bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the dosimetric impact of deep‐learning‐based auto‐segmentation in prostate cancer radiotherapy: Insights into real‐world clinical implementation and inter‐observer variability
Authors: Arjmandi Najmeh , Mosleh‐Shirazi Mohammad Amin , Mohebbi Shokoufeh , Nasseri Shahrokh , Mehdizadeh Alireza , Pishevar Zohreh , Hosseini Sare , Tehranizadeh Amin Amiri , Momennezhad Mehdi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the dosimetric impact of deep‐learning‐based auto‐contouring for clinical target volume (CTV) and organs at risk (OARs) delineation in prostate cancer radiotherapy planning. Additionally, we compared the geometric accuracy of auto‐contouring system to the variability observed between human experts.

Methods

We evaluated 28 planning CT volumes, each with three contour sets: reference original contours (OC), auto‐segmented contours (AC), and expert‐defined manual contours (EC). We generated 3D‐CRT and intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) plans for each contour set and compared their dosimetric characteristics using dose‐volume histograms (DVHs), homogeneity index (HI), conformity index (CI), and gamma pass rate (3%/3 mm).

Results

The geometric differences between automated contours and both their original manual reference contours and a second set of manually generated contours are smaller than the differences between two manually contoured sets for bladder, right femoral head (RFH), and left femoral head (LFH) structures. Furthermore, dose distribution accuracy using planning target volumes (PTVs) derived from automatically contoured CTVs and auto‐contoured OARs demonstrated consistency with plans based on reference contours across all evaluated cases for both 3D‐CRT and IMRT plans. For example, in IMRT plans, the average D95 for PTVs was 77.71 ± 0.53 Gy for EC plans, 77.58 ± 0.69 Gy for OC plans, and 77.62 ± 0.38 Gy for AC plans. Automated contouring significantly reduced contouring time, averaging 0.53 ± 0.08 min compared to 24.9 ± 4.5 min for manual delineation.

Conclusion

Our automated contouring system can reduce inter‐expert variability and achieve dosimetric accuracy comparable to gold standard reference contours, highlighting its potential for streamlining clinical workflows. The quantitative analysis revealed no consistent trend of increasing or decreasing PTVs derived from automatically contoured CTVs and OAR doses due to automated contours, indicating minimal impact on treatment outcomes. These findings support the clinical feasibility of utilizing our deep‐learning‐based auto‐contouring model for prostate cancer radiotherapy planning.
Adaptive Control of Constrained Nonlinear Systems With Intermittent Faults: A Fixed‐Time Fault‐Tolerant Framework Based on Projection Operator
Authors: Wei Yongli , Gao Ming , Sheng Li , Ma Yuhan , Chen Zhongyu
Published: December 2024

This article investigates the problem of adaptive fixed‐time fault‐tolerant control for nonlinear systems with time‐varying intermittent faults and asymmetric output constraints. For this purpose, a novel adaptive law based on the projection operator technique is developed to estimate time‐varying intermittent faults, which eliminates the problem that the estimated value increases continuously with the accumulation of fault times. Considering that the fault estimation time needs to be less than the minimum time interval of intermittent faults, the fixed‐time design methodology is introduced to ensure that the relationship between the above two can be quantitatively analyzed. Then, a novel adaptive fixed‐time fault‐tolerant control strategy is put forward for the closed‐loop system, in which a universal barrier function is adopted to remain the system output in the time‐varying asymmetric constraint condition invariably. The theoretical analysis indicates that the developed strategy can guarantee the boundedness of all signals in the closed‐loop system in a fixed‐time. Finally, two examples, one of which involves the rotary steerable drilling tool systems are provided to demonstrate the feasibility and validity of the put forward scheme.
Mechanical Properties of Cu70Fe30 (at%) Bulk Metastable Alloys Prepared by Mechanical Alloying and Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Battu Santhi , Diraviam Arvindha Babu , Singh Vajinder , Kumar Deepak , Seelam Uma Maheswara Rao
Published: December 2024

The equilibrium‐insoluble Cu and Fe metals with a composition of Cu70Fe30 (at%) are mechanically milled for 20 h, resulting in a metastable single‐phase face‐centered cubic supersaturated solid solution (γS). The alloy powders are consolidated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 0.6Tm (622 °C) and 0.7Tm (772 °C), where Tm is the melting point of Cu70Fe30 (1219 °C). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and electron backscatter (EBSD) analyses are performed on mechanically alloyed powders and SPS bulk samples. Compressive stress–strain and hardness tests are also conducted on the bulk SPS samples to evaluate the mechanical properties. The metallographic study reveals that the γS phase decomposes into Cu‐rich γ and Fe‐rich α phases after SPS. The 0.6Tm sample exhibits a continuous γ‐network phase surrounding an ultrafine γ + α mixture, causing brittle behavior due to crack propagation during compressive testing. In contrast, the 0.7Tm sample features a discontinuous γ‐network phase, enhancing ductility and resulting in a bimodal grain structure. This sample demonstrates superior mechanical properties, combining excellent strength (1056 MPa) and ductility (23%) due to the coexistence of coarser γ‐network grains (1–2 μm) and ultrafine γ + α grains (200–500 nm).
Thermal Shock Damage and Failure Mechanism of 2D Laminated SiC/SiC with Barium‐Strontium Aluminosilicate‐Based Environmental Barrier Coating
Authors: Cao Xinxin , Li Jianzhang , Han Guifang , Wang Yulei , Zhang Ziqi , Luan Xingang , Hong Zhiliang , Li Aijun , Cheng Laifei
Published: December 2024

