bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient astaxanthin production: Advanced strategies to improve microbial fermentation
Authors: Zhou Qiang , Yang Jiahui , Jiang Wankui , Zhang Wenming , Chen Minjiao , Jiang Yujia , Xin Fengxue
Published: December 2024

Astaxanthin is a very valuable chemical with strong antioxidant effects, including anti‐cancer, anti‐inflammatory, eye protection, and other properties. The rapid development of synthetic biology has facilitated microbial astaxanthin production, offering environmental benefits, mild reaction conditions, and alignment with consumer demand for natural compounds. Accordingly, this review introduces the latest progress in the production of astaxanthin using different microorganisms including native microbes like Haematococcus pluvialis and Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous, as well as engineered microbes like Yarrowia lipolytica and Escherichia coli. Methods for improving astaxanthin production through fermentation process regulation and metabolic engineering are reviewed and directions for future work are proposed.
Exploring Avatar Selves in the Metaverse: Consumer Co‐Creation of Experiences
Authors: Chakraborty Amrita , Jain Varsha , Belk Russell
Published: December 2024

This study seeks to understand how metaverse users interact with the platform to co‐create their experiences and shape altered selves through embodied avatars, further influencing their engagement or disengagement within the platform using social constructionism and narrative identity theory. The paper's uniqueness stems from understanding the developing idea of self in the metaverse using netnography and phenomenological semi‐structured interviews. Our research found that co‐creating experiences is an ongoing two‐way exchange between consumers and platforms in a digital space based on three significant parameters: cognitive (experimenting and informative), conative (the sense of presence) and affective (fun and entertaining). Further, an altered self emerges from this process, which leads to consumer engagement or disengagement with the platform. The paper contributes significantly to the literature on the evolving concept of the self in the metaverse.
Cerebral Fat Embolism After Traumatic Long‐Bone Fracture: A Case Report
Authors: Ippolito Mariachiara , Benenati Vincenzo , Gambino Valentina , Lapi Maria , Nicosia Dario , Pace Alessandro , Presti Gabriele , Ronga Fiammetta , Spina Noemi , Tutone Marco , Vanella Rosaria , Federico Antonino , Giarratano Antonino , Cortegiani Andrea
Published: December 2024

We here describe a rare case of a 26‐year‐old male patient, presenting to our hospital after a motorcycle–car accident for the surgical management of long‐bone fractures to the tibia and femur and shoulder dislocation and undergoing orthopedic surgery, who postoperatively developed seizure, coma, and respiratory failure due to a cerebral fat embolism. After some hours after the surgery, a loss of consciousness was described by caregivers, and the ICU team was alerted, and the patient was admitted to ICU. Intracranial hemorrhage and stroke were subsequently excluded and, finally, a whole‐body computed tomography angiography scan and head magnetic resonance imaging showed lesions consistent with cerebral fat embolism. Patent foramen ovale was then suspected by contrasted echocardiography. An early diagnosis helped to choose the correct management, with early tracheostomy, and to correctly interpret and manage hemodynamic dysregulations. Overall, the care provided lead to positive long‐term outcomes, as the patient was discharged alive and successfully completed neurological rehabilitation, regaining many functional abilities. The initial management, diagnostic pathway, and ICU management are here described.
An Act of Auto‐Eroticism: Self‐Urethral Insertion of Sewing Needle by an Old Man—A Case Report With Literature Review
Authors: Ali Rao Nouman , Irfan Sohaib , Irfan Wajiha , Raza Muhammad Asif , Anwaar Adeel , Karamat Riyan Imtiaz , Akilimali Aymar , Arain Inam Ul Haq
Published: December 2024

Self‐insertion of foreign bodies into the urethra is uncommon and is often associated with complex psychological or behavioral factors. Many cases of foreign bodies in the urethra have been reported worldwide with variable complaints of penile pain, penile itching, dysuria, hematuria, and complete obstruction of urine. These foreign objects are managed to remove according to their size, complexity of shape, and location in the urethra. We report a case of a self‐inserted sewing needle in the urethra by an old man during an act of achieving sexual gratification, which was removed through an endoscopic approach by cystoscopy, along with a literature review. This is the fourth reported case of auto‐eroticism in which a sewing needle was used to achieve sexual pleasure, making this case report a rare one.
Short Root Anomaly and Transverse Hemimelia: A Rare Case Presentation
Authors: Mazinis Emmanuel , Thomaidis Vasilios
Published: December 2024

A case of Short Root Anomaly (SRA), hypodontia and taurodontism with the associated finding of transverse hemimelia, is presented. Although there is no documented evidence of a link between SRA and hemimelia, the shared genetic, environmental and metabolic factors suggest the possibility of a common underlying mechanism.
CO2‐Promoted Reactions: A Prosperous Strategy for Conversion of Functional Group in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Zhang Zeyu , Xi Chanjuan
Published: December 2024

