± 0.0 Ω/□ and an average transmission of 86% between 400 and 800 nm. A high figure of merit of 367 Ω−1 is reported for the electrodes, which is much higher than that measured for indium tin oxide and reported for other AgNW composites. The AgNW:SWCNT:PEDOT:PSS electrode was used to fabricate low temperature (annealing free) devices demonstrating their potential to function with a range of organic semiconducting polymer:fullerene bulk heterojunction blend systems. PMID:27877771

Reliability and validity of the korean version of the connor-davidson resilience scale.

PubMed

Baek, Hyun-Sook; Lee, Kyoung-Uk; Joo, Eun-Jeong; Lee, Mi-Young; Choi, Kyeong-Sook

2010-06-01

The Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) measures various aspects of psychological resilience in patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other psychiatric ailments. This study sought to assess the reliability and validity of the Korean version of the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (K-CD-RISC). In total, 576 participants were enrolled (497 females and 79 males), including hospital nurses, university students, and firefighters. Subjects were evaluated using the K-CD-RISC, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Test-retest reliability and internal consistency were examined as a measure of reliability, and convergent validity and factor analysis were also performed to evaluate validity. Cronbach's alpha coefficient and test-retest reliability were 0.93 and 0.93, respectively. The total score on the K-CD-RISC was positively correlated with the RSES (r=0.56, p<0.01). Conversely, BDI (r=-0.46, p<0.01), PSS (r=-0.32, p<0.01), and IES-R scores (r=-0.26, p<0.01) were negatively correlated with the K-CD-RISC. The K-CD-RISC showed a five-factor structure that explained 57.2% of the variance. The K-CD-RISC showed good reliability and validity for measurement of resilience among Korean subjects.

The thrill of being violent as an antidote to posttraumatic stress disorder in Rwandese genocide perpetrators

PubMed Central

Weierstall, Roland; Schaal, Susanne; Schalinski, Inga; Dusingizemungu, Jean-Pierre; Elbert, Thomas

2011-01-01

Background The cumulative exposure to life-threatening events increases the risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, over the course of evolutionary adaptation, intra-species killing may have also evolved as an inborn strategy leading to greater reproductive success. Assuming that homicide has evolved as a profitable strategy in humans, a protective mechanism must prevent the perpetrator from getting traumatised by self-initiated violent acts. Objective We thus postulate an inverse relation between a person's propensity toward violence and PTSD. Method We surveyed a sample of 269 Rwandan prisoners who were accused or convicted for crimes related to the 1994 genocide. In structured interviews we assessed traumatic event types, types of crimes committed, the person's appetitive violence experience with the Appetitive Aggression Scale (AAS) and PTSD symptom severity with the PSS-I. Results Using path-analysis, we found a dose-response effect between the exposure to traumatic events and the PTSD symptom severity (PSS-I). Moreover, participants who had reported that they committed more types of crimes demonstrated a higher AAS score. In turn, higher AAS scores predicted lower PTSD symptom severity scores. Conclusions This study provides first empirical support that the victim's struggling can be an essential rewarding cue for perpetrators. The results also suggest that an appetitive aggression can inhibit PTSD and trauma-related symptoms in perpetrators and prevent perpetrators from getting traumatised by their own atrocities. PMID:22893806

Stress, Drugs, and Alcohol Use Among Health Care Professional Students: A Focus on Prescription Stimulants.

PubMed

Bidwal, Monica K; Ip, Eric J; Shah, Bijal M; Serino, Melissa J

2015-12-01

To contrast the characteristics of pharmacy, medicine, and physician assistant (PA) students regarding the prevalence of drug, alcohol, and tobacco use and to identify risk factors associated with prescription stimulant use. Five hundred eighty nine students were recruited to complete a 50-item Web-based survey. Demographics, nonmedical prescription medication use, illicit drug and alcohol use, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fourth Edition, Text Revision; DSM-IV-TR) psychiatric diagnoses, and perceived stress scale (PSS) scores. Medicine and PA students reported greater nonmedical prescription stimulant use than pharmacy students (10.4% vs 14.0% vs 6.1%; P < .05). Medicine and PA students were more likely to report a history of an anxiety disorder (12.1% vs 18.6% vs 5.9%; P < .05), major depressive disorder (9.4% vs 8.1% vs 3.3%; P < .05), and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; 4.0% vs 9.3% vs 0.7%; P < .001) than pharmacy students. PSS scores for all 3 groups (21.9-22.3) were roughly twice as high as the general adult population. Illicit drug and prescription stimulant use, psychiatric disorders, and elevated stress levels are prevalent among health care professional students. Health care professional programs may wish to use this information to better understand their student population which may lead to a reassessment of student resources and awareness/prevention programs. © The Author(s) 2014.

Antisocial Behavioral Syndromes and Three-Year Quality of Life Outcomes in United States Adults

PubMed Central

Goldstein, Risë B.; Dawson, Deborah A.; Smith, Sharon M.; Grant, Bridget F.

2013-01-01

Objective To examine 3-year quality-of-life (QOL) outcomes among United States adults with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), syndromal adult antisocial behavior without conduct disorder (CD) before age 15 (AABS, not a DSM-IV diagnosis), or no antisocial behavioral syndrome at baseline. Method Face-to-face interviews (n= 34,653). Psychiatric disorders were assessed using the Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule – DSM-IV Version. Health-related QOL was assessed using the Short-Form 12-Item Health Survey, version 2 (SF-12v2). Other outcomes included past-year Perceived Stress Scale-4 (PSS-4) scores, employment, receipt of Supplemental Security Income (SSI), welfare, and food stamps, and participation in social relationships. Results ASPD and AABS predicted poorer employment, financial dependency, social relationship, and physical health outcomes. Relationships of antisociality to SSI and food stamp receipt and physical health scales were modified by baseline age. Both antisocial syndromes predicted higher PSS-4, AABS predicted lower SF-12v2 Vitality, and ASPD predicted lower SF-12v2 Social Functioning scores in women. Conclusion Similar prediction of QOL by ASPD and AABS suggests limited utility of requiring CD before age 15 to diagnose ASPD. Findings underscore the need to improve prevention and treatment of antisocial syndromes. PMID:22375904

Emotional intelligence and perceived stress of Australian pre-registration healthcare students: A multi-disciplinary cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Foster, Kim; Fethney, Judith; Kozlowski, Desirée; Fois, Romano; Reza, Fareen; McCloughen, Andrea

2018-07-01

Healthcare students can experience high levels of stress. Emotional intelligence can moderate stress and increase wellbeing however there has been no prior research on the relationship between emotional intelligence and stress in Australian healthcare students. To measure emotional intelligence (EI) and perceived stress (PS) in final year healthcare students (nursing, pharmacy and dentistry), and to explore the relationships between EI, PS and discipline. A cross sectional survey of pre-registration healthcare students at a metropolitan university in Australia. 203 pre-registration final year healthcare students (n = 58 nursing; n = 112 pharmacy; n = 34 dentistry). Emotional Intelligence was measured using the GENOS Emotional Intelligence Inventory (Concise Version) and stress was measured using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). A significant negative correlation was found between EI and PS in nursing and pharmacy students. No difference was found in EI across disciplines. Mean EI scores were lower than normative means. PS was significantly higher than the normative mean for pharmacy and dentistry students and higher than nursing students. Emotional intelligence can have a protective effect against stress for healthcare students and can be increased via targeted educational interventions. To support student wellbeing there is a clear need for pre-registration healthcare curricula to include educational components on strengthening EI. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

COMT Diplotype Amplifies Effect of Stress on Risk of Temporomandibular Pain.

PubMed

Slade, G D; Sanders, A E; Ohrbach, R; Bair, E; Maixner, W; Greenspan, J D; Fillingim, R B; Smith, S; Diatchenko, L

2015-09-01

When measured once, psychological stress predicts development of painful temporomandibular disorder (TMD). However, a single measurement fails to characterize the dynamic nature of stress over time. Moreover, effects of stress on pain likely vary according to biological susceptibility. We hypothesized that temporal escalation in stress exacerbates risk for TMD, and the effect is amplified by allelic variants in a gene, catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), regulating catechol neurotransmitter catabolism. We used data from the Orofacial Pain: Prospective Evaluation and Risk Assessment prospective cohort study of 2,707 community-dwelling adults with no lifetime history of TMD on enrollment. At baseline and quarterly periods thereafter, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) measured psychological stress. Genotyped DNA from blood samples determined COMT diplotypes. During follow-up of 0.25 to 5.2 y, 248 adults developed examiner-verified incident TMD. PSS scores at baseline were 20% greater (P < 0.001) in adults who developed incident TMD compared with TMD-free controls. Baseline PSS scores increased by 9% (P = 0.003) during follow-up in cases but remained stable in controls. This stress escalation was limited to incident cases with COMT diplotypes coding for low-activity COMT, signifying impaired catabolism of catecholamines. Cox regression models confirmed significant effects on TMD hazard of both baseline PSS (P < 0.001), modeled as a time-constant covariate, and change in PSS (P < 0.001), modeled as a time-varying covariate. Furthermore, a significant (P = 0.04) interaction of COMT diplotype and time-varying stress showed that a postbaseline increase of 1.0 standard deviation in PSS more than doubled risk of TMD incidence in subjects with low-activity COMT diplotypes (hazard ratio = 2.35; 95% confidence limits: 1.66, 3.32), an effect not found in subjects with high-activity COMT diplotypes (hazard ratio = 1.42; 95% confidence limits: 0.96, 2.09). Findings provide novel insights into dynamic effects of psychological stress on TMD pain, highlighting that effects are most pronounced in individuals whose genetic susceptibility increases responsiveness to catecholamine neurotransmitters. © International & American Associations for Dental Research 2015.

Use of Structural Equation Modeling to Demonstrate the Differential Impact of Storage and Voiding Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms on Symptom Bother and Quality of Life during Treatment for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Associated with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.