Thermal shock damage is a key issue for the stable service of SiC/SiC with environmental barrier coating (EBC) in aero‐engines. The thermal shock damage behavior of SiC/SiC with barium‐strontium aluminosilicate (BSAS)‐based EBC in an air atmosphere quenched by air and water media between RT and 1200 °C is systematically investigated. After 600 thermal shock cycles, cracks form in the EBC due to a sharp increase in the internal thermal stresses, and a SiO2 TGO layer is formed on the Si bonding coat. Based on the TGO thickness, damage within BSAS/mullite coatings is quantified by the oxygen permeability (2.541 × 10−11 mol·(atm cm s)−1), which is increased by 2.5 times compared to static oxidation. Despite cracking damage occurring in the SiC matrix of SiC/SiC substrates, the load‐bearing capability of SiC fibers is improved due to the modulus matching of the fiber/matrix. Oxidation damage is dominated the degradation of the performance of SiC/SiC substrates, whose flexural strength is decreased by 15% after 600 cycles. In the thermal shock test quenched by water media, the strength retention of SiC/SiC‐EBC is below 60%, and an increase in internal defects and even delamination of the SiC/SiC substrate are the main reasons for the thermal shock failure of SiC/SiC‐EBC.
Artificial Intelligence in Metamaterial Informatics for Sonic Frequency Mechanical Identification Tags
Authors: Saatchi Daniel , Lee Myung‐Joon , Pandit Tushar Prashant , Mahato Manmatha , Oh Il‐Kwon
Published: December 2024

Designing mechanical metamaterials to control wave propagation often requires extensive finite element analysis and discrete Fourier transform simulations before fabricating 3D printed structures and conducting experiments. Here, an alternative approach is presented to developing a metamaterial informatics framework by integrating dataset collection with artificial intelligence (AI), which can significantly accelerate the advancement of phononic wave chip technologies based on the triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS). Visualized data analysis is performed to evaluate the sensitivity of phononic band frequency numbers (BNF). Subsequently, various machine learning algorithms are compared for the prediction of sonic BNFs to create a unique identificable encoded mechanical identification tag (EMIT) interacting with sound waves. Then, for the mechanical decoding part with the help of acoustic analogy, a novel concept technology is developed that integrates 3D‐printed EMITs with a deep‐learning audio classifier for the ownership identification of instruments. Underwater application is discussed further for civil accident investigations, such as echolocating missing aircraft, divers, sunken ships, and containers with valuable cargo. These TPMS‐based EMITs represent the first‐generation passive sonic frequency identification (SFID) transponder‐tags, marking the advent of SFID transponder systems.
Synergistic Effect of Surface States and Deep Defects for Ultrahigh Gain Deep‐Ultraviolet Photodetector with Low‐Voltage Operation
Authors: Gu Keyun , Wu Kongping , Zhang Zilong , Ohsawa Takeo , Huang Jian , Koide Yasuo , Toda Masaya , Liao Meiyong
Published: December 2024

To achieve ultra‐high gain deep‐ultraviolet (DUV) detectors based on ultra‐wide bandgap semiconductors comparable with those of bulky photomultiplier tubes (PMTs), avalanche photodiodes have usually been adopted. However, the high‐operation voltage (∼100 V) is not compatible with monolithic integration. Herein, it is demonstrated that the ultra‐high gain DUV photodetectors (PDs) with low operation voltages (<5 V) can be achieved by using the synergistic effect of surface states and deep defects in a type‐Ib single‐crystal diamond (SCD) substrate. The overall photoresponse, such as the sensitivity, dark current, spectral selectivity, and response speed, of the diamond DUV‐PDs can be simply tailored by the surface hydrogen or oxygen termination of the SCD substrate. The DUV responsivity and external quantum efficiency are more than 2.5 × 104A/W and 1.4 × 107%, respectively, at 220 nm‐wavelength light, comparable with those of PMTs. The DUV/visible light rejection ratio (R220 nm/R400 nm) is as high as 6.7 × 105. The depletion of the 2D hole gas by deep nitrogen defect provides a low dark current and the filling of the ionized nitrogen upon DUV illumination induces a huge photocurrent. The synergistic effect of the surface states and the bulk deep defects opens the avenue for the development of DUV detectors compatible with integrated circuits.
Broad‐Spectrum Detoxification of Snake Venoms With Supramolecular Materials Integrated via Molecular Recognition and Coassembly
Authors: Chen Meng‐Meng , Tian Han‐Wen , Cheng Yuan‐Qiu , Yue Yu‐Xin , Pan Yu‐Chen , Guo Dong‐Sheng
Published: December 2024