Due to its nontoxic nature, cost‐effectiveness, and natural abundance, carbon dioxide (CO2) is increasingly recognized as a valuable C1 source in organic synthesis. In addition to the building block for molecular construction, the role of CO2 as a promoter or catalyst to enhance reaction rates and selectivity is gaining attention. Acting as a reversible covalent Lewis acid, CO2 can function as an activating group in the transformation of various compounds, such as alcohols and amines, facilitating the dissociation of hydroxyl or activation of amino. It can also modulate the reactivity of nucleophilic reagents, including H2O, N‐heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs), cyanide (CN), and nucleophilic reductants like borohydride (BH4−). When CO2 interacts with these nucleophiles, it can exhibit Brønsted acidity or hydrogen‐bond donating capabilities and can also act as a coordinating ligand to transition metals in its carboxylate form (─CO2−). In this review, we mainly summarize and classify the synthetic applications and mechanistic insights of CO2‐promoted reactions according to different functional groups and bonding types, which include CO2‐promoted functional transformation of alcohols, CO2‐promoted functional transformation of amines; CO2‐promoted reactions in protic solvent; CO2‐promoted reactions via adducts of CO2 and nucleophiles, CO2‐promoted reductive reaction.
Base‐Free Synthesis of S‐Alkyl Isothioureas Through Ring‐Opening Reaction of Sulfonium Salts with Isothiocyanates and Amines
Authors: Qian Cun‐Wei , Xiang Wei , Gu Meng‐Qing
Published: December 2024

A convenient and base‐free three‐component reaction has been developed for the synthesis of S‐alkyl substituted isothioureas from cyclic sulfonium salts, isothiocyanates, and amines. This protocol provides an alternative avenue to access a series of S‐alkyl substituted isothioureas in moderate to good yields through ring‐opening reaction of aryl, alkenyl and alkynyl sulfonium salts. The present strategy features operational simplicity, good functional group tolerance, gram‐scale synthesis and high reaction efficiency.
A new design of predictive plus PID control for second order plus time delay systems
Authors: Hu Chonggao , Bai Jianjun , Zou Hongbo
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes two novel predictive proportional‐integral‐derivative (PID) controllers for second‐order non‐self‐balance systems and self‐balance systems with time delays. For second‐order non‐self‐balance systems with time delays, traditional predictive PID controllers suffer from the drawback of failing to return to the setpoint after disturbances. Therefore, this paper introduces a novel double predictive PID controller, termed PPI‐PPD controller, which consists of an inner‐loop predictive PD controller and an outer‐loop predictive PI controller. In second‐order self‐balance systems encountered in practical chemical processes, time delays can lead to longer adjustment times, increased overshoot, and divergence issues. In order to solve these problems, an improved predictive PID (PPID) controller is proposed in this paper, which introduces a compensation link and an anti‐interference link in the traditional predictive PID controller. This enhancement improves the dynamic response and disturbance resistance of the control system. Simulation results demonstrate that both novel predictive PID controllers exhibit excellent control performance and robustness.
Debittering and Improving Flavour of Enzymatic Soy Protein Hydrolysate Using the Maillard Reaction of Arabinose
Authors: Li Juan , Hu Qingqing , He Jinxin , Wang Xuan , Pei Zhaoyang , Xie Jianchun
Published: December 2024

The optimum reaction conditions (temperature 95°C, pH 6.5, time 70 min and cysteine 0.2 g) and significant influence factors were found by response surface model (RSM) experimentation to reduce bitterness and increase overall acceptability of soybean protein hydrolysate (SPH) using the Maillard reaction of arabinose. Three reaction products of different response values and sensory profiles were selected to be investigated further. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra and UV 294 and 420 nm analyses revealed their different extents of the Maillard reaction. Partial least squares regression analysis (PLSR) for free amino acids and molecular weight distribution and aroma compounds versus the used reaction conditions of the three samples suggested that reaction conditions of higher pH plus less Cys could cause more bitter amino acids (Leu, Val) and 500–1000 Da peptides, while those of more cysteine plus longer times under low temperatures benefitted formation of the umami amino acid of glutamic acid and > 1000 Da peptides. In particular, the reaction conditions of higher temperatures and more cysteine would generate more volatile compounds with roasted and meaty aromas unfavourable for overall acceptability. Furthermore, Pearson coefficient analysis revealed the key taste and aroma components and exposed that the fatty and caramel aromas contributed positively to overall acceptability. This study can provide references for debittering and improving the flavour of SPH.
Track‐Weighted Dynamic Functional Connectivity Profiles and Topographic Organization of the Human Pulvinar
Authors: Basile Gianpaolo Antonio , Quartarone Angelo , Cerasa Antonio , Ielo Augusto , Bonanno Lilla , Bertino Salvatore , Rizzo Giuseppina , Milardi Demetrio , Anastasi Giuseppe Pio , Saranathan Manojkumar , Cacciola Alberto
Published: December 2024

