Four ring-shaped silafluorene-containing compounds (1–4) were synthesized and characterized as potentially promising monomers for fluorescent polymers. Their optical properties in solution and solid state (thin film and powder) were studied. These compounds have low quantum yields in solution (Φ_fl=0.13-0.15) with fluorescence maxima at about 355 nm, but high quantum yields in the solid state (powder, Φ_fl=0.35-0.54) with fluorescence maxima at about 377 and 488 nm. Influence of the substituents and the number of silafluorene units in 1–4 on their optical properties was investigated. Extensive study of the X-ray crystal structures of 1–4 was undertaken to analyze and qualitatively estimate the role, extent, and influence of silafluorene moieties’ interactions on solid-state fluorescent properties. Excited state UV/Vis and theoretical molecular orbital (MO) calculations were performed to explore possible fluorescence mechanisms and differences in quantum yields among these compounds.

N-acetyl-L-cysteine (L-NAC) is a potent antioxidant that can reduce levels of reactive oxygen species. N-acetyl-cysteine-amide, the amide form of L-NAC, has recently been reported to be more lipophilic and permeable through cell membranes than NAC, and to be able to traverse the blood–brain barrier. In this communication we report the synthesis and characterization of highly lipophilic sila-amide derivatives of L-NAC that may show enhanced cell penetration and bioavailability. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Since the initial discovery of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as a good lithium ion conductor at elevated temperatures, efforts have been made to find ways of incorporating this biocompatible polymer into lithium ion batteries. In areas of research involving implantable medical devices, consumer electronics and automotive power sources, there is a need to develop a ‘safe’ alternative to the solvent-based, flammable and toxic electrolytes currently employed. However, PEG has been shown to be electrochemically unstable and crystalline at room temperature. In order to overcome these problems, polysiloxanes have been conjugated to PEG in order to improve its conductivity and physical properties. Over the last few years, the group at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has been involved in collaborations with scientists at Argonne National Laboratories, Grinnell College and Quallion LLC to develop commercially viable silicon-containing polymer electrolytes. This mini-review discusses the electrochemical, thermal and physical properties of these electrolytes, and highlights the progress from high molecular weight polysiloxane-based electrolytes to low-viscosity, highly conducting oligosiloxane and silane electrolytes. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry