bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studies of interaural attenuation to investigate the validity of a dichotic difference tone response recorded from the inferior colliculus in the chinchilla
Authors: Arnold Sally , Burkard Robert
Published: July 2002

In a previous paper () a dichotic f2-f1 difference tone (DT) auditory evoked potential from the chinchilla inferior colliculus (IC) was measured while presenting f1 (2000 Hz) to one ear and f2 (2100 Hz) to the other ear. This measurement paradigm could be used as a means to study binaural processing in an unanesthetized animal model. However, it is possible that this response is actually generated peripherally, as a result of acoustic crossover. The purpose of the present set of experiments was to investigate whether the dichotic DT is a true binaural phenomenon. Recordings were made from chronically implanted IC electrodes in unanesthetized, monaural chinchillas (left cochlea destroyed). In experiment 1, interaural attenuation (IA) was measured in two ways. First, IA was measured by comparing IC evoked potential thresholds obtained when stimulating the normal right ear and the dead left ear, using tone bursts (0.5–8 kHz). Mean values of interaural attenuation ranged from 50–65 dB across frequency (55 dB at 2000 Hz). Next, the DT was measured monaurally using f1=2000 and f2=2100 (L1=L2). By comparing the mean DT input/output functions for monaural stimulation of the right and left ears, a mean value of IA for the tonal pair was estimated (≈69 dB). In experiment 2, the DT was measured with right monaural stimulation, while varying the relative levels of the primaries. A small DT could be seen with primary levels up to 30 dB apart, but not for greater level differences. Differences substantially greater than 30 dB would be expected in the crossover situation based upon IA. In experiment 3, the stimuli were presented dichotically (f1 to right ear, f2 to left ear and vice versa, L1=L2) to determine whether acoustic crosstalk to the normal right ear would generate a DT. No DT was reliably observed in this condition. Taken together, these results suggest that the dichotic DT is a true binaural phenomenon, and not simply attributable to acoustic crossover.
Influence of spatial and temporal coding on auditory gap detection
Authors: Oxenham Andrew J.
Published: July 2002

This study investigated the effect on gap detection of perceptual channels, hypothesized to be tuned to spatial location or fundamental frequency (f0). Thresholds were measured for the detection of a silent temporal gap between two markers. In the first experiment, the markers were broadband noise, presented either binaurally or monaurally. In the binaural conditions, the markers were either diotic, or had a 640-μs interaural time difference (ITD) or a 12-dB interaural level difference (ILD). Reversing the ITD across the two markers had no effect on gap detection relative to the diotic condition. Reversing the ILD across the two markers produced a marked deterioration in performance. However, the same deterioration was observed in the monaural conditions when a 12-dB level difference was introduced between the two markers. The results provide no evidence for the role of spatially tuned neural channels in gap detection. In the second experiment, the markers were harmonic tone complexes, filtered to contain only high, unresolved harmonics. Using complexes with a fixed spectral envelope, where the f0 (of 140 or 350 Hz) was different for the two markers, produced a deterioration in performance, relative to conditions where the f0 remained the same. A larger deterioration was observed when the two markers occupied different spectral regions but had the same f0. This supports the idea that peripheral coding is dominant in determining gap-detection thresholds when the two markers differ along any physical dimension. Higher-order neural coding mechanisms of f0 and spatial location seem to play a smaller role and no role, respectively.
Multichannel speech intelligibility and talker recognition using monaural, binaural, and three-dimensional auditory presentation
Authors: Drullman Rob , Bronkhorst Adelbert W.
Published: July 2002

In a 3D auditory display, sounds are presented over headphones in a way that they seem to originate from virtual sources in a space around the listener. This paper describes a study on the possible merits of such a display for bandlimited speech with respect to intelligibility and talker recognition against a background of competing voices. Different conditions were investigated: speech material (words/sentences), presentation mode (monaural/binaural/3D), number of competing talkers (1–4), and virtual position of the talkers (in 45°-steps around the front horizontal plane). Average results for 12 listeners show an increase of speech intelligibility for 3D presentation for two or more competing talkers compared to conventional binaural presentation. The ability to recognize a talker is slightly better and the time required for recognition is significantly shorter for 3D presentation in the presence of two or three competing talkers. Although absolute localization of a talker is rather poor, spatial separation appears to have a significant effect on communication. For either speech intelligibility, talker recognition, or localization, no difference is found between the use of an individualized 3D auditory display and a general display.
Wall slip of molten high density polyethylene. I. Sliding plate rheometer studies
Authors: Hatzikiriakos S. G. , Dealy J. M.
Published: July 2002

Experiments were performed in a sliding plate rheometer with a high density polyethylene to determine the conditions for the onset of slip and the relationship between slip velocity and shear stress. It was found that melt slip occurs at a critical shear stress of approximately 0.09 MPa in both steady and transient shear tests. The effect of the presence of a layer of fluorocarbon at the interface on both the slip velocity and the critical shear stress for the onset of slip, was also studied. Exponential shear was used to study the effect of shear history on slip. Both steady state and dynamic models for the slip velocity are proposed that are consistent with the experimental observations. Results of oscillatory shear experiments suggest that melt slip is a physicochemical process in which the polymer–wall interface undergoes continuous change during successive cycles.
Note: The work-hardening behavior of aggregated TiO2 suspensions
Authors: Aubry T. , Moan M.
Published: July 2002