The human pulvinar is considered a prototypical associative thalamic nucleus as it represents a key node in several cortico‐subcortical networks. Through this extensive connectivity to widespread brain areas, it has been suggested that the pulvinar may play a central role in modulating cortical oscillatory dynamics of complex cognitive and executive functions. Additionally, derangements of pulvinar activity are involved in different neuropsychiatric conditions including Lewy‐body disease, Alzheimer's disease, and schizophrenia. Anatomical investigations in nonhuman primates have demonstrated a topographical organization of cortico‐pulvinar connectivity along its dorsoventral and rostrocaudal axes; this specific organization shows only partial overlap with the traditional subdivision into subnuclei (anterior, lateral, medial, and inferior) and is thought to coordinate information processing within specific brain networks. However, despite its relevance in mediating higher‐order cognitive functions, such a structural and functional organization of the pulvinar in the human brain remains poorly understood. Track‐weighted dynamic functional connectivity (tw‐dFC) is a recently developed technique that combines structural and dynamic functional connectivity, allowing the identification of white matter pathways underlying the fluctuations observed in functional connectivity between brain regions over time. Herein, we applied a data‐driven parcellation approach to reveal topographically organized connectivity clusters within the human pulvinar complex, in two large cohorts of healthy human subjects. Unsupervised clustering of tw‐dFC time series within the pulvinar complex revealed dorsomedial, dorsolateral, ventral anterior, and ventral posterior connectivity clusters. Each of these clusters shows functional coupling to specific, widespread cortico‐subcortical white matter brain networks. Altogether, our findings represent a relevant step towards a better understanding of pulvinar anatomy and function, and a detailed characterization of his role in healthy and pathological conditions.
A case of choroidal metastasis from renal cell carcinoma significantly reduced by radiotherapy
Authors: Kanazawa Koichiro , Oishi Shinnosuke , Sakamoto Akihiko , Tanabe Kuniaki , Sugiyama Kazutaka , Matsumoto Akihiko , Arakawa Akari , Matsunaga Hiromi , Harada Takafumi , Kume Haruki
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Choroidal metastasis from renal cell carcinoma is relatively rare and unresponsive to systemic treatment.

Case presentation

A man in his eighties with left renal cell carcinoma and pulmonary metastasis developed visual impairment in the left eye during primary treatment with ipilimumab and nivolumab followed by secondary treatment with cabozantinib. Consultation with an ophthalmologist revealed choroidal metastasis, which was subsequently treated with local radiotherapy (3 Gy × 10 Fr), resulting in a significant reduction in the metastatic lesions.

Conclusion

If visual impairment arises while treating renal cell carcinoma, it is essential to consider the possibility of intraocular metastasis. In terms of treatment, local therapies such as radiotherapy should be taken into consideration.
Pulmonary MRI in Newborns and Children
Authors: Stewart Neil J. , Higano Nara S. , Wucherpfennig Lena , Triphan Simon M.F. , Simmons Amy , Smith Laurie J. , Wielpütz Mark O. , Woods Jason C. , Wild Jim M.
Published: December 2024

Lung MRI is an important tool in the assessment and monitoring of pediatric and neonatal lung disorders. MRI can provide both similar and complementary image contrast to computed tomography for imaging the lung macrostructure, and beyond this, a number of techniques have been developed for imaging the key functions of the lungs, namely ventilation, perfusion, and gas exchange, through the use of free‐breathing proton and hyperpolarized gas MRI. Here, we review the state‐of‐the‐art in MRI methods that have found utility in pediatric and neonatal lung imaging, the structural and physiological information that can be gleaned from such images, and strategies that have been developed to deal with respiratory (and cardiac) motion, and other technological challenges. The application of lung MRI in neonatal and pediatric lung conditions, in particular bronchopulmonary dysplasia, cystic fibrosis, and asthma, is reviewed, highlighting our collective experiences in the clinical translation of these methods and technology, and the key current and future potential avenues for clinical utility of this methodology.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Assessment of Historical and Future Mean and Extreme Precipitation Over Sub‐Saharan Africa Using NEX‐GDDP‐CMIP6: Part I—Evaluation of Historical Simulation
Authors: Samuel Sydney , Mengistu Tsidu Gizaw , Dosio Alessandro , Mphale Kgakgamatso
Published: December 2024

This study assesses the performance of 28 NASA Earth Exchange Global Daily Downscaled Climate Projections (NEX‐GDDP‐CMIP6) models and their multi‐model ensemble (MME) in simulating mean and extreme precipitation across sub‐Saharan Africa from 1985 to 2014. The Multi‐Source Weighted‐Ensemble Precipitation (MSWEP) and Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station Data (CHIRPS) are used as reference datasets. Various statistical metrics such as the mean bias (MB), spatial correlation coefficients (SCCs), Taylor skill scores (TSS) and comprehensive ranking index (CRI) are employed to evaluate the performance of NEX‐GDDP‐CMIP6 models at both annual and seasonal scales. Results show that the NEX‐GDDP‐CMIP6 can reproduce the observed annual precipitation cycle in all the subregions, with the model spread within observational uncertainties. The MME also successfully reproduces the spatial distribution of mean precipitation, achieving SCCs and TSSs greater than 0.8 across all subregions. The biases in mean precipitation are consistent across different reference datasets. However, most of the NEX‐GDDP‐CMIP6 models show trends of mean precipitation opposite to observations. While the MME can generally reproduce the spatial distribution of extreme precipitation, its performance varies with the reference dataset, particularly for the number of rainy days (RR1) and maximum consecutive dry days (CDD). TSS values for extreme precipitation indices differ significantly by region, reference data and index, with the lowest values over South Central Africa and the highest over West Southern Africa. The CRI indicates that no single model consistently outperforms others across all subregions, even within the same region, when compared to both MSWEP and CHIRPS. These results may be helpful when using NEX‐GDDP‐CMIP6 models for future projections and impact assessment studies in sub‐Saharan Africa.
Estimating Extreme Drought Risk Through Classical and Bayesian Paradigms
Authors: Ahmad Touqeer , Sabir Safoorah , Arshad Irshad Ahmad , Hasan Taha , Albalawi Olayan
Published: December 2024