Snakebite is a medical emergency that often leads to high mortality and morbidity in tropical and subtropical regions. The diversity in venom composition between various types of snakes necessitates the use of different specific antivenom treatments, which presents clinical and financial challenges in the management of snakebites. Therefore, developing a broad‐spectrum antidote to neutralize complex and diverse snake venoms has assumed critical importance. Herein, a broad‐spectrum antidote is developed through molecular recognition and coassembly to neutralize four kinds of snake venom toxins, those are three‐finger toxin (3FTx), snake venom metalloproteinase (SVMP), phospholipase A2 (PLA2), and snake venom serine protease (SVSP), which have high abundance and toxicity. The coassembly of sulfonate‐modified amphiphilic calixarene (SCA) and amphiphilic cyclodextrin (CD) is employed to neutralize the toxicity of 3FTx, 1,2‐dodecanedithiol (DDT) and thioetheramide phosphorylcholine (TEAPC) are introduced through coassembly to neutralize toxicity of SVMP and PLA2, respectively, and the nafamostat (NT), which can be loaded through the host‐guest complexation, is employed to neutralize toxicity of SVSP. The broad‐spectrum antidote, NT@SCA/CD/DDT/TEAPC, effectively neutralizes key toxins from the most medically important cobra and vipers, significantly improving survival rates of poisoned mice. This study conceptually validated the feasibility of broad‐spectrum detoxification and also offers a conveniently integrated supramolecular strategy.
Sodium Butyrate‐Loaded Microspheres With Enhanced Bioavailability for Targeted Treatment of Intestinal Barrier Injury
Authors: Lv Yanwei , Jiang Mengni , Ouyang Yongliang , Zheng Xiaoyi , Zhang Liang , Yao Jinpeng , Hu Lianghao , Zhao Jiulong , Li Zhaoshen , Wang Shige
Published: December 2024

Intestinal barrier dysfunction is related to diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). Butyrate and its derivatives (e.g., sodium butyrate (SB)) can alleviate gut inflammatory responses. Nevertheless, these substances usually cannot fully exert protective effects due to low bioavailability. This research aimed to offer microspheres for treating intestinal barrier injury. Sodium alginate solution is prepared to dissolve SB, followed by mixing with chitosan (CS)‐protocatechuic aldehyde (PA)/calcium chloride solution. The required CS‐PA/calcium alginate/SB (CPC/SB) microspheres are formed in this manner. Subsequently, the therapeutic effects of CPC/SB microspheres on intestinal barrier injury through in vivo dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS)‐induced IBD and sodium taurocholate (STC)‐induced SAP models is explored. Results: The CPC/SB microspheres exhibited excellent antioxidant properties. In vivo bioluminescence imaging experiment confirmed the microspheres effectively targeted the inflammatory gut in IBD. Further in vivo experimental results indicated the microspheres significantly repaired intestinal barrier damage, exerting protective effects in IBD and SAP. Additionally, 16S rDNA sequencing explained the microspheres can regulate the balance between harmful and beneficial bacteria (such as Alistipes, Odoribacter, and Rikenellaceae RC9). This study provides a possible synthetic strategy of microsphere carriers to serve as a potential therapeutic tool for intestinal barrier injury.
Softening, Conformable, and Stretchable Conductors for Implantable Bioelectronics Interfaces
Authors: Rocha‐Flores Pedro E. , Chitrakar Chandani , Rodriguez‐Lopez Ovidio , Ren Yao , Joshi‐Imre Alexandra , Parikh Ankit R. , Asan Ahmet S. , McIntosh James R. , Garcia‐Sandoval Aldo , Pancrazio Joseph J. , Ecker Melanie , Lu Hongbing , Carmel Jason B. , Voit Walter E.
Published: December 2024

Neural implantable devices serve as electronic interfaces facilitating communication between the body and external electronic systems. These bioelectronic systems ideally possess stable electrical conductivity, flexibility, and stretchability to accommodate dynamic movements within the body. However, achieving both high electrical conductivity and mechanical compatibility remains a challenge. Effective electrical conductors tend to be rigid and stiff, leading to a substantial mechanical mismatch with bodily tissues. On the other hand, highly stretchable polymers, while mechanically compatible, often suffer from limited compatibility with lithography techniques and reduced electrical stability. Therefore, there exists a pressing need to develop electromechanically stable neural interfaces that enable precise communication with biological tissues. In this study, a polymer that is softening, flexible, conformal, and compatible with lithography to microfabricate perforated thin‐film architectures is utilized. These architectures offer stretchability and improved mechanical compatibility. Three distinct geometries are evaluated both mechanically and electrically under in vitro conditions that simulate physiological environments. Notably, the Peano structure demonstrates minimal changes in resistance, varying less than 1.5× even when subjected to ≈150% strain. Furthermore, devices exhibit a maximum mechanical elongation before fracture, reaching 220%. Finally, the application of multi‐electrode spinal cord leads employing titanium nitride for neural stimulation in rat models is demonstrated.
Revealing Activity of Symmetrical and Asymmetrical Ag2O‐MOx (M = Cu, Fe, Zn) Catalysts via DFT Calculations for Direct Propylene Epoxidation
Authors: Kumar Pankaj , Srivastava Vimal Chandra
Published: December 2024

