text:
- Zeitschriftenartikel (62)
- Vortrag (7)
- Posterpräsentation (2)
- Beitrag zu einem Sammelband (1)
- Beitrag zu einem Tagungsband (1)
- Cyclization (17)
- Polylactide (9)
- Ring-opening polymerization (9)
- Polycondensation (7)
- Pollen (6)
- Catalysts (4)
- Isosorbide (4)
- Lactide (4)
Organisationseinheit der BAM
- 1.3 Strukturanalytik (73) (entfernen)
The effects of weathering exposure on unfilled and filled thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) materials are described as performed under different humidity conditions. For this purpose, a weathering device was used with UV-A 340 nm lamps at a constant temperature of 40 °C. The effects of environmental (UV and humidity condition) degradation on the frictional properties of TPU materials are presented along with surface analyses to characterize the chemistry of the degradative process. Photooxidative degradation of unfilled polymer leads to deterioration of physical and mechanical properties, which affects its tribological behavior significantly. Due to crosslinking, the stiffness of the material increases, reducing drastically the friction coefficient of unfilled TPUs. The frictional behavior of glass fiber reinforced TPU is less affected by radiation.
Coating of carbon fibers with adhesion-promoting thin poly(acrylic acid) and poly(hydroxyethylmethacrylate) layers using electrospray ionization (2015)
Thin coatings of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and poly(hydroxyethylmethacrylate) (PHEMA) were deposited onto carbon fibers by means of the electrospray ionization (ESI) technique in ambient air. These high-molecular weight polymer layers were used as adhesion promoters in carbon fiberepoxy resin composites. Within the ESI process, the carbon fibers were completely enwrapped with polymer in the upper 10 plies of a carbon fiber roving. As identified with scanning electron microscopy also shadowed fibers in a bundle as well as backsides of fiber rovings were pinhole-free coated with polymers (electrophoretic effect'). Under the conditions used, the layers have a granular structure. Residual solvent was absent in the deposit. PAA and PHEMA films did not show any changes in composition and structure in comparison with the original polymers as analyzed by X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Single-fiber pullout tests of coated fibers embedded in epoxy resin showed significantly increased interfacial shear strength. It is assumed that chemical bonds between carbon fiber poly(acrylic acid) and epoxy resin contribute significantly to the improved interactions.
Separation and quantification of silver nanoparticles and silver ions using reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography coupled to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry in combination with isotope dilution analysis (2016)
A reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography coupled to an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (HPLC-ICP-MS) approach in combination with isotope dilution analysis (IDA) for the separation and parallel quantification of nanostructured and ionic silver (Ag) is presented. The main focus of this work was the determination of the ionic Ag concentration. For a sufficient stabilization of the ions without dissolving the nanoparticles (NPs), the eluent had to be initially optimized. The determined Ag ion concentration was in a good agreement with results obtained using ultrafiltration. Further, the mechanism of the NP separation in the HPLC column was investigated. Typical size exclusion effects were found by comparing results from columns with different pore sizes. Since the recovery rates decreased with increasing Ag NP size and large Ag NPs did not elute from the column, additional interactions of the particles with the stationary phase were assumed. Our results reveal that the presented method is not only applicable to Ag NPs, but also to gold and polystyrene NPs. Finally, IDA-HPLC-ICP-MS experiments in single particle mode were performed to determine the particle cut-off size. The comparison with conventional spICP-MS experiments resulted in a similar diameter and particle size distribution.
Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) shows adaption of grass pollen composition (2018)
MALDI time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has become a widely used tool for the classification of biological samples. The complex chemical composition of pollen grains leads to highly specific, fingerprint-like mass spectra, with respect to the pollen species. Beyond the species-specific composition, the variances in pollen chemistry can be hierarchically structured, including the level of different populations, of environmental conditions or different genotypes. We demonstrate here the sensitivity of MALDI-TOF MS regarding the adaption of the chemical composition of three Poaceae (grass) pollen for different populations of parent plants by analyzing the mass spectra with partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and principal component analysis (PCA). Thereby, variances in species, population and specific growth conditions of the plants were observed simultaneously. In particular, the chemical pattern revealed by the MALDI spectra enabled discrimination of the different populations of one species. Specifically, the role of environmental changes and their effect on the pollen chemistry of three different grass species is discussed. Analysis of the Group formation within the respective populations showed a varying influence of plant genotype on the classification, depending on the species, and permits conclusions regarding the respective rigidity or plasticity towards environmental changes.
Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is a well-implemented analytical technique for the investigation of complex biological samples. In MS, the sample preparation strategy is decisive for the success of the measurements. Here, sample preparation processes and target materials for the investigation of different pollen grains are compared. A reduced and optimized sample preparation process prior to MALDI-TOF measurement is presented using conductive carbon tape as target. The application of conductive tape yields in enhanced absolute signal intensities and mass spectral pattern information, which leads to a clear separation in subsequent pattern analysis. The results will be used to improve the taxonomic differentiation and identification, and might be useful for the development of a simple routine method to identify pollen based on mass spectrometry.
Pollen represent one major cause for human allergic diseases. Currently the characterization and identification of pollen is time-consuming since it mainly relies on the microscopic determination of the genus-specific pollen morphology. A variety of new analytical approaches, like Raman - and fluorescence spectroscopy have been proposed in order to develop fast and reliable pollen identification. Recently matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) was initially applied for the rapid investigation of such complex biological samples. Taxonomic differences and relations of single pollen grains could be identified. Both commercially available lyophilized pollen and fresh pollen acquired from biological samples collected in parks and in the Botanical Garden Berlin in the years 2013-2015 were investigated. The samples were prepared by formic acid extraction in the gas phase and spotted with HCCA matrix. A variety of new approaches, like a newly developed MALDI target with micrometer sample spots sizes, were tested for their suitability. The obtained mass spectral data were investigated by principal component analysis (PCA). The applicability of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry for the classification of pollen according to their taxonomic relationships was proven. Specifically, chemical differences in the mass spectra at the levels of plant order, genus and in many cases even of species could be identified. Based on these results, further investigations have been undertaken to optimize the sample preparation for the classification of single pollen grains in mixtures of pollens. A novel MALDI-target design was developed to enhance the phenotypic information of pollens in their mass spectra. The combination of mass spectral patterns and multivariate statistics provide a powerful tool for the investigation of structural correlations within mixtures. The results can be used to improve the reconstruction of taxonomic relations of single species in various mixtures and might be useful for the development of a fast routine method to identify pollen based on mass spectrometry.
Cyclic Polylactides via Simultaneous Ring-Opening Polymerization and Polycondensation Catalyzed by Dibutyltin Mercaptides (2017)
L-Lactide is polymerized in bulk at 160 8C either with dibutyltin bis(benzylmercaptide) (SnSBzl), dibutyltin bis(benzothiazole 2-mercaptide) (SnMBT), or with dibutyltin bis(pentafluorothiophenolate) (SnSPF) as catalysts. SnSBzl yields linear polylactides having benzylthio-ester end groups in addition to cyclic polylactides, whereas SnMBT and SnSPF mainly or exclusively yield cyclic polylactides. This finding, together with model reactions, indicates that the SnS catalysts promote a combined ring-opening polymerization and polycondensation process including end-to-end cyclization. SnMBT caused slight racemization (3%–5%), when used at 160 8C. With SnSPF optically pure cyclic poly(L-lactide)s with high-molecular weights can be prepared at 160 8C.
Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is a well-implemented analytical technique for the investigation of complex biological samples. In MS, the sample preparation strategy is decisive for the success of the measurements. Here, sample preparation processes and target materials for the investigation of different pollen grains are compared. A reduced and optimized sample preparation process prior to MALDI-TOF measurement is presented using conductive carbon tape as target. The application of conductive tape yields in enhanced absolute signal intensities and mass spectral pattern information, which leads to a clear separation in subsequent pattern analysis. The results will be used to improve the taxonomic differentiation and identification, and might be useful for the development of a simple routine method to identify pollen based on mass spectrometry.
Comparison of miniaturized and conventional asymmetrical flow field flow fractionation (AF4) channels for nanoparticle separation (2017)
The performance of a miniaturized channel for the separation of polymer and metal nanoparticles (NP) using Asymmetrical Flow Field-Flow Fractionation (AF4) was investigated and compared with a conventional AF4 system. To develop standard separation methods, experimental parameters like cross flow, gradient profile and injection time were varied and optimized. Corresponding chromatographic parameters were calculated and compared. Our results indicate that the chromatographic resolution in the miniaturized channel is lower, whereas significantly shorter analyses time and less solvent consumption were obtained. Moreover, the limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) obtained from hyphenation with a UV-detector are obviously lower than in a conventional channel, which makes the miniaturized channel interesting for trace analysis.
Poly(ester urethane)s derived from lactide, isosorbide, terephthalic acidm abd various diisocyanates (2014)
Isosorbide-initiated oligomerizations of ʟ-lactide were preformed in bulk using SnCl2 as catalyst. The resulting telechelic OH-terminated oligoesters were in situ subjected to simultaneous polycondensation and polyaddition with mixtures of terephthaloyl chloride and diisocyanates. Most polymerizations were conducted with 4,4'-diisocyanatodiphenyl methane and 2,4-diisocyanato toluene. The consequences of excess diisocyanate and four different catalysts were studied. The isosorbide/lactide ratio and the terephthalic acid/diisocyanate ratio were varied. Number average molecular weights up to 15 kDa with polydispersities around 3–5 were obtained. Depending on the chemical structure of the copolyester and on the feed ratio, incorporation of urethane groups may reduce or enhance the glass-transition temperature, but the thermal stability decreases dramatically regardless of composition.
Poly(l-lactide)s are synthesized and annealed at 120 °C and changes of the molecular weight distribution (MWD) are monitored by matrix-assited laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry. For example, benzyl alcohol+SnOct2 causes equilibration of odd- and even-numbered chains and the final goal of the transesterification is the most probable distribution. The underlying intermolecular transesterification is even observed at 100 and 80 °C in the solid state. However, cyclic tin mercaptide catalysts transform the initial most probable distribution into a MWD with maxima, which display a conspicuous fine structure due to a preferential crystallization of certain ring sizes. The optimum ring sizes for the crystallization are provided by ring-ring equilibration. The gradual formation of a special morphology shifts the melting temperature to values up to 187 °C. Annealing of commercial poly(l-lactide) with a cyclic tin catalyst also yields a distribution of mass peaks with a maximum showing the characteristic fine structure.