This note presents a nonclassical nonlinear rheological behavior experimentally observed with TiO2 aggregated suspensions above some volume fraction. It is characterized by a sinusoidal response to oscillatory shear flow with G′≫G″ but differs from purely elastic response because it is history-dependent and G′ increases with increasing imposed shear stress below an apparent yield stress. This work-hardening behavior is discussed in terms of the structure of the aggregates present in the suspension.
Rheology of colloidal suspensions: Case of lubricating greases
Authors: Mas Rémy , Magnin Albert
Published: July 2002

Lubricating greases are two-phase colloidal suspensions consisting essentially of a mineral oil and a metal-soap based thickener forming a three-dimensional gelling network. This study examines the rheology of two greases, based on lithium soap and calcium complexes, under steady, transient and dynamic flow conditions, with homogeneous shear being applied in a cone-plate geometry. Controlled speed and controlled torque rheometers were used in this study. Various precautions need to be taken in order to obtain reliable results. These include checking and eliminating slip at the walls and fracture, correct choice of apparatus, and suitable measurement procedures. It is shown that discrepancies may arise as a result of choosing the wrong test procedures. The lithium grease is characterized by a yield stress and shear-thinning behavior, whereas the calcium complex has a minimum in the flow curve, for which controlled torque rheometer measurements are not the most suitable. Original test procedures are adopted for studying viscoelasticity and thixotropy, the importance of which depends on the type of constituents involved.
Public Support for Vehicle Technology to Prevent Operation by Impaired Drivers
Authors: Ehsani Johnathon P. , Michael Jeffrey P. , Frattaroli Shannon , Yenokyan Gayane , Sabit Ahmed
Published: April 2023

This survey study measures public support for vehicle impairment prevention technology in the US.
Incidence of Underlying Abnormal Findings on Routine Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Bell Palsy
Authors: Savary Thibault , Fieux Maxime , Douplat Marion , Tournegros Romain , Daubie Sophie , Pavie Dylan , Denoix Luna , Pialat Jean-Baptiste , Tringali Stephane
Published: April 2023

Importance

There is no consensus on the benefits of routine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the facial nerve in patients with suspected idiopathic peripheral facial palsy (PFP) (ie, Bell palsy [BP]).

Objectives

To estimate the proportion of adult patients in whom MRI led to correction of an initial clinical diagnosis of BP; to determine the proportion of patients with confirmed BP who had MRI evidence of facial nerve neuritis without secondary lesions; and to identify factors associated with secondary (nonidiopathic) PFP at initial presentation and 1 month later.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective multicenter cohort study analyzed the clinical and radiological data of 120 patients initially diagnosed with suspected BP from January 1, 2018, to April 30, 2022, at the emergency department of 3 tertiary referral centers in France.

Interventions

All patients screened for clinically suspected BP underwent an MRI of the entire facial nerve with a double-blind reading of all images.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The proportion of patients in whom MRI led to a correction of the initial diagnosis of BP (any condition other than BP, including potentially life-threating conditions) and results of contrast enhancement of the facial nerve were described.

Results

Among the 120 patients initially diagnosed with suspected BP, 64 (53.3%) were men, and the mean (SD) age was 51 (18) years. Magnetic resonance imaging of the facial nerve led to a correction of the diagnosis in 8 patients (6.7%); among them, potentially life-threatening conditions that required changes in treatment were identified in 3 (37.5%). The MRI confirmed the diagnosis of BP in 112 patients (93.3%), among whom 106 (94.6%) showed evidence of facial nerve neuritis on the affected side (hypersignal on gadolinium-enhanced T1-weighted images). This was the only objective sign confirming the idiopathic nature of PFP.

Conclusions and Relevance

These preliminary results suggest the added value of the routine use of facial nerve MRI in suspected cases of BP. Multicentered international prospective studies should be organized to confirm these results.
Effect of Deposition Temperature on the High‐Temperature Corrosion Resistance of CrMoNbZr Medium‐Entropy Alloys Coatings
Authors: Yi Jun , Zhao Jianxiao , Liu Chunhai , Long Jianping , Chen Nian , Fan Lijuan , Liu Hengquan , He Linxin , Wang Jian , Chang Hong
Published: April 2023

A near‐equimolar CrMoNbZr coating with low thermal neutron cross sections is prepared on zircaloy‐4 substrate by radio frequency magnetron sputtering. The microstructure, mechanical properties, and surface wettability of the coatings prepared at different deposition temperatures are studied. The high‐temperature corrosion resistance of the CrMoNbZr coatings is investigated by a 40 d autoclave corrosion test with pure water containing 3.5 ppm lithium, 1000 ppm boron at 320 °C. The results indicate that the CrMoNbZr coatings are mainly composed of body‐centered cube‐structured nanocrystals, and the coating deposited at 300 °C has superior high‐temperature corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. Finally, the mechanism of high‐temperature corrosion is elucidated.
Immunotherapeutic Hydrogel with Photothermal Induced Immunogenic Cell Death and STING Activation for Post‐Surgical Treatment
Authors: Wang Meng , Zhang Xiaohui , Liu Bing , Liu Chen , Song Caimei , Chen Yu , Jin Yubei , Lin Jing , Huang Peng , Xing Shaojun
Published: April 2023

