bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Template‐Assisted Epitaxial Growth of Ordered SnO2 Nanorods Arrays with Different Hollow Structures for High‐Performance Sodium Storage
Authors: Zhang Xinyu , Kang Qiaoling , Su Mengfei , Song Chuang , Gao Feng , Lu Qingyi
Published: August 2024

Anode materials for sodium ion batteries (SIBs) are confronted with severe volume expansion and poor electrical conductivity. Construction of assembled structures featuring hollow interior and carbon material modification is considered as an efficient strategy to address the issues. Herein, a novel template‐assisted epitaxial growth method, ingeniously exploiting lattice matching nature, is developed to fabricate hollow ordered architectures assembled by SnO2 nanorods. SnO2 nanorods growing along [100] direction can achieve lattice‐matched epitaxial growth on (110) plane of α‐Fe2O3. Driven by the lattice matching, different α‐Fe2O3 templates possessing different crystal plane orientations enable distinct assembly modes of SnO2, and four kinds of hollow ordered SnO2@C nanorods arrays (HONAs) with different morphologies including disc, hexahedron, dodecahedron and tetrakaidecahedron (denoted as Di‐, He‐, Do‐, and Te‐SnO2@C) are achieved. Benefiting from the synergy of hollow structure, carbon coating and ordered assembly structure, good structural integrity and stability and enhanced electrical conductivity are realized, resulting in impressive sodium storage performances when utilized as SIB anodes. Specifically, Te‐SnO2@C HONAs exhibit excellent rate capability (385.6 mAh·g−1 at 2.0 A·g−1) and remarkable cycling stability (355.4 mAh·g−1 after 2000 cycles at 1.0 A·g−1). This work provides a promising route for constructing advanced SIB anode materials through epitaxial growth for rational structural design.
Video assistant referee and home field advantage: Implications for referee bias
Authors: Abbate Camilo , Cross Jeffrey , Uhrig Richard
Published: August 2024

Previous research has highlighted referee bias as a potential contributor to home field advantage in soccer. In order to shed light on the importance of referee bias, we exploit the staggered implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) using data from the top domestic league in 16 countries between 2009 and 2019 to estimate the effect of objective review systems on home field advantage in soccer. Surprisingly, the implementation of VAR had negligible effects on home field advantage and various crucial match statistics despite decreased total offsides and yellow cards. These results provide suggestive evidence regarding the mechanisms through which referee bias might contribute to home field advantage and highlight how scope may limit the effectiveness of review processes in general.
Specimens in the National Herbarium of Victoria, Australia (MEL) and in Naturalis Biodiversity Center of Leiden, Netherlands (L) associated with Albertini and Schweinitz's Conspectus fungorum in Lusatiae superioris
Authors: Karakehian Jason M. , Rödel Thomas , Damm Ulrike , Pfister Donald H. , Miller Andrew N. , Truong Camille , May Tom W.
Published: August 2024

The fate of the fungus specimens used by Johann Baptist von Albertini and Lewis David von Schweinitz for their publication Conspectus fungorum in Lusatiae superioris has been unknown. Some 73 specimens corresponding to new taxa described in this classic mycological text were recently brought to light in the National Herbarium of Victoria (MEL) in Melbourne, Australia. Here, we document the history and provenance of these specimens and analyze them in light of archived manuscripts and correspondence. Our research confirms that the specimens at MEL can be considered original material of the names of new species described in the Conspectus. We also document several specimens that are likely original material in the Persoon fungus collection at Naturalis Biodiversity Center in Leiden, Netherlands (L). Finally, we consider the potential impact of finding original material on Albertini & Schweinitz names that have been neotypified.
Machine learning analysis of oxidative stress‐related phenotypes for specific gene screening in ovarian cancer
Authors: Pan Chenxiang , Pan Chunyu , Chen Lili , Lin Aidi
Published: August 2024

Background

Oxidative stress serves a crucial role in tumor development. However, the relationship between ovarian cancer and oxidative stress remains unknown. We aimed to create an oxidative stress‐related prognostic signature to enhance the prognosis prediction of CC patients using bioinformatics.