Direct propylene epoxidation (DPE) with molecular oxygen is an effective process of conversion of propylene into propylene oxide (PO), which is an essential intermediate compound for many petrochemical products such as propylene glycol, propylene carbonate, polyurethane foams, etc. The modification of Ag‐based catalysts which prevents overoxidation and improves catalytic activity for PO production is studied by simulating Ag2O and mixed metal oxides of Ag2O‐CuO (Ag2CuO2), Ag2O‐ZnO (Ag2ZnO2) and Ag2O‐Fe2O3 (Ag2Fe2O4) catalysts using density functional theory (DFT).  Instantaneous adsorption of propylene was observed over Ag2ZnO2 and Ag2CuO2. DPE with oxygen via the Mars‐Van Krevelen mechanism (MVKM) was investigated considering propylene and oxygen as alternatively adsorbed species and molecular species. DPE with molecular oxygen and adsorbed propylene required 1.7 times more activation energy than DPE with molecular propylene and adsorbed oxygen. DPE with oxygen via the Lagmuir‐Hinshelwood mechanism (LHM) required 3–4 times more activation energy than MVKM for Ag2O and Ag2CuO2, whereas it is comparable for Ag2ZnO2. This showed that both mechanisms are followed for DPE over Ag2ZnO2. Ag2ZnO2 was found to be the optimum catalyst for DPE with instantaneous adsorption of propylene and instantaneous desorption of PO.
Techno‐Economic and Agricultural Best Practices for Increasing the Efficiency of Bioenergy Companies: Mixed Method for the Optimization of Land Use in Brazil and Australia
Authors: Carlucci Fábio Vogelaar , Salgado Junior Alexandre Pereira , Rebehy Perla Calil Pongeluppe Wadhy , Lemos Stella Vannucci , Novi Juliana Chiaretti , Saddow Stephen Edward
Published: December 2024

This study proposes techno‐economic and agricultural best practices for increasing the efficiency of bioenergy companies. A mixed method was developed for increasing efficiency through the application of a two‐stage data envelopment analysis (DEA), followed by a multiple case study. The efficiency concept model was based on the capacity of a sugarcane grower to maximize the production of sugarcane per planted area, while minimizing the generation of mineral and vegetable impurities. A multiple linear regression analysis was performed to identify the variables that exerted a major influence on the performance of the bioenergy companies. The quantitative approach developed here pointed to the identification of six variables that served as the basis for the qualitative stage of this research project. Through qualitative analysis, five other relevant variables were identified: cultivation activities, sugarcane renewal, edaphoclimatic factors, sugarcane genetic variety, and irrigation systems. Based on the identified variables, multiple case studies were conducted in Brazil and Australia to identify best practices that should yield superior results in terms of techno‐economic and agricultural efficiency. One hundred best practices were identified and grouped according to the stages of the sugarcane production process and each category of technology, agricultural, and management practices. Most best practices were related to two specific stages of the sugarcane production process: (i) crop development and (ii) harvesting. Although Australia presented a greater concentration of best technology and agricultural practices, Brazil presented a greater concentration of best management practices, highlighting the potential and characteristics of each producing region. Thus, the results provide fundamental information for managers to make decisions and prioritize key factors that contribute most significantly to increasing the agricultural productivity of planted areas. Finally, as a practical contribution, a free online platform was developed for self‐assessment of adherence to best practices by growers and an implementation methodology to increase efficiency in sugarcane production.
The Mediating Role of Circular Economy in the Relationship Between Industry 4.0 and Sustainable Performance in the Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Cuevas‐Pichardo Lucero Jazmín , Maldonado‐Guzmán Gonzalo , Gómez‐Guillamón Antonio Duréndez , Garza‐Reyes Jose Arturo
Published: December 2024

Strong social pressure coupled with a tightening of environmental policies is forcing manufacturing firms to implement improvements in their production processes to reduce industrial waste and their negative impacts on the environment. To achieve this goal, manufacturing firms are increasingly adopting and applying Industry 4.0 (I4.0) and circular economy (CE) practices. However, the literature indicates that the implementation of I4.0 and CE does not always lead to a substantial improvement in the sustainable performance (SP) of manufacturing firms. Hence, this research analyzes how the concurrent adoption of I4.0 and CE impacts the SP of manufacturing firms within the context of Mexico. A research model was developed and validated with a sample of 338 manufacturing companies and by using PLS‐SEM for its analysis and measured I4.0 with 8 items (e.g., systems that integrate the physical world with virtual computational space and interconnecting of small computing devices embedded in products and objects to the internet, enabling the ability to receive and send data), CE with eight items (e.g., there is an environmental commitment by senior management, and there is support for environmental management by midlevel managers) and SP with seven items (e.g., the company's activities enable the transition to a low‐carbon economy, and the company's activities protect and/or restore the environment by focusing on environmental quality aspects and improving resource efficiency) in a research model that proposes four hypotheses that relate the analyzed constructs. The findings reveal that the SP of manufacturing firms increases substantially with the implementation of both Industry 4.0 and CE. Additionally, the results show that the CE plays a mediating role in the relationship between Industry 4.0 and SP. This study theoretically contributes by providing further empirical evidence that demonstrates the connection between I4.0 and CE as well as the mediating effect that CE exerts on the relationship between I4.0 and SP in manufacturing firms. From a practical standpoint, this study contributes by providing manufacturing companies with a better understanding of these relationships, which will help them formulate more effective policies and strategies to support the improvement of their environmental sustainability performance.
Effects of Local and Systemic Metronidazole as Adjunctive Treatment in Chronic Periodontitis Patients
Authors: Mehravani Maryam , Houshyar Ehsan , Jamalnia Sheida , Gharaaghaji Rasool
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to compare the effects of local and systemic metronidazole in patients with chronic periodontitis.

