bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding User Feedback in Software Ecosystems: A Study on Challenges and Mitigation Strategies
Authors: Ghimire Bachan , Li Ze Shi , Damian Daniela
Published: February 2024

Online user feedback has become an essential mechanism for software organizations to gain insight into user concerns and to recognize areas for improvement. In software platform ecosystems, staying abreast of user feedback is particularly challenging due to the multitude of feedback channels and the complex interplay with third party applications. In this paper we report from a mixed-method study of user feedback from over 40,000 relevant reviews from 139 SECO platforms out of 2.4 million online user reviews scraped from 283 retrieved SECO platforms. Through thematic analysis and machine learning classifiers with high accuracy, we identified and analyzed six categories of user challenges in the areas of Integration, Customer Support, Design & Complexity, Privacy & Security, Cost & Pricing, and Performance & Compatibility. Our analysis also shows a significant growth of SECO user feedback in the past five years, highlighting the importance of understanding such user feedback as well as research methodologies to automatically study online user concerns in software ecosystems. To further understand mitigation strategies for challenges reported by end users, we interviewed four executives from large ecosystems and describe strategies in addressing those identified challenges. This research is a first large scale study of user feedback in software ecosystems; the categories of user concerns are hopefully useful in guiding platforms in designing and fostering better software ecosystems. Our methodology for automatically classifying the user feedback that is SECO-related can also serve as guidance for future studies that can further advance our understanding of user feedback and how to integrate it into improved software ecosystems.
Corporate Startups: A Systematic Literature Review on Governance and Autonomy
Authors: Garidis Konstantin , Rossmann Alexander , Murray Alan
Published: February 2024

Many incumbents observe the startup world in jealousy of their agility and innovational performance. An increasing number of initiatives aim to mimic startup-like procedures in order to increase the incumbents’ innovational output. Structural models like accelerators, spinoffs, incubators, or corporate venture capitals aim to achieve that goal by implementing different governance setups. However, the success of such initiatives often remains unclear. While there is broad research on such topics, a clear empirical view on governance mechanisms for entrepreneurial structures in incumbents is missing. This paper outlines how to build a governance model based on empirically validated mechanisms and their relationship to corporate startup autonomy. This is achieved by following the systematic literature review approach by Webster and Watson combined with qualitative data analysis techniques. The results describe relevant gaps in current research and identify promising pathways for future research.
Exploring the Finnish Impact Investing Ecosystem: Perspectives on Challenges from Technology Startups
Authors: Okker Timo , Mohanani Rahul , Auvinen Tommi , Abrahamsson Pekka
Published: February 2024

The increasing significance of social and environmental impact within the technology startup business sector has garnered attention. Previous research has explored impact investing and related themes in the startup context. However, despite the growing interest in this area, a noticeable gap exists in research addressing impact investing ecosystems (IIE) and ecosystem-related challenges and advantages specifically within the technology field. This study endeavors to fill this gap by examining organizations within the Finnish IIE, bridging the divide between current industry practices and academic research. This study employed an interview-based approach, featuring thirteen interviewees representing eleven participating organizations. These interviews followed a semi-structured format, with all interviewees holding roles closely linked to the technology startup context within the Finnish IIE. Utilizing the thematic synthesis approach, this research aims to elucidate the perceived challenges faced by technology startups operating within the IIE. The findings of this study underscore the diversity and multiplicity of challenges confronting startups within the IIE, spanning various functions and operations, as well as the existing financial structures. Furthermore, this study puts forth recommendations for mitigating these perceived challenges and suggests potential avenues for future research within this domain.
Feeling the Elephant: Insiders’ Perspectives on the Metaverse
Authors: de Oliveira Fabrício , Wang Xiaofeng , Zaina Luciana
Published: February 2024

The metaverse has been considered in various literature reviews as a multifaceted and complex concept that can not be defined from a single set of terms. These literature reviews have attempted the Metaverse definition based on the research most published before the heated attention on the Metaverse in 2021; therefore, they may not provide an up-to-date understanding of the phenomenon that incorporates the perspectives from the industry. This paper aims to disentangle the complexity of the Metaverse concept considering the perspectives of insiders - practitioners who play essential roles in the recent Metaverse wave. To achieve our goal, we analyzed one specific type of gray literature - a podcast series from Bloomberg entitled “Into the Metaverse” which featured different professionals active in the Metaverse landscape. Three themes were identified that represent the essential characteristics of the Metaverse which include technology capabilities, infrastructure characteristics, and social and economic aspects. Our study contributes to a more contemporary industrial understanding of the Metaverse concept. The understanding can assist researchers in future investigations into the evolving Metaverse paradigm.
BPS fivebrane stars. Part II. Fluctuations
Authors: Martinec Emil J. , Zigdon Yoav
Published: February 2024