Sample loss in asymmetric flow field-flow fractionation coupled to inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry of silver nanoparticles (2015)
In this work, sample losses of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) in asymmetrical flow field-flow fractionation (AF4) have been systematically investigated with the main focus on instrumental conditions like focusing and cross-flow parameters as well as sample concentration and buffer composition. Special attention was drawn to the AF4 membrane. For monitoring possible silver depositions on the membrane, imaging laser ablation coupled to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) was used. Our results show that the sample residue on the membrane was below 0.6% of the total injected amount and therefore could be almost completely avoided at low sample concentrations and optimized conditions. By investigation of the AF4 flows using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), we found the recovery rate in the detector flow under optimized conditions to be nearly 90%, while the cross-flow, slot-outlet flow and purge flow showed negligible amounts of under 0.5%. The analysis of an aqueous ionic Ag standard solution resulted in recovery rates of over 6% and the ionic Ag content in the sample was found to be nearly 8%. Therefore, we were able to indicate the ionic Ag content as the most important source of sample loss in this study.
Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) has been suggested as a promising tool for the investigation of pollen, but the usefulness of this approach for classification and identification of pollen species has to be proven by an application to samples of varying taxonomic relations.
The segregation in dried droplet MALDI sample spots was analyzed with regard to the matrix-to-sample ratio using optical microscopy, MALDI imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI MSI) and IR imaging spectroscopy. In this context, different polymer/matrix/solvent systems usually applied in the analysis of synthetic polymers were investigated. The use of typical matrix concentrations (10 mg mL-1) in almost every case resulted in ring patterns, whereas higher concentrated matrix solutions always led to homogeneous sample spot layers. The data revealed that segregation is predominantly caused by matrix transport in the drying droplet, whereas polymer segregation seems to be only secondary.
Improved analysis of ultra-high molecular mass polystyrenes in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry using DCTB matrix and caesium salts (2015)
Rationale The ionization of polystyrenes in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) is typically achieved by the use of silver salts. Since silver salts can cause severe problems, such as cluster formation, fragmentation of polymer chains and end group cleavage, their substitution by alkali salts is highly desirable. Methods The influence of various cations (Ag+, Cs+ and Rb+) on the MALDI process of polystyrene (PS) mixtures and high mass polystyrenes was examined. The sample preparation was kept as straightforward as possible. Consequently, no recrystallization or other cleaning procedures were applied. Results The investigation of a polystyrene mixture showed that higher molecular polystyrenes could be more easily ionized using caesium, rather than rubidium or silver salts. In combination with the use of DCTB as matrix a high-mass polymer analysis could be achieved, which was demonstrated by the detection of a 1.1 MDa PS. Conclusions A fast, simple and robust MALDI sample preparation method for the analysis of ultra-high molecular weight polystyrenes based on the use of DCTB and caesium salts has been presented. The suitability of the presented method has been validated by using different mass spectrometers and detectors.
Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometric imaging of synthetic polymer sample spots prepared using ionic liquid matrices (2014)
RATIONALE Polymer sample spots for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) prepared by the dried-droplet method often reveal ring formation accompanied by possible segregation of matrix and sample molecules as well as of the polymer homologs itself. Since the majority of sample spots are prepared by this simple and fast method, a matrix or sample preparation method that excludes such segregation has to be found. METHODS Three different ionic liquid matrices based on conventionally used aromatic compounds for MALDI-TOF MS were prepared. The formation of ionic liquids was proven by 1H NMR spectroscopy. MALDI-Imaging mass spectrometry was applied to monitor the homogeneity. RESULTS Our results show a superior sample spot homogeneity using ionic liquid matrices. Spots could be sampled several times without visible differences in the mass spectra. A frequently observed loss of matrix in the mass spectrometer vacuum was not observed. The necessary laser irradiance was reduced, which resulted in less polymer fragmentation. CONCLUSIONS Ionic liquid matrices can be used to overcome segregation, a typical drawback of conventional MALDI dried-droplet preparations. Homogeneous sample spots are easy to prepare, stable in the MS vacuum and, thereby, improve the reproducibility of MALDI.
This study presents the synthesis and characterization of zwitterionic core–shell hybrid nanoparticles consisting of a core of iron oxide multicore nanoparticles (MCNPs, γ-Fe2O3) and a shell of sultonated poly(2-vinylpyridine-grad-acrylic acid) copolymers. The gradient copolymers are prepared by reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer polymerization of 2-vinylpyridine (2VP), followed by the addition of tert-butyl acrylate and subsequent hydrolysis. Grafting of P(2VP-grad-AA) onto MCNP results in P(2VP-grad-AA)@MCNP, followed by quaternization using 1,3-propanesultone-leading to P(2VPS-grad-AA)@MCNP with a zwitterionic shell. The resulting particles are characterized by transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and thermogravimetric analysis measurements, showing particle diameters of ≈70–90 nm and an overall content of the copolymer shell of ≈10%. Turbidity measurements indicate increased stability toward secondary aggregation after coating if compared to the pristine MCNP and additional cytotoxicity tests do not reveal any significant influence on cell viability.
Separation of polystyrene nanoparticles with different coatings using two-dimensional off-line coupling of asymmetrical flow field flow fractionation and capillary electrophoresis (2019)
The successful off-line coupling of asymmetrical flow field flow fractionation (AF4) and capillary electrophoresis (CE) for separation of nanoparticles (NPs) with different surface coatings was shown. We could successfully demonstrate that, in a certain NP size range, hyphenation of both techniques significantly improved the separation of differently coated NPs. Three mixtures of polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NPs) with comparable core sizes but different coatings (no coating/carboxyl-coated) were studied. Separation in either method resulted in non-baseline resolved or non-separated peaks. In contrast, two-dimensional off-line coupling of AF4 and CE resulted in clearly separated regions in their 2 D plots in case of 20 and 50 nm particle mixtures, whereas the 100 nm NP mixture could not be separated at all. Various factors affecting the separation like hydrodynamic diameter or SDS concentration were discussed.
Multivariate analysis of MALDI imaging mass spectrometry data of mixtures of single pollen grains (2018)
Mixtures of pollen grains of three different species (Corylus avellana, Alnus cordata, and Pinus sylvestris) were investigated by matrixassisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF imaging MS). The amount of pollen grains was reduced stepwise from > 10 to single pollen grains. For sample pretreatment, we modified a previously applied approach, where any additional extraction steps were omitted. Our results show that characteristic pollen MALDI mass spectra can be obtained from a single pollen grain, which is the prerequisite for a reliable pollen classification in practical applications. MALDI imaging of laterally resolved pollen grains provides additional information by reducing the complexity of the MS spectra of mixtures, where frequently peak discrimination is observed. Combined with multivariate statistical analyses, such as principal component analysis (PCA), our approach offers the chance for a fast and reliable identification of individual pollen grains by mass spectrometry.
Meso-Lactide was polymerized in bulk at 60, 80, and 100 °C by means of three different types of catalysts: dibutyltinsulfides (2,2-dibutyl-2-stanna-1,3-dithiolane and 2,20-dibutyl-2-stanna-1,3-dithiane), dibutyltin derivatives of substituted cate-chols (BuCa, CyCa, and BzCa), and dibutyltin derivatives of2,2 dihydroxybiphenyl (SnBi) and 2,2-dihydroxy-1,10-binaphthyl(SnNa. Only the latter two catalysts were active at 60 °C. The architecture of the resulting polylactides depends very much on the structure of the catalyst and on the temperature. At the lowest temperature (60 °C), SnBi and SnNa mainly yielded even-numbered linear chains, but SnNa also yielded even-numbered cycles at 100 °C and short reaction times. In contrast,BuCa, CyCa, and BzCa mainly yielded odd-numbered cycles, although the same catalysts yielded even-numbered linear chains when benzylalcohol was added.
Evidence for laser-induced redox reactions in matrix-assisted laserdesorption/ionization between cationizing agents and target plate material: a study with polystyrene and trifluoroacetate salts (2017)
Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) is often applied to assess the dispersity and the end groups of synthetic polymers through the addition of cationizing agents. Here weaddress how these cation adducts are formed using polystyrene (PS) as a model polymer. We analyzed PSby MALDI-MS with a 2-[(2E)-3-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-2-methylprop-2-enylidene]malononitrile (DCTB) as the matrix and a range of trifluoroacetate (TFA) salts as cationizing agents on a range of different targetplate materials (copper, 1.4301 stainless steel, aluminum, Inconel 625, Ti90/Al6/V4 and chromium-, gold-and silver-plated stainless steel). It was found that on a stainless steel substrate the metal cations Al+,Li+, Na+, Cu+and Ag+formed polystyrene adducts, whereas K+, Cs+, Ba2+, Cr3+, Pd2+, In3+, or their lower oxidation states, did not. For the copper and silver substrates, PS and DCTB adduct formation with cations liberated from these target plate materials was observed upon addition of a cationizing agent, which indicates the occurrence of redox reactions between the added TFA salts and the target plate material. Judging from their standard electrode potentials, these redox reactions would not normally occur, i.e.,they require an additional energy input, strongly suggesting that the observed redox reactions are laser-induced. Furthermore, copper granules were found to successfully sequester PS from a tetrahydrofuran(THF) solution, consistent with the view complex formation with the copper target plate can take place prior to the MALDI-MS measurement.
Polyesters of bisphenol-A, bisphenol-P, catechol, and sebacic acid are prepared and different synthetic methods are compared. The diphenols are condensed with sebacoyl chloride either in dichloromethane/pyridine or in refl uxing chlorobenzene without HCl-acceptor. Further- more, bisphenol-A acetate is polycondensed with sebacic acid in bulk. All experiments are worked up so that fractionation is avoided. The extent of cyclization is estimated by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI MS) and the molar mass distribution by size exclusion chromatography (SEC). Polycondensations in solution yield larger fractions of cyclics and higher dispersities (up to 11). Polycondensations in bulk give lower fractions of cycles and dispersities from 4.6 to 6.3 for high molar mass polyesters or 2.8 to 3.5 for low molar mass products. Characteristic curves describing the dependence of the dispersity on the initial monomer concentration are elaborated.