PubMed

McVary, Kevin T; Peterson, Andrew; Donatucci, Craig F; Baygani, Simin; Henneges, Carsten; Clouth, Johannes; Wong, David; Oelke, Matthias

2016-09-01

Lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia typically respond well to medical therapy. While changes in total I-PSS (International Prostate Symptom Score) are generally accepted as measurement for treatment response, I-PSS storage and voiding subscores may not accurately reflect the influence of symptom improvement on patient bother and quality of life. Structural equation modeling was done to evaluate physiological interrelationships measured by I-PSS storage vs voiding subscore questions and measure the magnitude of effects on bother using BII (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Impact Index) and quality of life on I-PSS quality of life questions. Pooled data from 4 randomized, controlled trials of tadalafil and placebo in 1,462 men with lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostatic hyperplasia were used to investigate the relationship of storage vs voiding lower urinary tract symptoms on BII and quality of life. The final structural equation model demonstrated a sufficient fit to model interdependence of storage, voiding, bother and quality of life (probability for test of close fit <0.0001). Storage aspects had a twofold greater effect on voiding vs voiding aspects on storage (0.61 vs 0.28, each p <0.0001). The direct effect of storage on bother was twofold greater than voiding on bother (0.64 vs 0.29, each p <0.0001). Bother directly impacted quality of life by the largest magnitude of (-0.83), largely driven by storage lower urinary tract symptoms (p <0.0001). Total I-PSS is a reliable instrument to assess the therapeutic response in lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostatic hyperplasia cases. However, an improvement in storage lower urinary tract symptoms is mainly responsible for improved bother and quality of life during treatment. Care should be taken when evaluating the accuracy of I-PSS subscores as indicators of the response to medical therapy. Copyright © 2016 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Prevention of gross setup errors in radiotherapy with an efficient automatic patient safety system.

PubMed

Yan, Guanghua; Mittauer, Kathryn; Huang, Yin; Lu, Bo; Liu, Chihray; Li, Jonathan G

2013-11-04

Treatment of the wrong body part due to incorrect setup is among the leading types of errors in radiotherapy. The purpose of this paper is to report an efficient automatic patient safety system (PSS) to prevent gross setup errors. The system consists of a pair of charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras mounted in treatment room, a single infrared reflective marker (IRRM) affixed on patient or immobilization device, and a set of in-house developed software. Patients are CT scanned with a CT BB placed over their surface close to intended treatment site. Coordinates of the CT BB relative to treatment isocenter are used as reference for tracking. The CT BB is replaced with an IRRM before treatment starts. PSS evaluates setup accuracy by comparing real-time IRRM position with reference position. To automate system workflow, PSS synchronizes with the record-and-verify (R&V) system in real time and automatically loads in reference data for patient under treatment. Special IRRMs, which can permanently stick to patient face mask or body mold throughout the course of treatment, were designed to minimize therapist's workload. Accuracy of the system was examined on an anthropomorphic phantom with a designed end-to-end test. Its performance was also evaluated on head and neck as well as abdominalpelvic patients using cone-beam CT (CBCT) as standard. The PSS system achieved a seamless clinic workflow by synchronizing with the R&V system. By permanently mounting specially designed IRRMs on patient immobilization devices, therapist intervention is eliminated or minimized. Overall results showed that the PSS system has sufficient accuracy to catch gross setup errors greater than 1 cm in real time. An efficient automatic PSS with sufficient accuracy has been developed to prevent gross setup errors in radiotherapy. The system can be applied to all treatment sites for independent positioning verification. It can be an ideal complement to complex image-guidance systems due to its advantages of continuous tracking ability, no radiation dose, and fully automated clinic workflow.

Serum CXCL4 increase in primary Sjögren's syndrome characterizes patients with microvascular involvement and reduced salivary gland infiltration and lymph node involvement.

PubMed

Vettori, Serena; Irace, Rosaria; Riccardi, Antonella; Iacono, Daniela; Pellecchia, Luciana; Vicedomini, Lucia; Valentini, Gabriele

2016-10-01

CXCL4 is an antiangiogenic and immunomodulatory chemokine. We aimed to investigate serum levels of CXCL4 in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS), looking for associations with disease features. Thirty-nine consecutive pSS patients underwent clinical-serological assessment and nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC). Thirty-six patients and 30 controls affected by osteoarthritis were also investigated for serum levels of CXCL4 and soluble E-selectin (sE-selectin). CXCL4 was higher in pSS patients than in controls (1.79 [0.2-11.18] vs 1.023 ng/ml [0.02-14.45], p < 0.05), particularly in those without anti-La/SSB antibodies (2.89 [1.01-11.18] vs 1.69 ng/ml [0.2-2.72], p < 0.05), while it was lower in pSS patients with a focus score ≥1 at lip biopsy (1.44 [0.86-2.1] vs 2.24 ng/ml [1.64-3.25], p < 0.05) and clinically evident lymphadenopathy (1.53 [0.38-1.7] vs 2.08 ng/ml [1.45-3.03], p < 0.05). CXCL4 correlated with disease duration (r = 0.35, p < 0.05) and sE-selectin (r = 0.45, p < 0.01). Patients with Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) had more frequently abnormal CXCL4 levels than patients without RP (11/15 vs 3/21, p < 0.001), enlarged capillaries (14/16 vs 7/23, p < 0.001) and capillary loss at NVC (14/16 vs 6/23, p < 0.001). The hitherto unknown association of increased serum CXCL4 with features of microvascular impairment in pSS, along with the negative association with features of lymphocytic response (i.e., the absence of subset disease-specific autoantibodies, a low focus score, and the absence of lymphadenopathy) suggest clarifying the possible implication of this chemokine in pSS pathogenesis in larger studies.

[Clinical course of acute poisoning with olanzapine].

PubMed

Balicka-Slusarczyk, Barbara; Szczeklik, Jerzy; Szpak, Dorota; Groszek, Barbara

2005-01-01

Olanzapine is a new atypical antipsychotic drug acting on different receptors. A variety of pharmacologic effects are responsible for toxicity and the variety of clinical symptoms seen in overdose: tachycardia, agitation or aggression, dysarthria, extrapyramidal dystonic effects, sedation or coma, small pupils, blurred vision, respiratory depression, hypotension. A retrospective analysis of clinical course of eight acute olanzapine intoxication treated at the Department of Clinical Toxicology Jagiellonian University Medical College is presented. CNS symptoms manifested in fluctuations between somnolence/coma and agitation/aggression and miosis were observed in most of the patients. Increased CPK activity was stated in the most of patients. All of the patients recovered, poisoning severity according PSS was moderate and severe.

Clinical effect of naftopidil on the quality of life of patients with lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia: a prospective study.

PubMed

Komiya, Akira; Suzuki, Hiroyoshi; Awa, Yusuke; Egoshi, Ken-ichi; Onishi, Tetsuro; Nakatsu, Hiroomi; Ohki, Takemasa; Mikami, Kazuo; Sato, Naohide; Araki, Kazuhiro; Ota, Sho; Naya, Yukio; Ichikawa, Tomohiko

2010-06-01

To investigate the benefit of alpha1-adrenoceptor antagonist naftopidil on the quality of life (QOL) of patients with lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH/LUTS). A total of 99 men with BPH/LUTS were prospectively recruited. The Short Form-8 (SF-8) was used for generic QOL assessment and each parameter was compared with the norm in these patients. Longitudinal changes were evaluated using the SF-8 and the International Prostatic Symptoms Score (I-PSS) at baseline, 4 and 8 weeks after naftopidil administration. The relationship between SF-8 and I-PSS was analyzed. Five of eight components in the SF-8 were significantly lower than the Japanese national norm at baseline. SF-8 score was improved by naftopidil at 4 and 8 weeks in general health (GH) and physical component summary (PCS) in the patients in their 70s. Mental health (MH) and mental component summary (MCS) were improved at 8 weeks in patients in their 60s. When analyzing the whole cohort, SF-8 GH, role emotional (RE) and MH had improved at 8 weeks, which was similar to the norm, and bodily pain (BP) results were better. Compared with the baseline, total I-PSS, storage/voiding symptoms and QOL index scores improved significantly under naftopidil. Each component of I-PSS (except for hesitancy) correlated with SF-8 sub-scales (except for BP) to some extent. BPH/LUTS impairs generic QOL, which is improved by naftopidil treatment. SF-8 can be a useful instrument to assess the efficacy of BPH/LUTS treatment because its simplicity to complete and analyze, and its meaningful relationship to I-PSS.

Relief of BPO or improvement in quality of life?

PubMed

Teillac, P

1998-01-01

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can cause benign prostatic enlargement with subsequent benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). A reduction in the size of the prostate has long been considered one of the most important treatment goals. However, there is a poor correlation between prostate size and both LUTS and BPO, and between BPO and symptoms. Today, the urologist's primary objectives are to minimize symptoms, relieve BPO and decrease the morbidity associated with BPO. From the patient's point of view, rapid relief of LUTS and immediate improvement in associated quality of life (QOL) are the most important factors. Although there is a good correlation between relief of symptoms (as measured by the International Prostate Symptom Score [I-PSS], for example) and associated improvement in bothersomeness and QOL, particularly that associated with filling ('irritative') symptoms, it is still important to quantify LUTS-related bothersomeness and QOL. Various questionnaires have been developed to measure bothersomeness (e.g. Symptom Problem Index [SPI], Danish PSS [DAN-PSS], International Continence Society BPH Study Group [ICSmale] questionnaire) and QOL (e.g. I-PSS-QOL, BPH Impact Index [BII] and QOL9 BPH-specific questionnaire). In addition, the impact of treatment on sexual function should also be taken into account when judging the overall well being or QOL of the patient. A grading system to evaluate the global improvement in patients following treatment has been established. Patients are either graded as showing 'slight', 'moderate' or 'marked' improvement, with the reduction in I-PSS or BII scores required for each classification dependent on baseline symptom severity. Medical treatment strategies designed to alleviate the symptoms of BPH and consequently improve the patient's QOL are now becoming increasingly important.

Hair cortisol levels, perceived stress and body mass index in women and children living in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods: the READI study.