Abstract

We investigate quantum fluctuations of metric components in coherent 1/2-BPS bound states of n1 fundamental strings and n5 NS5-branes. The leading order contribution in an expansion in 1/(n1n5) is calculated via a combination of analytical and numerical methods. We find that the fluctuations are small away from a tiny distance from the source, comparable to the 6d Planck scale. Comparing this result with an analysis in the literature of fluctuations in the maximally mixed state, we conclude that the large fluctuations previously found for the latter are statistical rather than quantum in nature, and that perturbative string theory provides an accurate description of these backgrounds.
Chiral Soliton Lattice turns into 3D crystal
Authors: Evans Geraint W. , Schmitt Andreas
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Chiral perturbation theory predicts the chiral anomaly to induce a so-called Chiral Soliton Lattice at sufficiently large magnetic fields and baryon chemical potentials. This state breaks translational invariance in the direction of the magnetic field and was shown to be unstable with respect to charged pion condensation. Improving on previous work by considering a realistic pion mass, we employ methods from type-II superconductivity and construct a three-dimensional pion (and baryon) crystal perturbatively, close to the instability curve of the Chiral Soliton Lattice. We find an analogue of the usual type-I/type-II transition in superconductivity: along the instability curve for magnetic fields eB > 0.12 GeV2 and chemical potentials μ < 910 MeV, this crystal can continuously supersede the Chiral Soliton Lattice. For smaller magnetic fields the instability curve must be preceded by a discontinuous transition.
On reconstructing finite gauge group from fusion rules
Authors: Radhakrishnan Rajath
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Gauging a finite group 0-form symmetry G of a quantum field theory (QFT) results in a QFT with a Rep(G) symmetry implemented by Wilson lines. The group G determines the fusion of Wilson lines. However, in general, the fusion rules of Wilson lines do not determine G. In this paper, we study the properties of G that can be determined from the fusion rules of Wilson lines and surface operators obtained from higher-gauging Wilson lines. This is in the spirit of Richard Brauer who asked what information in addition to the character table of a finite group needs to be known to determine the group. We show that fusion rules of surface operators obtained from higher-gauging Wilson lines can be used to distinguish infinite pairs of groups which cannot be distinguished using the fusion of Wilson lines. We derive necessary conditions for two non-isomorphic groups to have the same surface operator fusion and find a pair of such groups.
Vector-like symmetries and parity conservation in gauge theories with Yukawa couplings
Authors: Valenti Alessandro , Vecchi Luca
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Non-perturbative results in QCD-like theories can be derived employing positivity of the Euclidean path integral measure, as pioneered by Weingarten, Vafa, and Witten. We show that positivity of the measure can be generalized to parity-invariant theories with Yukawa couplings to fundamental scalars, provided the fermions are Dirac and carry a real representation of the gauge group. This result allows us to demonstrate the conservation of parity and vector-like flavor symmetries in such theories, as well as to derive exact inequalities among hadrons’ masses.
Cardiac proteostasis in obesity and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Guerra Joel , Matta Leonardo , Bartelt Alexander
Published: February 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are closely linked to protein homeostasis (proteostasis) and its failure. Beside genetic mutations that impair cardiac protein quality control, obesity is a strong risk factor for heart disease. In obesity, adipose tissue becomes dysfunctional and impacts heart function and CVD progression by releasing cytokines that contribute to systemic insulin resistance and cardiovascular dysfunction. In addition, chronic inflammation and lipotoxicity compromise endoplasmic reticulum (ER) function, eliciting stress responses that overwhelm protein quality control beyond its capacity. Impairment of proteostasis—including dysfunction of the ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS), autophagy, and the depletion of chaperones—is intricately linked to cardiomyocyte dysfunction. Interventions targeting UPS and autophagy pathways are new potential strategies for re-establishing protein homeostasis and improving heart function. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as dietary interventions and exercise have been shown to promote cardiac proteostasis and overall metabolic health. The pursuit of future research dedicated to proteostasis and protein quality control represents a pioneering approach for enhancing cardiac health and addressing the complexities of obesity-related cardiac dysfunction.
Powder bed fusion of high-Mn-N Ni-free austenitic stainless steel: achieving low porosity and high mechanical strength through process parameter selection
Authors: Tochiro Leandro Akira , Gabriel André Henrique Guimarães , Terada Maysa , de Castro Renato Spacini , Lopes Éder Sócrates Najar , Avila Julian Arnaldo , Masoumi Mohammad
Published: February 2024