Post‐surgical tumor recurrence remains a major clinical concern for patients with malignant solid tumors. Herein, an immunotherapeutic hydrogel (SAPBA/ZMC/ICG) is developed by incorporating metal ion‐cyclic dinucleotide (CDN) nanoparticles (Zn‐Mn‐CDN, ZMC) and a photosensitizer (indocyanine green, ICG) into phenylboronic acid (PBA)‐conjugated sodium alginate (SAPBA) for photothermal therapy (PTT)‐triggered in situ vaccination to inhibit post‐surgical recurrence and metastasis of malignant tumors. The gelation of SAPBA/ZMC/ICG in the residual tumors can achieve accurate local PTT and the local sustained release of CDN and Mn2+ with minimal detrimental off‐target toxic effects. Furthermore, CDN, which is an agonist of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING), along with Mn2+ can activate the STING pathway and trigger type‐I‐IFN‐driven immune responses against tumors. Therefore, the immunotherapeutic hydrogel with enhanced immune response by STING agonist and PTT‐induced immunogenic cell death (ICD) reprograms the post‐surgical immunosuppressive microenvironment, substantially decreasing the post‐surgical recurrence and metastasis of solid tumors in multiple murine tumor models when administered during surgical resection. Taken together, PTT‐triggered and STING‐mediated in situ cancer vaccination is an effective therapeutic intervention for post‐surgical recurrence and metastasis of tumors.
Reconstructing Oxygen‐Deficient Zirconia with Ruthenium Catalyst on Atomic‐Scale Interfaces toward Hydrogen Production
Authors: Kim Mansu , Kim Seung‐hoon , Park Jonghwan , Lee Seongsoo , Jang Injoon , Kim Sohui , Lee Chang Yeon , Kwon Oh Joong , Ham Hyung Chul , Hupp Joseph T. , Jung Namgee , Yoo Sung Jong , Whang Dongmok
Published: April 2023

Downsizing a catalyst nanoparticle (NP) to a single atom (SA) has proven to be highly effective in increasing catalytic activity and decreasing the amount of catalyst required for various electrochemical reactions. However, insufficient stability of the single‐atom site catalysts (SACs) is still a significant challenge for their practical application. Here, SACs firmly bound to stable metal oxide NPs are proposed to dramatically increase the electrochemical activity and stability of SA‐based catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Starting from a Ru‐infiltrated, Zr‐based metal‐organic framework (MOF), the tetragonal zirconium oxide (ZrO2‐x) NPs‐embedded carbon matrix is fabricated as support through facile pyrolysis. Simultaneously, Ru SAs as active sites are well dispersed on the surface of ZrO2‐x NPs due to the generation of oxygen vacancies in the tetragonal ZrO2‐x. The Ru‐ZrO2‐x SAC exhibits a 4–5 times higher mass activity than commercial Pt and Ru catalysts and superior durability due to strong metal‐support interaction (SMSI) between Ru atoms and ZrO2‐x substrate.
Efficient Ultrathin Self‐Powered Organic Photodetector with Reduced Exciton Binding Energy and Auxiliary Föster Resonance Energy Transfer Processes
Authors: Qiao Jia‐Wei , Cui Feng‐Zhe , Feng Lin , Lu Peng , Yin Hang , Hao Xiao‐Tao
Published: April 2023

Recent advances in organic photodetectors (OPDs) have enabled high detectivity, high quantum efficiency, and fast response, due to their broad spectral response, easy processing, compatibility with flexible devices, and cooling‐free operations. The advantages of combining ultrathin and self‐powered OPDs are rarely explored, as technological limitations and lack of knowledge on the underlying mechanisms may lead to low light absorption efficiency and carrier recombination issues. Here, a modification layer‐assisted approach is developed to construct ultrathin self‐powered OPDs with enhanced sensitivity and ultrafast response time performance due to efficient exciton dissociation, energy transfer, and charge extraction processes. Specifically, this strategy enables a reduced exciton binding energy (42.4 meV) for efficient dissociation, as well as an increased dielectric constant of the photosensitive layer that shields undesirable lattice binding effects of photogenerated excitons. As a result, a remarkable device responsivity (0.45 A W−1), improved response detectivity (1.25 × 1012 Jones), and enhanced energy transfer efficiency (78.7%) are observed in the modified ultrathin organic photodetector. These findings illustrate a clear correlation between the exciton dissociation process, photogenerated exciton yields, and energy transfer channels, providing essential insight into the design of efficient ultrathin organic photodetectors.
Interaction Study of Anti‐E. coli Immobilization on 1DZnO at Nanoscale for Optical Biosensing Application
Authors: Salinas Rafael A. , Galdámez‐Martínez Andrés , Tolibia Shirlley E. Martínez , Garduño Claudia , Ramos Carlos , Santana Guillermo , Orduña Abdu , Dutt Ateet
Published: April 2023