PubMed

Olstad, Dana Lee; Ball, Kylie; Wright, Craig; Abbott, Gavin; Brown, Erin; Turner, Anne Isabella

2016-01-01

Disadvantaged communities provide adverse psychosocial exposures that have been linked to high levels of stress, and this may provide one explanatory pathway linking socioeconomic disadvantage to obesity. This study used hair cortisol analysis to quantify associations between stress and body mass index (BMI), and between hair cortisol and perceived psychological stress levels, in women and children living in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods. Participants were a volunteer sample of 70 women from the Resilience for Eating and Activity Despite Inequality study, including 30 maternal-child pairs. Women self-reported body weight, height and perceived psychological stress using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and provided hair samples for themselves and their child. Children's body weight and height were measured. Following extraction, hair cortisol levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Multiple linear regression models examined associations between stress and BMI, and between hair cortisol and perceived stress levels in women and children. Women's hair cortisol levels were not associated with their BMI or PSS scores. Women's PSS scores were positively associated with their BMI (p = 0.015). Within maternal-child pairs, mothers and children's hair cortisol levels were strongly positively associated (p = 0.006). Maternal hair cortisol levels and PSS scores were unrelated to their child's zBMI. Children's hair cortisol levels were not associated with their zBMI or with their mother's PSS score. Findings suggest that cortisol-based and perceived psychological measures of stress may be distinct among women and children living in disadvantaged neighborhoods. Perceived psychological measures may be more important predictors of weight-related risk.

Uncovering phantom shocks in cardiac patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator.

PubMed

Bilanovic, Ana; Irvine, Jane; Kovacs, Adrienne H; Hill, Ann; Cameron, Doug; Katz, Joel

2013-06-01

Implantable cardioverter defibrillator recipients sometimes report "phantom shocks" (PSs), defined as a reported shock lacking objective evidence. The aim of this study was to describe the subjective experience of PSs and their psychosocial correlates using a mixed methods approach. PS participants were matched on sex and age with individuals who received objective shocks only (OSO). Participants were interviewed and completed measures of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version), depression and anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), disease-specific distress (Cardiac Anxiety Questionnaire-CAQ), and social desirability (Socially Desirable Response Set-SDRS). Interviews were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Seventeen male patients participated (PS: n = 9; OSO: n = 8). Three themes emerged from IPA: (1) PS as a somatic experience, (2) the emotional impact of PSs, and (3) searching for meaning. Quantitative analyses showed that both groups exhibited elevated trauma and anxiety levels. Effect size differences (ESD) suggested a medium ESD on depression (P = 0.176, ηp (2) = 0.118) and PTSD (avoidance: P = 0.383, ηp (2) = 0.055, numbing: P = 0.311, ηp (2) = 0.068), and a large ESD on SDRS (P = 0.081, ηp (2) = 0.189), where PS participants, comparatively, exhibited elevated levels. A medium ESD was detected on CAQ-fear (P = 0.237, ηp (2) = 0.092) where OSO participants exhibited greater heart-focused worry. The qualitative and quantitative findings of this mixed method study show convergence in terms of the emotional factors associated with the experience of PSs. PSs are often reported to be indistinguishable from objective shocks, evoking alarm, frustration, and confusion, forcing the individual to face the uncertainties of what to them is a novel and confusing experience. ©2013, The Authors. Journal compilation ©2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Perceived stress in patients with migraine: a case-control study.

PubMed

Moon, Hye-Jin; Seo, Jong-Geun; Park, Sung-Pa

2017-12-01

Perceived stress is the most common trigger for migraine. The objective of this study was to examine the clinical significance of perceived stress in migraine patients. This is a case-control study. Consecutive migraine patients who visited a tertiary care hospital were enrolled for this study. They completed self-reported questionnaires including Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), 12-item Allodynia Symptom Checklist (ASC-12), Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and Migraine-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MSQ). Degree of perceived stress in migraine patients was measured and compared to that in healthy controls. Predictors for perceived stress and their impact on quality of life (QOL) of migraine patients were also determined. A total of 227 migraine patients were eligible for this study, including 103 (45.4%) who had chronic migraine (CM). Mean PSS score was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in CM patients than that in controls after adjusting for education, depression, and anxiety. Although several factors were associated with PSS score, major predictors for PSS were GAD-7 score (β = 0.358, p < 0.001), PHQ-9 score (β = 0.304, p < 0.001), ISI score (β = 0.154, p = 0.005), and CM (β = -0.104, p = 0.027). There was an inverse relationship between PSS scores and three-dimensional scores of MSQ (p < 0.001). Chronic migraine is a critical factor for perceived stress. Perceived stress affects QOL of migraine patients.

Rewriting nature's assembly manual for a ssRNA virus.

PubMed

Patel, Nikesh; Wroblewski, Emma; Leonov, German; Phillips, Simon E V; Tuma, Roman; Twarock, Reidun; Stockley, Peter G

2017-11-14

Satellite tobacco necrosis virus (STNV) is one of the smallest viruses known. Its genome encodes only its coat protein (CP) subunit, relying on the polymerase of its helper virus TNV for replication. The genome has been shown to contain a cryptic set of dispersed assembly signals in the form of stem-loops that each present a minimal CP-binding motif AXXA in the loops. The genomic fragment encompassing nucleotides 1-127 is predicted to contain five such packaging signals (PSs). We have used mutagenesis to determine the critical assembly features in this region. These include the CP-binding motif, the relative placement of PS stem-loops, their number, and their folding propensity. CP binding has an electrostatic contribution, but assembly nucleation is dominated by the recognition of the folded PSs in the RNA fragment. Mutation to remove all AXXA motifs in PSs throughout the genome yields an RNA that is unable to assemble efficiently. In contrast, when a synthetic 127-nt fragment encompassing improved PSs is swapped onto the RNA otherwise lacking CP recognition motifs, assembly is partially restored, although the virus-like particles created are incomplete, implying that PSs outside this region are required for correct assembly. Swapping this improved region into the wild-type STNV1 sequence results in a better assembly substrate than the viral RNA, producing complete capsids and outcompeting the wild-type genome in head-to-head competition. These data confirm details of the PS-mediated assembly mechanism for STNV and identify an efficient approach for production of stable virus-like particles encapsidating nonnative RNAs or other cargoes. Copyright © 2017 the Author(s). Published by PNAS.

Activity of antimicrobial peptides in the presence of polysaccharides produced by pulmonary pathogens.

PubMed

Benincasa, M; Mattiuzzo, M; Herasimenka, Y; Cescutti, P; Rizzo, R; Gennaro, R

2009-09-01

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are secreted in the airway and contribute to initial defence against inhaled pathogens. Infections of the respiratory tract are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in preterm newborns and in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). In this latter group, the state of chronic lung infection is due to the ability of bacteria to grow as mucoid biofilm, a condition characterised by overproduction and release of polysaccharides (PSs). In this study, we investigate the effect of PSs produced by lung pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae and members of the Burkholderia cepacia complex on the antibacterial activity of structurally different peptides. The AMPs tested in this study include the cathelicidin LL-37 and the beta-defensin hBD-3 from humans, both released at the alveolar level, as well as peptides from other mammals, i.e. SMAP-29, PG-1 and Bac7(1-35). Susceptibility assays, time killing and membrane permeabilization kinetics experiments were carried out to establish whether PSs produced by lung pathogens may be involved in the poor defence reaction of infected lungs and thus explain infection persistence. All the PSs investigated inhibited, albeit to a different extent, the antibacterial activity of the peptides tested, suggesting that their presence in the lungs of patients with CF may contribute to the decreased defence response of this district upon infection by PS-producing microorganisms. The results also show that inhibition of the antibacterial activity is not simply due to ionic interaction between the negatively charged PSs and the cationic AMPs, but it also involves other structural features of both interactors. Copyright 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Sjögren SER: National registry of the Spanish Society of Rheumatology of patients with primary Sjögren syndrome: Objectives and methodology.

PubMed

Fernández Castro, Mónica; Andreu, Jose Luis; Sánchez-Piedra, Carlos; Martínez Taboada, Víctor; Olivé, Alejandro; Rosas, José; Sánchez-Alonso, Fernando

2016-01-01

To describe the objectives and methods of the Spanish Society of Rheumatology primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS) registry (SJOGREN-SER) METHODS: This is a multicenter descriptive transversal study of a cohort of pSS patients fulfilling European/American consensus criteria collected from Rheumatology clinics all over Spain. Patients were included by randomisation from an anonymised list provided by every department. Data were collected by reviewing clinical records and an interviewing the patients. Two hundred and ninety eight variables were investigated: epidemiological, clinical, serological characteristics, treatments and complications. Informed consent was obtained and local ethics committees approved the study. Variables were analysed by descriptive statistical methods, using means, medians, and rates, with their deviations and interquartile ranges (p25-p75). A total of 3 rheumatology departments participated in the registry. A total of 437 patients were included. And 95% of them were women, with a median age of 58. Median age at pSS 's diagnosis was 50 years. Dryness symptoms (95%) were the most frequent complaint and anti-Ro/SS-A were present in 94% of the cases. Only 27% of the patients fulfilled the new 2012 SICCA-ACR classification criteria. SJOGREN-SER has been designed in order to characterize a representative pSS Spanish cohort, in clinical daily practice, to analyze the magnitude and distribution of its manifestations, activity, accumulated damage and therapeutic management of the disease. This will allow broadening the knowledge of this disease and plan strategies of action in pSS. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and Sociedad Española de Reumatología y Colegio Mexicano de Reumatología. All rights reserved.