The emergence of innovative high-performance stainless steels is essential at the forefront of material science. This research highlights the meticulous development of a novel high-Mn-N Ni-free austenitic stainless steel via the powder bed fusion laser–based (PBF-LB) technique. We strategically optimized the laser parameters, achieving ultralow porosity and a refined microstructure with defects under 2%. Comprehensive analysis revealed superior dendritic cellular formations at melt pool boundaries, underlining our method’s precision. Unveiling the strength of this novel steel, sample S11 (scanning speed of 800 mm/s and laser power of 147 W) showed a remarkable tensile strength of 1190 ± 20 MPa and an impressive elongation to fracture of 35 ± 3%. Interestingly, twin formations became evident under external loads, enhancing mechanical resistance while preserving ductility. Advanced quantification methods were employed to ensure accuracy, especially for low atomic number elements, overcoming previous measurement constraints. This pioneering study introduces a game-changing austenitic Ni-free stainless steel enriched by Mn and N. It sets a new benchmark in material development and application, synergizing exceptional mechanical attributes with robust ductility.
Martingale Solutions in Stochastic Fluid–Structure Interaction
Authors: Breit Dominic , Mensah Prince Romeo , Moyo Thamsanqa Castern
Published: February 2024

We consider a viscous incompressible fluid interacting with a linearly elastic shell of Koiter type which is located at some part of the boundary. Recently models with stochastic perturbation in the shell equation have been proposed in the literature but only analysed in simplified cases. We investigate the full model with transport noise, where (a part of) the boundary of the fluid domain is randomly moving in time. We prove the existence of a weak martingale solution to the underlying system.
Characterization of Sonic Hedgehog transcripts in the adult mouse brain: co-expression with neuronal and oligodendroglial markers
Authors: Russo Mariagiovanna , Pellegrino Giuliana , Faure Hélène , Tirou Linda , Sharif Ariane , Ruat Martial
Published: February 2024

In the adult mammalian brain, astrocytes are proposed to be the major Sonic Hedgehog (Shh)-responsive cells. However, the sources of the Shh molecule mediating activation of the pathway are still poorly characterized. The present work investigates the distribution and phenotype of cells expressing Shh mRNA in the adult mouse brain. Using single-molecule fluorescent in situ hybridization (smfISH), we report much broader expression of Shh transcripts in almost all brain regions than originally reported. We identify Shh mRNA in HuC/D+ neuronal populations, including GABAergic (glutamic acid decarboxylase 67, Gad67), cholinergic (choline acetyltransferase, ChAT), dopaminergic (tyrosine hydroxylase, TH), nitrergic (neuronal nitric oxide synthase, nNOS), and in a small population of oligodendroglial cells expressing Sox10 and Olig2 mRNA transcription factors. Further analysis of Shh mRNA in cerebral cortical and hypothalamic neurons suggests that Shh is also expressed by glutamatergic neurons. Interestingly, we did not observe substantial Desert Hedgehog and Indian Hedgehog mRNA signals, nor Shh signals in S100β+ astrocytes and Iba1+ microglial cells. Collectively, the present work provides the most robust central map of Shh-expressing cells to date and underscores the importance of nitrergic neurons in regulating Shh availability to brain cells. Thus, our study provides a framework for future experiments aimed at better understanding of the functions of Shh signaling in the brain in normal and pathological states, and the characterization of novel regulatory mechanisms of the signaling pathway.
Pharyngeal Residue Scoring in Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing: Reliability Comparison and Applicability Among Different Scales
Authors: Messina Federica , Rocca Sara , Manca Beatrice , Scarponi Letizia , Ninfa Aurora , Schindler Antonio , Pizzorni Nicole
Published: February 2024

Several scales to assess pharyngeal residue in Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) are currently available. The study aimed to compare the reliability and the applicability in real clinical practice among four rating scales: the Pooling Score (P-SCORE), the Boston Residue and Clearance Scale (BRACS), the Yale Pharyngeal Residue Severity Rating Scale (YPRSRS), and the Residue Ordinal Rating Scale (RORS). Twenty-five FEES videos were evaluated four times, once for each scale, by four speech and language pathologists. To test intra-rater reliability, the same raters re-assessed the videos two weeks apart. To test the applicability, raters recorded the time required to complete each assessment and the perceived difficulty/ease on a visual-analog scale (VAS). The intra-rater and the inter-rater reliability were calculated with Cohen’s weighted Kappa and the Fleiss weighted Kappa, respectively. Time and perceived difficulty/ease scores were compared. The intra-rater reliability analysis showed almost perfect agreement for YPRSRS (k = 0.91) and RORS (k = 0.83) and substantial agreement for P-SCORE (k = 0.76) and BRACS (k = 0.74). Pairwise comparison showed no significant differences among the scales. The inter-rater reliability for the YPRSRS (k = 0.78) was significantly higher than P-SCORE (k = 0.52, p < 0.001), BRACS (k = 0.56, p < 0.001), and RORS (k = 0.65, p = 0.005). The BRACS required the longest time (p < 0.001) and was perceived as the most difficult scale (p < 0.001). The RORS was perceived as the easiest scale (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the YPRSRS showed the highest reliability, while raters perceived the RORS as the easiest to score. These results will allow clinicians to consciously choose which scale to use in clinical practice.
Addressing manufacturing defects in architected materials via anisotropy: minimal viable case
Authors: Joedicke Indre , Ghavidelnia Naeim , Felsch Gerrit , Slesarenko Viacheslav
Published: February 2024