Methods

The genes differentially expressed and associated with oxidative stress were extracted with the help of “limma” packages. The model for prognosis was created using Multivariate Cox regression analysis to determine the risk related to the genes related to oxidative stress. Patients were categorized as low‐risk or high‐risk based on the median score. The receiver operation characteristic (ROC) and survival curves were used to evaluate the predictive effect of the prognostic signature. We utilized quantitative real‐time PCR to assess the expression levels of key genes associated with oxidative stress in ovarian cancer cell lines (SKOV3, OVCAR3, and HeyA8) and normal ovarian epithelial cells (HOSEpiC).

Results

A signature comprising seven genes associated with oxidative stress was developed to prognosticate patients with ovarian cancer. Overall survival (OS) of the patient having CC was determined using Kaplan–Meier analysis. It was found that patient with a higher risk score had lower OS than the low‐risk score. The signature of genes associated with oxidative stress was found to be independently prognostic for 1, 2, and 3 years. Further research found that the expression levels of nine hub genes had a strong association with patient outcomes. Our analysis revealed a higher expression of CX3CR1 in ovarian cancer cell lines compared with normal cells.

Conclusions

To deploy a novel oxidative stress‐related prognostic signature as an independent biomarker in cervical cancer, we developed and validated it.
Accessibility of e-books for Secondary School Students in Ireland and Cyprus
Authors: Marcus-Quinn Ann , Fotiadis Thomas , Yeratziotis Alexandros , Papadopoulos George A.
Published: August 2024

Across the EU, an increasing number of second-level schools are using digital materials (Baron in How we read now: Strategic choices for print, screen, and audio. Oxford University Press, 2021; Hsieh and Huang in Educ Inf Technol 25:1285–1301, 2020). Such resources must be inclusive and accessible (Marcus-Quinn and Hourigan in Irish Educ Stud 41:161–169, 2022). Accessibility is paramount if students, particularly students confronting disabilities or learning impediments, are to experience equitable educational outcomes. While a multitude of school textbooks presently offer electronic book (e-book) alternatives, tailored for download and engagement via digital platforms, a significant number of these lack purposeful adaptation for online dissemination, thereby undermining their optimal accessibility. Some studies of e-book use at third level have found that undergraduate students notice accessibility features that e-books do not offer, such as customization of text display, the facility to highlight and annotate text, or the inclusion of interactive features such as embedded media content (Pierard et al. in Undesirable difficulties: investigating barriers to students’ learning with e-books in a semester-length course, 2019). There have been few similar studies for other education sectors. Accessibility features play a crucial role in making the digital learning experience more successful and also help students succeed in their studies. This chapter discusses the imperative of accessibility in the context of e-books specifically produced for the second-level education sector in both Ireland and Cyprus. The chapter will explore accessibility features common to many school e-books and highlight problematic issues associated with e-books that have not been prepared with accessibility considerations as part of the publication process.
Accessible Public Transport: A Case Study of Warsaw
Authors: Warchoł-Jakubowska Anna , Szwoch Iga , Szczeciński Patryk , Krejtz Izabela , Krejtz Krzysztof
Published: August 2024

This chapter explores accessibility in public transport, focusing on the case study of Warsaw in Poland, and is structured into several key sections. In Sect. 2, the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in urban spaces are discussed, shedding light on the impediments they encounter in navigating public transportation systems. Section 3 delves into the legal conditions surrounding accessibility, examining the international framework, national legislation, and the principles of universal design. A comprehensive review of existing accessibility solutions across various European cities is presented in Sect. 4, including accessible bus shelters equipped with access ramps and touchscreen directions and the integration of new technologies to enhance accessibility. Finally, Sect. 5 takes Warsaw as a central example of a European capital actively implementing innovative solutions in public transport accessibility. The chapter underscores the importance of addressing challenges, legal frameworks, and the adoption of cutting-edge solutions to create a more inclusive and accessible urban transport environment.
Digital Constitutionalism and the Data Economy
Authors: Luna Ferlanda , Maxhelaku Armela
Published: August 2024

The recent development of virtual data processing has brought about an entirely new perspective on the issues of regulation and the access to information. Information, in turn, has become a crucial component of the changing dynamics of the global market. It is crucial to address the potential of insurgent digital constitutionalism in establishing legal frameworks that ensure Internet security for both users and online platform managers, including private companies and government agencies. This applies to the usage and dissemination of data. With the development of technology, data management has become an important asset in the market. Considering these conditions, it is essential to establish legal frameworks in order to regulate the newly assigned responsibilities pertaining to information.
The Inclusivity of Art in City Space. Activities of Researchers from the University of Lodz to Support People with Sensory Disabilities. A Case Study from Lodz (Poland)
Authors: Pawłowska Aneta , Drozdowski Adam , Milerowska Magdalena , Długosz Paulina
Published: August 2024