Surgical treatment of primary disease for penile squamous cell carcinoma: A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database analysis

PubMed Central

ZHU, YAO; GU, WEI-JIE; WANG, HONG-KAI; GU, CHENG-YUAN; YE, DING-WEI

2015-01-01

Current guidelines recommend penile sparing surgery (PSS) for selected penile cancer cases. The present study described the use of PSS in a population-based cohort, and also examined the role of PSS on penile cancer-specific mortality (PCSM). Data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database were used to identify individuals that were diagnosed with penile squamous cell carcinoma between 1998 and 2009 and treated with surgery. Patients were sorted into two groups: Local tumor excision (LTE) and partial/total penectomy (PE). Factors associated with the receipt of LTE and PCSM following LTE were examined. In addition, PCSM was compared between LTE and PE following propensity score matching. Of the 1,292 eligible patients, 24.2% underwent LTE. For stage T1 disease, the rates of LTE increased moderately from 29 to 40% over the last decade. Following multivariate analyses, young age, African descent, a tumor size of <3 cm and stage T1 disease were identified to positively influence the receipt of LTE. With a median follow-up period of 55 months, the four-year PCSM rate was 9.8% in patients treated with LTE. Older age, a tumor size of 3–4 cm and regional/distant disease (SEER stage) were significant predictors of PCSM. Furthermore, in matched cohorts with stage T1 disease, the four-year PCSM rates were 8.9 and 10.0% for patients that received LTE or PE, respectively (P=0.93). In conclusion, underuse of PSS is pronounced in the general community with significant age and ethnicity disparities. The current population-based study provides evidence supporting the oncological safety of PSS compared with PE in early-stage disease. PMID:26170981

Surgical treatment of primary disease for penile squamous cell carcinoma: A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database analysis.

PubMed

Zhu, Yao; Gu, Wei-Jie; Wang, Hong-Kai; Gu, Cheng-Yuan; Ye, Ding-Wei

2015-07-01

Current guidelines recommend penile sparing surgery (PSS) for selected penile cancer cases. The present study described the use of PSS in a population-based cohort, and also examined the role of PSS on penile cancer-specific mortality (PCSM). Data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database were used to identify individuals that were diagnosed with penile squamous cell carcinoma between 1998 and 2009 and treated with surgery. Patients were sorted into two groups: Local tumor excision (LTE) and partial/total penectomy (PE). Factors associated with the receipt of LTE and PCSM following LTE were examined. In addition, PCSM was compared between LTE and PE following propensity score matching. Of the 1,292 eligible patients, 24.2% underwent LTE. For stage T1 disease, the rates of LTE increased moderately from 29 to 40% over the last decade. Following multivariate analyses, young age, African descent, a tumor size of <3 cm and stage T1 disease were identified to positively influence the receipt of LTE. With a median follow-up period of 55 months, the four-year PCSM rate was 9.8% in patients treated with LTE. Older age, a tumor size of 3-4 cm and regional/distant disease (SEER stage) were significant predictors of PCSM. Furthermore, in matched cohorts with stage T1 disease, the four-year PCSM rates were 8.9 and 10.0% for patients that received LTE or PE, respectively (P=0.93). In conclusion, underuse of PSS is pronounced in the general community with significant age and ethnicity disparities. The current population-based study provides evidence supporting the oncological safety of PSS compared with PE in early-stage disease.

Suicidal ideation in a community-derived sample of Spanish adolescents.

PubMed

Fonseca-Pedrero, Eduardo; Inchausti, Félix; Pérez-Gutiérrez, Laura; Aritio Solana, Rebeca; Ortuño-Sierra, Javier; Sánchez-García, M ª Ángeles; Lucas-Molina, Beatriz; Domínguez, César; Foncea, David; Espinosa, Virginia; Gorría, Ana; Urbiola-Merina, Elena; Fernández, Marta; Merina Díaz, Carmen; Gutiérrez, Carmen; Aures, Marta; Campos, María S; Domínguez-Garrido, Elena; Pérez de Albéniz Iturriaga, Alicia

Suicide is a current public health problem and among the main causes of mortality in adolescents and young adults. The main goal of this study was to analyse suicidal ideation in a representative sample of Spanish adolescents. Specifically, the prevalence rates of suicide ideation, the psychometric properties of the Paykel Suicide Scale (PSS) scores, and the socio-emotional adjustment of adolescents at risk for suicide were analysed. The sample consisted of 1,664 participants (M=16.12 years, SD=1.36, range 14-19 years), selected by stratified sampling by clusters. The instruments used were the PSS, the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, the Personal Wellbeing Index-School Children, and the Oviedo Infrequency Scale. The results showed that 4.1% of the sample indicated that they had tried to commit suicide in the previous year. Statistically significant differences were found according to gender but not according to age in the PSS mean scores. The analysis of the internal structure of the PSS showed that the one-dimensional model presented excellent goodness of fit indexes. This model showed measurement invariance across gender. The reliability of the scores, estimated with ordinal alpha, was 0.93. Participants who reported suicide ideation showed poorer mental health status and lower life satisfaction compared to the non-suicide ideation group. Suicidal ideation is present during adolescence and is associated with poor subjective well-being and increased emotional and behavioural problems. PSS seems to show adequate psychometric behaviour to assess suicidal ideation in adolescents. These findings have clear implications, both in health and education systems, to improve the promotion of emotional well-being and prevention of psychological and psychiatric problems in this sector of the population. Copyright © 2017 SEP y SEPB. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

An investigation into the prevalence of sleep disturbances in primary Sjögren’s syndrome: a systematic review of the literature

PubMed Central

Gotts, Zoe M.; Ellis, Jason; Deary, Vincent; Rapley, Tim; Ng, Wan-Fai; Newton, Julia L.; Deane, Katherine H. O.

2017-01-01

Abstract Objectives. To identify whether sleep disturbances are more prevalent in primary SS (pSS) patients compared with the general population and to recognize which specific sleep symptoms are particularly problematic in this population. Methods. Electronic searches of the literature were conducted in PubMed, Medline (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), PsychINFO (Ovid) and Web of Science and the search strategy registered a priori. Titles and abstracts were reviewed by two authors independently against a set of prespecified inclusion/exclusion criteria, reference lists were examined and a narrative synthesis of the included articles was conducted. Results. Eight whole-text papers containing nine separate studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the narrative analysis. Few of these studies met all of the quality assessment criteria. The studies used a range of self-reported measures and objective measures, including polysomnography. Mixed evidence was obtained for some of the individual sleep outcomes, but overall compared with controls, pSS patients reported greater subjective sleep disturbances and daytime somnolence and demonstrated more night awakenings and pre-existing obstructive sleep apnoea. Conclusions. A range of sleep disturbances are commonly reported in pSS patients. Further polysomnography studies are recommended to confirm the increased prevalence of night awakenings and obstructive sleep apnoea in this patient group. pSS patients with excessive daytime somnolence should be screened for co-morbid sleep disorders and treated appropriately. Interventions targeted at sleep difficulties in pSS, such as cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia and nocturnal humidification devices, have the potential to improve quality of life in this patient group and warrant further investigation. PMID:28013207

B Cell Depletion Therapy Normalizes Circulating Follicular Th Cells in Primary Sjögren Syndrome.

PubMed

Verstappen, Gwenny M; Kroese, Frans G M; Meiners, Petra M; Corneth, Odilia B; Huitema, Minke G; Haacke, Erlin A; van der Vegt, Bert; Arends, Suzanne; Vissink, Arjan; Bootsma, Hendrika; Abdulahad, Wayel H

2017-01-01

To assess the effect of B cell depletion therapy on effector CD4+ T cell homeostasis and its relation to objective measures of disease activity in patients with primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS). Twenty-four patients with pSS treated with rituximab (RTX) and 24 healthy controls (HC) were included. Frequencies of circulating effector CD4+ T cell subsets were examined by flow cytometry at baseline and 16, 24, 36, and 48 weeks after the first RTX infusion. Th1, Th2, follicular Th (TFH), and Th17 cells were discerned based on surface marker expression patterns. Additionally, intracellular cytokine staining was performed for interferon-γ, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-21, and IL-17 and serum levels of these cytokines were analyzed. In patients with pSS, frequencies of circulating TFH cells and Th17 cells were increased at baseline compared with HC, whereas frequencies of Th1 and Th2 cells were unchanged. B cell depletion therapy resulted in a pronounced decrease in circulating TFH cells, whereas Th17 cells were only slightly lowered. Frequencies of IL-21-producing and IL-17-producing CD4+ T cells and serum levels of IL-21 and IL-17 were also reduced. Importantly, the decrease in circulating TFH cells was associated with lower systemic disease activity over time, as measured by the European League Against Rheumatism Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index scores and serum IgG levels. B cell depletion therapy in patients with pSS results in normalization of the elevated levels of circulating TFH cells. This reduction is associated with improved objective clinical disease activity measures. Our observations illustrate the pivotal role of the crosstalk between B cells and TFH cells in the pathogenesis of pSS.

A Transcriptional Signature of Fatigue Derived from Patients with Primary Sjögren's Syndrome.

PubMed

James, Katherine; Al-Ali, Shereen; Tarn, Jessica; Cockell, Simon J; Gillespie, Colin S; Hindmarsh, Victoria; Locke, James; Mitchell, Sheryl; Lendrem, Dennis; Bowman, Simon; Price, Elizabeth; Pease, Colin T; Emery, Paul; Lanyon, Peter; Hunter, John A; Gupta, Monica; Bombardieri, Michele; Sutcliffe, Nurhan; Pitzalis, Costantino; McLaren, John; Cooper, Annie; Regan, Marian; Giles, Ian; Isenberg, David; Saravanan, Vadivelu; Coady, David; Dasgupta, Bhaskar; McHugh, Neil; Young-Min, Steven; Moots, Robert; Gendi, Nagui; Akil, Mohammed; Griffiths, Bridget; Wipat, Anil; Newton, Julia; Jones, David E; Isaacs, John; Hallinan, Jennifer; Ng, Wan-Fai

2015-01-01

Fatigue is a debilitating condition with a significant impact on patients' quality of life. Fatigue is frequently reported by patients suffering from primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS), a chronic autoimmune condition characterised by dryness of the eyes and the mouth. However, although fatigue is common in pSS, it does not manifest in all sufferers, providing an excellent model with which to explore the potential underpinning biological mechanisms. Whole blood samples from 133 fully-phenotyped pSS patients stratified for the presence of fatigue, collected by the UK primary Sjögren's Syndrome Registry, were used for whole genome microarray. The resulting data were analysed both on a gene by gene basis and using pre-defined groups of genes. Finally, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was used as a feature selection technique for input into a support vector machine (SVM) classifier. Classification was assessed using area under curve (AUC) of receiver operator characteristic and standard error of Wilcoxon statistic, SE(W). Although no genes were individually found to be associated with fatigue, 19 metabolic pathways were enriched in the high fatigue patient group using GSEA. Analysis revealed that these enrichments arose from the presence of a subset of 55 genes. A radial kernel SVM classifier with this subset of genes as input displayed significantly improved performance over classifiers using all pathway genes as input. The classifiers had AUCs of 0.866 (SE(W) 0.002) and 0.525 (SE(W) 0.006), respectively. Systematic analysis of gene expression data from pSS patients discordant for fatigue identified 55 genes which are predictive of fatigue level using SVM classification. This list represents the first step in understanding the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of fatigue in patients with pSS.