Developing low‐cost biosensing platforms for robust detection response and sensitivity at low concentrations is of great interest. This work reports synthesizing 1D ZnO nanostructured materials (1DZnO) with controllable properties utilizing a metal catalyst‐assisted vapor phase growth technique (VLS). The obtained materials are functionalized with (3‐aminopropyl) trimetoxysilane (APTMS) and immobilized with anti‐Escherichia coli enteropathogenic (EPEC) antibodies. Characterization results show changes in the optical and structural properties of 1DZnO that are correlated with the biofunctionalization methodologies. Further, the biofunctionalization process is assessed on 1DZnO surface platforms to obtain acceptable antibody immobilization efficiencies (52%, 96%, and 100%) using a low‐concentration antibody solution (30 µg ml−1). Special techniques such as focused ion beam micromachining and scanning tunneling electron microscopy are proposed to appreciate the semiconductor biofunctionalization layer around 1DZnO and explain the physics of the interaction process. It is found that morphology obtained from distinct synthesis methods, solvents, and functionalization agents can generate functional groups for biomolecule attachment. Remarkably, it is demonstrated that biofunctionalization on 1DZnO takes place all over a single nanostructure. This work presents a proof‐of‐concept focused on generating pathogen sensing platforms using 1DznO semiconducting materials, providing new insights into bio‐analytes interaction with structures at the nanoscale.
Characterization of Nanometric Thin Films with Far‐Field Light
Authors: Klimovsky Hodaya , Shavit Omer , Julien Carine , Olevsko Ilya , Hamode Mohamed , Abulafia Yossi , Suaudeau Hervé , Armand Vincent , Oheim Martin , Salomon Adi
Published: April 2023

The characterization of ultrathin transparent films is paramount for various optoelectronic materials, coatings, and photonics. However, characterizing such thin layers is difficult and it requires specialized clean‐room equipment and trained personnel. Here, a contact‐less, all‐optical method is introduced and validated for characterizing nanometric transparent films using far‐field optics. A series of nanometric, smooth, and homogeneous layered samples are fabricated first, alternating transparent spacer and fluorescent layers in a controlled manner. Fluorescence radiation pattern originating from the thin fluorophore layers is then recorded and analyzed and quantitative image analysis is used to perform in operando measurements of the refractive index, film homogeneity and to estimate axial fluorophore distances at a sub‐wavelength scale with a precision of a few of nanometers. The results compare favorably to measurements obtained through more complicated and involved techniques. Applications in nanometrology and biological axial super‐resolution imaging are presented. It is demonstrated in live cells the precise axial localization of single organelles in cortical astrocytes, an important type of brain cell. The approach is cheap, versatile and it will have applications in various fields of photonics.
Elucidating Structure Formation in Highly Oriented Triple Cation Perovskite Films
Authors: Telschow Oscar , Scheffczyk Niels , Hinderhofer Alexander , Merten Lena , Kneschaurek Ekaterina , Bertram Florian , Zhou Qi , Löffler Markus , Schreiber Frank , Paulus Fabian , Vaynzof Yana
Published: April 2023

Metal halide perovskites are an emerging class of crystalline semiconductors of great interest for application in optoelectronics. Their properties are dictated not only by their composition, but also by their crystalline structure and microstructure. While significant efforts are dedicated to the development of strategies for microstructural control, significantly less is known about the processes that govern the formation of their crystalline structure in thin films, in particular in the context of crystalline orientation. This work investigates the formation of highly oriented triple cation perovskite films fabricated by utilizing a range of alcohols as an antisolvent. Examining the film formation by in situ grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering reveals the presence of a short‐lived highly oriented crystalline intermediate, which is identified as FAI‐PbI2‐xDMSO. The intermediate phase templates the crystallization of the perovskite layer, resulting in highly oriented perovskite layers. The formation of this dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) containing intermediate is triggered by the selective removal of N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) when alcohols are used as an antisolvent, consequently leading to differing degrees of orientation depending on the antisolvent properties. Finally, this work demonstrates that photovoltaic devices fabricated from the highly oriented films, are superior to those with a random polycrystalline structure in terms of both performance and stability.
Charged Domain Walls in BaTiO3 Crystals Emerging from Superdomain Boundaries
Authors: Bednyakov Petr S. , Hlinka Jiří
Published: April 2023

Previous experiments with barium titanate crystals have shown that electric field applied in the vicinity of its ferroelectric phase transition can be used to introduce peculiar ferroelectric domain walls, persisting to the ambient conditions: head‐to‐head charged walls compensated by the 2D electron gas. The present in situ optical observations allow the documentation of the early stage of this poling process in which the cubic and ferroelectric phases coexist, the latter being broken into multiple martensitic superdomains, separated by superdomain boundaries. It is revealed that the transient superdomains are subsequently converted into the regular ferroelectric domains, while the superdomain boundaries transform into the desired charged domain walls. In order to assign the observed transient domain patterns, to understand the shapes of the observed ferrolectric precipitates and their agglomerates as well as to provide the overall interpretation of the recorded domain formation process, the implications of the mechanical compatibility of the coexisting superdomain states are derived in the framework of the Wechsler–Lieberman–Read theory. These results also suggest that both the electric conductivity and interlinked motion of the superdomain boundaries and phase fronts are involved in the transport of the compensating charge carriers toward the charged domain wall location.
Highly Oxidation‐Resistant Ether Gel Electrolytes for 4.7 V High‐Safety Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Zhang Chunxiao , Lu Zheng , Song Miao , Zhang Youquan , Jing Chuyang , Chen Libao , Ji Xiaobo , Wei Weifeng
Published: April 2023

