Infrared Spectroscopy of Polybenzimidazole in the Dry and Hydrate Forms: A Combined Experimental and Computational Study.

In the present article, the infrared spectrum of polybenzimidazole (PBI) in the dry and hydrate forms has been studied both experimentally and theoretically to improve the interpretation of its complex features, especially in the ν(NH)/ν(OH) range, which is extensively affected by sorbed water and temperature. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy measurements were performed to monitor HO sorption, whereas the temperature behavior was investigated by in situ measurements in the 100-450 °C range. Density functional theory calculations on simplified models of dry and hydrated PBI showed good agreement with experimental results and allowed a reliable interpretation of the observed effects.

Controlling Reaction Selectivity over Hybrid Plasmonic Nanocatalysts.

The localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) excitation in plasmonic nanoparticles has been used to accelerate several catalytic transformations under visible-light irradiation. In order to fully harness the potential of plasmonic catalysis, multimetallic nanoparticles containing a plasmonic and a catalytic component, where LSPR-excited energetic charge carriers and the intrinsic catalytic active sites work synergistically, have raised increased attention. Despite several exciting studies observing rate enhancements, controlling reaction selectivity remains very challenging.

Risk-Informed Mean Recurrence Intervals for Updated Wind Maps in ASCE 7-16.

ASCE 7 is moving toward adopting load requirements that are consistent with risk-informed design goals characteristic of performance-based engineering (PBE). ASCE 7-10 provided wind maps that correspond to return periods of 300, 700, and 1,700 years for Risk Categories I, II, and combined III/IV, respectively. The risk targets for Risk Categories III and IV buildings and other structures (designated as essential facilities) are different in PBE.

The Elicitation of Relaxation and Interoceptive Awareness Using Floatation Therapy in Individuals With High Anxiety Sensitivity.

Background: Floatation-REST (Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy), an intervention that attenuates exteroceptive sensory input to the nervous system, has recently been found to reduce state anxiety across a diverse clinical sample with high levels of anxiety sensitivity (AS). To further examine this anxiolytic effect, the present study investigated the affective and physiological changes induced by Floatation-REST and assessed whether individuals with high AS experienced any alterations in their awareness for interoceptive sensation while immersed in an environment lacking exteroceptive sensation.

Methods: Using a within-subject crossover design, 31 participants with high AS were randomly assigned to undergo a 90-minute session of Floatation-REST or an exteroceptive comparison condition.

Reaction Pathway Dependence in Plasmonic Catalysis: Hydrogenation as a Model Molecular Transformation.

The localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) excitation in plasmonic nanoparticles can enhance or mediate chemical transformations. Increased reaction rates for several reactions have been reported due to this phenomenon; however, the fundamental understanding of mechanisms and factors that affect activities remains limited. Here, by investigating hydrogenation reactions as a model transformation and employing different reducing agents, H and NaBH , which led to different hydrogenation reaction pathways, we observed that plasmonic excitation of Au nanoparticle catalysts can lead to negative effects over the activities.

Evaluating polymer degradation with complex mixtures using a simplified surface area method.

Chemical-resistant gloves, designed to protect workers from chemical hazards, are made from a variety of polymer materials such as plastic, rubber, and synthetic rubber. One material does not provide protection against all chemicals, thus proper polymer selection is critical. Standardized testing, such as chemical degradation tests, are used to aid in the selection process.