Perceived Stress After Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Comparison Between Young and Middle-Aged Women Versus Men.

PubMed

Xu, Xiao; Bao, Haikun; Strait, Kelly M; Edmondson, Donald E; Davidson, Karina W; Beltrame, John F; Bueno, Héctor; Lin, Haiqun; Dreyer, Rachel P; Brush, John E; Spertus, John A; Lichtman, Judith H; DʼOnofrio, Gail; Krumholz, Harlan M

2017-01-01

The aim of the study was to examine how psychological stress changes over time in young and middle-aged patients after experiencing an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and whether these changes differ between men and women. We analyzed data obtained from 2358 women and 1151 men aged 18 to 55 years hospitalized for AMI. Psychological stress was measured using the 14-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14) at initial hospitalization and at 1 month and 12 months after AMI. We used linear mixed-effects models to examine changes in PSS-14 scores over time and sex differences in these changes, while adjusting for patient characteristics and accounting for correlation among repeated observations within patients. Overall, patients' perceived stress decreased over time, especially during the first month after AMI. Women had higher levels of perceived stress than men throughout the 12-month period (difference in PSS-14 score = 3.63, 95% confidence interval = 3.08 to 4.18, p < .001), but they did not differ in how stress changed over time. Adjustment for patient characteristics did not alter the overall pattern of sex difference in changes of perceived stress over time other than attenuating the magnitude of sex difference in PSS-14 score (difference between women and men = 1.74, 95% confidence interval = 1.32 to 2.16, p < .001). The magnitude of sex differences in perceived stress was similar in patients with versus without post-AMI angina, even though patients with angina experienced less improvement in PSS-14 score than those without angina. In young and middle-aged patients with AMI, women reported higher levels of perceived stress than men throughout the first 12 months of recovery. However, women and men had a similar pattern in how perceived stress changed over time.

V2O5 thin film deposition for application in organic solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arbab, Elhadi A. A.; Mola, Genene Tessema

2016-04-01

Vanadium pentoxide V2O5 films were fabricated by way of electrochemical deposition technique for application as hole transport buffer layer in organic solar cell. A thin and uniform V2O5 films were successfully deposited on indium tin oxide-coated glass substrate. The characterization of surface morphology and optical properties of the deposition suggest that the films are suitable for photovoltaic application. Organic solar cell fabricated using V2O5 as hole transport buffer layer showed better devices performance and environmental stability than those devices fabricated with PEDOT:PSS. In an ambient device preparation condition, the power conversion efficiency increases by nearly 80 % compared with PEDOT:PSS-based devices. The devices lifetime using V2O5 buffer layer has improved by a factor of 10 over those devices with PEDOT:PSS.

Comparative study of signalling methods for high-speed backplane transceiver

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Kejun

2017-11-01

A combined analysis of transient simulation and statistical method is proposed for comparative study of signalling methods applied to high-speed backplane transceivers. This method enables fast and accurate signal-to-noise ratio and symbol error rate estimation of a serial link based on a four-dimension design space, including channel characteristics, noise scenarios, equalisation schemes, and signalling methods. The proposed combined analysis method chooses an efficient sampling size for performance evaluation. A comparative study of non-return-to-zero (NRZ), PAM-4, and four-phase shifted sinusoid symbol (PSS-4) using parameterised behaviour-level simulation shows PAM-4 and PSS-4 has substantial advantages over conventional NRZ in most of the cases. A comparison between PAM-4 and PSS-4 shows PAM-4 gets significant bit error rate degradation when noise level is enhanced.

Copper thiocyanate: An attractive hole transport/extraction layer for use in organic photovoltaic cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Treat, Neil D., E-mail: neil.treat@imperial.ac.uk, E-mail: t.anthopoulos@imperial.ac.uk; Stingelin, Natalie; Yaacobi-Gross, Nir

2015-07-06

We report the advantageous properties of the inorganic molecular semiconductor copper(I) thiocyanate (CuSCN) for use as a hole collection/transport layer (HTL) in organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells. CuSCN possesses desirable HTL energy levels [i.e., valence band at −5.35 eV, 0.35 eV deeper than poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrenesulfonate (PEDOT:PSS)], which produces a 17% increase in power conversion efficiency (PCE) relative to PEDOT:PSS-based devices. In addition, a two-fold increase in shunt resistance for the solar cells measured in dark conditions is achieved. Ultimately, CuSCN enables polymer:fullerene based OPV cells to achieve PCE > 8%. CuSCN continues to offer promise as a chemically stable and straightforward replacement for the commonly usedmore » PEDOT:PSS.« less

MnO2-Graphene Oxide-PEDOT:PSS Nanocomposite for an Electrochemical Supercapacitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patil, Dipali S.; Pawar, Sachin A.; Shin, Jae Cheol; Kim, Hyo Jin

2018-04-01

A ternary nanocomposite with poly (3,4 ethylene dioxythiophene:poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS)-MnO2 nanowires-graphene oxide (PMn-GO) was synthesized by using simple chemical route. The formation of the nanocomposite was analyzed by using X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Field-emission scanning microscopy (FESEM) revealed the formation of MnO2 nanowires and graphene oxide nanosheets. The highest specific capacitance (areal capacitance) of 841 Fg -1 (177 mFcm -2) at 10 mVs -1 and energy density of 0.593 kWhkg -1 at 0.5 mA were observed for PMn-GO, indicating a constructive synergistic effect of PEDOT:PSS, MnO2 nanowires and graphene oxide. The achieved promising electrochemical characteristics showed that this ternary nanocomposite is a good alternative as an electrode material for supercapacitor.

Conductive polymer nanowire gas sensor fabricated by nanoscale soft lithography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Ning; Jiang, Yang; Qu, Hemi; Duan, Xuexin

2017-12-01

Resistive devices composed of one-dimensional nanostructures are promising candidates for the next generation of gas sensors. However, the large-scale fabrication of nanowires is still challenging, which restricts the commercialization of such devices. Here, we report a highly efficient and facile approach to fabricating poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) nanowire chemiresistive gas sensors by nanoscale soft lithography. Well-defined sub-100 nm nanowires are fabricated on silicon substrate, which facilitates device integration. The nanowire chemiresistive gas sensor is demonstrated for NH3 and NO2 detection at room temperature and shows a limit of detection at ppb level, which is compatible with nanoscale PEDOT:PSS gas sensors fabricated with the conventional lithography technique. In comparison with PEDOT:PSS thin-film gas sensors, the nanowire gas sensor exhibits higher sensitivity and a much faster response to gas molecules.

Conductive polymer nanowire gas sensor fabricated by nanoscale soft lithography.

PubMed

Tang, Ning; Jiang, Yang; Qu, Hemi; Duan, Xuexin

2017-12-01

Resistive devices composed of one-dimensional nanostructures are promising candidates for the next generation of gas sensors. However, the large-scale fabrication of nanowires is still challenging, which restricts the commercialization of such devices. Here, we report a highly efficient and facile approach to fabricating poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) nanowire chemiresistive gas sensors by nanoscale soft lithography. Well-defined sub-100 nm nanowires are fabricated on silicon substrate, which facilitates device integration. The nanowire chemiresistive gas sensor is demonstrated for NH 3 and NO 2 detection at room temperature and shows a limit of detection at ppb level, which is compatible with nanoscale PEDOT:PSS gas sensors fabricated with the conventional lithography technique. In comparison with PEDOT:PSS thin-film gas sensors, the nanowire gas sensor exhibits higher sensitivity and a much faster response to gas molecules.

A wearable physiological sensor suite for unobtrusive monitoring of physiological and cognitive state.

PubMed

Matthews, Robert; McDonald, Neil J; Hervieux, Paul; Turner, Peter J; Steindorf, Martin A

2007-01-01

This paper describes an integrated Physiological Sensor Suite (PSS) based upon QUASAR's innovative non-invasive bioelectric sensor technologies that will provide, for the first time, a fully integrated, noninvasive methodology for physiological sensing. The PSS currently under development at QUASAR is a state-of-the-art multimodal array of sensors that, along with an ultra-low power personal area wireless network, form a comprehensive body-worn system for real-time monitoring of subject physiology and cognitive status. Applications of the PSS extend from monitoring of military personnel to long-term monitoring of patients diagnosed with cardiac or neurological conditions. Results for side-by-side comparisons between QUASAR's biosensor technology and conventional wet electrodes are presented. The signal fidelity for bioelectric measurements using QUASAR's biosensors is comparable to that for wet electrodes.

Silver Nanowires Modified with PEDOT: PSS and Graphene for Organic Light-Emitting Diodes Anode

PubMed Central

Xu, Yilin; Wei, Xiang; Wang, Cong; Cao, Jin; Chen, Yigang; Ma, Zhongquan; You, Ying; Wan, Jixiang; Fang, Xiaohong; Chen, Xiaoyuan

2017-01-01

Silver nanowires (AgNWs) networks are promising candidates for the replacement of indium tin oxide (ITO). However, the surface roughness of the AgNWs network is still too high for its application in optoelectronic devices. In this work, we have reduced the surface roughness of the AgNWs networks to 6.4 nm, compared to 33.9 nm of the as-deposited AgNWs network through the hot-pressing process, treatment with poly (3,4ethylenedioxythiophene)–poly (styrenesulfanate), and covered with graphene films. Using this method, we are able to produce AgNWs/PEDOT: PSS/SLG composite films with the transmittance and sheet resistance of 88.29% and 30 Ω/□, respectively. The OLEDs based on the AgNWs/PEDOT: PSS/SLG anodes are comparable to those based on ITO anodes. PMID:28349990

Enhanced Dispersion of TiO2 Nanoparticles in a TiO2/PEDOT:PSS Hybrid Nanocomposite via Plasma-Liquid Interactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Yazi; Sun, Dan; Askari, Sadegh; Patel, Jenish; Macias-Montero, Manuel; Mitra, Somak; Zhang, Richao; Lin, Wen-Feng; Mariotti, Davide; Maguire, Paul

2015-10-01

A facile method to synthesize a TiO2/PEDOT:PSS hybrid nanocomposite material in aqueous solution through direct current (DC) plasma processing at atmospheric pressure and room temperature has been demonstrated. The dispersion of the TiO2 nanoparticles is enhanced and TiO2/polymer hybrid nanoparticles with a distinct core shell structure have been obtained. Increased electrical conductivity was observed for the plasma treated TiO2/PEDOT:PSS nanocomposite. The improvement in nanocomposite properties is due to the enhanced dispersion and stability in liquid polymer of microplasma treated TiO2 nanoparticles. Both plasma induced surface charge and nanoparticle surface termination with specific plasma chemical species are proposed to provide an enhanced barrier to nanoparticle agglomeration and promote nanoparticle-polymer binding.

Measuring Malaysia School Resource Centers' Standards through iQ-PSS: An Online Management Information System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zainudin, Fadzliaton; Ismail, Kamarulzaman

2010-01-01

The Ministry of Education has come up with an innovative way to monitor the progress of 9,843 School Resource Centers (SRCs) using an online management information system called iQ-PSS (Quality Index of SRC). This paper aims to describe the data collection method and analyze the current state of SRCs in Malaysia and explain how the results can be…

Mutation in the pssA gene involved in exopolysaccharide synthesis leads to several physiological and symbiotic defects in Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii.

PubMed

Janczarek, Monika; Rachwał, Kamila

2013-12-05

The symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacterium Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii 24.2 secretes large amounts of acidic exopolysaccharide (EPS), which plays a crucial role in establishment of effective symbiosis with clover. The biosynthesis of this heteropolymer is conducted by a multi-enzymatic complex located in the bacterial inner membrane. PssA protein, responsible for the addition of glucose-1-phosphate to a polyprenyl phosphate carrier, is involved in the first step of EPS synthesis. In this work, we characterize R. leguminosarum bv. trifolii strain Rt270 containing a mini-Tn5 transposon insertion located in the 3'-end of the pssA gene. It has been established that a mutation in this gene causes a pleiotropic effect in rhizobial cells. This is confirmed by the phenotype of the mutant strain Rt270, which exhibits several physiological and symbiotic defects such as a deficiency in EPS synthesis, decreased motility and utilization of some nutrients, decreased sensitivity to several antibiotics, an altered extracellular protein profile, and failed host plant infection. The data of this study indicate that the protein product of the pssA gene is not only involved in EPS synthesis, but also required for proper functioning of Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii cells.

Photosensitizer adhered to cell culture microplates induces phototoxicity in carcinoma cells.

PubMed

Ziegler, Verena; Kiesslich, Tobias; Krammer, Barbara; Plaetzer, Kristjan

2013-01-01

In vitro experiments in plastic receptacles are the basis of characterization of new photosensitizers (PSs) for the photodynamic therapy. We recently reported that lipophilic PSs adhere to cell culture microplates in a kinetic-like manner (Engelhardt et al., 2011). In the current study, we examined the interaction and phototoxic effects of the microplate-adhered PS in cancer cells. Therefore, we preloaded microplates with hypericin, Foscan, PVP-hypericin, or aluminum (III) phthalocyanine tetrasulfonate chloride (AlPCS4) for 24 hours and measured the PS distribution after addition of A431 human carcinoma cells: following another 24 hours up to 68% of hypericin were detected in the cell fraction. The hydrophilic PVP-hypericin and AlPCS4 also diffused into the cells, but the quantities of PS adherence were considerably lower. Microplate-adhered Foscan appeared not to be redistributed. In contrast to the hydrophilic PSs, the cellular phototoxicity of microplate-adhered lipophilic PS was high, independent of whether the PS (i) was pre-loaded onto microplates or (ii) added simultaneously with the cells or (iii) one day after cell seeding. Based on these results, we suggest testing lipophilic PS dyes for their adherence to microplates. Furthermore, the ability of plastic materials to (reversibly) store PSs might represent a new approach for the PS delivery or the development of antimicrobial coatings.

Photosensitizer Adhered to Cell Culture Microplates Induces Phototoxicity in Carcinoma Cells

PubMed Central

Ziegler, Verena; Kiesslich, Tobias; Krammer, Barbara; Plaetzer, Kristjan

2013-01-01

In vitro experiments in plastic receptacles are the basis of characterization of new photosensitizers (PSs) for the photodynamic therapy. We recently reported that lipophilic PSs adhere to cell culture microplates in a kinetic-like manner (Engelhardt et al., 2011). In the current study, we examined the interaction and phototoxic effects of the microplate-adhered PS in cancer cells. Therefore, we preloaded microplates with hypericin, Foscan, PVP-hypericin, or aluminum (III) phthalocyanine tetrasulfonate chloride (AlPCS4) for 24 hours and measured the PS distribution after addition of A431 human carcinoma cells: following another 24 hours up to 68% of hypericin were detected in the cell fraction. The hydrophilic PVP-hypericin and AlPCS4 also diffused into the cells, but the quantities of PS adherence were considerably lower. Microplate-adhered Foscan appeared not to be redistributed. In contrast to the hydrophilic PSs, the cellular phototoxicity of microplate-adhered lipophilic PS was high, independent of whether the PS (i) was pre-loaded onto microplates or (ii) added simultaneously with the cells or (iii) one day after cell seeding. Based on these results, we suggest testing lipophilic PS dyes for their adherence to microplates. Furthermore, the ability of plastic materials to (reversibly) store PSs might represent a new approach for the PS delivery or the development of antimicrobial coatings. PMID:23509741

Highly stable multi-wall carbon nanotubes@poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrene sulfonate) core-shell composites with three-dimensional porous nano-network for electrochemical capacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Haihan; Han, Gaoyi; Chang, Yunzhen; Fu, Dongying; Xiao, Yaoming

2015-01-01

A facile and feasible electrochemical polymerization method has been used to construct the multi-wall carbon nanotubes@poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrene sulfonate) (MWCNTs@PEDOT/PSS) core-shell composites with three-dimensional (3D) porous nano-network microstructure. The composites are characterized with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, and transmission electron microscopy. This special core-shell nanostructure can significantly reduce the ions diffusion distance and the 3D porous nano-network microstructure effectively enlarges the electrode/electrolyte interface. The electrochemical tests including cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge measurements, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy tests are performed, the results manifest the MWCNTs@PEDOT/PSS core-shell composites have superior capacitive behaviors and excellent cyclic stability, and a high areal capacitance of 98.1 mF cm-2 is achieved at 5 mV s-1 cyclic voltammetry scan. Furthermore, the MWCNTs@PEDOT/PSS composites exhibit obviously superior capacitive performance than that of PEDOT/PSS and PEDOT/Cl electrodes, indicating the effective composite of MWCNTs and PEDOT noticeably boosts the capacitive performance of PEDOT-based electrodes for electrochemical energy storage. Such a highly stable core-shell 3D network structural composite is very promising to be used as electrode materials for the high-performance electrochemical capacitors.

Highly-wrinkled reduced graphene oxide-conductive polymer fibers for flexible fiber-shaped and interdigital-designed supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Bo; Cheng, Jianli; Wang, Zhuanpei; Li, Yinchuan; Ni, Wei; Wang, Bin

2018-02-01

Flexible supercapacitors have attracted great interest due to outstanding flexibility and light weight. Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) fibers have the great potential in using as electrodes for flexible supercapacitors due to the good flexibility. However, the reported conductivity and specific capacitance of these PEDOT: PSS fibers are not very high, which limit their electrochemical performances. In this work, composite fibers of reduced graphene oxide(rGO)-PEDOT: PSS with a highly-wrinkled structure on the surface and pores inside are prepared by wet spinning. The fibers with different ratios of graphene to PEDOT:PSS show a distinctly enhanced conductivity up to ca. 590 S·cm-1 and high strength up to ca. 18.4 MPa. Meanwhile, the composite fibers show an improved electrochemical performances, including a high specific areal capacitance of 131 mF cm-2 and high specific areal energy density of 4.55 μWh·cm-2. The flexible supercapacitors including fiber-shaped supercapacitors and interdigital designed supercapacitors not only could work in different bending states without obvious capacitance decay, but also have small leakage current. The interdigital design can further improve the performances of composite fibers with high capacitance and high utilization compared with traditional parallel connected structure.

Protein supplementation in U.S. military personnel.

PubMed

Pasiakos, Stefan M; Montain, Scott J; Young, Andrew J

2013-11-01

Protein supplements (PSs) are, after multivitamins, the most frequently consumed dietary supplement by U.S. military personnel. Warfighters believe that PSs will improve health, promote muscle strength, and enhance physical performance. The estimated prevalence of regular PS use by military personnel is nearly 20% or more in active-duty personnel, which is comparable to collegiate athletes and recreationally active adults, but higher than that for average U.S. civilians. Although the acute metabolic effects of PS ingestion are well described, little is known regarding the benefits of PS use by warfighters in response to the metabolic demands of military operations. When dietary protein intake approaches 1.5 g · kg(-1) · d(-1), and energy intake matches energy expenditure, the use of PSs by most physically active military personnel may not be necessary. However, dismounted infantry often perform operations consisting of long periods of strenuous physical activity coupled with inadequate dietary energy and protein intake. In these situations, the use of PSs may have efficacy for preserving fat-free mass. This article reviews the available literature regarding the prevalence of PS use among military personnel. Furthermore, it highlights the unique metabolic stressors affecting U.S. military personnel and discusses potential conditions during which protein supplementation might be beneficial.