Ether electrolytes are considered to be one of the most promising candidates for lithium metal batteries (LMBs) since they help to form a stable solid electrolyte interface (SEI) on lithium anodes. However, conventional liquid ether electrolytes are not suitable for the high‐voltage LMBs over 4.5 V due to their narrow potential windows. Herein, a gel electrolyte strategy is demonstrated to improve the high voltage stability of ether electrolytes in LMBs with Li‐rich layered oxide (LLO) cathodes that usually operate at 4.6 V and above. Compared with a liquid electrolyte, the electrochemical window of the gel electrolyte with cross‐linked amide framework is increased by 1 V. The strong cross‐linked framework not only regulates the uniform growth of cathode electrolyte interface (CEI)/SEI on the cathode/anode sides, but also greatly increases the Li+ transference number and inhibits the generation of harmful substances by anchoring PF6− anions, thus providing a long cycle for LMBs at a high voltage up to 4.7 V. Simultaneously, the flame retardancy and flexibility of the gel electrolyte ensures the safe operation of high‐voltage LMBs. Therefore, the LLO||Li pouch cell using gel electrolyte realizes stable cycling at a high voltage 4.6 V, and can pass the acupuncture test.
A Novel Plastic‐Crystal Electrolyte with Fast Ion‐Transport Channels for Solid Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhao Zhiming , Nian Binbin , Lei Yongjiu , Wang Yizhou , Shi Lin , Yin Jian , Mohammed Omar F. , Alshareef Husam N.
Published: April 2023

Miniaturized solid zinc‐ion batteries that are safe, environmentally friendly, and low‐cost are ideal candidates for powering emerging microelectronics. However, sluggish Zn2+ mobility in solid phases hampers the viability of solid Zn2+ electrolytes and hence their practicability. Here, nanoscale Zn2+ channels are successfully engineered in a plastic‐crystal electrolyte, thus activating fast Zn2+ solid‐state transport. The ion‐dipole interaction exerted by water molecules orients amphiphilic anions in bilayers, further forming a layered architecture backed by long‐range van der Waals attractive forces. In the interlayer, the heteroleptic coordination contributed by the water molecule and anion frees the Zn2+ from anionic traps, leading to a high Zn2+ conductivity of 2.2 × 10−3 S cm−1. This elaborately tailored texture confers a combination of robust mechanical characteristics and outstanding electrochemical performance upon the resultant electrolyte. The applicability is demonstrated by the high Zn2+ platting/stripping efficiency (99.6%), durable longevity of symmetric Zn‐Zn and Zn‐MnO2 cells, as well as the engineering of versatile micro batteries (MBs). This work provides new perspectives for developing super multivalent ion conductors through the innovative design of ion‐conducting nanochannels.
Postoperative diplopia after medial–inferior orbital wall decompression in patients with thyroid eye disease
Authors: Armache Maria , McKnight Tory , Parsel Sean M. , Chitguppi Chandala , Toskala Elina , Rosen Marc , Watson Alison , Pribitkin Edmund , Rabinowitz Michael , Rabinowitz Mindy , Bilyk Jurij , Nyquist Gurston
Published: April 2023

Key points

10% of patients undergoing MAI decompression for TED developed new‐onset diplopia

MAI decompression remains an excellent option for orbital decompression for TED
Enzymatic hydrolysis and detection of 3‐monochloropropane‐1,2‐diol esters
Authors: Xu Ting , Zeng Qingru , Liu Xin , Xiao Shensheng , Jiang Xiaoming , Lu Yuepeng , Gong Zhiyong , Gao Yonggui , Fang Min
Published: April 2023

There are more and more studies on the detection method of 3‐chloro‐1,2‐propanediol fatty acid esters (3‐MCPD esters) at present, by comparing these methods for the determination of 3‐MCPD esters. Indirect methods, which determine total amount of 3‐MCPD after hydrolysis of the esters, have an advantage over direct methods. The existing indirect methods, however, may yield unreliable results or require long hours of alkaline methanolysis. In contrast, the indirect enzymatic hydrolysis method has mild conditions and more accurate results. In this study, we developed a reliable and rapid indirect method for determination of 3‐MCPD esters. 3‐MCPD esters were enzymolysis to 3‐MCPD by indirect enzymatic hydrolysis method, and the conditions of enzymatic hydrolysis were optimized, the content of 3‐MCPD after enzymatic hydrolysis was detected by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and the yield was calculated. Finally, the optimum conditions for enzymatic hydrolysis of 3‐MCPD esters were determined. According to the optimal enzymatic hydrolysis condition, the contents of 3‐MCPD esters in four food oils were determined. The method is simple and sensitive and can meet the requirement of 3‐MCPD esters detection in general oils.
Enhancement of polypropylene mechanical behavior by the synergistic effect of mixtures of carbon nanofibers and graphene nanoplatelets modified with cold propylene plasma
Authors: Covarrubias‐Gordillo C. A. , Rivera‐Salinas J. E. , Fonseca‐Florido H. A. , Ávila‐Orta C. A. , Medellín‐Rodríguez F. J. , Medellín‐Banda D. I. , Pérez‐Rodríguez P.
Published: April 2023