Projects dedicated to addressing the accessibility of art for visually impaired individuals have been conducted at the Institute of Art History, University of Lodz, since 2013. This chapter focuses on four projects realized in collaboration with local museums, all aiming to support the full participation of people with sensory disabilities in culture. These projects employ digital technology, as well as dedicated typhlographics, Braille books, and spatial objects. Additionally, lectures, meetings, trips, and movie showings are interpreted into sign language. Such initiatives align with the positive changes brought by the Polish Accessibility Act. The most significant projects include “Lodz Art Against the Background of European Art. Excluded/Included” (2019–2022) and “Friendly City. Supporting the Independence of Visually Impaired People in Using the Public Transport Network in Lodz,” which includes an application for locational information and local architectural monuments (2021–2024). Both projects are funded by the National Center for Research and Development. Drawing from years of research experience, this chapter presents various methods and forms of using both tactile and digital tools to support audio description.
Suborbital Space Tourism: Doozy Experiences Beyond Earth
Authors: Jaskari Minna-Maarit , Jauffret Marie-Nathalie , Kauppinen-Räisänen Hannele
Published: August 2024

This chapter delves into the experiences of actual space travelers, focusing on their experiences along the journey. The underlying premise is that the experiences occurring in various phases of the journey—pre, during, and after—each play a crucial role in shaping the holistic travel experience. In order to gain in-depth insights regarding these experiences, a qualitative study was designed using mixed methods comprising three one-to-one interviews, analysis of published interviews with six space travel astronauts, and archival data. The study contributes with insights into the unique circumstances of space travel and lived experiences of such journeys. It also introduces the concept of “doozy tourism” to illustrate the specific nature of space tourism, which is here characterized as a niche of luxury tourism. Finally, it shows how experiences within space tourism are divided into four phases. The study also holds managerial implications for luxury space tourism.
The Commercial Aspects of Navigation Satellites: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Hassinen Sofia , Ojala Arto , Kuusniemi Heidi
Published: August 2024

This paper aims to examine the state-of-the-art concerning the commercial aspects of navigation satellite systems. The objective of this systematic literature review is to gather existing literature, map the current state of knowledge, and propose new research avenues regarding the commercial aspects of navigation satellites. To achieve these goals, we conducted a systematic literature review, reviewing 32 papers on navigation satellite systems and their application for commercial usage. Based on the literature, we identify six themes and elaborate on how these themes contribute to our understanding of the topic. The research indicates a scarcity of comprehensive studies on the commercial aspects of satellite navigation-enabled location-based services. Therefore, further investigation is necessary to identify and understand the business models and ecosystems of companies operating in this industry.
Isotropization of a longitudinally expanding system of scalar fields in the 2PI formalism
Authors: Gelis François , Hauksson Sigtryggur
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Motivated by isotropization of QCD matter in the initial stages of heavy-ion collisions, we consider a system of scalar fields that undergoes a boost invariant longitudinal expansion. We use the framework of the two-particle irreducible (2PI) effective action, which is close to the underlying quantum field theory, and resum self-energy corrections up to three loops. The resulting 2PI equations of motion are expressed in terms of the Milne coordinates to account for longitudinal expansion. By solving numerically these equations of motion, we can extract the occupation density and the effective mass generated by in-medium interactions. At the largest values of the coupling considered in this study, we observe the onset of isotropization both in the occupation number and in the momentum dependence of the effective mass.
VEGFD signaling balances stability and activity-dependent structural plasticity of dendrites
Authors: Aksan Bahar , Kenkel Ann-Kristin , Yan Jing , Sánchez Romero Javier , Missirlis Dimitris , Mauceri Daniela
Published: August 2024