Clinical predictors of silent but substantial liver fibrosis in primary Sjogren's syndrome.

PubMed

Lee, Sang-Won; Kim, Beom Kyung; Park, Jun Yong; Kim, Do Young; Ahn, Sang Hoon; Song, Jungsik; Park, Yong-Beom; Lee, Soo-Kon; Han, Kwang-Hyub; Kim, Seung Up

2016-07-01

To investigate the prevalence and the predictors of silent but substantial liver fibrosis in patients with primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS). We enrolled 101 pSS patients with normal liver function and structures, and without significant liver diseases or other conditions affecting liver fibrosis. The European league against rheumatism (EULAR) SS patients reported index (ESSPRI) and the EULAR SS disease activity index (ESSDAI) were analyzed. Liver stiffness (LS) was measured using transient elastography and 7.4 kPa was determined as the cutoff value for significant liver fibrosis. The median age of patients (91women) was 53 years and the median LS value was 4.7 kPa. The median ESSPRI and ESSDAI showed no correlation with LS values. Twelve patients (11.9%) had significant liver fibrosis. In multivariate logistic regression, white blood cells count ≤4000.0/mm(3) (Odds ratio [OR] 9.821), serum albumin ≤3.8 mg/dL (OR 16.770) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) ≥ 27.0 IU/L (OR 20.858) independently predicted silent but substantial liver fibrosis in pSS patients. The prevalence of silent but substantial liver fibrosis was 11.9% in pSS and its predictors were leukopenia, decreased serum albumin and increased AST levels.

High-performance inverted planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells based on a solution-processed CuOx hole transport layer.

PubMed

Sun, Weihai; Li, Yunlong; Ye, Senyun; Rao, Haixia; Yan, Weibo; Peng, Haitao; Li, Yu; Liu, Zhiwei; Wang, Shufeng; Chen, Zhijian; Xiao, Lixin; Bian, Zuqiang; Huang, Chunhui

2016-05-19

During the past several years, methylammonium lead halide perovskites have been widely investigated as light absorbers for thin-film photovoltaic cells. Among the various device architectures, the inverted planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells have attracted special attention for their relatively simple fabrication and high efficiencies. Although promising efficiencies have been obtained in the inverted planar geometry based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) sulfonic acid ( PSS) as the hole transport material (HTM), the hydrophilicity of the PSS is a critical factor for long-term stability. In this paper, a CuOx hole transport layer from a facile solution-processed method was introduced into the inverted planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells. After the optimization of the devices, a champion PCE of 17.1% was obtained with an open circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.99 V, a short-circuit current (Jsc) of 23.2 mA cm(-2) and a fill factor (FF) of 74.4%. Furthermore, the unencapsulated device cooperating with the CuOx film exhibited superior performance in the stability test, compared to the device involving the PSS layer, indicating that CuOx could be a promising HTM for replacing PSS in inverted planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells.

Electrode quenching control for highly efficient CsPbBr3 perovskite light-emitting diodes via surface plasmon resonance and enhanced hole injection by Au nanoparticles.

PubMed

Meng, Yan; Wu, Xiaoyan; Xiong, Ziyang; Lin, Chunyan; Xiong, Zuhong; Blount, Ethan; Chen, Ping

2018-04-27

Compared to organic-inorganic hybrid metal halide perovskites, all-inorganic cesium lead halides (e.g, CsPbBr 3 ) hold greater promise in being emissive materials for light-emitting diodes owing to their superior optoelectronic properties as well as their higher stabilities. However, there is still considerable potential for breakthroughs in the current efficiency of CsPbBr 3 perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs). Electrode quenching is one of the main problems limiting the current efficiency of PeLEDs when poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is used as the hole injection layer. In this work, electrode quenching control was realized via incorporating Au NPs into PEDOT:PSS. As a result, the CsPbBr 3 PeLEDs realized an improvement in maximum luminescence ranging from ∼2348 to ∼7660 cd m -2 (∼226% enhancement) and current efficiency from 1.65 to 3.08 cd A -1 (∼86% enhancement). Such substantial enhancement of the electroluminescent performance can be attributed to effective electrode quenching control at the PEDOT:PSS/CsPbBr 3 perovskite interface via the combined effects of local surface plasma resonance coupling and enhanced hole transportation in the PEDOT:PSS layer by Au nanoparticles.

Transport behavior of hairless mouse skin during constant current DC iontophoresis, part 2: iontophoresis of nonionic molecules with cotransport of polystyrene sulfonate oligomers.

PubMed

Liddell, Mark R; Li, S Kevin; Higuchi, William I

2011-07-01

The purpose of this study was to characterize changes that occur in the iontophoretic transport of nonionic probe permeants in hairless mouse skin epidermal membrane from the anode to cathode when polystyrene sulfonate (PSS) oligomers are cotransported from the cathode to anode. The experiments were conducted with trace levels of the nonionic probe permeants: urea, mannitol, and raffinose. In order to systematically assess changes that occur as a result of having PSS in the cathodal chamber, the steady-state transport parameters of the membrane and the experimental permeability coefficients of the probe permeants were determined and compared with results obtained from earlier baseline experiments where both the cathodal and anodal chamber media were phosphate buffered saline. In addition, the physicochemical properties of the PSS solutions were determined including the solution viscosity and conductance as well as the mobilities of individual PSS oligomers. The effective pore radii of the transport pathways were calculated using a theoretical expression based on simultaneous diffusion and electroosmosis. Compared with the baseline results, the calculated radii were found to have increased up to around twofold and the iontophoretic fluxes of the probe permeants increased by as much sixfold. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association

Electrode quenching control for highly efficient CsPbBr3 perovskite light-emitting diodes via surface plasmon resonance and enhanced hole injection by Au nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meng, Yan; Wu, Xiaoyan; Xiong, Ziyang; Lin, Chunyan; Xiong, Zuhong; Blount, Ethan; Chen, Ping

2018-04-01

Compared to organic-inorganic hybrid metal halide perovskites, all-inorganic cesium lead halides (e.g, CsPbBr3) hold greater promise in being emissive materials for light-emitting diodes owing to their superior optoelectronic properties as well as their higher stabilities. However, there is still considerable potential for breakthroughs in the current efficiency of CsPbBr3 perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs). Electrode quenching is one of the main problems limiting the current efficiency of PeLEDs when poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is used as the hole injection layer. In this work, electrode quenching control was realized via incorporating Au NPs into PEDOT:PSS. As a result, the CsPbBr3 PeLEDs realized an improvement in maximum luminescence ranging from ˜2348 to ˜7660 cd m-2 (˜226% enhancement) and current efficiency from 1.65 to 3.08 cd A-1 (˜86% enhancement). Such substantial enhancement of the electroluminescent performance can be attributed to effective electrode quenching control at the PEDOT:PSS/CsPbBr3 perovskite interface via the combined effects of local surface plasma resonance coupling and enhanced hole transportation in the PEDOT:PSS layer by Au nanoparticles.

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):GlycosAminoGlycan Aqueous Dispersions: Toward Electrically Conductive Bioactive Materials for Neural Interfaces.

PubMed

Mantione, Daniele; Del Agua, Isabel; Schaafsma, Wandert; Diez-Garcia, Javier; Castro, Begona; Sardon, Haritz; Mecerreyes, David

2016-08-01

There is an actual need of advanced materials for the emerging field of bioelectronics. One commonly used material is the conducting polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) ( PSS) due to its general use in organic electronics. However, depending on the application in bioelectronics, PSS is not fully biocompatible due to the high acidity of the residual sulfonate protons of PSS. In this paper, the synthesis and biocompatibility properties of new poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):GlycosAminoGlycan ( GAG) aqueous dispersions and its resulting films are shown. Thus, negatively charged GAGs as an alternative to PSS are presented. Three different commercially available GAGs, hyaluronic acid, heparin, and chondroitin sulfate are used. Indeed, GAGs dispersions are prepared through an oxidative chemical polymerization in water. Biocompatibility assays of the GAGs coatings are performed using SH-SY5Y and CCF-STTG1 cell lines and with ATP and Ca(2+) . Results show full biocompatibility and a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. This last characteristic becomes crucial if implanted in the body. These materials can be used for in vivo applications, as transistor or electrode for electrical recording and for all the possible situations when there is contact between electronic circuits and living tissues. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

A dual-stimuli-responsive fluorescent switch ultrathin film.

PubMed

Li, Zhixiong; Liang, Ruizheng; Liu, Wendi; Yan, Dongpeng; Wei, Min

2015-10-28

Stimuli-responsive fluorescent switches have shown broad applications in optical devices, biological materials and intelligent responses. Herein, we describe the design and fabrication of a dual-stimuli-responsive fluorescent switch ultrathin film (UTF) via a three-step layer-by-layer (LBL) technique: (i) encapsulation of spiropyran (SP) within an amphiphilic block copolymer (PTBEM) to give the (SP@PTBEM) micelle; (ii) the mixture of riboflavin (Rf) and poly(styrene 4-sulfonate) (PSS) to enhance the adhesion ability of small molecules; (iii) assembly of negatively charged SP@PTBEM and Rf-PSS with cationic layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanoplatelets to obtain the (Rf-PSS/LDH/SP@PTBEM)n UTFs (n: bilayer number). The assembly process of the UTFs and their luminescence properties, as monitored by fluorescence spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), present a uniform and ordered layered structure with stepwise growth. The resulting Rf-PSS/LDH/SP@PTBEM UTF serves as a three-state switchable multicolor (green, yellow, and red) luminescent system based on stimulation from UV/Vis light and pH, with an acceptable reversibility. Therefore, this work provides a facile way to fabricate stimuli-responsive solid-state film switches with tunable-color luminescence, which have potential applications in the areas of displays, sensors, and rewritable optical memory and fluorescent logic devices.