Materials and Methods

In this randomized clinical study, 30 patients (3 teeth per patient) were treated in three groups: scaling and root planing (SRP) treatment alone, metronidazole tablet as adjunctive treatment, and metronidazole gel as adjunctive treatment. BOP (bleeding on probing), PPD (pocket probing depth), and CAL (clinical attachment level) data were collected at the beginning and 3 months later. Collected data were tested by Wilcoxon and Kruskal–Wallis tests.

Results

BOP, CAL, and PPD levels were significantly different at the beginning of treatment and after 3 months, and this was true for all treatments. BOP, CAL, and PPD levels did not differ significantly between the three groups after the treatment (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The effectiveness of these methods was all equal and SRP is still considered as the gold standard in the treatment of periodontal diseases. Further studies are needed to confirm the findings. Chronic periodontitis is a progressive disease that can cause tooth loss. The accepted treatment is SRP. Antibiotics used systemically can penetrate the depth of the periodontal pockets but have several side effects. Hence, using a less complicated medicinal form as a topical gel as adjunctive therapy in treating chronic periodontitis can be more effective.

Trial Registration: Iranian clinical trial https://en.irct.ir/: IRCT20210408050898N1
The Relationship Between Campus Bullying and Anxiety in Chinese Students With or Without Developmental Dyslexia: The Moderating Role of Self‐Confidence
Authors: Zhang Shudong , Ming Xiuping , Zhang Mingxia , Zeng Danying , Zhou Xinyi , Zhang Xianbing
Published: December 2024

There is great value and significance to pay attention to the mental health status of children, especially those with special needs. This study examined the effects of self‐confidence and campus bullying on anxiety in students, both with and without dyslexia. A questionnaire survey was conducted among 92 students in grades 3–5, half of whom had developmental dyslexia (DD). The results showed a significant positive moderating effect of self‐confidence on the relationship between campus bullying and anxiety in students with DD. Specifically, the effect of campus bullying on anxiety was more pronounced in DD students with higher levels of self‐confidence than in those with lower levels. For typically developing (TD) students, this moderating effect was not significant. Further analysis showed no significant differences in this moderating effect between DD and TD students. These findings highlight the need for educators and parents to closely monitor and address campus bullying and anxiety issues in students, especially in DD students with a high level of self‐confidence and to implement timely interventions.
Mitral valve transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair in the elderly—A safe and effective therapy
Authors: Felbel Dominik , Paukovitsch Michael , Gröger Matthias , Markovic Sinisa , Schneider Leonhard , Rottbauer Wolfgang , Keßler Mirjam
Published: December 2024

Aims

Prevalence of mitral regurgitation (MR) and comorbidity burden rise with age. Mitral valve transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair (M‐TEER) is increasingly performed in elderly patients, but only limited data are available for this specific subgroup. In this study, outcomes of octogenarians and nonagenarians undergoing M‐TEER were analysed using a large real‐world dataset.

Methods

This retrospective study included consecutive patients undergoing M‐TEER at the Ulm University Heart Center between January 2010 and December 2021. The cohort was divided into an elderly group and a younger group based on the cohorts' median age. Group differences regarding 1 and 3 year mortality and heart failure hospitalization rates were assessed using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazard models.

Results

A total of 1118 patients [median age 79 (inter‐quartile range 74–83) years; 42% female] were included and divided into 513 elderly (≥80 years) and 605 younger (<80 years) patients. Primary MR was more frequent in the elderly group (56% vs. 27%, P < 0.001). Pre‐procedural and post‐procedural MR grades were comparable between groups (pre‐procedural MR grade 4: 69% in the elderly group vs. 71% in the younger group, P = 0.67; post‐procedural MR grade 1: 60% in the elderly group vs. 58% in the younger group, P = 0.77) as well as in‐hospital mortality rates (0.2% vs. 0.3%, P = 0.66). Three‐year heart failure hospitalization rates did not differ significantly between both groups (30.7% in the older age cohort vs. 36.0% in the younger cohort, P = 0.191). While 1 year all‐cause mortality rates were comparable (18% vs. 16.4%, P = 0.577), 3 year all‐cause mortality was significantly higher in the elderly [43.1% vs. 33.0%; hazard ratio (HR) 1.29 (95% confidence interval 1.02–1.65), P = 0.035]. Pre‐procedural N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) ≥3402 pg/mL [HR 2.29 (95% CI 1.34–3.90), P = 0.002], pre‐interventional MR grade [HR 1.79 (95% CI 1.01–3.17), P = 0.045] and European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EuroSCORE) II [HR 1.06 (95% CI 1.03–1.08), P < 0.001] were identified as independent predictors of 3 year mortality in the elderly.

Conclusions

M‐TEER displays a safe and effective treatment option for elderly patients with symptomatic MR, offering symptom relief and comparable 1 year outcomes to younger patients. Elderly patients with elevated EuroSCORE II and advanced heart failure might benefit from additional care to further reduce 3 year mortality.
Investigation of the Physical Attributes of Sr2GeCrO6, Sr2MgMoO6, Ba2MgMoO6, Ba2ZnMoO6, and Ba2HgWO6 Double Perovskite Oxides
Authors: Mehmood Memoona , Atiq Atia , Ain Qura Tul , Andleeb Farah , Manzoor Aqsa , Imran Iqra , Rasul Muhammad Nasir
Published: December 2024