Four classes of unsaturated copolyesters of L-lactide were prepared either from isosorbide or bis(hydroxymethyl)tricyclodecane in combination with fumaric acid or from 1,4-butenediol or 1,4- butynediol with terephthalic acid. All syntheses were performed in such a way that lactide was oligomerized with a diol as the initiator and the resulting oligomers were polycondensed with a dicarboxylic acid dichloride either in a one-pot synthesis or in a two-step procedure. For most copolyesters the SEC measurements gave weight average molecular weights in the range of 30–60 kg mol⁻1 and dispersities in the range of 4.2–6.2. The MALDI-TOF mass spectra displayed a high content of cycles and indicated an irreversible kinetic course of all polycondensations. Glass-transition temperatures (Tg) above 90 °C were only found for two copolyesters of isosorbide. Addition of bromine to copolyesters of 1,4-butenediol yielded flame retarding biodegradable polymers.
Exceptional ion mobility spectrometry mass spectrometry (IMS-MS) developments by von Helden, Jarrold, and Clemmer provided technology that gives a view of chemical/biological compositions previously not achievable. The ionization method of choice used with IMS-MS has been electrospray ionization (ESI). In this Special issue contribution, we focus on fundamentals of heretofore unprecedented means for transferring volatile and nonvolatile compounds into gas-phase ions singly and multiply charged. These newer ionization processes frequently lead to different selectivity relative to ESI and, together with IMS-MS, may provide a more comprehensive view of chemical compositions directly from their original Environment such as surfaces, e.g., tissue. Similarities of results using solvent- and matrix-assisted ionization are highlighted, as are differences between ESI and the inlet ionization methods, especially with mixtures such as bacterial extracts. Selectivity using different matrices is discussed, as are results which add to our fundamental knowledge of inlet ionization as well as pose additional avenues for inquiry. IMS-MS provides an opportunity for comparison studies relative to ESI and will prove valuable using the new ionization technologies for direct analyses. Our hypothesis is that some ESI-IMS-MS applications will be replaced by the new ionization processes and by understanding mechanistic aspects to aid enhanced source and method developments this will be hastened.
Five new cyclic catalysts were prepared by a new synthetic method from tin(II)-2-ethyhexanoate and silylated catechols, silylated 2,2´dihydroxybiphenyl or silylated 1,1´-bisnaphthol. These catalysts were compared with regard to their usefulness as catalysts for the ring expansion polymerization (REP) of L-lactide in bulk at 160 °C, and with two different tin(IV) derivatives of 1,1´binaphthol. Best results were obtained using seven-membered cyclic tin(II)bisphenoxides, which yielded colorless cyclic poly(l-lactide)s free of racemization with weight average molecular weights (Mw) up to 305 000 g mol-1. Furthermore, these catalysts were active even at a lactide/catalyst ratio of 20 000/1. Our new results were superior to those obtained from all other previously published catalysts yielding cyclic poly(L-lactide). The seven-membered cycles also proved to be more active than tin(II) 2-ethylhexanoate with and without the addition of alcohol.
A comparison of tributyltin chloride, dibutyltin dichloride,and butyltin trichloride as catalysts of ring-opening polymerizations(ROPs) of l-lactides at 160°C in bulk reveals increasing reactivity in the above order, but only the least reactive catalysts, Bu3SnCl, yield a uniform reaction product, namely cyclic poly(L-lactide)s with weight average molecular weights (Mw ́s) in the range of 40,000–80,000. A comparison of dimethyltin , dibutyltin , and diphenyltin dichlorides resulted in the following order of reactivity: Me2SnCl2<Bu2SnCl2<<Ph2SnCl2. In this series also, the most reactive catalyst yields cyclic polylactides, but the extent of cyclization varies with the molecular weight. The formation of cyclic polylactides is explained by ROP combined with simultaneous polycondensation involving end-to-end cyclization (ROPPOC method). ROP of meso-lactide at 80 or 60°C yields even-numbered linear chains as main products, a result supporting the ROPPOC mechanism.
Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry of pollen grains and their mixtures (2013)
RATIONALE The fast and univocal identification of different species in mixtures of pollen grains is still a challenge. Apart from microscopic evaluation and Raman spectroscopy, no other techniques are available. METHODS Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) imaging mass spectrometry was applied to the analysis of extracts of single pollen grains and pollen mixtures. Pollen grains were fixed, treated and covered with matrix directly on the MALDI target. RESULTS Clearly resolved MALDI ion intensity images could be obtained enabling the identification of single pollen grains in a mixture. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate the potential and the suitability of MALDI imaging mass spectrometry as an additional method for the identification of pollen mixtures.
Copolyesters of isosorbide, succinic acid, and isophthalic acid: biodegradable, high Tg engineering plastics (2013)
Isosorbide, succinyl chloride and isophthaloyl chloride are polycondensed under various reaction conditions. The heating in bulk with or without catalysts as well in an aromatic solvent without catalyst, and polycondensation with the addition of pyridine only yield low molar mass copolyesters. However, heating in chlorobenzene with addition of SnCl2 or ZnCl2 produces satisfactory molar masses. The number average molecular weights (Mn) of most copolyesters fall into the range of 7000–15,000 Da with polydispersities (PD) in the range of 3–9. The MALDI-TOF mass spectra almost exclusively displayed peaks of cyclics indicating that the chain growth was mainly limited by cyclization and not by side reactions, stoichiometric imbalance or incomplete conversion. The glass-transition temperatures increased with the content of isophthalic acid from 75 to 180 °C and the thermo-stabilities also followed this trend.
Ring-opening polymerization of N-substituted glycine N-carboxyanhydrides (NCAs) was applied to prepare a series of well-defined poly(N-C3 glycine)s (C3 = n-propyl, allyl, propargyl, and isopropyl), polypeptoids, with molecular weights in the range of 1.8–6.6 kg mol–1. Poly(N-isopropyl glycine), a previously unreported polypeptoid, could be obtained by bulk polymerization of the corresponding NCA in the melt. The samples were characterized by spectroscopy (NMR and FT-IR), size exclusion chromatography (SEC), and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectroscopy (MALDI–ToF MS). The polymers could be dispersed in water up to 20–40 g L–1; the poly(N-propargyl glycine) was not soluble in water. Turbidity measurements of the three water-soluble polypeptoids illustrated cloud point temperatures dependent on structural and electronic properties of the side chain. The cloud point temperatures were found to increase in the order C3 = n-propyl (15–25 °C) < allyl (27–54 °C) < isopropyl (47–58 °C). Long-term annealing of the aqueous solution of poly(N-{n-propyl} glycine) and poly(N-allyl glycine) above the cloud point temperature resulted in the formation of crystalline microparticles with melting points of 188–198 and 157–165 °C (differential scanning calorimetry, DSC), respectively, and rose bud type morphology (scanning electron microscopy, SEM).
Using SnCl2, ZnCl2, Zn-lactate or Zr-acetylacetonate as catalysts ʟ-lactide was oligomerized in bulk with isosorbide as initiator. The ratio isosorbide/lactide was varied from 8/2 to 2/8. The resulting oligomers were in situ polycondensed with isophthaloyl chloride in various aromatic solvents. In chlorobenzene homogeneous reaction mixtures were obtained, whereas molten copolyesters precipitated from toluene and xylene. The obtained average molecular weights indicated high polydispersities. According to MALDI-TOF MS the low molar mass reaction products (<4 kDa) almost exclusively consisted of cyclics with a composition depending on the feed ratio. The glass-transition temperatures (Tg) varied between the values of poly(ʟ-lactide (64 °C) and poly(isosorbide isophthalate) (180 °C). Four polyesters prepared from 5-tert-butyl isophthalic acid displayed higher Tg values. Differential thermoanalysis evidenced that the thermostability decreases with higher fractions of lactide, but processing from the melt seems to be feasible up to temperatures of 260 °C without risking degradation.
The development of a facile covalent strategy for the fabrication of organic conducting polymers (OCPs)/carbon nanotubes (CNTs) based molecular hybrid materials remains a challenge and is expected to address the detrimental intrinsic bundling issue of CNTs. In view of the pristine CNTs' ability to undergo Diels–Alder reactions with dienes, we report the synthesis of a novel poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) based organic conducting polymer (OCP) with terminal cyclopentadienyl (Cp) groups. The synthetic strategy employed is based on a combination of in situ end group functionalization via Grignard metathesis (GRIM) polymerization and a subsequent end group switching via reaction with nickelocene. Characterization data from Matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDITOF MS) fully support the successful synthesis of monofunctional Cp-capped P3HT, which was found to be highly reactive toward dienophile end-capped polystyrene (PS). The Cp-capped P3HT was subsequently ligated to the surface of pristine single walled CNTs (SWCNTs). The resulting P3HT/SWCNTs molecular hybrid material was characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), elemental analysis (EA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The data from TGA, EA, and XPS were used to quantitatively deduce the grafting density. P3HT/SWCNTs prepared with Cp capped P3HT was found to contain 2 times more P3HT than the reference sample, featuring a grafting density of 0.0510 chains·nm–2 and a periodicity of 1 P3HT chain per 748 carbon atoms of the SWCNTs. HRTEM revealed individual SWCNTs wrapped with P3HT whereas in the reference sample P3HT was adsorbed on the bundles of the SWCNTs. The results presented here provide a new avenue for designing novel materials based on CNTs and OCPs.
Copolyesters of lactide, isosorbide, and terephthalic acid-biobased, biodegradable, high-Tg engineering plastics (2013)
Various copolyesters of lactide, isosorbide, and terephthalic acid are prepared by a two-step process performed in a 'one-pot' procedure, beginning with an isosorbide-initiated oligomerization of L-lactide followed by polycondensation with terephthaloyl chloride using SnCl2 as a catalyst for both steps. The SEC data show the formation of random copolyesters with high polydispersities as a consequence of the relatively high fraction of cyclics proved by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). The glass-transition temperatures (89–180 °C) obey an almost linear trend with the molar composition. The thermostability decreases with increasing lactide content. The successful incorporation of phenyl phosphate results in copolyesters of lower inflammability.