Mature neurons have stable dendritic architecture, which is essential for the nervous system to operate correctly. The ability to undergo structural plasticity, required to support adaptive processes like memory formation, is still present in mature neurons. It is unclear what molecular and cellular processes control this delicate balance between dendritic structural plasticity and stabilization. Failures in the preservation of optimal dendrite structure due to atrophy or maladaptive plasticity result in abnormal connectivity and are associated with various neurological diseases. Vascular endothelial growth factor D (VEGFD) is critical for the maintenance of mature dendritic trees. Here, we describe how VEGFD affects the neuronal cytoskeleton and demonstrate that VEGFD exerts its effects on dendrite stabilization by influencing the actin cortex and reducing microtubule dynamics. Further, we found that during synaptic activity-induced structural plasticity VEGFD is downregulated. Our findings revealed that VEGFD, acting on its cognate receptor VEGFR3, opposes structural changes by negatively regulating dendrite growth in cultured hippocampal neurons and in vivo in the adult mouse hippocampus with consequences on memory formation. A phosphoproteomic screening identified several regulatory proteins of the cytoskeleton modulated by VEGFD. Among the actin cortex-associated proteins, we found that VEGFD induces dephosphorylation of ezrin at tyrosine 478 via activation of the striatal-enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase (STEP). Activity-triggered structural plasticity of dendrites was impaired by expression of a phospho-deficient mutant ezrin in vitro and in vivo. Thus, VEGFD governs the equilibrium between stabilization and plasticity of dendrites by acting as a molecular brake of structural remodeling.
Uncovering key steps in FGF12 cellular release reveals a common mechanism for unconventional FGF protein secretion
Authors: Biadun Martyna , Sochacka Martyna , Kalka Marta , Chorazewska Aleksandra , Karelus Radoslaw , Krowarsch Daniel , Opalinski Lukasz , Zakrzewska Malgorzata
Published: August 2024

FGF12 belongs to a subfamily of FGF proteins called FGF homologous factors (FHFs), which until recently were thought to be non-signaling intracellular proteins. Our recent studies have shown that although they lack a conventional signal peptide for secretion, they can reach the extracellular space, especially under stress conditions. Here, we unraveled that the long “a” isoform of FGF12 is secreted in a pathway involving the A1 subunit of Na(+)/K(+) ATPase (ATP1A1), Tec kinase and lipids such as phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidylserine. Further, we showed that the short “b” isoform of FGF12, which binds ATP1A1 and phosphatidylserine less efficiently, is not secreted from cells. We also indicated regions in the FGF12a protein sequence that are crucial for its secretion, including N-terminal fragment and specific residues, and proposed that liquid-liquid phase separation may be important in this process. Our results strongly suggest that the mechanism of this process is very similar for all unconventionally secreted FGF proteins.
Glycaemic control is still central in the hierarchy of priorities in type 2 diabetes management
Authors: Khunti Kamlesh , Zaccardi Francesco , Amod Aslam , Aroda Vanita R. , Aschner Pablo , Colagiuri Stephen , Mohan Viswanathan , Chan Juliana C. N.
Published: August 2024

A panel of primary care and diabetes specialists conducted focused literature searches on the current role of glycaemic control in the management of type 2 diabetes and revisited the evolution of evidence supporting the importance of early and intensive blood glucose control as a central strategy to reduce the risk of adverse long-term outcomes. The optimal approach to type 2 diabetes management has evolved over time as the evidence base has expanded from data from trials that established the role of optimising glycaemic control to recent data from cardiovascular outcomes trials (CVOTs) demonstrating organ-protective effects of newer glucose-lowering drugs (GLDs). The results from these CVOTs were derived mainly from people with type 2 diabetes and prior cardiovascular and kidney disease or multiple risk factors. In more recent years, earlier diagnosis in high-risk individuals has contributed to the large proportion of people with type 2 diabetes who do not have complications. In these individuals, a legacy effect of early and optimal control of blood glucose and cardiometabolic risk factors has been proven to reduce cardiovascular and kidney disease events and all-cause mortality. As there is a lack of RCTs investigating the potential synergistic effects of intensive glucose control and organ-protective effects of newer GLDs, this article re-evaluates the evolution of the scientific evidence and highlights the importance of integrating glycaemic control as a pivotal early therapeutic goal in most people with type 2 diabetes, while targeting existing cardiovascular and kidney disease. We also emphasise the importance of implementing multifactorial management using a multidisciplinary approach to facilitate regular review, patient empowerment and the possibility of tailoring interventions to account for the heterogeneity of type 2 diabetes.