A density functional theory‐based study on the physical properties of significant double perovskite oxides Sr2GeCrO6, Sr2MgMoO6, Ba2MgMoO6, Ba2ZnMoO6, and Ba2HgWO6 has been conducted using the Vienna Ab initio Simulation Package and WIEN2K code. Structural analysis reveals the simple cubic crystal structure of double perovskite oxides. Phonon properties indicate the dynamical stability of Sr2GeCrO6, Ba2MgMoO6, and Ba2ZnMoO6 compounds. The band structure analysis indicates the metallic character of Sr2GeCrO6. However, generalized gradient approximation of Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof and modified Becke–Johnson both suggest the indirect semiconducting nature of Ba2MgMoO6 and Ba2ZnMoO6. The crystal orbital Hamilton population (–COHP) examination evidences the strongest bonding interactions of O–Ba in these perovskite oxides. Both Ba2MgMoO6 and Ba2ZnMoO6 compounds exhibit p‐type character, as indicated by the partial charge density distributions in the highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) orbitals, which govern the band edges near Fermi level. LUMO orbitals are located on Mo and O atoms and are composed of heteronuclear s‐ and p‐type interactions. The investigation comprehensively analyzes calculated optoelectronic properties, including complex dielectric function, optical conductivity, loss function, refractive index, and so on. These parameters are examined in detail, offering profound insights into the materials’ optical and electronic characteristics.
Experimental and Numerical Simulation on the Generation and Development of Cumulative Plastic Strain of Cement Sheath in Salt Cavern Gas Storage Well
Authors: Ren Zhenkun , Xi Yan , Jiang Hailong , Li Qian , Li Qing
Published: December 2024

Salt cavern gas storage is an important technical means to balance the demand for staggered energy supply. Due to the repeated injection and extraction of natural gas in gas storage facilities, sealing integrity failure in the wellbore of gas storage facilities frequently occurs. In response to this, considering the cyclic loading and unloading of the pressure load inside the casing, mechanical tests of set cement were carried out under alternating loads, quantifying the cumulative plastic strain change law of set cement and revealing the deterioration characteristics of its mechanical properties. A numerical model of cumulative plastic strain of casing cement sheath formation under alternating load was established based on the obtained experimental parameters. Comparative verification was conducted using experimental data, and the variation law of cumulative plastic strain of cement sheath was analyzed. The distribution of cumulative plastic strain on the cement sheath bonding surface of the entire wellbore was quantified. The research results indicate that the higher the internal pressure value of the casing, the earlier the plastic strain appears, and with the increase in the number of alternating loads, the cumulative plastic strain increases approximately linearly. After the internal pressure increased by 30 MPa, the cumulative plastic strain increased by a maximum of 46.75%. When the number of loading and unloading cycles under alternating loads is small, reducing the elastic modulus (6 GPa) of the cement sheath can effectively reduce its cumulative plastic strain. However, as the number of loading and unloading cycles under alternating loads exceeds a specific value, the cumulative plastic strain produced by high elastic modulus (15 GPa) cement sheaths decreases. Finally, the distribution pattern of cumulative plastic strain along the wellbore under different gas injection times and complex formation conditions was analyzed. Suggestions for establishing well barriers in salt cavern gas storage during cementing were proposed. The research results can provide theoretical and engineering references for evaluating the sealing integrity of gas storage wells.
Exploring the Impact of Dietary Factors on Intestinal Diverticular Disease: A Mendelian Randomization Approach
Authors: Tian Wangzhao , Yang Wenwen , Wang Xiaorui , Yang Yanjiang
Published: December 2024

Dietary habits significantly influence the development of intestinal diverticular disease (IDD), a common gastrointestinal condition primarily affecting the colon. We performed a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis on 20 diet‐related factors using data from the UK Biobank. IDD cases (n = 33,618) and controls (n = 329,381) were obtained from the FinnGen Biobank. Three key MR methods were applied: the inverse‐variance‐weighted (IVW) method as the primary approach to estimate causal relationships, along with the weighted median (WM) and MR‐Egger methods. Significant associations were found for pork intake (β = 1.06, p = 0.00244), nonoily fish intake (β = 0.709, p = 0.0449), oily fish intake (β = 0.246, p = 0.0222), and dried fruit intake (β = −0.953, p < 0.0001). After false discovery rate (FDR) adjustment, pork intake (q = 0.0244) and dried fruit intake (q < 0.0001) remained significant. Our results indicate that while pork and certain types of fish intake may elevate the risk of IDD, dried fruit intake may offer a protective effect. These findings highlight the potential of dietary changes in IDD prevention and management, though further research across diverse populations is needed.
Elucidating the Causal Impact of Dietary Factors on Rheumatoid Arthritis: Insights From Multivariable Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Lu Yun , Su Qiang , Xie Zhongbo , Liang Jiang
Published: December 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common chronic autoimmune disorder with an incompletely elucidated pathogenesis. Emerging research indicates that dietary factors may significantly influence the onset and progression of RA. Nevertheless, the causal relationship between dietary habits and RA remains ambiguous. This investigation employed a multivariable Mendelian randomization (MVMR) methodology to rigorously assess the potential causal effects of various dietary factors on RA risk. This study utilized genome‐wide association study (GWAS) summary‐level data, encompassing dietary preferences (n = 113,425–159,579), and RA data (n = 302,614) from the most recent FinnGen database. The primary causal analysis was conducted using inverse‐variance weighting (IVW), complemented by MR‐Egger, weighted median, Bayesian weighted Mendelian randomization, and Robust Adjusted Profile Score (RAPS) methodologies. Sensitivity analyses incorporated Cochran's Q test, MR‐Egger intercept test, MR‐PRESSO, and leave‐one‐out analysis. Steiger tests were employed to evaluate the identified dietary preferences. MVMR was utilized to assess the direct impact of dietary factors on RA. The study identified significant associations between RA and nine dietary preferences: F‐lentils/beans liking (Fle), chips liking (Chips), coffee difference liking (CD), coffee with sugar liking (CWS), milk chocolate liking (MC), coriander liking (Coriander), pollock liking (Pollock), soft cheese liking (SC), and blue cheese liking (BC). The MVMR analysis indicated that genetically predicted coriander and MC have a direct impact on RA, independent of other dietary factors. This study presents novel causal evidence suggesting that dietary preferences may impact the risk of RA. Specifically, a reduction in the consumption of milk chocolate and coriander may contribute to the prevention and alleviation of RA. However, additional research is required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and to validate these findings across diverse populations.
How clinical exposure improves dental students' understanding of oral and maxillofacial surgery: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Joachim Michael V. , Tabib Rami , Shapiro Ephraim , Laviv Amir
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To assess dental students' understanding of oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) practice areas and examine changes in referral preferences across their educational progression in Israel.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among 349 dental students from two Israeli universities (46.5% response rate). The primary independent variable was the year of study (pre‐clinical vs. clinical years). The main outcome variables included perceptions of OMFS scope and referral preferences for various procedures. Covariates included demographics and prior OMFS exposure. Chi‐square tests, linear trend analysis, and mediation analysis were performed.