The role of statistics and microenvironment for the photoresponse in multi-switch architectures: The case of photoswitchable oligoazobenzene foldamers (2013)
Systems containing multiple photochromic units possibly display a synergistic interplay of individual switching events and hence potentially give rise to unprecedented photoresponsive behavior. Among such systems photoswitchable foldamers are attractive as the photoisomerization events are coupled to the helixcoil conformational transition. To gain comprehensive insight into the role of the number of switching units (statistics) as well as their specific location and relative orientation in the helix backbone, several series of foldamers have been synthesized and characterized. In these series of foldamers, the local environment of the photoswitchable units was precisely tuned as π,π-stacking interactions were enforced to occur between specific pairs, i.e. azobenzene–azobenzene, azobenzene–tolane, or phenylene–phenylene units. These particular arrangements are reflected not only in the stability of the helical conformation, but also affect the photoresponsive behavior, i.e. the rate of photoisomerization and extent of denaturation. Furthermore, determining the intramolecular spin–spin distance in a series of TEMPO-labeled foldamers with variable chain lengths and different spatial locations of the spin-labels deduced an independent verification of the photoinduced helix–coil transition by ESR spectroscopy. Quantitative analysis of the corresponding ESR spectra shows an excellent correlation of the extent of intramolecular spin–spin coupling and the intensity of the Cotton effect in CD spectroscopy. From all of these results an unusual relationship between the rate of photoisomerization and the extent of photoinduced denaturation could be unraveled, as they are not going hand-in-hand but compete with each other, i.e. the easier the individual switching event is, the harder it becomes to achieve a high degree of unfolding. This insight into the effect of microenvironment on the ease of individual switching events and the role of statistics on the resulting degree of the overall conformational transition is of general interest for the design of multi-switch architectures with improved photoresponse.
At first, formation of cycles in commercial poly(Llactide)s is discussed and compared with benzyl alcoholinitiated polymerizations performed in this work. This comparison was extended to polymerizations initiated with 4-cyanophenol and pentafluorothiophenol which yielded cyclic polylactides via end-biting. The initiator/catalyst ratio and the acidity of the initiator were found to be decisive for the extent of cyclization. Further polymerizations of L-lactide were performed with various diphenols as initiators/co-catalysts. With most diphenols, cyclic polylactides were the main reaction products. Yet, only catechols yielded even-numbered cycles as main reaction products, a result which proves that their combination with SnOct2 catalyzed a ring-expansion polymerization (REP). The influence of temperature, time, co-catalyst, and catalyst concentrations was studied. Four different transesterification reactions yielding cycles were identified. For the cyclic poly(L-lactide)s weight average molecular weights (Mw's) up to 120,000 were obtained, but 1H NMR end group analyses indicated that the extent of cyclization was slightly below 100%. The influence of various parameters like structure of Initiator and catalyst and temperature on the formation of cyclic poly(Llactide)s has been investigated. Depending on the chosen conditions, the course of the polymerization can be varied from a process yielding exclusively linear polylactides to mainly cyclic polylactides. Three different reaction pathways for cyclization reactions have been identified.
Einfluss von Feuchte und Nässe auf die Witterungs-induzierte Alterung am Beispiel eines Polyurethans (2017)
In diesem Beitrag soll der relative Einfluss des Wassers als Feuchte und Nässe unter den Beanspruchungsfaktoren untersucht werden. Die Unterscheidung von Luftfeuchte und Nässe bezüglich ihrer Wirkung ist dabei notwendig, weil die stehende Nässe zusätzliche Extraktionswirkung besitzt und auch die verfügbare Sauerstoffmenge beeinflusst. Dazu wurde ein Polymer, das im Rahmen des BAM-internen Projektes PolyComp untersucht wird, künstlich bewittert. Hierzu wurde ein Fluoreszenzlampengerät mit UV-A 340 nm Leuchtstoffröhren verwendet, in dessen Probenraum durch zusätzliche Kammern die gleichzeitige Bewitterung unter drei unterschiedlichen Feuchte-Varianten realisiert wurde (bei konstanter Temperatur): • UV und trocken • UV und hohe Luftfeuchte • UV und stehende Nässe Das gleichzeitige Einwirken der einzelnen Einflussfaktoren kann dabei konkurrierende oder aufeinander folgende chemische Reaktionen und physikalische Prozesse und somit ein anderes Ergebnis bewirken, als wenn sie isoliert nacheinander auf eine Probe eingewirkt hätten. Über die erwähnten Varianten hinaus kann auch noch der spezifische Einfluss der UV-Strahlung mit untersucht werden, weil die Proben im Bereich ihrer Befestigung verdeckt sind. Die Methodik und erste Ergebnisse dieser Untersuchung werden präsentiert.
Matrix-assisted ionization-ion mobility spectrometry-mass spectrometry: Selective analysis of a europium-PEG complex in a crude mixture (2015)
The analytical utility of a new and simple to use ionization method, matrix-assisted ionization (MAI), coupled with ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) and mass spectrometry (MS) is used to characterize a 2-armed europium(III)-containing poly(ethylene glycol) (Eu-PEG) complex directly from a crude sample. MAI was used with the matrix 1,2-dicyanobenzene, which affords low chemical background relative to matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) and electrospray ionization (ESI). MAI provides high ion abundance of desired products in comparison to ESI and MALDI. Inductively coupled plasma-MS measurements were used to estimate a maximum of 10% of the crude sample by mass was the 2-arm Eu-PEG complex, supporting evidence of selective ionization of Eu-PEG complexes using the new MAI matrix, 1,2-dicyanobenzene. Multiply charged ions formed in MAI enhance the IMS gas-phase separation, especially relative to the singly charged ions observed with MALDI. Individual components are cleanly separated and readily identified, allowing characterization of the 2-arm Eu-PEG conjugate from a mixture of the 1-arm Eu-PEG complex and unreacted starting materials. Size-exclusion chromatography, liquid chromatography at critical conditions, MALDI-MS, ESI-MS, and ESI-IMS-MS had difficulties with this analysis, or failed.
Trimesoyl chloride is polycondensed with various alpha,omega'-alkanediols in dichloromethane at different concentrations using equifunctional feed ratios. As evidenced by MALDI-TOF (matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight) mass spectrometry the soluble reaction products mainly consist of perfect multicyclic oligomers and polymers. The solphase extracted from the gels also consists of perfect multicycles. SEC (size exclusion chromatography) measurements show that both soluble reaction products and extracted solphases also contain a high molar mass fraction of perfect and nonperfect multicycles extending up to masses beyond 10 5 g mol-1. When the polycondensation is stopped after a few minutes perfect multicycles are already detectable in the reaction mixture along with functional (multi)cyclic oligomers. These results prove that at initial monomer concentrations < 0.2 mol L-1 networks and large multicyclic polymers are synthesized from functional cyclic oligomers formed in early stages of the polycondensation and not from hyperbranched polymers. This interpretation is presented as 'egg-first theory' and compared with the 'hen-first theory' of Stockmayer and Flory.
Using 22 metal triflates as catalysts, ε-caprolactone is polymerized at 22 °C in bulk. Only five relatively acidic triflates prove active. Three triflates, including the neutral Sm3+, are active using water as initiator. A very low content of cyclics is found in all the experiments. With Ce3+ and Ce4+, polymerizations are performed in CH2Cl2 and in bulk at 2 °C and 22 °C. Low dispersities (down to 1.1) are obtained. At 22 °C, Ce4+ and, even better, Ce3+ also catalyze syntheses of CO2H- and CH2OH-terminated polycaprolactones, whereby higher dispersities and larger fractions of cyclics are obtained. Further polymerizations and polycondensations are catalyzed with protic acids. The results can be explained by a proton-catalyzed activated monomer mechanism.
Cyclic poly(l-lactide) via ring-expansion polymerization by means of dibutyltin 4-tert-butylcatecholate (2017)
Five new catalysts are prepared from dibutyltin oxide and catechol (HCa), 2,3-dihydroxynaphthalene (NaCa), 4-tert-butyl catechol (BuCa), 4-cyano catechol (CyCa), and 4-benzoyl catechol (BzCa), but only BuCa gives useful results. When benzyl alcohol is used as an initiator, linear chains having benzyl ester end groups are formed in a slow polymerization process. In contrast to cyclic or noncyclic dibutyltin bisalkoxides, neat BuCa yields cyclic poly(l-lactide)s via a fast ring-expansion polymerization. Under certain conditions, a high-melting crystalline phase (Tm = 191 °C) is obtained. At 160 °C and short reaction times even-numbered cycles are slightly prevailing, but, surprisingly, at 120 °C, odd-numbered cycles are predominantly formed. These results definitely prove that a ring-expansion mechanism is operating.
High molar mass cyclic poly(L-lactide) via ring-expansion polymerizationwith cyclic dibutyltin bisphenoxides (2018)
Two new catalysts (SnNa and SnBi) were prepared from dibutyltin oxide and 2,2′-dihydroxybiphenyl or2,2′dihydroxy(1,1′-binaphtyl). These catalysts enabled rapid polymerizations of L-lactide at 160 or 180 °C in bulk, whereby almost exclusively cyclic polylactides were formed. These polymerizations were free of racemization and yielded pol(L-lactide)s having weight average molecular weights (Mw's) up to 140 000 g mol−1. The Mw's varied little with the Lac/Cat ratio as expected for a ring expansion polymerization (REP). Polymerizations performed in bulk at 140, 120 and 102 °C yielded cyclic polylactides with lower molecular weights. At 102 °C a strong predominance of even-numbered cycles was found with SnNa as catalyst. SnNa can also catalyze alcohol-initiated ROPs yielding linear poly(L-lactide) free of cyclics.