Graphical Abstract
Camera-based mapping in search-and-rescue via flying and ground robot teams
Authors: Esteves Henriques Bernardo , Baglioni Mirko , Jamshidnejad Anahita
Published: August 2024

Search and rescue (SaR) is challenging, due to the unknown environmental situation after disasters occur. Robotics has become indispensable for precise mapping of the environment and for locating the victims. Combining flying and ground robots more effectively serves this purpose, due to their complementary features in terms of viewpoint and maneuvering. To this end, a novel, cost-effective framework for mapping unknown environments is introduced that leverages You Only Look Once and video streams transmitted by a ground and a flying robot. The integrated mapping approach is for performing three crucial SaR tasks: localizing the victims, i.e., determining their position in the environment and their body pose, tracking the moving victims, and providing a map of the ground elevation that assists both the ground robot and the SaR crew in navigating the SaR environment. In real-life experiments at the CyberZoo of the Delft University of Technology, the framework proved very effective and precise for all these tasks, particularly in occluded and complex environments.
Investigating laser and ultrasonic welding of pouch cell multi-foil current collectors for electric vehicle battery fabrication
Authors: Kumar Nikhil , Pamarthi Venkat Vivek , Das Abhishek
Published: August 2024

The escalating necessity for more efficient and defect-free joining of ‘ultra-thin foil collectors-to-tabs’ in electric vehicle (EV) Li-ion pouch cells motivates this study. The prevalent ultrasonic welding (USW) method for these joint types, faces limitations such as design constraints and access requirements, laser welding (LW) emerges as a promising alternative offering flexibility, one-side access and faster speeds with efficient heat input. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of LW as a viable alternative to USW for joining current collectors-to-tab joints. It compares the mechanical, metallurgical, electrical and thermal analysis of the joints to evaluate both welding techniques for joint defects. The comparison of solid-state material mixing during USW and the intermixing of aluminium (Al) and copper (Cu) during fusion LW using EDX analysis presents interesting observations in the study. The USW generates a thin transition layer with intermetallic compounds (IMCs) attributed to the diffusion of Cu into the Al matrix during joining, which is comparatively lower as in the case of LW with higher material mixing with brittle IMCs like Al2Cu and Al4Cu9. However, the joint strength of LW is comparatively lower than the USW joint attributed to the reduced fusion zone area. Furthermore, from the electrical contact resistance and the joint temperature analysis, it was found that the resistance and temperature vary by as much as 13% and 6%, respectively, for the 50 A and 75 A passing currents when the USW is replaced with the LW process.
Detection of Usutu virus in a house martin bug Oeciacus hirundinis (Hemiptera: Cimicidae): implications for virus overwintering in a temperate zone
Authors: Šikutová Silvie , Mendel Jan , Mravcová Kristína , Kejíková Romana , Hubálek Zdeněk , Kampen Helge , Rudolf Ivo
Published: August 2024

The family Cimicidae comprises ectoparasites feeding exclusively on the blood of endothermic animals. Cimicid swallow bugs specifically target swallow birds (Hirundinidae) and their nestlings in infested nests. Bugs of the genus Oeciacus are commonly found in mud nests of swallows and martins, while they rarely visit the homes of humans. Although—unlike other cimicid species—the house martin bug Oeciacus hirundinis has never been reported as a vector of zoonotic pathogens, its possible role in arbovirus circulation in continental Europe is unclear. Samples of O. hirundinis were therefore collected from abandoned house martin (Delichon urbicum) nests in southern Moravia (Czech Republic) during the 2021/2022 winter season and checked for alpha-, flavi- and bunyaviruses by RT-PCR. Of a total of 96 pools consisting of three adult bugs each, one pool tested positive for Usutu virus (USUV)-RNA. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the virus strain was closely related to Italian and some Central European strains and corresponded to USUV lineage 5. The detection of USUV in O. hirundinis during wintertime in the absence of swallows raises the question for a possible role of this avian ectoparasite in virus overwintering in Europe.
Comparison of elements and state-variable transfer methods for quasi-incompressible material behaviour in the particle finite element method
Authors: Schewe Markus , Bartel Thorsten , Menzel Andreas
Published: August 2024