Incorporating carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) into polymers can enhance their mechanical behavior; however, enhancement depends strongly on compatibility and homogeneous dispersion. Actual methods to succeed high dispersion and compatibility are complicated, have solvent‐associated problems, and long processing times. The present work proposes the increase of the dispersion and compatibility of CNPs in a polypropylene (PP) matrix to obtain a nanocomposite with high mechanical properties, using simple, fast, and green methodologies: the modification of the CNPs by cold propylene plasma and the synergistic effect resulting from mixtures of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) with PP matrix by melt mixing. Mixtures of CNFs and GNPs in 9:1, 8:2, and 7:3 ratios at 1 and 5 wt/wt% with and without surface modification by cold propylene plasma were fabricated. The compatibility and dispersion of the CNPs in the PP matrix were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Raman spectroscopy, and the results were related to the mechanical properties. The results show that the use of mixtures improved the dispersion in the system and hindered the reagglomeration of CNPs, whereas surface modification with plasma promotes higher compatibility between the phases. The elastic modulus of PP reached an increase of 127.40% using a modified mixture by plasma in a 7:3 ratio (CNF:GNPs) at 5 wt/wt%, while when the CNPs were used individually, the modified CNFs and GNPs at 5 wt/wt%, reached 97.77% and 111.85%, respectively. In addition, a finite element analysis shows that the stresses in nanocomposites fabricated with mixtures of CNPs are supported to a greater extent by GNPs than CNFs due to their morphology with a low number of graphene sheets, which allows them to have greater flexibility.
Failure analysis of fiberglass cover used for photovoltaic plants
Authors: Cepolina Francesco , Gabrielli Serena , Ferla Guido , Marcantoni Enrico , Spinelli Lorenzo
Published: April 2023

Cover boxes with inspection glass are generally used outdoors for photovoltaic systems. Sometimes these boxes break, during normal use. High temperature, thermal stress, cyclic stress, and cracking contribute to weakening the polymeric inspection “glass”. The study presents an interdisciplinary analysis to discover the mode of occurrence and causes of the failure. First, the material is accurately characterized. Then its mechanical behavior is characterized in a virtual scenario that reconstructs the real external environment. The goal is to build a new cover with inspection boxes that exhibits superior life cycle behavior when exposed to harsh weather conditions and atmospheric agents. The breaking phenomena of solar panels covering boxes in PMMA (Poly Methyl Methacrylate) are examined. Environmental stress is the main responsible for cracking. Styrene is employed in the polymerization process of Sheet Molding Compound (SMC); the diffusion of this material is the main responsible for cracking. Comprehensive engineering analysis shows how the thermoplastic component fails after being exposed to atmospheric agents. The PMMA “glass” is one of the polymers most sensible to the crazing phenomena.
Non‐spherical shape optimization of artificial hip joint based on elastohydrodynamic lubrication analysis
Authors: Gu Junfeng , Li Qin , Zhang Tianyi , Li Zheng , Ruan Shilun , Shen Changyu
Published: April 2023

Structural optimization design is a promising way to further promote the lubrication performance of the artificial hip joint (AHJ). In this work, a non‐spherical shape optimization design strategy for the femoral head is firstly proposed. The generatrix, the line rotated about an axis that generates the bearing surface of the femoral head, is characterized based on a third‐order Bezier curve. The performance of the AHJ under steady‐state condition is analyzed by solving the governing equations of the elastohydrodynamic lubrication problem, and the minimum lubricating film thickness of the AHJ is maximized by adjusting the positions of four control points of the Bezier curve based on the simulated annealing method. The results show that, when compared with the standard spherical femoral head, the optimized non‐spherical femoral head can significantly improve the minimum thickness and reduce the maximum pressure of the lubricating film of the AHJ. Through the analysis of the optimization process, the results further reveal that the shape of the femoral head has a direct impact on the thickness distribution of the lubricating film. This research will provide guidance and theoretical support for novel design of AHJs.
Synthesis and properties of silicone‐epoxy polymer with long silicone chain
Authors: Li Hualin , Ai Jiaoyan , Wang Chaozhi , Nie Xiulong , Liu Baohua , Liu Jinming , Zhao Zhilei
Published: April 2023

Silicone‐epoxy polymers (SEP) with different n(SiH)/n(CC) ratios were synthesized through the hydrosilylation reaction of diallyl bisphenol A epoxy resin (DADGEBA) and hydrogen‐containing silicone oil (HS) with long silicone chain. The structure of SEP was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR), and gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and the compatibility of the curing system was studied by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). DMA and SEM results showed that after curing with epoxy curing agent, the compatibility of the curing system was excellent. The mechanical, bonding, and thermal properties of the cured product were also measured. The cured product exhibited superior thermal stability and mechanical properties. High toughness of SEP was provided by the long silicone chain, and high mechanical strength was provided by the cross‐linking networks. The maximum tensile strength was 15.64 MPa, the maximum elongation at break was 62%, and the maximum tensile lap‐shear strength was 8.89 MPa. The silicone‐epoxy polymers can be widely used in electronic packaging in the future.
Box–Behnken optimization of biodiesel production using trisodium phosphate catalyst from monazite ore processes
Authors: Saisriyoot Maythee , Suksuchot Waraporn , Thanapimmetha Anusith , Rattanaphra Dussadee , Srinophakun Penjit
Published: April 2023