The protein corona, which forms on the nanoparticle's surface in most biological media, determines the nanoparticles physicochemical characteristics. The formation of the protein corona has a significant impact on the biodistribution and clearance of nanoparticles in vivo. Therefore, the ability to influence the formation of the protein corona is essential to most biomedical applications, including drug delivery and imaging. In this study, we investigate the protein adsorption on nanoparticles with a hydrodynamic radius of 30 nm and a coating of thermoresponsive poly(2-isopropyl-2-oxazoline) in serum. Using multiangle dynamic light scattering (DLS) we demonstrate that heating of the nanoparticles above their phase separation temperature induces the formation of agglomerates, with a hydrodynamic radius of 1 µm. In serum, noticeably stronger agglomeration occurs at lower temperatures compared to serum-free conditions. Cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) revealed a high packing density of agglomerates when serum was not present. In contrast, in the presence of serum, agglomerated nanoparticles were loosely packed, indicating that proteins are intercalated between them. Moreover, an increase in protein content is observed upon heating, confirming that protein adsorption is induced by the alteration of the surface during phase separation. After cooling and switching the surface back, most of the agglomerates were dissolved and the main fraction returned to the original size of approximately 30 nm as shown by asymmetrical flow-field flow fractionation (AF-FFF) and DLS. Furthermore, the amounts of adsorbed proteins are similar before and after heating the nanoparticles to above their phase-separation temperature. Overall, our results demonstrate that the thermoresponsivity of the polymer coating enables turning the corona formation on nanoparticles on and off in situ. As the local heating of body areas can be easily done in vivo, the thermoresponsive coating could potentially be used to induce the agglomeration of nanoparticles and proteins and the accumulation of nanoparticles in a targeted body region.
Cyclic poly(L-lactide)s via simultaneous ROP and polycondensation (ROPPOC) catalyzed by dibutyltin phenoxides (2018)
Starting from dibutyltin oxide, four catalysts were synthesized, namely the dibutyltin bisphenoxides of Phenol (SnPh), 4-chlorophenol (SnCP), 4-hydroxybenzonitrile (SnCN) and pentafluorophenol (SnOPF). With the first three catalysts polymerizations of L-lactide at 160 °C in bulk yielded large fraction of linear chains having phenylester end groups at short reaction times. At longer times the fraction of cycles considerably increased at the expense of the linear chains, when SnCN was used as catalyst. With SnOPF only cyclic polylactides were obtained at low Lac/Cat ratios (< 400) with weight average molecular weights (Mw) up to 90 000 Da, whereas for high Lac/Cat ratios mixtures of cyclic and linear chains were found. Polymerizations in solution enabled variation of the molecular weight. Polymerizations of meso-lactide at temperatures down to 60 °C mainly yielded even-numbered linear chains supporting the postulated ROPPOC mechanism.
Spirocyclic bisphenoxides of Ge, Zr, and Sn as catalysts for ring-expansion polymerizations of L- and meso-lactide (2018)
Spirocyclic phenoxides of germanium, zirconium, and tin were prepared from 2,20-dihydroxybiphenyl and 2,20-dihydroxy-1,10-binaphthyl. Ring-expansion polymerizations of L-lactide are mainly studied at 160 or 180 °C. The reactivity of the catalysts increases in the order: Zr < Ge < Sn. Regardless of catalyst, the weight-average molecular weights (Mw) never exceed 50,000 g mol−1. The resulting poly(L-lactide)s are optically pure and have a cyclic architecture. Decreasing temperature and time favor Formation of even-numbered cycles, and at 102 ° cyclics, almost free of odd-numbered rings are obtained. Analogous polymerizations of meso-lactide give similar results >120 °C, but different results at 100 or 80 °C. Surprisingly, bell-shaped narrow molecular weight distributions are obtained <140 °C, resembling the pattern of living polymerizations found for alcohol-initiated polymerizations. An unusual transesterification mechanism yielding narrow distributions of odd-numbered cycles is discovered too.
Transesterification in alcohol-initiated ROPs of l- and meso-lactide catalyzed by Sn(II) and Sn(IV) compounds at low temperatures (2018)
The purpose of this study is to shed more light on the transesterification processes in alcohol-initiated and tin(II) 2-ethylhexanoate (SnOct2)-catalyzed polymerizations of lactides at low or moderate temperatures. Ethanol-initiated polymerizations are conducted in concentrated solutions at 80 °C and a strong dependence of even/odd equilibration on the alcohol/Sn ratio. Around or above 120 °C cyclization of poly(l-lactide) via "backbiting" occurs as a third mechanism. However, poly(m-lactide) shows a higher cyclization tendency and yields cyclics even at 100 °C. Combinations of ethanol and certain cyclic dibutyltin(IV) catalysts also yield cyclic oligomers of l-lactide at 80 °C. Reaction conditions allowing for a total suppression of all transesterification reactions are not found, but even-numbered poly(m-lactide)s with a purity >95% are obtained at 70 or 60 °C.
Eine neue Art einer Ring-Expansion Polymerization (REP) von zyklischen Polylaktiden mittels neuer Katalysatoren wird präsentiert. MALDI-TOF Massenspektrometrie und andere analytische Techniken wurden zur Aufklärung des Mechanismus eingesetzt. Dabei zeigte sich, dass im Gegensatz zu anderen REP, ausschließlich zyklische Polymere gebildet wurden. Diese stellen neue Kandidatenmaterialien für zukünftige neue CRM dar.
Controlled radical polymerization and in-depth mass-spectrometric characterization of poly(ionic liquid)s and their photopatterning on surfaces (2016)
The preparation and characterization of poly(ionic liquid)s (PILs) bearing a polystyrene backbone via reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization and their photolithographic patterning on silicon wafers is reported. The controlled radical polymerization of the styrenic ionic liquid (IL) monomers ([BVBIM]X, X = Cl− or Tf2N−) by RAFT polymerization is investigated in detail. We provide a general synthetic tool to access this class of PILs with controlled molecular weight and relatively narrow molecular weight distribution (2000 g mol−1 ≤ Mn ≤ 10 000 g mol−1 with dispersities between 1.4 and 1.3 for p([BVBIM]Cl); 2100 g mol−1 ≤ MP ≤ 14 000 g mol−1 for p([BVBIM]Tf2N)). More importantly, we provide an in-depth characterization of the PILs and demonstrate a detailed mass spectrometric analysis via matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) as well as – for the first time for PILs – electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS). Importantly, p([BVBIM]Cl) and p([DMVBIM]Tf2N) were photochemically patterned on silicon wafers. Therefore, a RAFT agent carrying a photoactive group based on ortho-quinodimethane chemistry – more precisely photoenol chemistry – was photochemically linked for subsequent controlled radical polymerization of [BVBIM]Cl and [DMVBIM]Tf2N. The successful spatially-resolved photografting is evidenced by surface-sensitive characterization methods such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). The presented method allows for the functionalization of diverse surfaces with poly(ionic liquid)s.
Two classes of polyesters were prepared by irreversible polycondensations. The dependence of the dispersities on the experimental parameters such as synthetic method, chemical structure, molecular weight and initial monomer concentration was determined. At first it was demonstrated that it is essential for a correct calculation of Mn and Mw to include all oligomers down to the dimers in the evaluation of SEC curves. Furthermore, it was demonstrated for poly(e-caprolactone)s and polylactides that reversible polycondensations and ring-opening polymerizations with equilibration yield identical products. Finally, the dependence of the dispersity on various experimental Parameters was determined for equilibrated poly(e-caprolactone)s and polylactides.
l-lactide or meso-lactide are polymerized either at 120 °C where the polymerization process of l-lactide is accompanied by crystallization, or at 180 °C where poly(l-lactide) remains in the molten state. Polymerizations at 120 °C initially yield even-numbered chains (with respect to lactic acid units) having relatively low dispersity, but the fraction of odd-numbered chains increases with time and the entire molecular weight distribution changes. Traces of cyclics are only formed after 7 d. Polymerizations at 180 °C yield equilibrium of even and odd-numbered chains from the beginning, but at low monomer/initiator ratios and short reaction times (<4 h) cyclics are again not formed. They appear at longer reaction times and entail higher dispersities. The results are discussed in terms of five different transesterification mechanisms.
Unprecedented Ionization Processes in Mass SpectrometryProvide Missing Link between ESI and MALDI (2018)
In the field of mass spectrometry,producing intact, highly-charged protein ions from surfaces is a conundrum with significant potential payoff in application areas ranging from bio-medical to clinical research. Here, we report on the ability to form intact, highly-charged protein ions on high vacuum time-of-flight mass spectrometers in the linear and reflectron modes achievable using experimental conditions that allow effective matrix removal from both the sample surfaces and from the charged clusters formed by the laser Ablation event. The charge states are the highest reported on high vacuum mass spectrometers, yet they remain at only around athird of the highest charge obtained using laser ablation with a suitable matrix at atmospheric pressure. Other than physical instrument modifications, the key to forming abundant and stable highly-charged ions appears to be the volatility of the matrix used. Cumulative results suggest mechanistic links between the ionization process reported here and traditional ionization methods of electrospray ionization and matrix-assisted laser desorp-tion/ionization.
Poly(alkylene isophthalate)s were prepared by different methods, either in solution or in bulk. The SEC measurements were evaluated in such a way that all oligomers were included. In solution (monomer conc. 0.10.7 mol/L) large fractions of rings were formed and high dispersities (up to 12) were obtained, which disagree with theoretical predictions. Polycondensations in bulk did neither generate cyclics by 'back-biting' nor by end-to-end cyclization, when the maximum temperature was limited to 210 °C. The dispersities of these perfectly linear polyesters were again higher than the theoretical values. Regardless of the synthetic method monomeric cycles were never observed. Furthermore, SEC measurements performed in tetrahydrofuran and in chloroform and SEC measurements performed in three different institutes were compared. Finally, SEC measurements of five samples were performed with universal calibration and a correction factor of 0.71 ± 0.02 was found for normal calibration with polystyrene.
The nucleophilic thiol–ene (thia-Michael) reaction between molecular rods bearing terminal thiols and bis-maleimides was investigated. The molecular rods have oligospiroketal (OSK) and oligospirothioketal (OSTK) backbones. Contrary to the expectations, cyclic oligomers were always obtained instead of linear rigid-rod polymers. Replacing the OS(T)K rods with a flexible chain yielded polymeric products, suggesting that the OS(T)K structure is responsible for the formation of cyclic products. The reason for the preferred formation of cyclic products is due to the presence of folded conformations, which have already been described for articulated rods.