The Particle Finite Element Method (PFEM) is attractive for the simulation of large deformation problems, e.g. in free-surface fluid flows, fluid–structure interaction and in solid mechanics for geotechnical engineering and production processes. During cutting, forming or melting of metal, quasi-incompressible material behaviour is often considered. To circumvent the associated volumetric locking in finite element simulations, different approaches have been proposed in the literature and a stabilised low-order mixed formulation (P1P1) is state-of-the-art. The present paper compares the established mixed formulation with a higher order pure displacement element (TRI6) under 2d plane strain conditions. The TRI6 element requires specialized handling, involving the deletion and re-addition of edge-mid-nodes during triangulation remeshing. The robustness of both element formulations is analysed along with different state-variable transfer schemes, which are not yet widely discussed in the literature. The influence of the stabilisation factor in the P1P1 element formulation is investigated, and an equation linking this factor to the Poisson ratio for hyperelastic materials is proposed.
Comparison of diabetic retinopathy screening between hospital-based multidisciplinary and general practice-based settings: insights from a regional study in Italy
Authors: Olivieri Chiara , Salato Mattia , Campanella Alessandra , Marolo Paola , Parisi Guglielmo , Neri Giovanni , Toro Mario Damiano , Scarmozzino Antonio , Broglio Fabio , Borrelli Enrico , Reibaldi Michele
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To compare diabetic retinopathy screening among patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes under care in two distinct setups: hospital-based multidisciplinary and general practice-based.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective observational case series, we collected data from a total of 133 diabetic patients: subjects from the hospital-based multidisciplinary setting were referred by the diabetologist and screened by an ophthalmologist using the Optomed Aurora IQ fundus camera. These patients were compared with those who underwent DR screening arranged through a general practice-based setting.

Results

The proportion of patients treated with insulin was higher in the hospital-based multidisciplinary group, both considering the totality patients and those affected by type 2 diabetes (71.6% vs. 32.2%; p < 0.001, and 58.8% vs. 31.0%; p = 0.004 respectively). Patients from the hospital-based multidisciplinary group had a longer mean diabetes duration (19.6 vs 14.9 years, p < 0.001), underwent DR screening more frequently in the previous three years (2.9 vs 1.4, p < 0.001), the mean time between two DR screenings was shorter (14.6 vs 77.9 weeks, p < 0.001), and DR was detected more frequently (32,4% vs 13.5%; p = 0.011).

Conclusion

We were able to demonstrate that patients screened in the multidisciplinary center, which had characteristics predisposing to a higher risk of DR, were more likely to be diagnosed with DR on time, with a higher mean number of DR screenings and a shorted interval between diabetic and ophthalmological assessments.
Nivolumab plus chemotherapy in patients with HER2-negative, previously untreated, unresectable, advanced, or recurrent gastric/gastroesophageal junction cancer: 3-year follow-up of the ATTRACTION-4 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial
Authors: Boku Narikazu , Omori Takeshi , Shitara Kohei , Sakuramoto Shinichi , Yamaguchi Kensei , Kato Ken , Kadowaki Shigenori , Tsuji Kunihiro , Ryu Min-Hee , Oh Do-Youn , Oh Sang Cheul , Rha Sun Young , Lee Keun-Wook , Chung Ik-Joo , Sym Sun Jin , Chen Li-Tzong , Chen Jen-Shi , Bai Li-Yuan , Nakada Takashi , Hagihara Shunsuke , Makino Reina , Nishiyama Eiji , Kang Yoon-Koo
Published: August 2024

Background

Nivolumab + chemotherapy is now a standard of care for HER2-negative, previously untreated, unresectable or recurrent gastric/gastroesophageal junction cancer (advanced gastric cancer), but long-term follow-up data of clinical trials are limited.

Methods

ATTRACTON-4 was a phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. Patients were randomized to either nivolumab or placebo, both combined with the physician’s choice of SOX (oral S-1 [tegafur–gimeracil–oteracil potassium] + oxaliplatin) or CAPOX (capecitabine + oxaliplatin). We report the primary endpoints—centrally assessed progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS)—and landmark analyses of OS among patients alive using 3-year follow-up data.

Results

At the cutoff date (May 10, 2021), 17/359 patients in the nivolumab + chemotherapy group and 6/358 in the placebo + chemotherapy group were continuing study treatment. PFS (centrally assessed) was longer in the nivolumab + chemotherapy group (median 10.94 vs. 8.48 months; hazard ratio [HR] 0.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.55–0.82). Although OS did not differ between the two groups (median 17.45 vs. 17.15 months; HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.75–1.05), the landmark analysis of OS, calculating HRs at each landmark time point (every month), was getting numerically better in the nivolumab + chemotherapy group over time. Approximately 80% of patients who achieved complete response in the nivolumab + chemotherapy group were alive at 3 years. No new safety signals or major late-onset select treatment-related adverse events were observed for nivolumab + chemotherapy.