The emergence of additive manufacturing has enabled the fabrication of architected materials with intricate micro- and nanoscale features. However, each fabrication method has a specific minimum feature size that can be practically achieved. As engineers pursue lightweight and high-performance materials, the elements of these architected materials often approach this minimum feature size, which poses a risk to their structural integrity. The failure of individual struts can result in the complete breaking of the lattice metamaterial’s connectivity or, depending on the internal architecture, only a marginal reduction in its load-bearing capacity. In this short letter, we use a minimal viable unit cell to demonstrate how an anisotropic lattice, constructed with beams of varying thicknesses, can surpass a lattice consisting solely of uniform thickness beams in terms of damage tolerance. Our focus is primarily on the manufacturing limitations rather than defects that may arise during the loading of architected materials. We propose an approach where the probability of each individual strut failure depends on its thickness, and we illustrate the implications using a simple step-like function. This approach can be extended to more complex metamaterials or to explore intricate relationships between failure probability and beam thickness.
Randomized controlled trial of individualized arousal-biofeedback for children and adolescents with disruptive behavior disorders (DBD)
Authors: Aggensteiner Pascal-M. , Böttinger Boris , Baumeister Sarah , Hohmann Sarah , Heintz Stefan , Kaiser Anna , Häge Alexander , Werhahn Julia , Hofstetter Christoph , Walitza Susanne , Franke Barbara , Buitelaar Jan , Banaschewski Tobias , Brandeis Daniel , Holz Nathalie E.
Published: February 2024

Disruptive behavior disorders [including conduct disorder (CD) and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)] are common childhood and adolescent psychiatric conditions often linked to altered arousal. The recommended first-line treatment is multi-modal therapy and includes psychosocial and behavioral interventions. Their modest effect sizes along with clinically and biologically heterogeneous phenotypes emphasize the need for innovative personalized treatment targeting impaired functions such as arousal dysregulation. A total of 37 children aged 8–14 years diagnosed with ODD/CD were randomized to 20 sessions of individualized arousal biofeedback using skin conductance levels (SCL-BF) or active treatment as usual (TAU) including psychoeducation and cognitive–behavioral elements. The primary outcome was the change in parents´ ratings of aggressive behavior measured by the Modified Overt Aggression Scale. Secondary outcome measures were subscales from the Child Behavior Checklist, the Inventory of Callous-Unemotional traits, and the Reactive-Proactive Aggression Questionnaire. The SCL-BF treatment was neither superior nor inferior to the active TAU. Both groups showed reduced aggression after treatment with small effects for the primary outcome and large effects for some secondary outcomes. Importantly, successful learning of SCL self-regulation was related to reduced aggression at post-assessment. Individualized SCL-BF was not inferior to active TAU for any treatment outcome with improvements in aggression. Further, participants were on average able to self-regulate their SCL, and those who best learned self-regulation showed the highest clinical improvement, pointing to specificity of SCL-BF regulation for improving aggression. Further studies with larger samples and improved methods, for example by developing BF for mobile use in ecologically more valid settings are warranted.
Benefits of farmer managed natural regeneration to food security in semi-arid Ghana
Authors: Opoku Mensah Seth , Ibrahim Suglo-Konbo , Jacobs Brent , Cunningham Rebecca , Owusu-Ansah Derrick , Adjei Evans
Published: February 2024

Promoting Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) aims to increase the productive capacities of farmer households. Under FMNR, farmers select and manage natural regeneration on farmlands and keep them under production. While FMNR contributes to the wealth of farming communities, its contribution to household food security has rarely been researched. We, therefore, used a mixed-methods approach to address the research gap by measuring FMNR’s contribution to food security among farmer households in the Talensi district of Ghana. We adopted the Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS) and Food Consumption Score (FCS) to estimate food security status among 243 FMNR farmer households and 243 non-FMNR farmer households. Also, we performed a Chi-square test of independence to compare the frequency of each food group (present vs not present) between FMNR adopters and non-FMNR adopters to establish the relationship between adopting FMNR and consuming the FCS and HDDS food groups. Our results reveal that FMNR farmer households are more food secure than non-FMNR farmer households. The HHDS of the FMNR farmer households was 9.6, which is higher than the target value of 9.1. Conversely, the HHDS of the non-FMNR farmer households was 4.3, which is lower than the target value of 9.1. Up to 86% and 37% of the FMNR farmer households and non-FMNR farmer households fell within acceptable FCS; 15% and 17% of FMNR farmer households and non-FMNR farmer households fell within borderline FCS. While none of the FMNR farmer households fell within poor FCS, 46% of non-FMNR farmer households fell within poor FCS. Adopting FMNR is significantly related to consuming all food groups promoted and benefiting from FMNR practices. The paper recommends enabling farmers in semi-arid environments to practice and invest in FMNR for long-term returns to food security.
Determinants of HIV Testing Among Migrant Men Who Have Sex With Men from Sub-Saharan Africa and Other Regions Residing in 10 European Countries
Authors: Shobowale Oladipupo , Schmidt Axel J. , Meireles Paula , Rojas Castro Daniela , Detandt Sandrine , Stutterheim Sarah E. , Weatherburn Peter , Jonas Kai J.
Published: February 2024