Analytically monitored digestion of silver nanoparticles and their toxicity on human intestinal cells (2014)
Orally ingested nanoparticles may overcome the gastrointestinal barrier, reach the circulatory system, be distributed in the organism and cause adverse health effects. However, ingested nanoparticles have to pass through different physicochemical environments, which may alter their properties before they reach the intestinal cells. In this study, silver nanoparticles are characterised physicochemically during the course of artificial digestion to simulate the biochemical processes occurring during digestion. Their cytotoxicity on intestinal cells was investigated using the Caco-2 cell model. Using field-flow fractionation combined with dynamic light scattering and small-angle X-ray scattering, the authors found that particles only partially aggregate as a result of the digestive process. Cell viabilities were determined by means of CellTiter-Blue® assay, 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole-staining and real-time impedance. These measurements reveal small differences between digested and undigested particles (1–100 µg/ml or 1–69 particles/cell). The findings suggest that silver nanoparticles may indeed overcome the gastrointestinal juices in their particulate form without forming large quantities of aggregates. Consequently, the authors presume that the particles can reach the intestinal epithelial cells after ingestion with only a slight reduction in their cytotoxic potential. The study indicates that it is important to determine the impact of body fluids on the nanoparticles of interest to provide a reliable interpretation of their nano-specific cytotoxicity testing in vivo and in vitro.
Characterization of randomly branched polymers utilizing liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (2014)
Branching in polymers is an important way to modify the materials properties, however the characterization of random branching in polymeric materials is a challenge in polymer analysis. In this work, liquid adsorption chromatography methods are developed for a commercially available hyperbranched polyester (Boltorn™). This Chromatographie techniques was then coupled to offline MALDI-TOF MS analysis, a first in the analysis of randomly branched polymers. The coupling of these two techniques provides superior MALDI-TOF spectra, enabling the easy identification of structural subdistributons based on theoretical molecular weight. Detailed analysis of the MALDI-TOF spectra shows that these Chromatographie conditions separate cyclic Boltorn polymers (with no core molecule) from non-cyclic polymers (with core molecule), and these are the only two architectures observed. MALDI MS also confirms that the Chromatographie Separation mode is adsorption, but further analysis is needed to determine if there is a Separation by degree of branching.
Synthesis of polysarcosine from air and moisture stable N-phenoxycarbonyl-N-methylglycine assisted by tertiary amine base (2016)
Polysarcosine (M-n = 3650-20 000 g mol(-1), D similar to 1.1) was synthesized from the air and moisture stable N-phenoxycarbonyl-N-methylglycine. Polymerization was achieved by in situ transformation of the urethane precursor into the corresponding N-methylglycine-N-carboxyanhydride, when in the presence of a non-nucleophilic tertiary amine base and a primary amine initiator.
Microstructure of polymer-imprinted metal–organic frameworks determined by absorption edge tomography (2019)
Mechanochemically synthesized metal–organic Framework material HKUST-1 in combination with acrylonitrile butadiene styrene polymer was used to form a polymer metal–organic framework composite material by a simple extruder. This composite filament was used for 3D printing. Xray diffraction measurements were used to prove the homogeneous distribution of the metal–organic framework in the polymer on a centimeter scale, whereas X-ray Absorption Edge Tomography using a synchrotron radiation source was able to evaluate the 3D distribution of the metal–organic framework material both in the filament and the resultant printed sample with a resolution of a few lm. Our very first data indicate that, apart from a few clusters having significantly higher Cu concentration, HKUST-1 is distributed homogeneously down to the 100 lm length scale in both polymer bulk materials in the form of clusters with a size of a few lm. Absorption Edge Tomography in combination with data fusion also allows for the calculation of the metal–organic framework amount located on the external polymer surface.
About the influence of salicylic acid on tin(II)octanoate-catalyzed ring opening polymerizationof L-lactide (2019)
L-Lactide was polymerized in bulk with tin(II)2-ethylhexanoate SnOct2) as catalyst and salicylic acid as cocatalyst. The Lac/Cat ratio, Cocat/Cat ratio, temperature and time were varied. Increasing Cocat/Cat ratios reduced both,polymerization rate and molecular weight. However,under optimized conditions high molar mass (Mw up to 178,000), colorless, cyclic polylactides were formed in a short time. A few polymerizations performed at 160 and 180°C with the combination of SnOct2 and silylated salicylic acid gave similar results. Neat tin II) salicylate was prepared from SnOct2 and used for REPs of L-lactide in bulk, but the results were not better than those obtained from combinations of SnOct2 and salicylic acid. Furthermore, dibutyltin salicylate was synthesized and used as catalyst for polymerizations of L-lactide in bulk at temperatures varying from 102 to 160°C. Cyclic polylactides with Mw's up to 40,000 were the main reaction products. At 100–102°C a predominance of odd-numbered cycles was found proving a REP mechanism.
A series of phenolic-acid-based 2-oxazoline monomers with methoxysubstituted phenyl and cinnamyl side chains is synthesized and polymerized in a microwave reactor at 140 °C using methyl tosylate as the initiator. The obtained poly(2-oxazoline)s are characterized by NMR spectroscopy, MALDITOF mass spectrometry, and size-exclusion chromatography (SEC). Kinetic studies reveal that the microwave-assisted polymerization is fast and completed within less than ≈10 min for low monomer-to-initiator ratios of ≤25. Polymers with number-average molar masses of up to 6500 g mol−1 and low dispersity (1.2–1.3) are produced. The aryl methyl ethers are successfully cleaved with aluminum triiodide/N,N′ diisopropylcarbodiimide to give a poly(2-oxazoline) with pendent catechol groups.
Degradation of MDI-based polyether and polyester-polyurethanes in various environments - Effects on molecular mass and crosslinking (2019)
Size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) was used to monitor changes of the molecular masses of thermoplastic polyether – and polyester urethane (TPU) exposed to thermal, hydrolytic, and photo-oxidative (UV) Degradation conditions for several days. The thermal treatment was performed at elevated temperatures (100–200 °C) under oxidative (air) as well as non-oxidative (nitrogen) conditions to evaluate the specific influence of oxygen on the degradation. At higher temperatures (≥175 °C) a fast decrease of the molecular masses of both PU accompanied by a high degree of crosslinking was found. At lower temperatures (≤150 °C) the polymers remained widely unaffected by thermal degradation within the investigated degradation interval of up to two weeks. Surprisingly, the influence of oxygen (air) was found to be less distinct. In contrast to that, UV treatment at 25 °C at less than 10% rel. humidity (RH) resulted in a fast crosslinking, whereas the molecular masses of both PU decreased slower than for thermal treatments. The depth of penetration of the UV radiation was estimated using 3D printed PU samples with different thicknesses. Hydrolysis based degradation effects were less significant. Only slight molecular mass changes were detected at temperatures ≤80 °C within a time span of 14 days, while no crosslinking could be measured. Considering the degradation results at the investigated exposure parameters, it could be shown that esterbased PU in general exhibits a significant higher stability compared to ether-based materials.
Cyclic poly(L-lactide)s via ring-expansion polymerizations catalysed by 2,2-dibutyl-2- stanna-1,3-dithiolane (2017)
L-Lactides were polymerized in bulk at 120 or 160 °C with cyclic dibutyltin catalysts derived from 1,2-dimercaptoethane or 2-mercaptoethanol. Only linear chains having one benzyl ester and one OH-end group were obtained when benzyl alcohol was added. When L-lactides were polymerized with neat dibutyl-2-stanna-1,3-dithiolane, exclusively cyclic polylactides were formed even at 120 °C. The temperature, time and monomer/catalyst ratio (M/C) were varied. These results are best explained by a combination of ring-expansion polymerization and ring-extrusion of cyclic oligo- or polylactides with Elimination of the cyclic catalyst. Neither syntheses of linear polylactides nor of cyclic lactides involved racemization up to 20 h at 160 °C.
We will report on a new kind of ring-expansion polymerization (REP) of cyclic esters based of three classes of catalysts. In contrast to REP described previously these new polymerizations are characterized by a self-extrusion of the catalysts resulting in cyclic homopolyesters as the only reaction product. These REP of L-lactide were performed in bulk at temperatures between 100 and 180°C without racemization. A simplified scheme of a REP catalyzed by BuCa or SnBi is presented below. With meso-lactide temperatures down to 60°C were realized. Depending on catalyst, time and temperature with equal quantities of even and odd-numbered cycles a strong predominance of either even or odd-numbered cycles was found.
Synthesis of cyclic poly(l-lactide) catalyzed by Bismuth salicylates-A combination of two drugs (2019)
l‐lactide was polymerized in bulk at 160 or 180°C with mixtures of bismuth subsalicylate (BiSub) and salicylic (SA) as catalysts. The SA/Bi ratio and the monomer/Bi ratio were varied. The highest molecular weights (weight average, Mw) were achieved at a SA/Bi ratio of 1/1 (Mw up to 92 000 g mol−1). l‐Lactide was also polymerized with combinations of BiSub and silylated SA, and Mw values up to 120 000 g mol−1 were achieved at 180°C. MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry and Mark‐Houwink‐Sakurada measurements proved that under optimized reaction conditions the resulting polylactides consist of cycles.
Toward understanding the ionization mechanism of matrix‐assisted ionization using mass spectrometry experiment and theory (2019)
Matrix‐assisted ionization (MAI) mass spectrometry does not require voltages, a laser beam, or added heat to initiate ionization, but it is strongly dependent on the choice of matrix and the vacuum conditions. High charge state distributions of nonvolatile analyte ions produced by MAI suggest that the ionization mechanism may be similar to that of electrospray ionization (ESI), but different from matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI). While significant information is available for MAI using mass spectrometers operating at atmospheric and intermediate pressure, little is known about the mechanism at high vacuum. Eleven MAI matrices were studied on a high‐vacuum time‐of‐flight (TOF) mass spectrometer using a 266 nm pulsed laser beam under otherwise typical MALDI conditions. Detailed comparisons with the commonly used MALDI matrices and theoretical prediction were made for 3‐nitrobenzonitrile (3‐NBN), which is the only MAI matrix that works well in high vacuum when irradiated with a laser. Screening of MAI matrices with good absorption at 266 nm but with various degrees of volatility and laser energies suggests that volatility and absorption at the laser wavelength may be necessary, but not sufficient, criteria to explain the formation of multiply charged analyte ions. 3‐NBN produces intact, highly charged ions of nonvolatile analytes in high‐vacuum TOF with the use of a laser, demonstrating that ESI‐like ions can be produced in high vacuum. Theoretical calculations and mass spectra suggest that thermally induced proton transfer, which is the major ionization mechanism in MALDI, is not important with the 3‐NBN matrix at 266 nm laser wavelength. 3‐NBN:analyte crystal morphology is, however, important in ion generation in high vacuum. The 3‐NBN MAI matrix produces intact, highly charged ions of nonvolatile compounds in high‐vacuum TOF mass spectrometers with the aid of ablation and/or heating by laser irradiation, and shows a different ionization mechanism from that of typical MALDI matrices.