Results

Students in clinical years exhibited a broader understanding of OMFS scope compared to pre‐clinical years. Referral preferences to OMFS increased significantly for complex procedures like facial skeletal deformities (46.2% to 61.3%, p = 0.004) and oral cancer (66.2% to 78.9%, p = 0.008). The perception of extractions as the primary OMFS procedure increased from 63.6% in the first year to 77.6% in the sixth year (p = 0.033). Personal and family experiences with OMFS significantly mediated the relationship between year of study and referral tendencies (16.2% of total effect mediated, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Clinical exposure improves understanding of OMFS capabilities, leading to increased referrals for complex procedures. However, several practice areas remain underrecognized, highlighting the need for improved educational interventions.
Experiences of individuals receiving “Not Parent Expected” results through direct‐to‐consumer genetic testing
Authors: Becker Julia , Abrams Liane J. , Weil Jon , Youngblom Janey
Published: December 2024

As direct‐to‐consumer genetic testing (DTC‐GT) grows in popularity, the unanticipated “Not Parent Expected” (NPE) result has become more prevalent. An NPE result is the discovery that one parent, often the father, is not a biological parent. This study explores the impact of making an NPE discovery through DTC‐GT. Twenty‐five participants were interviewed and transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. NPE discovery had an impact on participants' personal identity. They frequently reported having experienced grief and loss among other emotions whether the discovery confirmed a participant's prior suspicions or was unexpected. Strained parent/child relationships prior to the NPE discovery and further negative impact on the relationship after DTC‐GC were common themes. Connection to newly identified biological parents and family was a common goal reported by many participants, with mixed outcomes of such connections. Further research will assist in deepening our understanding and confirming the findings of this study.
Sex differences in atrial fibrillation in India: Insights from the Kerala‐AF registry
Authors: Calvert Peter , Chen Yang , Gue Ying , Gupta Dhiraj , Azariah Jinbert Lordson , George Koshy A. , Zachariah Geevar , Natarajan K. U. , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Gopalan Bahuleyan Charantharayil ,   the Kerala AF Registry Investigators
Published: December 2024

Background

Much data informing sex differences in atrial fibrillation (AF) comes from Western cohorts. In this analysis, we describe sex differences in Kerala, India, using the Kerala‐AF registry—the largest AF registry from the Indian subcontinent.

Methods

Patients aged ≥18 years were recruited from 53 hospitals across Kerala. Patients were compared for demographics, treatments, and 12‐month outcomes, including major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and bleeding.

Results

Male patients were more likely to have a smoking and/or alcohol history and had more ischaemic heart disease (46.2% vs. 25.5%; p < 0.001). Female patients had more valvular AF (35.1% vs. 18.0%; p < 0.001), and more use of calcium‐channel blockers (23.3% vs. 16.5%; p < 0.001) or digoxin (39.6% vs. 28.5%; p < 0.001). Almost one in four patients were not anticoagulated despite raised CHA2DS2‐VASc scores. 12‐month MACE outcomes did not differ by sex (male: 30.2% vs. female: 29.4%; p = 0.685), though bleeding events were more common in male patients (2.4% vs. 1.3%; p = −0.038), driven by minor bleeding (1.2% vs. 0.5%).