Migrant men who have sex with men (mMSM) from sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and other regions outside Europe are highly vulnerable to HIV. However, research on the determinants of HIV testing among mMSM from SSA, and how these differ across the categories of mMSM living in Europe, is limited. Using data from the European MSM Internet Survey (EMIS-2017), we assessed HIV testing prevalence and recency in mMSM from SSA and other mMSM residing in ten European countries, as well as the determinants of HIV testing across different mMSM categories with logistic regression analyses. Ever-testing for HIV was slightly higher in mMSM from SSA (83%) compared to other mMSM categories (75–80%), except for mMSM from Latin America and Caribbean region (84%). Overall, 20% of mMSM had never tested. In multivariable analysis, higher age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.10), higher HIV knowledge (AOR 1.45, 95%-CI 1.11–1.90), and residence in smaller settlements (AOR 0.45, 95%-CI 0.21–0.96) were significantly associated with ever testing for HIV in mMSM from SSA. Comparing mMSM from SSA to mMSM from other regions, we found varying significant similarities (higher age, residence in smaller settlements and HIV knowledge) and differences (lower educational attainment, not identifying as gay, being a student, and limited disclosure of homosexual attraction) in the determinants of ever-testing for HIV. Community-specific interventions addressing identified sociodemographic and behavioral determinants to increase HIV testing uptake in the different mMSM categories and better data for further research are warranted.
Graph neural networks: a survey on the links between privacy and security
Authors: Guan Faqian , Zhu Tianqing , Zhou Wanlei , Choo Kim-Kwang Raymond
Published: February 2024

Graph neural networks (GNNs) are models that capture the dependencies between graph data by passing messages between graph nodes and they have been widely used to process graph data that contains relational information. Example application areas include social networks, recommendation systems, and life sciences. However, like all neural networks, there are underpinning security and privacy concerns associated with GNN deployments in practice. For example, attackers can perturb a graph’s data to undermine a model’s effectiveness, or they can steal the model’s data and/or parameters, thus threatening the privacy of the model. In this survey, we provide a comprehensive review of recent research efforts on security and/or privacy in GNNs. We also systematically describe the distinctions and relationships between security and privacy, as well as providing an outlook on future directions of research in this area.
Impacts of forestry drainage on surface peat stoichiometry and physical properties in boreal peatlands in Finland
Authors: Turunen Jukka , Anttila Jani , Laine Anna M. , Ovaskainen Juha , Laatikainen Matti , Alm Jukka , Larmola Tuula
Published: February 2024

Management of drained peatlands may pose a risk or a solution on the way towards climate change mitigation, which creates a need to evaluate the current state of forestry-drained peatlands, the magnitude of degradation processes and indicators for carbon (C) loss. Using a large dataset (778 profiles, 891 peat samples, collected between 1977 and 2017) from peatlands having different fertility classes across Finland, we investigate whether the surface peat profiles of undrained and forestry-drained peatlands differ in C:N, von Post and dry bulk density. The utility of element ratios (C:N:H stoichiometry) as site indicators for degradation were further analyzed from a subsample of 16 undrained and 30 drained peat profiles. This subsample of drained sites had carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) fluxes measured allowing us to link peat element ratios to annual C gas effluxes. Element ratios H:C, O:C and C:N and degree of unsaturation (combining C, N, H changes) were found widely valid: they captured both differences in the botanical origin of peat as well as its potential decomposition pathway (C lost via a combination of dissolved organic C and C gas loss and/or the gaseous loss predominantly as CO2). Of the stoichiometric indexes, peat H:C ratio seemed to be the best proxy for degradation following drainage, it indicated not only long-term degradation but also explained 48% of the variation in annual CO2 emission. The O:C ratio positively correlated with annual CH4 flux, presumably because high O:C in peat reflected the availability of easily degradable substrate for methanogenesis. The differences in C:N ratio indicated notable decomposition processes for Sphagnum-dominated peatlands but not in Carex-dominated peatlands. Degree of unsaturation showed potential for an integrative proxy for drainage-induced lowering water table and post-drainage changes in peat substrate quality.
Cancer cell plasticity: from cellular, molecular, and genetic mechanisms to tumor heterogeneity and drug resistance
Authors: Bhat Gh Rasool , Sethi Itty , Sadida Hana Q. , Rah Bilal , Mir Rashid , Algehainy Naseh , Albalawi Ibrahim Altedlawi , Masoodi Tariq , Subbaraj Gowtham Kumar , Jamal Farrukh , Singh Mayank , Kumar Rakesh , Macha Muzafar A. , Uddin Shahab , Akil Ammira S. Al-Shabeeb , Haris Mohammad , Bhat Ajaz A.
Published: February 2024