Conclusion

This 3-year follow-up of ATTRACTION-4 confirmed the long-term clinical benefit and manageable safety of nivolumab + chemotherapy in patients with previously untreated advanced gastric cancer.

Trial registration

NCT02746796
Disentangling ground-nest predation rates through an artificial nests experiment in an area with western capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) presence: martens are the key
Authors: Palencia Pablo , Barroso Patricia
Published: August 2024

The western capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) is a species of conservation concern that has been experiencing a severe decline in many regions of Europe. The poor breeding success rather than mortality of full-grown birds has been suggested to be responsible for its decline, been the nest loss a potential driver of the low productivity (number of chicks per female and year) of capercaillie. Working in a capercaillie population in the Pyrenees, we aimed to provide further insights into nest predation by monitoring 82 artificial nests (58 of them with camera traps), and estimating the population density of predators using camera traps and applying random encounter model and camera trap distance sampling. Pine/stone martens -Martes foina, Martes martes- were the species with higher nest predation rates (23%) despite being the less abundant (0.49 ind/km2), followed by foxes -Vulpes vulpes- (11%) and a population density of 3.37 ind/km2, and wild boar -Sus scrofa- (4%) and 6.95 ind·km− 2; predators could not be identified at 27% of the events. After fitting statistical models on the nest predation data, we observed that the martens’ encounter rate (i.e. number of martens detected per camera and day) and the altitude had a positive significant effect on the artificial nest predation probability. While caution is recommended in artificial nest experiments, our results are valuable highlighting the importance of martens and red foxes when addressing nest predation to promote the breeding success and population recovery of western capercaillie populations.
Navigating the metaverse: unraveling the impact of artificial intelligence—a comprehensive review and gap analysis
Authors: Fadhel Mohammed A. , Duhaim Ali M. , Albahri A. S. , Al-Qaysi Z. T. , Aktham M. A. , Chyad M. A. , Abd-Alaziz Wael , Albahri O. S. , Alamoodi A.H. , Alzubaidi Laith , Gupta Ashish , Gu Yuantong
Published: August 2024

In response to the burgeoning interest in the Metaverse—a virtual reality-driven immersive digital world—this study delves into the pivotal role of AI in shaping its functionalities and elevating user engagement. Focused on recent advancements, prevailing challenges, and potential future developments, our research draws from a comprehensive analysis grounded in meticulous methodology. The study, informed by credible sources including SD, Scopus, IEEE, and WoS, encompasses 846 retrieved studies. Through a rigorous selection process, 54 research papers were identified as relevant, forming the basis for a specific taxonomy of AI in the Metaverse. Our examination spans diverse dimensions of the Metaverse, encompassing augmented reality, virtual reality, mixed reality, Blockchain, Agent Systems, Intelligent NPCs, Societal and Educational Impact, HCI and Systems Design, and Technical Aspects. Emphasizing the necessity of adopting trustworthy AI in the Metaverse, our findings underscore its potential to enhance user experience, safeguard privacy, and promote responsible technology use. This paper not only sheds light on the scholarly interest in the Metaverse but also explores its impact on human behavior, education, societal norms, and community dynamics. Serving as a foundation for future development and responsible implementation of the Metaverse concept, our research identifies and addresses seven open issues, providing indispensable insights for subsequent studies on the integration of AI in the Metaverse.
Completely noninvasive multi-analyte monitoring system for cell culture processes
Authors: Rahmatnejad Vida , Tolosa Michael , Ge Xudong , Rao Govind
Published: August 2024

Although online monitoring of dissolved O2, pH, and dissolved CO2 is critical in bioprocesses, nearly all existing technologies require some level of direct contact with the cell culture environment, posing risks of contamination. This study addresses the need for an accurate, and completely noninvasive technique for simultaneous measurement of these analytes. A “non-contact” technique for simultaneous monitoring of dissolved O2, pH, and dissolved CO2 was developed. Instead of direct contact with the culture media, the measurements were made through permeable membranes via either a sampling port in the culture vessel wall or a flow cell. The efficacy of the “non-contact” technique was validated in Escherichia coli (E.coli), Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) culture processes, and dynamic environments created by sparging gases in cell culture medium. The measurements obtained through the developed techniques were comparable to those obtained through control methods. The noninvasive monitoring system can offer accurate, and contamination-minimized monitoring of critical process parameters including dissolved O2, pH, and dissolved CO2. These advancements will enhance the control and optimization of cell culture processes, promising improved cell culture performance.
Brain Evoked Response Qualification Using Multi-Set Consensus Clustering: Toward Single-Trial EEG Analysis
Authors: Mahini Reza , Zhang Guanghui , Parviainen Tiina , Düsing Rainer , Nandi Asoke K. , Cong Fengyu , Hämäläinen Timo
Published: August 2024