Drought poses significant challenges to both the environment and the economy, necessitating proactive mitigation strategies. This study introduces both classical and Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) extreme value probabilistic models for quantifying drought risk. The models utilise the generalised extreme value (GEV) distribution to characterise the distribution of standardised precipitation index (SPI) and non‐stationary standardised precipitation index (NSSPI) variables. Drought risk is probabilistically assessed across five regions in Baluchistan (a drought‐prone area of Pakistan) over two 20‐year periods per region. The study presents a novel approach in probabilistic quantification models, demonstrating slight performance improvement with the Bayesian MCMC paradigm, as evaluated by the continuously ranked probability scoring. Moreover, the application of the presented methodology can be extended to other climatic zones using Bayesian MCMC with informative priors constructed from historical records of the neighbouring regions.
Clinical efficacy and biomechanical analysis of a novel hollow pedicle screw combined with kyphoplasty for the treatment of Kümmell disease
Authors: Zhong Shixiao , Zhong Hui , Huang Kun , Zhao Yayu , Lei Wen , Li Weichao
Published: December 2024

Background

Vertebral augmentation is the preferred treatment for Kümmell disease (KD), but there exists a risk of cement displacement resulting in severe back pain and exacerbation of kyphosis. The study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of a novel hollow pedicle screw combined with kyphoplasty (HPS‐KP) for treating KD, effectively preventing postoperative bone cement displacement.

Methods

The prospective study included 50 KD patients with no neurological deficit detected during clinical and radiological evaluation who underwent HPS‐KP (n = 25) and PKP (n = 25) surgeries. The visual analogue scale (VAS) score, Oswestry dysfunction index (ODI), anterior vertebral height (AVH), wedge‐shape affected vertebral Cobb angle (WCA), bisegmental Cobb angle (BCA), and complications were evaluated and compared in both groups. Besides, a finite element (FE) model of T11‐L2 was constructed. The stress distributions, maximum von Mises stresses of vertebrae and bone cement, and maximum displacement of bone cement were compared and analyzed.

Results

The VAS and ODI scores at 3 days, 3 and 6 months, and 1 year after surgery significantly improved in both groups (p < 0.05). The AVH, BCA, and WCA significantly improved initially after the surgery in both groups (p < 0.05). The displacement of M2 was larger than other models, especially in flexion, right bending, and left and right rotation, while that of M6 was the lowest under all conditions.

Conclusion

HPS‐KP was a safe and effective treatment for KD, effectively relieving pain, restoring vertebral height, and correcting local kyphosis, and it had better biomechanical stability and safety than ordinary single PKP and PKP combined with pediculoplasty in avoiding cement loosening and displacement.
Cut‐off value for the posterior tibial slope indicating the risk for retear of the anterior cruciate ligament
Authors: Dracic Anel , Zeravica Domagoj , Zovko Ivica , Jäger Marcus , Beck Sascha
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The significance of the posterior tibial slope (PTS) has increasingly come into focus in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction being a risk factor for ACL graft failure. Nevertheless, inconsistent data on the critical value of the PTS exist. The purpose of this study was to define a cut‐off value for the PTS in ACL surgery.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort study, 350 revision ACL reconstructions (ACL‐RR) with a failed ACL hamstring graft and 350 primary ACL reconstructions (ACL‐R) were matched according to age, gender, concomitant injuries and graft characteristics and compared to a healthy control group. Using the proximal anatomic axis, lateral knee radiographs were evaluated for the PTS, interrater reliability was defined, ROC curves, Fischer's exact test and Baptista–Pike method were applied to define specificity and the odds ratio for a critical PTS value.

Results

Radiographic evaluation proved excellent interrater reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.969). Evaluation of the PTS revealed 10.0 ± 2.2 (5–15) degrees in the ACL‐RR group, 7.8 ± 1.8 (4.2–13) degrees in the ACL‐R group and 6.6 ± 1.9 (3.6–12) degrees in the control group with significant differences between the groups (p < 0.001). A PTS value of 10.1 degrees proved a specificity of 98% for the prediction of an ACL graft failure and indicated an 11‐fold risk for a retear of the ACL.

Conclusion

A PTS exceeding 10.1 degrees carries an 11‐fold risk for ACL graft failure and, therefore, should be considered in ACL reconstruction. These findings might serve as a cut‐off value for the indication of a slope‐reducing high tibial osteotomy in ACL surgery.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Subcutaneous and Topical Tranexamic Acid Use During Rhytidectomy
Authors: Pou Jason D. , Matabele Maya N. , Robertson Kevin M.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Tranexamic acid is a potential rhytidectomy adjunct; however, its route of administration, benefits, and safety remain a topic of debate. The purpose of this study is to analyze the effects of topical and subcutaneous TXA during rhytidectomy.