SnOct 2-Catalyzed Syntheses of Cyclic Poly (l-lactide) s with Catechol as Low-Toxic Co-catalyst (2019)
Polymerizations of l-lactide in bulk at 160 or 180 °C were performed with 1/1 mixtures of catechol (CA) or 4-tert-butylcatechol (BuCA) and tin(II)-2-ethylhexanoate (SnOct2) as catalysts and a variation of the Lac/Cat ratio. Weight average molar masses (Mw) up to 170,000 g mol−1 were obtained with CA and up to 120,000 g mol−1 with BuCA. The cyclic structure of the resulting poly(l-lactide)s was proven by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and by comparison of their hydrodynamic volumes with those of commercial linear poly(l-lactide)s. The predominance of even-numbered cycles increased with lower temperatures and shorter polymerization times. This fnding indicates that the cyclic architecture is the results of a ring-expansion polymerization mechanism. Addition of silylated BuCA as co-catalyst was less favorable than addition of free BuCA.
Coding and decoding libraries of sequence-defined functional copolymers synthesized via photoligation (2016)
Designing artificial macromolecules with absolute sequence order represents a considerable challenge. Here we report an advanced light-induced avenue to monodisperse sequencedefined functional linear macromolecules up to decamers via a unique photochemical approach. The versatility of the synthetic strategy—combining sequential and modular concepts—enables the synthesis of perfect macromolecules varying in chemical constitution and topology. Specific functions are placed at arbitrary positions along the chain via the successive addition of monomer units and blocks, leading to a library of functional homopolymers, alternating copolymers and block copolymers. The in-depth characterization of each sequence-defined chain confirms the precision nature of the macromolecules. Decoding of the functional information contained in the molecular structure is achieved via tandem mass spectrometry without recourse to their synthetic history, showing that the sequence information can be read.We submit that the presented photochemical strategy is a viable and advanced concept for coding individual monomer units along a macromolecular chain.
Analytical toolset to characterize polyurethanes after exposure to artificial weathering under systematically varied moisture conditions (2019)
Polyether and -ester urethanes (PU) were exposed to artificial weathering at 40 °C and artificial UV radiation in a weathering chamber. In 3 parallel exposures, humidity was varied between dry, humid, and wet conditions. Material alteration was investigated by various analytical techniques like size exclusion chromatography (SEC), liquid chromatography-infrared spectroscopy (LC-FTIR), thermal-desorption gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (TD-GC-MS), fluorescence mapping and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). Our results show that depending on the weathering conditions, different degradation effects can be observed. By means of SEC an initial strong decrease of the molar masses and a broadening of the mass distributions was found. After a material dependent time span this was followed by a plateau where molar mass changes were less significant. A minor moisture-dependent degradation effect was only found for polyester PU. Fluorescence measurements on two materials revealed an increase in the luminescence intensity upon weathering process reaching a saturation level after about 500 h. The changes in the optical properties observed after different exposure conditions and times were very similar. The TD-GC-MS data showed the fate of the stabilizers and antioxidant in the course of weathering. LC-FTIR measurements revealed a change in peak intensities and the ratio of urethane and carbonyl bands.
Two kinds of cyclic poly(D- and L-lactide)s were synthesized, namely CI labeled samples mainly consisting of even-numbered cycles with low dispersity and CII, CIII or CIV-labeled ones consisting of equal amounts of even and odd-numbered cycles with high dispersity and igher molecular weights (Mw up to 300 000). Furthermore, linear poly L-lactide)s were prepared by initiation with ethanol and in both series the molecular weight was varied. The formation of stereocomplexes from cyclic poly(D-lactide)s and all kinds of poly L-lactide)s was performed in dichloromethane/toluene mixtures. The stereocomplexes crystallized from the reaction mixture were characterized in the virgin state and after annealing at 205 °C. Stereocomplexes free of stereohomopolymers with crystallinities up to 80% were obtained from all experiments in yields ranging from 60 to 80%. Despite the high annealing temperature (maintained for 1 h), little transesterification was observed and the crystallinity slightly increased.


text:
Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Give your trek some added purpose by doing it for a cause. A fantastic opportunity to be part of a fund raising program and have the adventure experience and thrills. NALS is associated with a few NGOs that are doing stellar work in the areas of special children and differently-abled persons. Join us and contribute to a Cause.
There are 100s of special children / differently-abled persons and NGOs working for their welfare. These NGOs require precious funds to carry out their objectives and make a difference to the special child. This program is perfect for the adventure-seeker who wants to give something back to society and make a difference, while at the same time enjoy the outdoor experience of trekking and adventure
Duration : 04 Days / 03 Nights
Age Group : 08 ~ 55 Years
Batch Size : 10 ~ 60
Intensity :
Program Cost
per head inclusive of taxes
It is possible the date of your choice is not available on this program and hence we are glad to process your private batch request.Request for Private Batch
It was a pleasure to meet you at NALS when we came there with our special children.....
I would like to thank the NALS team in the camp site for the wonderful time we had last weekend
Words cannot do justice to the feelings and experiences. Thanks to NALS Team - YOU ARE THE BEST...
We express our appreciation and happiness to NALS for the excellent conduct of the camp during our visit to Coonoor Campus. Also grateful for the extra care....
Some of us from SCAN group went on a 3-day trip to Coonoor organised by Akila and Sriram of Amaze in coordination with NALS
It is possible the date of your choice is not available on this program and hence we are glad to process your private batch request.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
AIM is your resource for information management, secure storage, imaging, and more. We have been proudly serving the four-state area for over 25 years, offering convenience, efficiency, and security for your information at an affordable price.
Now Offering Residential Shredding ServicesAIM now offers our secure shredding services to individuals at home. Call us to schedule an appointment with our mobile shred truck. We also accept walk-in shredding customers at our location in Springdale.
More Information >


text:
Dartmoor rooftop prisoners offered sun cream
Staff at a Devon prison offered sun cream to inmates who managed to climb on to a rooftop, the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has confirmed.
The two prisoners managed to scale the roof of Dartmoor Prison during sunny weather on 19 June.
The MoJ said sun cream was offered as part of a duty of care but declined by the prisoners.
Prisons Minister Jeremy Wright said he had ordered an "immediate review" of the incident.
He said: "This should not have happened. There should be no policies in place which promote this kind of foolishness and I have ordered an immediate review of this incident to ensure that it does not happen again."
John Hancock, from the Prison Officers' Association in the south west, said it was "absolutely ludicrous".
It is not known which of the prison's buildings was scaled, but some structures on the site, in Princetown, exceed five storeys and have steeply sloping roofs.
The offer of sun cream was a standard procedure as part of the jail's duty of care, the MoJ said.
There were no injuries and it is not clear why the men climbed on to the roof.
Mr Hancock said it was "absolutely ludicrous that inmates are being molly coddled".
He said: "They shouldn't have been up there in the first place.
"It's only going to encourage other inmates to get on the roofs and expect sun cream, and possibly cold drinks and ice creams as well."
An MoJ spokesman said: "On Thursday 19 June, there was an incident at height at HMP Dartmoor involving two prisoners.
"The incident was successfully resolved by negotiation at 16:28 BST. No staff or prisoners were injured."
The MoJ later added that the sun cream was only discussed as a negotiation tactic.
The prison, currently able to hold 659 inmates, was originally built in 1809 to hold French and American prisoners of war.


text:
(At the memorial service for Anene Booysen. Source: Daily Maverick)
Anene Booysen was a 17-year old girl from Bredasdorp in the South Western Cape. On Saturday the 2nd of February she went to a bar and drank there until the early hours of the morning. She was then lured out of the bar by some men, who raped her and mutilated her body. Several hours later she was found at a construction site by a security guard and taken to hospital where she later died from all her injuries. Before she died, she named at least one of her attackers (her former boyfriend, Jonathan Davids).
Since then there has been a huge media outcry and somewhere in all the outrage and public statements and marches, the person of Anene Booysen has been, if not ignored, then overlooked. For stories on this, read Kate Stegeman in the M&G and Ranjeni Munusamy at the Daily Maverick. I've read several stories on this and heard radio interviews and commentary and all I know about Anene Booysen, other than her shocking murder, is that she was fostered by another couple after her mother died. On the night Anene was killed, her foster mother warned her not to stay out too late.
There is talk that this will finally highlight the appalling violence against women in South Africa in the way that the terrible gang rape in India of the woman known as "India's daughter" highlighted gender inequalities and violence there.
Generally people have reacted to this story with a combination of shock, numbness, disbelief, sadness, anger and outrage. There have been calls for improved justice, calls for a sustained focus on gender activism, as well as calls for increased funding of NGOs such as Rape Crisis. The UN Commissioner for Human Rights called for a comprehensive approach to tackle the "pandemic of sexual violence in South Africa". Other commentators have said that after the initial outrage, we as South African society will forget … until the next time.
Apart from making a quick donation to Rape Crisis, I spoke to one of my colleagues about what he thought should be done. He was all for stopping school for a morning and protesting outside Parliament. Since my colleague is a lot older than me (and a respected figure) I couldn't forcefully disagree with him. But I was frustrated by this response. It's all very well to protest at what government is doing, but what are we doing? Government would say that they have substantial social development budgets. The President condemned the incident and called for a end to violence against women (perhaps ironic given that he was himself charged with rape a few years back, a charge that was later dismissed).
As for what we as schools or community organisations can do, schools have the power to raise money for worthy causes. Schools as organizations raise money and awareness with all kinds of drives and initiatives. Of course we are all busy. But isn't it time that civil society engaged around this issue? How do we as a country address these vitally important issues?
We often hear the statement that South Africa is the "rape capital of the world". Just today I saw that about 65,000 cases of sexual violence are reported in South Africa every year. A small percentage of those result in convictions.