Cancer is a complex disease displaying a variety of cell states and phenotypes. This diversity, known as cancer cell plasticity, confers cancer cells the ability to change in response to their environment, leading to increased tumor diversity and drug resistance. This review explores the intricate landscape of cancer cell plasticity, offering a deep dive into the cellular, molecular, and genetic mechanisms that underlie this phenomenon. Cancer cell plasticity is intertwined with processes such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition and the acquisition of stem cell–like features. These processes are pivotal in the development and progression of tumors, contributing to the multifaceted nature of cancer and the challenges associated with its treatment. Despite significant advancements in targeted therapies, cancer cell adaptability and subsequent therapy-induced resistance remain persistent obstacles in achieving consistent, successful cancer treatment outcomes. Our review delves into the array of mechanisms cancer cells exploit to maintain plasticity, including epigenetic modifications, alterations in signaling pathways, and environmental interactions. We discuss strategies to counteract cancer cell plasticity, such as targeting specific cellular pathways and employing combination therapies. These strategies promise to enhance the efficacy of cancer treatments and mitigate therapy resistance. In conclusion, this review offers a holistic, detailed exploration of cancer cell plasticity, aiming to bolster the understanding and approach toward tackling the challenges posed by tumor heterogeneity and drug resistance. As articulated in this review, the delineation of cellular, molecular, and genetic mechanisms underlying tumor heterogeneity and drug resistance seeks to contribute substantially to the progress in cancer therapeutics and the advancement of precision medicine, ultimately enhancing the prospects for effective cancer treatment and patient outcomes.
A Computational Model of School Achievement
Authors: Schuetze Brendan A.
Published: February 2024

The computational model of school achievement represents a novel approach to theorizing school achievement, conceptualizing educational interventions as modifications to students’ learning curves. By modeling the process and products of educational achievement simultaneously, this tool addresses several unresolved questions in educational psychology through computational modeling. For example, prior research has highlighted perplexing inconsistencies in the relationship between time spent on task and academic achievement. The present simulation reveals that even under the assumption that time-on-task always positively contributes to achievement, the correlations between time-on-task and achievement can vary substantially across different contexts and, in some cases, may even be negative. Analysis of the correlation between prior knowledge and knowledge gains uncovers similar patterns. The computational model of school achievement presents a framework, bolstered through simulation, enabling researchers to formalize their assumptions, address ongoing debates, and design tailored interventions that consider both the school environment and individual student contexts.
Synthesis and characterization of hierarchical suspended carbon fiber structures decorated with carbon nanotubes
Authors: Nguyen Sura , Flores Claudia B. , Madou Marc J. , Ray Mallar , Salazar Arnoldo , Vargas Regina , Aguilar Iris , Ornelas Nancy E. , Torres-Castro Alejandro , Martínez Sergio O.
Published: February 2024

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and carbon microfibers (CMFs) have received significant attention due to their exceptional mechanical and electrical properties, which make them promising materials for various applications. This study introduces a novel approach to integrate CNTs and CMFs into a unified architecture by simultaneously conducting pyrolysis and chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The localized CVD of CNTs on suspended CMFs was achieved by utilizing Fe–Co nanoparticles (NPs) embedded in polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers as catalysts. Scanning electron microscopy and elemental analysis confirmed the formation of needle-like carbon structures on the pyrolyzed fiber surface, where carbon gases released from the pyrolyzing PAN fiber acted as the carbon source for the localized CVD. The incorporation of an additional carbon source, such as camphor vapor, significantly enhanced the growth and density of CNTs on the CMF. Various characterization techniques, including transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and Atomic Force Microscopy, were employed to analyse the properties of the synthesized materials. The substantial increase in electrical conductivity upon incorporating CNTs highlights their positive influence on electrical properties and defect reduction. These characterization results highlight the potential applications of the fabricated structures in various fields, including sensors, lithium-ion electrodes, and microfabrication. In addition, the economic advantages of optimizing the process by integrating CVD with pyrolysis were assessed, revealing decreased operation time, lower energy consumption, and reduced chemical costs in comparison to conventional methods involving multiple intermediate processing steps.