Methods

This is a retrospective, 3‐arm analysis of a single surgeon's practice from Aug. 2019 to Nov. 2023. 175 consecutive patients underwent rhytidectomy; 55 did not receive TXA (8/2019–12/2020), 65 received intraoperative topical 25 mg/mL TXA (1/2021–7/2022), and 55 received subcutaneous 5 mg/mL TXA (7/2022–11/2023). Measured outcomes included drain output, bruising, operative time, estimated blood loss, and complications.

Results

Subcutaneous and topical TXA had similar drain outputs (11.32 mL vs. 12.98 mL, respectively) and bruising scores (20.93 vs. 22.12, respectively). These were significantly less than the control group (24.05 mL, p < 0.001 and 36.28, p < 0.001, respectively). The subcutaneous group operative time (196.13 min) was less than the topical and control groups (212.72 min, p = 0.01; 207.90 min, p = 0.037, respectively) in patients who underwent rhytidectomy with platysmaplasty. EBL and seroma formation in the subcutaneous TXA group were significantly less than the control (23.92 mL vs. 31.67 mL, p = 0.011; 3.60% vs. 18.18%, p = 0.03, respectively). Hematoma, epidermolysis, and infection rates were similar between all groups.

Conclusion

Both topical and subcutaneous TXA use during rhytidectomy are associated with reduced postoperative drain output and bruising without an increased risk of complications. Subcutaneous TXA has the added associated benefit of decreasing operative time, EBL, and seroma formation.

Level of Evidence

III Laryngoscope, 2024
PLA Double‐Spirals Offering Enhanced Spatial Extensibility
Authors: Jafarpour Mohsen , Gorb Stanislav N.
Published: December 2024

Inspired by natural spiral curves, this study aims to present a strategy to find a compromise between extensibility and load‐bearing capacity in structures made from polylactic acid (PLA) as a brittle material. Herein, four geometrically distinct double‐spiral modules are fabricated using a three‐dimensional (3D) printer and subjected to tension, in‐plane sliding, and out‐of‐plane sliding to assess both their in‐plane and out‐of‐plane mechanical performance. Subsequently, a modular spiral‐based metastructure is developed and tested under tension in two different directions. The results show that the maximum extension of the modules under different loading scenarios varies from 9 to 86 mm, while their load‐bearing capacity ranges between 18 and 78 N. These significant variations highlight the considerable influence of both geometry and loading conditions on the mechanical behavior of the double‐spiral modules. Moreover, the 250% horizontal and 130% vertical extensibility of the metastructure emphasize the importance of the spatial orientation of the modules in determining the efficiency of spiral‐based metastructures. This study suggests that double‐spirals with adjustable mechanical properties, if designed rationally, can offer a promising strategy to address the limited deformability of materials like PLA, and when arranged in specific spatial configurations, they can contribute to the development of energy‐dissipative metastructures with enhanced extensibility.
Leveling the Playing Field… in Private: The Interplay of Malicious Envy and Anonymity in Online Revenge
Authors: Usman Umair , Ziegler Alexander H.
Published: December 2024

This paper explores the dynamics between malicious envy, anonymity, and consumer revenge behaviors, specifically under conditions of perceived unfairness related to access to desirable products or services. Utilizing a theoretical framework based on impression management, we conducted three experimental studies to examine how individuals balance their retributive desires with the need to maintain social approval, particularly focusing on the settings—public versus anonymous—where these behaviors manifest. Our findings reveal how malicious envy acts as a mediator between perceived injustices and revenge behaviors. Moreover, the current research highlights that anonymity, or the lack thereof, significantly influences the likelihood of retaliatory actions, with more punitive actions occurring under conditions that protect consumers' self‐presentation. These insights contribute to our understanding of malicious envy and impression management in consumption settings by illustrating how the public or anonymous nature of actions can modulate the interplay between malicious envy and the desire for revenge. For marketing practitioners, the findings suggest that strategies involving consumer engagement, particularly those that could evoke envy, should carefully consider the potential for negative anonymous feedback.
Why We Need Desirable Properties in Pairwise Comparison Methods?
Authors: Perzina Radomír , Ramík Jaroslav
Published: December 2024

Pairwise comparison matrices (PCMs) are inevitable tools in some important multiple‐criteria decision‐making methods, for example AHP/ANP, TOPSIS, PROMETHEE and others. In this paper, we investigate some important properties of PCMs which influence the generated priority vectors for the final ranking of the given alternatives. The main subproblem of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is to calculate the priority vectors, that is, the weights assigned to the elements of the hierarchy (criteria, sub‐criteria, and/or alternatives or variants), by using the information provided in the form of a pairwise comparison matrix. Given a set of elements, and a corresponding pairwise comparison matrix, whose entries evaluate the relative importance of the elements with respect to a given criterion, the final ranking of the given alternatives is evaluated. We investigate some important and natural properties of PCMs called the desirable properties, particularly, the non‐dominance, consistency, intensity and coherence, which influence the generated priority vectors. Usually, the priority vector is calculated based on some well‐known method, for example, the Eigenvector Method, the Arithmetic Mean Method, the Geometric Mean Method, the Least Square Method, and so forth. The novelty of our approach is that the priority vector is calculated as the solution of an optimization problem where an error objective function is minimised with respect to constraints given by the desirable properties. The properties of the optimal solution are discussed and some illustrating examples are presented. The corresponding software tool has been developed and demonstrated in some examples.
Learning soft tissue deformation from incremental simulations
Authors: Lampen Nathan , Kim Daeseung , Xu Xuanang , Fang Xi , Lee Jungwook , Kuang Tianshu , Deng Hannah H. , Liebschner Michael A. K. , Gateno Jaime , Yan Pingkun
Published: December 2024