Trisodium phosphate (TSP) is a non‐toxic waste obtained from alkaline cracking as part of the processing of monazite ore. After simple purification, TSP can be utilized in many applications; however, it is used as a catalyst in this study. It is characterized using Thermogravimetric analysis , X‐ray diffraction analysis, Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller, and Temperature‐programmed desorption of carbon dioxide and optimized in the transesterification reaction. After recrystallization and calcination at 350 °C for 0.5 h, the form of the TSP was tetragonal, with a 2.61 m2/g surface area and 537.4 x 10‐6 mol/g basic sites. Trisodium phosphate can therefore be utilized effectively as a solid base catalyst for the transesterification of palm oil. Three biodiesel production parameters were investigated: the methanol to oil molar ratio (6:1–24:1), catalyst concentration (1–10%), and reaction time (30 to 240 min). The experiments were designed using the Box–Behnken response surface method. As a result, the optimum conditions for biodiesel production are a 22:1 methanol to oil molar ratio, 4% catalyst concentration, and 200 min reaction time. The optimal fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) content is 99.79%, with an error between actual and predicted FAME of 0.21%. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Comparison of statistical models to predict age‐standardized cancer incidence in Switzerland
Authors: Trächsel Bastien , Rousson Valentin , Bulliard Jean‐Luc , Locatelli Isabella
Published: April 2023

This study compares the performance of statistical methods for predicting age‐standardized cancer incidence, including Poisson generalized linear models, age‐period‐cohort (APC) and Bayesian age‐period‐cohort (BAPC) models, autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) time series, and simple linear models. The methods are evaluated via leave‐future‐out cross‐validation, and performance is assessed using the normalized root mean square error, interval score, and coverage of prediction intervals. Methods were applied to cancer incidence from the three Swiss cancer registries of Geneva, Neuchatel, and Vaud combined, considering the five most frequent cancer sites: breast, colorectal, lung, prostate, and skin melanoma and bringing all other sites together in a final group. Best overall performance was achieved by ARIMA models, followed by linear regression models. Prediction methods based on model selection using the Akaike information criterion resulted in overfitting. The widely used APC and BAPC models were found to be suboptimal for prediction, particularly in the case of a trend reversal in incidence, as it was observed for prostate cancer. In general, we do not recommend predicting cancer incidence for periods far into the future but rather updating predictions regularly.
Influence of a patient navigation program on timeliness of care in patients with esophageal cancer
Authors: Arora Nikita , Lo Marcus , Hanna Nader M. , Pereira Jennifer , Digby Geneviève , Bechara Robert , Merchant Shaila J. , Hopman Wilma , Li Shirley , Giles Andrew , Chung Wiley
Published: April 2023

Background

Patient navigation (P.N.) is designed to eliminate barriers to care. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of a novel P.N. program on timeliness of care in patients with esophageal cancer.

Methods

This retrospective study compared the timeliness of care for esophageal cancer patients before (January 2014–March 2018) and after the implementation of a novel P.N. program (April 2018–March 2020), called EDAP, at a tertiary care center. The primary outcome was time from biopsy to first treatment; secondary outcomes included time from biopsy to complete staging, biopsy to complete preoperative workup, and referral to the first point of contact. The outcomes were evaluated in the entire cohort and then in a subgroup of patients undergoing curative multimodality therapy.

Results

There were 96 patients in the pre‐EDAP group and 98 patients in the post‐EDAP group. There was no significant difference between pre‐ and post‐EDAP in the time from biopsy to first treatment and time from biopsy to staging in the overall cohort. In the subgroup of patients undergoing curative multimodality therapy, there was a significant decrease in time from biopsy to first treatment postnavigation (60–51 days, p = 0.02), in addition to a significant decrease in time from biopsy to preoperative workup and time from biopsy to staging.

Conclusions

This is the first study demonstrating that a novel P.N. program for patients with esophageal cancer improved timeliness of care. The group of patients who benefited most were those undergoing curative multimodality therapy, likely given the extensive coordination of services required by this group.
Individualized prediction of survival benefit from postoperative radiotherapy for patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Wo Yang , Peng Yizhou , Wu Zhigang , Liu Pengcheng , Shang Yan , Shen Xuxia , Sun Yihua
Published: April 2023

Objectives

The role of postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) in malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) remains controversial and the eighth edition TNM staging scheme for MPM has not been fully verified. We aimed to develop an individualized prediction model for identifying optimal candidates for PORT among MPM patients who received surgery plus chemotherapy and externally validate the performance of the new TNM staging scheme.

Materials and Methods

Detailed characteristics of MPM patients during 2004–2015 were retrieved from SEER registries. Propensity score matching (PSM) was conducted to reduce disparities of baseline characteristics (age, sex, histologic type, stage, and type of surgery) between the PORT group and no‐PORT group. A novel nomogram was constructed based on independent prognosticators identified by multivariate Cox regression model. The discriminatory performance and degree of calibration were evaluated. We stratified patients into different risk groups according to nomogram total scores and estimated the survival benefit of PORT in different subgroups in order to identify the optimal candidates.

Results

We identified 596 MPM patients, among which 190 patients (31.9%) received PORT. PORT conferred significant survival benefit in the unmatched population, while there was no significant survival difference favoring PORT in the matched population. The C‐index of the new TNM staging scheme was closed to 0.5, which represented a poor discriminatory ability. A novel nomogram was constructed based on clinicopathological factors, including age, sex, histology, and N stage. We stratified patients into three risk groups. Subgroup analyses indicated that PORT was beneficial for high‐risk group (p = 0.003) rather than low‐risk group (p = 0.965) and intermediate‐risk group (p = 0.661).