Raman Microscopy Insights on the Out-of-Plane Electrical Transport of Carbon Nanotube-Doped PEDOT:PSS Electrodes for Solar Cell Applications.

PubMed

Mombrú, Dominique; Romero, Mariano; Faccio, Ricardo; Mombrú, Alvaro W

2018-03-08

In the present report, we focused on the study of the out-of-plane electrical transport of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)-doped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) composites (PEDOT:PSS-MWCNTs) as electrodes for solar cell applications. The out-of-plane direct current and alternating current electrical transport, rarely studied but not less relevant, was additionally supported with in-plane and out-of-plane confocal Raman microscopy and grazing incidence small-angle X-ray scattering characterizations. The main relevance of our study is the monitoring of the polymer structure all across the polymeric film by using confocal Raman spectroscopy and its correlation with electrical transport. Modifications in the PEDOT benzenoid and quinoid conformations were observed in the vicinities of MWCNTs, and the enrichment of PSS at the indium tin oxide electrode interface was also evidenced. In consequence, the low MWCNT loadings into PEDOT:PSS lead to an increase of the out-of-plane conductivity, but the heavier MWCNT loadings lead to a drastic decrease. The tuning of the doping level of these polymer composites and the understanding of the interface structure are crucial to fabricate electrodes with higher out-of-plane conductivities for organic solar cell applications.

Surface modification of poly(L-lactic acid) to improve its cytocompatibility via assembly of polyelectrolytes and gelatin.

PubMed

Lin, Yuan; Wang, Luling; Zhang, Peibiao; Wang, Xin; Chen, Xuesi; Jing, Xiabin; Su, Zhaohui

2006-03-01

Poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) surface was modified via aminolysis by poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) at high pH and subsequent electrostatic self-assembly of poly(sodium styrenesulfonate) (PSS) and PAH, and the process was monitored by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and contact angle measurement. These modified PLLAs were then used as charged substrates for further incorporation of gelatin to improve their cytocompatibility. The amphoteric nature of the gelatin was exploited and the gelatin was adsorbed to the negatively charged PLLA/PSS and positively charged PLLA/PAH at pH=3.4 and 7.4, respectively. XPS and water contact angle data indicated that the gelatin adsorption at pH=3.4 resulted in much higher surface coverage by gelatin than at pH=7.4. All the modified PLLA surfaces became more hydrophilic than the virgin PLLA. Chondrocyte culture was used to test the cell attachment, cell morphology and cell viability on the modified PLLA substrates. The results showed that the PAH and PSS modified PLLA exhibited better cytocompatibility than virgin PLLA, and the incorporation of the gelatin on these modified PLLA substrates further improved their cytocompatibility, with the PLLA/PSS substrate treated with the gelatin at pH=3.4 being the best, exceeding the chondrocyte compatibility of the tissue culture polystyrene.

Formal mentorship in a surgical residency training program: a prospective interventional study.

PubMed

Zhang, Han; Isaac, Andre; Wright, Erin D; Alrajhi, Yaser; Seikaly, Hadi

2017-02-13

Otolaryngology-Head and Neck surgery resident physicians (OHNSR) have a high prevalence of burnout, job dissatisfaction and stress as shown within the literature. Formal mentorship programs (FMP) have a proven track record of enhancing professional development and academic success. More importantly FMP have an overall positive impact on residents and assist in improving job satisfaction. The purpose of the study is to determine the effects of a FMP on the well-being of OHNSR. A FMP was established and all OHNSR participation was voluntary. Eight OHNSR participated in the program. Perceived Stress Survey (PSS) and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) were administered at baseline and then at 3, 6, 9, and 12 month intervals. World Health Quality of Life-Bref Questionnaire (WH-QOL) was administered at baseline and at 12 months. Baseline statistics found a significant burden of stress and burnout with an average PSS of 18.5 with a high MBI of 47.6, 50.6, and 16.5 for the emotional, depersonalization, and personal achievement domains respectively. Quality of life was also found to be low with a WH-QOL score of 71.9. After implementation of the FMP, PSS was reduced to 14.5 at 3 months (p = 0.174) and a statistically significant lower value of 7.9 at 12 months (p = 0.001). Participants were also found to have lower emotional scores (14.9, p < 0.0001), levels of depersonalization (20.1, p < 0.0001), and higher personal achievement (42.5, p < 0.0001) on MBI testing at 12 months. Overall quality values using the WH-QOL was also found to be significantly improved (37.5, P = 0.003) with statistically significant lower scores for the physical health (33.9, p = 0.003), psychological (41.1, p = 0.001), social relationship (46.9, p = 0.019), and environment (53.5, p = 0.012) domains. This is the first study to show that FMP can potentially alleviate high levels of stress and burnout within a surgical residency program and achieve higher levels of personal satisfaction as well as overall quality of life.

Evidence for 4-chlorobenzoic acid dehalogenation mediated by plasmids related to pSS50.

PubMed Central

Layton, A C; Sanseverino, J; Wallace, W; Corcoran, C; Sayler, G S

1992-01-01

The biodegradation of 4-chlorobiphenyl usually proceeds through the intermediate 4-chlorobenzoate. Few bacterial strains can degrade 4-chlorobiphenyl to 4-chlorobenzoate and 4-chlorobenzoate to CO2. This study demonstrates that the 4-chlorobiphenyl-degrading Alcaligenes sp. strain ALP83 can degrade 4-chlorobenzoate to 4-hydroxybenzoate. The dehalogenase activity is correlated with a 10-kb fragment carried on plasmid pSS70. Images PMID:1539985

Cascaded bidirectional recurrent neural networks for protein secondary structure prediction.

PubMed

Chen, Jinmiao; Chaudhari, Narendra

2007-01-01

Protein secondary structure (PSS) prediction is an important topic in bioinformatics. Our study on a large set of non-homologous proteins shows that long-range interactions commonly exist and negatively affect PSS prediction. Besides, we also reveal strong correlations between secondary structure (SS) elements. In order to take into account the long-range interactions and SS-SS correlations, we propose a novel prediction system based on cascaded bidirectional recurrent neural network (BRNN). We compare the cascaded BRNN against another two BRNN architectures, namely the original BRNN architecture used for speech recognition as well as Pollastri's BRNN that was proposed for PSS prediction. Our cascaded BRNN achieves an overall three state accuracy Q3 of 74.38\\%, and reaches a high Segment OVerlap (SOV) of 66.0455. It outperforms the original BRNN and Pollastri's BRNN in both Q3 and SOV. Specifically, it improves the SOV score by 4-6%.

Redox-active charge carriers of conducting polymers as a tuner of conductivity and its potential window

PubMed Central

Park, Han-Saem; Ko, Seo-Jin; Park, Jeong-Seok; Kim, Jin Young; Song, Hyun-Kon

2013-01-01

Electric conductivity of conducting polymers has been steadily enhanced towards a level worthy of being called its alias, “synthetic metal”. PEDOT:PSS (poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) doped with poly(styrene sulfonate)), as a representative conducting polymer, recently reached around 3,000 S cm−1, the value to open the possibility to replace transparent conductive oxides. The leading strategy to drive the conductivity increase is solvent annealing in which aqueous solution of PEDOT:PSS is treated with an assistant solvent such as DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide). In addition to the conductivity enhancement, we found that the potential range in which PEDOT:PSS is conductive is tuned wider into a negative potential direction by the DMSO-annealing. Also, the increase in a redox-active fraction of charge carriers is proposed to be responsible for the enhancement of conductivity in the solvent annealing process. PMID:23949091

Terahertz and infrared transmission of an organic/inorganic hybrid thermoelectric material

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Heyman, J. N., E-mail: heyman@macalester.edu; Alebachew, B. A.; Kaminski, Z. S.

2014-04-07

We report terahertz and infrared transmission measurements of a high-performance thermoelectric material containing tellurium nanowires in a conducting polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) matrix. The DC electrical conductivity of the hybrid material (41 S/cm) is approximately one hundred times that of pure PEDOT:PSS and more than 400 times that of a film of pure tellurium nanowires, while the terahertz-frequency (THz) conductivity of PEDOT:PSS and the hybrid material are comparable at f ∼ 2THz. A frequency-dependent conductivity model indicates that the increased DC conductivity of the hybrid material results from an increase in the DC charge mobility rather than in the free charge density. We suggestmore » that the increased DC conductivity of the hybrid material results from an increase in linkage between PEDOT domains by the tellurium nanowires.« less

Combination therapy using PSE and TIO ameliorates hepatic encephalopathy due to intrahepatic portosystemic venous shunt in idiopathic portal hypertension

PubMed Central

Kojima, Seiichiro; Ito, Hiroyuki; Takashimizu, Shinji; Ichikawa, Hitoshi; Matsumoto, Tomohiro; Hasebe, Terumitsu

2016-01-01

A 64-year-old woman treated for anemia and ascites exhibited hepatic encephalopathy. Abdominal ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT) showed communication between the portal vein and the middle hepatic vein, indicating an intrahepatic portosystemic venous shunt (PSS). Since hepatic encephalopathy of the patient was resistant to medical treatment, interventional radiology was performed for the treatment of shunt obliteration. Hepatic venography showed anastomosis between the hepatic vein branches, supporting the diagnosis of idiopathic portal hypertension (IPH). To minimize the increase in portal vein pressure after shunt obliteration, partial splenic artery embolization (PSE) was first performed to reduce portal vein blood flow. Transileocolic venous obliteration (TIO) was then performed, and intrahepatic PSS was successfully obliterated using coils with n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA). In the present case, hepatic encephalopathy due to intrahepatic PSS in the patient with IPH was successfully treated by combination therapy using PSE and TIO. PMID:27651930