Background

Surgical planning for orthognathic procedures demands swift and accurate biomechanical modeling of facial soft tissues. Efficient simulations are vital in the clinical pipeline, as surgeons may iterate through multiple plans. Biomechanical simulations typically use the finite element method (FEM). Prior works divide FEM simulations into increments to enhance convergence and accuracy. However, this practice elongates simulation time, thereby impeding clinical integration. To accelerate simulations, deep learning (DL) models have been explored. Yet, previous efforts either perform simulations in a single step or neglect the temporal aspects in incremental simulations.

Purpose

This study investigates the use of spatiotemporal incremental modeling for biomechanics simulations of facial soft tissue.

Methods

We implement the method using a graph neural network. Our method synergizes spatial features with temporal aggregation using DL networks trained on incremental FEM simulations from 17 subjects that underwent orthognathic surgery.

Results

Our proposed spatiotemporal incremental method achieved a mean accuracy of 0.37 mm with a mean computation time of 1.52 s. In comparison, a spatial‐only incremental method yielded a mean accuracy of 0.44 mm and a mean computation time of 1.60 s, while a spatial‐only single‐step method yielded a mean accuracy of 0.41 mm and a mean computation time of 0.05 s.

Conclusions

Statistical analysis demonstrated that the spatiotemporal incremental method reduced mean errors compared to the spatial‐only incremental method, emphasizing the importance of incorporating temporal information in incremental simulations. Overall, we successfully implemented spatiotemporal incremental learning tailored to simulate soft tissue deformation while substantially reducing simulation time compared to FEM.
Estimation of fatty acid composition in mammary adipose tissue using deep neural network with unsupervised training
Authors: Chaudhary Suneeta , Lane Elizabeth G. , Levy Allison , McGrath Anika , Mema Eralda , Reichmann Melissa , Dodelzon Katerina , Simon Katherine , Chang Eileen , Nickel Marcel Dominik , Moy Linda , Drotman Michele , Kim Sungheon Gene
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To develop a deep learning–based method for robust and rapid estimation of the fatty acid composition (FAC) in mammary adipose tissue.

Methods

A physics‐based unsupervised deep learning network for estimation of fatty acid composition‐network (FAC‐Net) is proposed to estimate the number of double bonds and number of methylene‐interrupted double bonds from multi‐echo bipolar gradient‐echo data, which are subsequently converted to saturated, mono‐unsaturated, and poly‐unsaturated fatty acids. The loss function was based on a 10 fat peak signal model. The proposed network was tested with a phantom containing eight oils with different FAC and on post‐menopausal women scanned using a whole‐body 3T MRI system between February 2022 and January 2024. The post‐menopausal women included a control group (n = 8) with average risk for breast cancer and a cancer group (n = 7) with biopsy‐proven breast cancer.

Results

The FAC values of eight oils in the phantom showed strong correlations between the measured and reference values (R2 > 0.9 except chain length). The FAC values measured from scan and rescan data of the control group showed no significant difference between the two scans. The FAC measurements of the cancer group conducted before contrast and after contrast showed a significant difference in saturated fatty acid and mono‐unsaturated fatty acid. The cancer group has higher saturated fatty acid than the control group, although not statistically significant.

Conclusion

The results in this study suggest that the proposed FAC‐Net can be used to measure the FAC of mammary adipose tissue from gradient‐echo MRI data of the breast.
Shape Optimization of Tunable Poisson's Ratio Metamaterials With Disk B‐Splines
Authors: Ye Yihui , Zheng Nan , Zhai Xiaoya , Kang Hongmei , Chen Falai
Published: December 2024

We propose an explicit representation method using disk B‐splines for Poisson's ratio metamaterial design. Disk B‐spline representation generalizes the concept of the B‐spline control point into a control disk, enhancing the ability to manipulate both the shape and thickness of the region. Therefore, this representation is frequently employed for shape optimization. The optimized metamaterials described by disk B‐spline are decomposed into a sequence of circles constructing one implicit function. A novel optimization model based on disk B‐spline representation is proposed, and the homogenization theory is used for calculating effective Poisson's ratio (PR). The numerical examples contained missing rib metamaterials, petal‐like metamaterials, and extreme PR metamaterials, which are studies to illustrate the advantages and effectiveness. By explicitly manipulating the parameters of the disk's B‐spline, a broad spectrum of unexpectedly negative Poisson's ratio from ‐0.1 to ‐0.9 sequences can be achieved, and arbitrary Poisson's ratios structures can be obtained through interpolating continuous parameters. It's also extended to encompass 3D structures. We validate the accuracy of our results by comparing them with simulations performed using commercial software.
Inference‐Oriented Balanced Truncation for Quadratic Dynamical Systems: Formulation for Bayesian Smoothing and Model Stability Analysis
Authors: Freitag Melina A. , König Josie , Qian Elizabeth
Published: December 2024