Munusamy quotes Saths Cooper, one of South Africa's most prominent psychologists, who highlighted the complex nature of sexual violence in South Africa.
He said there were several root causes of sexual violence against women including power relations, socialisation and economic and social conditions.
"In most societies where there is economic stability and social security, incidence of rape is fairly low. But when social and economic conditions are unstable, and there is a high level of uncertainty and anxiety, there are concomitant levels of rape and other aberrations," Cooper said.
"We don't know to what extent the frustration of young and old males, at their wits end in a society that has discarded them, where they have no jobs and women tend to get things quicker exacerbates the situation. That is not a cause, but could be an underlying issue behind incidence of sexual violence."
I hope this story runs and runs. We need to move past numbness and hand-wringing and finger-pointing and outrage and highlight the areas of this problem that need fixing. Then we can support the various organizations that are already working to address the various facets of the problem. Justice needs to be the first priority. Empowering women and young people is crucial. Rehabilitating men is also important. It's time for the politicians and civil society leaders (and all of us) to come up with plans to address this massive problem.


text:
These are not easy times to give examples of moral leaders in today's political and business world. It is even more difficult to give examples of servant leaders.
The thirst for power, prestige and wealth have been an obstacle to many in their pursuit of genuine leadership and this has caused them to live in a "tension of worldly vanities" as described by Pope Francis. It is challenging to live the life of a politician or a manager while living Christian values to the full. The servant leader understands the importance of serving others, and as Robert Greenleaf describes it, "the servant leader is servant first… and sharply different from who is leader first".
Greenleaf, a former business executive, first coined the idea of 'servant leadership' in the 1950s to describe people who lead through listening, empathy, vision and commitment to empower and develop people and build community. The concept could have easily been inspired by Jesus Christ, a leader who changed the leadership orientation from oneself to that of others. The epitome of Jesus as a model of servant leadership is when he washes the feet of his disciples (John, Chapter 13).
The priority question asked is whether those served grow as human beings. Pope Francis emphasises that we need to include solidarity as an underlying principle of our business or life. What is the effect of leadership on the least privileged in society?
There is no one single definition of servant leadership. The base line is the impact that leadership has on people, not simply in economic terms, but in their human development. True leaders seek ways to improve the quality of life of others beyond income and profit.
True leaders seek ways to improve the quality of life of others beyond income and profit
Many confuse this sense of giving, serving and compassion as a sign of weakness. For many, leadership has to be charismatic and opportunistic, which borders on the cunning abuse of others. The accepted tenet is that in leadership, only the strong survive. However, this strength should also be the result of understanding, empathy and compassion. In the story of the plot against Joseph, it is Reuben, the eldest brother, motivated by a sense of responsibility of being the first, that persuades his brothers not to kill him. (Genesis 37:19-29).
Another characteristic of servant leadership is that of self-sacrifice and restraint, illustrated by Jesus describing himself as the Good Shepherd who gives his life for his sheep (John 10:11). Restraint and humility and very difficult to find today. Many are impressed by Pope Francis' modesty in his uttering to everyone "Pray for me".
We can learn a great deal from Pope Francis on servant leadership. It is issues that matter, not positions and personalities. Go down to the essentials, not the politicking and positioning. Pope Francis makes continuous reference to the perils of clericalism.
Some hints on applied servant leadership:
• Expand the sense of value. Are leaders empowering others in encouraging their creativity and drive for innovation, ensuring that they feel self-fulfilled and not frustrated?
• Involve as many people as necessary and empower people. Are leaders giving time to develop others around them rather than suffocating them with their big personalities and personal strategies?
• Are leaders preoccupied with personal visibility and recognition?
• Know when your time is up. Leaders serve for only a season. Some seasons can be long, others can be short. But, leaders understand that their time is up to move on and make space for others.
We have to understand that we, as Christian-inspired leaders, are "imperfect servants trying to be faithful" to God, to ourselves and to others, and that true freedom can only be found when we serve others.


text:
Nick, Jr. - BRING MOOSE AND ZEE BACK!
This petition had 14,913 supporters
Prior to March 1 Nick, Jr. had a first class approach to educational and commercial free programming that targeted preschoolers – after all their slogan was "It's like preschool on TV". Nick, Jr. had a flawless format that showcased twenty-four hours of shows and each would nurture every aspect of what parents and caregivers teach otherwise – manners, numbers and colors, for example. Within their programming they had classic animated cartoons along with computer generated and even the time-honored puppet shows. Some of these shows captured the hearts of many children (and adults') hearts – shows like Jack's Big Music Show, a puppet show which featured artists like the wholesome Laurie Berkner Band and even whistling extraordinaire Andrew Bird. Other favorites included Franklin, Little Bear, Little Bill, Yo Gabba Gabba and Dora the Explorer – a lineup that flourished with diversity. To parents and caregivers, Nick Jr. had an irreproachable arrangement. In between every show children were guided by the adoring twosome, Moose and Zee, in lieu of the conventional and all too familiar commercial. Moose and Zee chaperoned kids through memory games, counting, letters games and songs that even adults grew to love. They were, in essence, the mascots for the only twenty-four hour spot for children on television. Whether meals were being prepared, beds were being made or laundry was being put away, the content of Nick, Jr – with the supplementary teachings of Moose and Zee – could be trusted by parents and caregivers alike. The tutelage of Moose and Zee along with the caliber of education offered are what set Nick, Jr. apart from the alternative. March 1 many households entered upon like any other morning. As coffee was brewed and breakfast cooked a multitude of parents and children noticed a change – no Moose and Zee. While the content was still educational, the format seemed to target a different audience – an older audience. Nick, Jr. was now "The smart place to play" – without notice and without comment. Many parents felt deserving of an explanation or even to have been prepared– that would have been the appropriate course of action by Viacom (who owns Nick, Jr.). Admittedly, Nick, Jr. is the only all day children's station, however, there were others that targeted the preschool audience during the first part of the day. Nonetheless, many families were loyal to Nick, Jr. and the audience demanded clarification. That day, and each day thereafter, hundreds of viewers commented on Nick, Jr's Facebook page inquiring about the absence of Moose and Zee and the new format. It is bright, it is bold and it is in your face. Dora the Explorer and Go Diego, Go are great shows that portray two young kids who teach Spanish – which is great, but Nick, Jr. has inundated its audience with back to back Dora and Diego episodes. Other modern type shows are present too that are educational but are lacking in the classic style that was the composition of Nick, Jr. Since Moose and Zee are no longer present to usher our children they have been replaced with self-promoting commercials and the divergence of ethnicities in shows like Little Bill, Yo Gabba Gabba and Ni Hau have been pushed past the midnight hour or cancelled altogether. With the exception of a "refer to our FAQ section of our website for answers", the audience is without clarification. In their FAQ section, where many parents and caregivers referred to for an answer were told to simply explain to the children that Moose and Zee were now working "behind the scenes" – does any parent or caregiver truly believe that? How insulting! Something had to be done – our inquiries were being ignored by executives whose bottom dollar was more important than the classic educational format families love and miss so much! The hordes of angry parents and let's not forget the heavyhearted children, have banded together to get our children's beloved pair of best buddies back where they belong and to reestablish a once sound format that Nick, Jr. was known for. Change is inevitable. Change is the only constant as the old adage says. But, there is another old adage – don't fix it if it's not broken…right? And that's the sentiment regarding the conversion Nick, Jr. has insincerely brought to pass.
Trending petitions
Today: Brenda is counting on you
Brenda Butler needs your help with "Nick, Jr. - BRING MOOSE AND ZEE BACK!". Join Brenda and 14,912 supporters today.
Today: Brenda is counting on you
Brenda Butler needs your help with "Nick, Jr. - BRING MOOSE AND ZEE BACK!". Join Brenda and 14,912 supporters today.


text:
E-learning tools 'used by many schools in UK'
Online learning is increasingly being used in schools across the UK, a specialist has said. Senior education consultant at RM Education Kat Howard pointed out the majority of youngsters starting off in academia have web-connected technological tools "at their fingertips and in their pockets". Teachers can "add value" to their pupil's education by utilising these resources both outside and inside the classroom, she added. Recent research performed by RM Education revealed 75 per cent of parents want to become more involved in their child's learning. Online training in web safety was also considered a significant issue for children to be educated in by 68 per cent of respondents. Furthermore, 72 per cent of respondents said it is of "great importance" that academic pursuits are fun, with another 25 per cent claiming this is of "some importance". A huge number of e-learning tools could help caregivers to entertain children while they learn, with Ms Howard noting a wide range of products are around that can make academia more enjoyable. Many mothers and fathers spend time considering what they should buy for their children and "don't want to just buy them a Barbie doll", she pointed out. Rather, adults wish to "enrich" the education of children and make youngsters enjoy acquiring knowledge "without even realising it", the expert added. The increased value parents can provide to their sons' and daughters' learning outside of the classroom is increasingly being brought to their attention, she argued. Virtual learning environments could also be useful for parents who have children with learning difficulties. "I think parents are aware of a great many more things than they were when I was young," Ms Howard declared, highlighting autism, dyspraxia and dyslexia as some of the issues mothers and fathers are beginning to become informed about. She claimed it is important that caregivers work alongside educational practitioners to ensure individuals with these special needs are guided and supported in the right way.


text:
Sir Hugh Laddie, former judge, professor at UCL, midwife to the Anton Piller order, author of the seminal article "Copyright, Over-Strength, Over-Regulated, Over-Rated" and all-round IP expert, died this weekend. Tributes and memories from David Vaver, William Patry, Kim Weatherall and Jeremy Phillips. UCL has a tributes page with some remarkable contributions. He was truly a giant of IP law here in the UK and indeed elsewhere.
Ted Rogers, broadcasting industry veteran, died today. Although I never met him, various different aspects of my professional and personal lives have been influenced by him in odd ways – my first step into communications law was a fellowship sponsored by him (named after his stepfather, John Graham), various bits of research have been about one or the other of his media and communications businesses (which have featured some great innovations and some famous screwups) – and of course, Rogers also owns the Toronto Blue Jays, the baseball team I follow far too closely. News report, Globe & Mail obit, baseball response, business response. Books by Caroline Van Hasselt and Gordon Pitts deal with Rogers' career and the history of Rogers Communications, and Rogers himself authored an autobiography published this year, which I haven't read.