Graphical Abstract
Death as the extinction of the source of value: the constructivist theory of death as an irreversible loss of moral status
Authors: Nowak Piotr Grzegorz
Published: February 2024

In 2017, Michael Nair-Collins formulated his Transitivity Argument which claimed that brain-dead patients are alive according to a concept that defines death in terms of the loss of moral status. This article challenges Nair-Collins’ view in three steps. First, I elaborate on the concept of moral status, claiming that to understand this notion appropriately, one must grasp the distinction between direct and indirect duties. Second, I argue that his understanding of moral status implicit in the Transitivity Argument is faulty since it is not based on a distinction between direct and indirect duties. Third, I show how this flaw in Nair-Collins’ argument is grounded in the more general problems between preference utilitarianism and desire fulfillment theory. Finally, I present the constructivist theory of moral status and the associated moral concept of death and explain how this concept challenges the Transitivity Argument. According to my view, brain death constitutes a valid criterion of death since brain death is incompatible with the preserved capacity to have affective attitudes and to value anything.
Severity and death
Authors: Ehlert Adam
Published: February 2024

This article discusses the relationship between two theories about the badness of death, the Life-Comparative Account and the Gradualist Account, and two methods of operationalizing severity in health care priority setting, Absolute Shortfall and Proportional Shortfall. The aim is that theories about the badness of death can influence and inform the idea of the basis of severity as a priority setting criterion. I argue that there are strong similarities between the Life-Comparative Account and Absolute Shortfall, and since the Life-Comparative Account is one of the most reasonable accounts of the badness of death, this provides some support for using Absolute Shortfall. I also argue that it is difficult to find support for Proportional Shortfall from theories about the badness of death, and also, that it is difficult to find support for Gradualist Account from theories about severity.
Intact modulation of response vigor in major depressive disorder
Authors: Bakbani-Elkayam Shirel , Dolev-Amit Tohar , Hemed Eitan , Zilcha-Mano Sigal , Eitam Baruch
Published: February 2024

Blunted motivation is a core symptom of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Although the empirical picture is mixed, cognitive processes that can be collectively referred to as reward processing have been found to be consistently muted in MDD; most notably, reward sensitivity and reinforcement learning. Works on the modulation of response vigor in individuals with MDD have examined various types of reward, but recent research has shown that in the general population, response vigor is not modulated by type of reward on tasks that are highly similar to those used in these experiments. The present study implemented a form of non-reward related reinforcement which has repeatedly been shown to modulate response vigor in the general population. It investigated whether modulation of response vigor by this type of reinforcement would be effective in individuals with MDD. Clinically depressed individuals (N = 121; 76 post-exclusion) engaged in a task in which their responses led to predictable and immediate sensorimotor effects, or no such effects. Response vigor increased when responses led to sensorimotor effects, which was comparable to the increase found in the general population. These findings support the utility of isolating the computations leading to different reinforcement types and suggest that motivational deficits in MDD may be specific to the type of reward (i.e., hedonically or otherwise explicitly desired stimuli). These results contribute to the literature by suggesting that the reinforcement from sensorimotor predictability stems from processes devolved to motor control, whereas reinforcement from rewards may depend on more general-purpose processes.
Intravesical thermochemotherapy in the treatment of high-risk and very high-risk non-muscle-invasive urothelial bladder cancer: a single-arm study
Authors: Brisuda Antonín , Horňák Jakub , Žemličková Barbora , Háček Jaromír , Babjuk Marek
Published: February 2024

Aim

Intravesical thermochemotherapy, also known as HIVEC (Hyperthermic Intra-VEsical Chemotherapy), represents an alternative adjuvant topical treatment for non-muscle-invasive urothelial bladder cancer (NMIBC). High-risk (HR) and very HR tumors carry a substantial risk of recurrence and progression. In this study, we present our own results using HIVEC as an alternative to unavailable Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccine in the treatment of such groups of patients.

Methods

During the period of November 2014–June 2022, a total of 47 patients with HR and very HR NMIBC underwent treatment with HIVEC after transurethral resection. They were given an induction of 6 instillations with/without a maintenance. The aim was to evaluate the time to recurrence, event-free survival (recurrence or progression), as measured by Kaplan–Meier analysis, the effect of maintenance treatment and other factors on survival (log-rank test and multivariable Cox regression analysis), and complications.

Results

The median follow-up for patients who did not experience an event was 32 months. The median time to HR (high grade and/or T1 tumor) recurrence in those who recurred was 15 months. The survival rate without HR recurrence at 12, 24, and 48 months was 84, 70, and 59%, respectively. Progression was detected in 10.6% of patients, which translated to 89% of patients living without progression after 24 months. Maintenance treatment (defined as more than six instillations) and presence of CIS significantly correlated with risk of HR recurrence (Hazard ratio 0.34 and 3.12, respectively). One female patient underwent salvage cystectomy due to contractory bladder, and 19.1% of patients experienced transient lower urinary tract symptoms.

Conclusion

Based on our experience, HIVEC represents an adequate and safe alternative treatment for HR and very HR NMIBC in situations where BCG is not available or radical cystectomy is not an option for the patient. However, high-quality data from prospective randomized studies are still lacking, and thus, thermochemotherapy should still be regarded as an experimental treatment modality.
Insights into single-timepoint ASL hemodynamics: what visual assessment and spatial coefficient of variation can tell
Authors: Pizzini Francesca Benedetta , Boscolo Galazzo Ilaria , Natale Valerio , Ribaldi Federica , Scheffler Max , Caranci Ferdinando , Lovblad Karl-Olof , Menegaz Gloria , Frisoni Giovanni B. , Gunther Matthias
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Arterial spin labeling (ASL) represents a noninvasive perfusion biomarker, and, in the study of nonvascular disease, the use of the single-timepoint ASL technique is recommended. However, the obtained cerebral blood flow (CBF) maps may be highly influenced by delayed arterial transit time (ATT). Our aim was to assess the complexity of hemodynamic information of single-timepoint CBF maps using a new visual scale and comparing it with an ATT proxy, the “coefficient of spatial variation” (sCoV).