The posterior distribution for nonlinear Bayesian inverse problems often has to be estimated via sampling and requires many simulations of the forward model, which can be computationally expensive when the forward model requires simulating a high‐dimensional dynamical system. This can be remedied by using a reduced forward model that captures the important dynamics of the high‐dimensional dynamical system. In systems theory, balanced truncation methods obtain efficient reduced models by projecting the high‐dimensional model operators onto the space spanned by dominant eigenvectors of the system Gramians. In this paper, we consider Bayesian smoothing problems for quadratic dynamical systems and introduce inference‐oriented Gramians that define a procedure for model reduction by balanced truncation. We provide a stability analysis of the resulting quadratic nonlinear model and support the analysis with a numerical example.
Surrogate Modeling for Active Drag Reduction in Turbulent Boundary Layer Flows Using Multitask Gaussian Process Regression
Authors: Hübenthal Fabian , Meinke Matthias , Schröder Wolfgang
Published: December 2024

Single‐ and multitask Gaussian process regression (GPR), termed sGPR and mGPR, are investigated as surrogate models to guide the design of actuation parameters for active drag reduction techniques in turbulent boundary layer (TBL) flows. The turbulent flow over a flat plate, which serves as a first step approximation to more realistic scenarios such as airfoil applications, is subjected to spanwise traveling transversal sinusoidal surface waves and simulated by wall‐resolved large‐eddy simulations (LESs). These simulation data are used to model the dependence of the two objective functions, that is, relative drag reduction and relative net power savings, on the actuation parameters, that is, the optimization variables. This work extends previous studies, which focus on single‐task surrogate modeling of relative drag reduction only, to enhance the prediction quality of relative net power savings to identify promising regions of actuation parameters by learning and leveraging mGPR‐based correlations between the two objective functions, that is, relative drag reduction and relative net power savings.
High‐fidelity and iterative affinity extraction of hyaluronan
Authors: Erxleben Dorothea A. , Rivas Felipe , Smith Ian , Poddar Suruchi , DeAngelis Paul L. , Rahbar Elaheh , Hall Adam R.
Published: December 2024

The glycosaminoglycan hyaluronan (HA) serves a variety of crucial physiological functions in vertebrates. Synthesized at the plasma membrane and secreted into the extracellular environment, HA polymers span a wide range of molecular weights (MW) that define their activity through a notable size‐function relationship. Analytical technologies for determining HA MW distributions typically require selective extraction from complex biofluids or tissues. A common method for achieving this is immunoprecipitation‐like pull‐down using specific HA‐binding proteins bound to magnetic beads. Here, we present a systematic investigation of experimental variables involved in this process, leading to an affinity extraction protocol that enables iterative bead reuse and reagent lifetime maximization, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the HA extraction process. Our methods provide a framework for general optimization of immunoprecipitation in other contexts with heterogenous analyte sizes.
The Renewing Intimacy and SExuality Intervention for Female Cancer Survivors: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Teo Irene , Tan Yee Pin , Goh Alyssa , Pan Fang Ting , Tan Tira J. , Ozdemir Semra , Cheung Yin Bun , Chaudhry Isha , Razali Nurul Syaza , Tewani Komal G.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study examined the feasibility and acceptability of a three‐session, psychological‐based intervention to improve intimacy and sexuality outcomes among women with breast and gynaecologic cancer in Singapore.

Method

Patients from outpatient oncology clinics completed screeners for marital and sexual distress. Those who endorsed either marital or sexual distress were invited into the study, and were randomized to receive the intervention immediately or be waitlisted. Intervention feasibility (i.e., reach, adherence) and acceptability (i.e., satisfaction, cultural sensitivity, willingness to pay) and marital, sexual, and body image outcome changes were examined.

Results

1101 patients completed the screener; 24% of patients with breast or gynaecologic cancer reported marital or sexual distress. Forty‐six patients who were eligible participated in the study. The majority (88%) of participants who started the intervention completed all 3 sessions. All (100%) participants who completed the intervention reported satisfaction and the majority (97%) reported they would recommend the intervention to a friend. The majority of participants found the intervention to be culturally sensitive (93%) and reported being willing to pay either out of pocket or through their national medical MediSave account (76%). Outcome changes were in expected directions with small effect sizes (0.24–0.42). Several themes emerged from open‐ended feedback on what participants found useful and how the intervention can be improved.

Conclusions

Approximately one quarter of breast or gynaecologic cancer patient who are partnered in Singapore reported marital or sexual distress. Despite the low reach, we found good adherence and high acceptability of the psychological‐based intervention. Our findings suggest there is room to improve awareness and delivery of sexuality‐related care in an oncology setting.