Conclusion

In this large AF cohort from India, male patients had a higher prevalence of ischaemic heart disease, smoking, and alcohol use, while female patients had a higher prevalence of valvular heart disease. MACE did not differ by sex, though bleeding was more common in males. Almost a quarter of patients were not anticoagulated despite raised thromboembolic risk.
Fortified bread with encapsulated ingredients: impacts and potential applications
Authors: Samakar Bahareh , Tajani Amineh Sadat , Fazly Bazzaz Bibi Sedigheh , Soheili Vahid
Published: December 2024

Waste production is a major challenge in the food industry. The use of ‘functional food’ by adding bioactive compounds is a promising solution to reduce it. However, many bioactive compounds are unstable when subjected to industrial and environmental conditions. Microencapsulation technology is a useful method to preserve these molecules. This review categorizes microencapsulated functional bread additives, including enzymes, salts, alcohols, oils, herbal compounds, probiotics, and acids, and demonstrates various beneficial effects of these additives. Suitable wall materials and encapsulating techniques – including freeze drying, spray drying, the emulsion‐congealing method, fluidized bed coating, and thin‐film hydration methods – are discussed in terms of their effect on bread quality. The encapsulated bread ingredients and their impact on bread characteristics are investigated by examining relevant original and review studies from various electronic databases, irrespective of publication date. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Textbook Outcomes and Quality of Life Assessment Following Liver Resection for Colorectal Metastasis
Authors: McGarry Jennifer Louise , Quirke Ned , Neary Colm , Walsh Ruth , O'Connell Robert Michael , McEntee Gerry , Conneely John Barry
Published: December 2024

Background

It is unknown if textbook outcomes (TBOs) correlate with patient‐reported health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) parameters in patients undergoing hepatic resection for colorectal liver metastasises. Understanding this relationship is required to inform treatment decisions and optimise patient care. This single‐centre analysis aims to assess this correlation and provide insight into the impact of liver resection on patient well‐being in this population.

Methods

Single‐centre analysis of all liver resections performed for colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) at our centre from 2018 to 2023. The EuroQol‐5D (EQ‐5D) validated telephone questionnaire was used to assess HRQoL. The impact of a TBO on overall survival and recurrence‐free survival was investigated using Kaplan−Meier curve analysis. A Cox model was used to determine factors associated with improved survival.

Results

185 patients underwent liver resection for CRLM between 2018 and 2023. 55% of eligible patients completed the EQ‐5D telephone questionnaire. TBOs were achieved in 68.2% of CRLM at our institution. Achieving TBOs in this cohort was associated with improved HRQoL (p = 0.061).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates excellent long‐term HRQoL in patients who undergo resection for CRLM. Achieving TBO in this cohort is associated with improved patient‐reported HRQoL. Our findings strengthen the utility of the previously defined textbook outcomes in CRLM.
Correlating Double‐Cone Polariton Dynamics with Local Femtosecond Laser Modifications in Ultrashort‐Pulse‐Stimulated Crystals
Authors: Wang Lei , Zheng Jia‐Xin , Cui Lin , Wang Hai‐Yu , Liu Xue‐Qing , Luo Yang , Chen Qi‐Dai , Sun Hong‐Bo
Published: December 2024

Strong similarities for relativistic electrons stimulated from electron beams and electron clouds are merging the boundary of wave‐particle duality of electrons, one of which being superposition is Cherenkov radiations. Recent theoretical investigations into quantum Cherenkov effects for cone‐shape particles have hypothesized electron‐spin flip transitions in bound‐ and free‐electron systems like bulk silica and graphene. However, experimental validation of these predictions remains outstanding. Here, analogous phenomena of polariton‐version quantum Cherenkov radiations observed by broadband femtosecond pump‐probe experiments is reported, and demonstrate double‐cone emission processes involving of Cherenkov‐type phonon polaritons (PhPs) and plasmon‐PhPs in ultrashort‐pulse‐stimulated ferroelectric crystals and graphene, respectively. Through component analysis of double‐cone polariton emissions using an empirical quantum dynamics model, the initial polariton dynamics are restored by time translation corrections. The resulting quantum wave packets of PhPs are found to be correlated with femtosecond‐laser‐induced modifications inside ferroelectric lithium niobates, achieving a PhP threshold criterion for ultrasmooth femtosecond laser nanofabrication.
Quasi‐Bound States in the Continuum on Dislocated Bilayer Metal Gratings for Spatiotemporal Vortex Pulse Generation
Authors: Zhou Yi , Zou Renwei , Zhan Junjie , Wang Yubo , Dai Daoxin , Choudhury Pankaj K. , Forbes Andrew , Ma Yungui
Published: December 2024

Spatiotemporal vortex pulses (STVPs) with transverse orbital angular momentum (OAM) have recently stimulated great interest, influencing wide disciplines from classical to quantum optics. However, generating sophisticated STVPs in high‐efficiency and compact systems remains a challenge. This work outlines an ultra‐compact metasurface approach to efficiently generate STVPs through the coupling of free‐space plane waves with a quasi‐bound state in the continuum (quasi‐BIC). The approach leverages external excitation of the quasi‐BIC at the Γ‐point by slightly dislocating two sub‐layer gratings to break the mirror symmetries. This operation converts the incident wave into a unidirectional surface mode and induces a Fano resonance, resulting in STVPs in the frequency‐momentum domain. The method is demonstrated experimentally with a meta‐grating to produce an electromagnetic (EM) STVP with a topological charge of l = −1 with high fidelity and use the set‐up to unravel the hitherto unexplored diffraction and dispersive properties of near‐field STVPs. The present work can be extended from the microwave to the visible light regime by simply scaling the metasurface, and allowing high‐order OAM generation through cascaded elements, thereby paving a robust way to build up ultra‐compact STVP multiplexing devices for future applications.