Material and methods

Individual CBF maps were estimated in a memory clinic population (mild cognitive impairment, dementia and cognitively unimpaired controls) and classified into four levels of delayed perfusion based on a visual rating scale. Calculated measures included global/regional sCoVs and common CBF statistics, as mean, median and standard deviation. One-way ANOVA was performed to compare these measures across the four groups of delayed perfusion. Spearman correlation was used to study the association of global sCoV with clinical data and CBF statistics.

Results

One hundred and forty-four participants (72 ± 7 years, 53% women) were included in the study. The proportion of maps with none, mild, moderate, and severe delayed perfusion was 15, 20, 37, and 28%, respectively. SCoV demonstrated a significant increase (p < 0.05) across the four groups, except when comparing none vs mild delayed perfusion groups (pBonf > 0.05). Global sCoV values, as an ATT proxy, ranged from 67 ± 4% (none) to 121 ± 24% (severe delayed) and were significantly associated with age and CBF statistics (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The impact of ATT delay in single-time CBF maps requires the use of a visual scale or sCoV in clinical or research settings.
Bundling Colorectal Cancer Screening Outreach with Screening for Social Risk in Federally Qualified Health Centers: A Stepped-Wedge Implementation-Effectiveness Study
Authors: Kruse Gina R. , Percac-Lima Sanja , Barber-Dubois Marjanna , Davies Madeline E. , Gundersen Daniel A. , Ho Oanh , Mascioli Lynette , Munshi Mehezbin , Perry Sarah , Singh Deepinder , Thomas Annette , Emmons Karen M. , Haas Jennifer S.
Published: February 2024

Background

Bundling is combining individual interventions to meet quality metrics. Bundling offers of cancer screening with screening for social determinants of health (SDOH) may enable health centers to assist patients with social risks and yield efficiencies.

Objective

To measure effects of bundling fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) and SDOH screening in federally qualified health centers (FQHCs).

Design

Clustered stepped-wedge trial.

Participants

Four Massachusetts FQHCs randomized to implement bundled FIT-SDOH over 8-week “steps.”

Intervention

Outreach to 50–75-year-olds overdue for CRC screening to offer FIT with SDOH screening. The implementation strategy used facilitation and training for data monitoring and reporting.

Main Measures

Implementation process descriptions, data from facilitation meetings, and CRC and SDOH screening rates. Rates were compared between implementation and control FQHCs in each “step” by fitting generalized linear mixed-effects models with random intercepts for FQHCs, patients, and “step” by FQHC.

Key Results

FQHCs tailored implementation processes to their infrastructure, workflows, and staffing and prioritized different groups for outreach. Two FQHCs used population health outreach, and two integrated FIT-SDOH within established programs, such as pre-visit planning. Of 34,588 patients overdue for CRC screening, 54% were female; 20% Black, 11% Latino, 10% Asian, and 47% white; 32% had Medicaid, 16% Medicare, 32% private insurance, and 11% uninsured. Odds of CRC screening completion in implementation “steps” compared to controls were higher overall and among groups prioritized for outreach (overall: adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.41, p = 0.005; prioritized: aOR 2.88, p = 0.002). Odds of SDOH screening did not differ across “steps.”

Conclusions

As healthcare systems are required to conduct more screenings, it is notable that outreach for a long-standing cancer screening requirement increased screening, even when bundled with a newer screening requirement. This outreach was feasible in a real-world safety-net clinical population and may conserve resources, especially compared to more complex or intensive outreach strategies.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT04585919
Fairer Sex or Fairer Analysis? Gender, Risk, and Corruption
Authors: Dietrich Vincent , Neudorfer Natascha S.
Published: February 2024

Scholars of the relationship between gender and corruption frequently assume that women are more risk averse than men in order to explain why women are less corrupt than men. Despite the popularity of this assumption, existing scholarship on gender and corruption lacks rigorous, large‑N testing of the relationship between risk, gender, and corruption. We reviewed the economics literature around risk and gender and the literature in political science on risk, gender, and corruption to derive hypotheses. Using the World Values Survey (49 countries), we analysed the relationship between risk, gender, and bribery (generalised linear mixed model). Unsurprisingly, respondents who perceive higher risks of being held accountable for corrupt actions engage in less corruption than respondents who perceive low risks. Yet this relationship is rather weak. Surprisingly, we found no significant gender difference for perceived risk of being held accountable for corruption, nor did we find gendered differences for the relationship between risk and corruption.