Trial Registration

Number and date: NCT03420547, April 10, 2018
Protein‐Variant‐Phenotype Study of NBAS Using AlphaFold in the Aspect of SOPH Syndrome
Authors: Zhozhikov Leonid , Vasilev Filipp , Maksimova Nadezhda
Published: December 2024

NBAS gene variants cause phenotypically distinct and nonoverlapping conditions, SOPH syndrome and ILFS2. NBAS is a so‐called “moonlighting” protein responsible for retrograde membrane trafficking and nonsense‐mediated decay. However, its three‐dimensional model and the nature of its possible interactions with other proteins have remained elusive. Here, we used AlphaFold to predict protein–protein interaction (PPI) sites and mapped them to NBAS pathogenic variants. We repeated in silico milestone studies of the NBAS protein to explain the multisystem phenotype of its variants, with particular emphasis on the SOPH variant (p.R1914H). We revealed the putative binding sites for the main interaction partners of NBAS and assessed the implications of these binding sites for the subdomain architecture of the NBAS protein. Using AlphaFold, we disclosed the far‐reaching impact of NBAS variants on the development of each phenotypic trait in patients with NBAS‐related pathologies.
Enhancing Sustainable Development Through Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Insights From Diverse Fields
Authors: Vaverková Magdalena Daria , Polak Joanna , Kurcjusz Małgorzata , Jena Manoj Kumar , Murali Aparna P. , Nair Surya Sasikumar , Aktaş Havva , Hadinata Muhammad Effsal , Ghezelayagh Pouya , Andik Silvia Dewi Sagita , Rahmana Adhitya , Franc‐Dąbrowska Justyna
Published: December 2024

Achieving sustainable development (SD) requires a holistic approach that bridges multiple disciplines. Although the current literature recognizes the critical role of interdisciplinary collaboration in comprehensively addressing global challenges across fields such as economics, business, environmental science, and social justice, there is still a significant gap in understanding how specific contributions from each discipline can be effectively combined to strengthen the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this paper, we examine the interconnected nature of the SDGs and the critical role of interdisciplinary collaboration in achieving them. Addressing complex challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation requires contributions from diverse fields, including biology, ecology, toxicology, chemistry, physics, mechanics, environmental engineering, architecture, and urban planning. The purpose of this paper is twofold (i) to explore the interconnected nature of the SDGs and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to achieve them, and (ii) to highlight how contributions from different disciplines can enhance our ability to address the complex challenges associated with SD. We emphasize the integration of sustainable principles and innovative approaches as essential to fostering collaboration. Our findings suggest that inclusive, interdisciplinary strategies are critical for SD and underscore the urgent need for collective action across sectors to achieve the SDGs, strengthen global resilience, and drive innovation in SD. Adopting interdisciplinary efforts creates pathways for innovative, inclusive, and sustainable impacts that support a healthier planet and a resilient future for all.
The Effects of Manufacturing Errors on the Performance of Acoustic Metamaterial Lenses Operating in the MHz Regime
Authors: Qin Feng , Zhang Jie , Drinkwater Bruce W.
Published: December 2024

This article explores the use of acoustical metamaterials to design lenses in the megahertz frequency range of relevance to applications in nondestructive testing and medical imaging. In particular, the effect of manufacturing errors on their focusing performance is quantified. A rapid method for including manufacturing errors is described and this is used to perform Monte Carlo simulations of wave pressure fields from lenses with manufacturing errors. In this process, the required time delay distribution for a target focal length is calculated and the acoustical lenses with a chosen unit cell type are designed. Manufacturing errors of the unit cells are then added, considering their statistical properties and a large number of realizations. As an example, an acoustical lens with a focal length of 76 mm at a frequency of 1 MHz is designed using three different unit cell types: steel cross unit cell, resin circular void unit cell, and silicone–resin layered unit cell. Finally, the resulting acoustic pressure fields are computed using a Huygens’ principle model to assess the effects of manufacturing errors on lens performance, i.e., the focal length and the size of the focal spot. It is shown that the performance of lenses consisting of silicone–resin layered units is less affected by the manufacturing errors than for lenses constructed with the other unit cells. This study paves the way for selecting a suitable combination of metamaterial unit cell and manufacturing method to enable acceptable lens imaging performance.
High‐Temperature Deformation Behavior and Microstructural Evolution of N06625 Nickel‐Based Alloy
Authors: Huang Fang , Song Yaohui , Li Huaying , Zhao Ming , Su Guanzheng , Li Yugui
Published: December 2024

Herein, the hot deformation behavior and microstructure evolution of N06625 superalloy are studied. Hot deformation behavior at 950–1200 °C and strain rate 0.1–10 s−1 are carried out by Gleeble‐3800 thermal simulator machine. The activation energy (Q) of the alloy is calculated by the change of stress–strain curve. The microstructure of the experimental material is characterized by electron backscatter diffraction, and it is found that the recrystallization fraction rate increases with the increase of temperature, but decreases first and then increases with the increase of strain rate. Discontinuous dynamic recrystallization is the main nucleation mechanism of N06625 superalloy. Continuous dynamic recrystallization (CDRX) is the auxiliary nucleation mechanism; CDRX gradually decreases with the increase of temperature. In addition, it is found that the evolution of special boundaries is closely related to the strain rate. The longer deformation time is beneficial to the interaction of grain boundaries, which leads to the special boundary fraction, and the increase of special boundary fraction can effectively weaken the preferred orientation caused by recrystallization growth.