Conclusion

We established a novel predictive model, which could make individualized prediction of survival benefit of PORT for MPM and could compensate for weakness in TNM staging system.
Leading across generations requires understanding key differences
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: April 2023

To lead effectively in any department on a college campus, you need to learn to lead in different ways that are tailored to fit each of the five generations represented on today's college campuses, according to Dr. Tim Elmore, millennial expert and the Founder and CEO of Growing Leaders, who spoke at the annual convention for the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics.
Comply with OCR's new guidance on Title VI, shared ancestry, ethnicity
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: April 2023

The Office for Civil Rights recently published a fact sheet explaining how colleges and universities can protect students from discrimination related to “shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics” (you can find the fact sheet at bit.ly/3iPfyZP). The guidance seeks to shine light into a gray area concerning race, color, and national origin discrimination.
Anodically‐Generated Alkyl Radicals Derived from Carboxylic Acids as Reactive Intermediates for Addition to Alkenes
Authors: Ding Haoran , Orazov Marat
Published: April 2023

Invited for this issue's Front Cover is the group of Prof. Marat Orazov of University of Delaware (USA). The cover picture shows the addition of an electrogenerated alkyl radical to the double bond of styrene. This C‐C coupling in the boundary layer of the electrode enables the synthesis of functionalized aromatics from inexpensive carboxylic acids. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/celc.202201099.
Autonomous and Programmable Reorganization of DNA‐Based Polymers Using Redox Chemistry**
Authors: Gentile Serena , Del Grosso Erica , Prins Leonard J. , Ricci Francesco
Published: April 2023

We demonstrate here a strategy that allows the programmable and autonomous reorganization of self‐assembled DNA polymers using redox chemistry. We have rationally designed different DNA monomers (tiles) that can co‐assemble into tubular structures. The tiles can be orthogonally activated/deactivated with disulfide‐linked DNA fuel strands that are degraded over time upon reduction because of the presence of a reducing agent in the system. The concentration of the disulfide fuels determines the activation kinetics of each DNA tile, which controls the degree of order/disorder in the formed co‐polymer. The disulfide‐reduction pathway can be employed together with enzymatic fuel‐degradation pathways providing an additional level of control in the re‐organization of DNA structures. Taking advantage of the different pH‐sensitivities of disulfide‐thiol and enzymatic reactions, we show that we can control the order in DNA‐based co‐polymers as a function of pH.
Dinuclear Mn(I) Complexes with Phosphido and Hydrido Bridges: Synthesis, Reactivity, and Hydrogenative Catalysis
Authors: Lacy David C. , Abhyankar Preshit C.
Published: April 2023

A class of organomanganese hydrogenation catalysts was recently rediscovered. These are simple dinuclear Mn(I) carbonyl compounds with phosphido (PR2−) and hydrido (H−) bridges. This class of compounds has been known since the 1960’s, and they have rich coordination chemistry and reactivity. Given their recently discovered potential for catalytic applications, a fresh look at this class of compounds was necessary. Hence, this Review comprehensively covers the synthesis, reactivity, and catalysis of this interesting class of molecules.
Massively Parallel Double‐Selection Workflow for the Evolution of Molecular Switches Based on Surface‐Display in Escherichia coli
Authors: Givelet Louis , Bienau Alexandra , Simmel Friedrich C.
Published: April 2023

Microbial surface display of proteins is a versatile method for a wide range of biotechnological applications. Herein, the use of a surface display system in E. coli for the evolution of a riboswitch from an RNA aptamer is presented. To this end, a streptavidin‐binding peptide (SBP) is displayed at the bacterial surface, which can be used for massively parallel selection using a magnetic separation system. Coupling gene expression from a riboswitch library to the display of SBP hence allows selection of library members that express strongly in the presence of a ligand. As excessive SBP expression leads to bacterial growth inhibition, it can be used to negatively select against leaky riboswitches expressing in the absence of ligand. Based on this principle, we devise a double selection workflow that enables quick selection of functional riboswitches with a comparatively low screening workload. The efficiency of our protocol by re‐discovering a previously isolated theophylline riboswitch from a library was demonstrated, as well as a new riboswitch that is similar in performance, but slightly more responsive at low theophylline concentrations. Our workflow is massively parallel and can be applied to the screening or pre‐screening of large molecular libraries.
Caging of Bodipy Photosensitizers through Hydrazone Bond Formation and their Activation Dynamics
Authors: Say Büşra , Tatar Beytullah , Üzülmez Betül , Bakırcı Melike Ebrar , Gülseren Gülcihan , Cakmak Yusuf
Published: April 2023

Three unique hydrazone‐based small‐molecule‐activatable photosensitizers were designed and synthesized. Two of them work efficiently in a low‐pH environment, resembling the microenvironment of the cancerous tissues. The activation pathway is unique and based on hydrazone bond cleavage. They were investigated through in vitro cellular studies in aggressive cancer lines, and tumor‐specific culture conditions successfully initiated the cleavage and activation of the cytotoxic singlet oxygen generation in the relevant time period. The interesting photophysical characteristics of the α‐ and β‐substituted hydrazone derivatives of the Bodipy structures and their mild hydrolysis methodologies were also investigated successfully.