In event-related potential (ERP) analysis, it is commonly assumed that individual trials from a subject share similar properties and originate from comparable neural sources, allowing reliable interpretation of group-averages. Nevertheless, traditional group-level ERP analysis methods, including cluster analysis, often overlook critical information about individual subjects’ neural processes due to using fixed measurement intervals derived from averaging. We developed a multi-set consensus clustering pipeline to examine cognitive processes at the individual subject level. Initially, consensus clustering from diverse methods was applied to single-trial EEG epochs of individual subjects. Subsequently, a second level of consensus clustering was performed across the trials of each subject. A newly modified time window determination method was then employed to identify individual subjects’ ERP(s) of interest. We validated our method with simulated data for ERP components N2 and P3, and real data from a visual oddball task to confirm the P3 component. Our findings revealed that estimated time windows for individual subjects provide precise ERP identification compared to fixed time windows across all subjects. Additionally, Monte Carlo simulations with synthetic single-trial data demonstrated stable scores for the N2 and P3 components, confirming the reliability of our method. The proposed method enhances the examination of brain-evoked responses at the individual subject level by considering single-trial EEG data, thereby extracting mutual information relevant to the neural process. This approach offers a significant improvement over conventional ERP analysis, which relies on the averaging mechanism and fixed measurement interval.
Pastors as Partners in Care: African Immigrant Pastors’ on Mental Health Care Referral Processes for Young Congregants Experiencing Symptoms of Psychosis in the US
Authors: Myers Neely , Meeker Robert , Odeng Valerie
Published: August 2024

Early support for young people experiencing psychosis is key to preventing negative outcomes. First and second-generation Black immigrants to predominantly white countries are at higher risk for psychosis (Bourque et al. in Psychol Med 41(5):897-910, 2011) and novel interventions are needed to help support immigrants youths and families. African immigrant pastors are culturally valued and poised to help congregants with psychosis and their families, but we know little about the supports pastors offer and what kinds of tools they might need to address the needs of their congregants. This qualitative study explores semi-structured interviews with 16 primarily nondenominational, Christian, African immigrant pastors to elucidate how they served young adult congregants experiencing symptoms of psychosis and their families. Using grounded theory analytic methods, five key themes emerged: (1) building supportive relationships; (2) identifying the source; (3) healing the problem; (4) families as partners in care; and, (5) referring congregants to and collaborating with mental health professionals. These findings describe an initial set of care practices as a starting point for understanding the current and future role of African immigrant pastors as partners in providing mental health care.
Challenges and practices of deep learning model reengineering: A case study on computer vision
Authors: Jiang Wenxin , Banna Vishnu , Vivek Naveen , Goel Abhinav , Synovic Nicholas , Thiruvathukal George K. , Davis James C.
Published: August 2024

Context

Many engineering organizations are reimplementing and extending deep neural networks from the research community. We describe this process as deep learning model reengineering. Deep learning model reengineering — reusing, replicating, adapting, and enhancing state-of-the-art deep learning approaches — is challenging for reasons including under-documented reference models, changing requirements, and the cost of implementation and testing.

Objective

Prior work has characterized the challenges of deep learning model development, but as yet we know little about the deep learning model reengineering process and its common challenges. Prior work has examined DL systems from a “product” view, examining defects from projects regardless of the engineers’ purpose. Our study is focused on reengineering activities from a “process” view, and focuses on engineers specifically engaged in the reengineering process.

Method

Our goal is to understand the characteristics and challenges of deep learning model reengineering. We conducted a mixed-methods case study of this phenomenon, focusing on the context of computer vision. Our results draw from two data sources: defects reported in open-source reeengineering projects, and interviews conducted with practitioners and the leaders of a reengineering team. From the defect data source, we analyzed 348 defects from 27 open-source deep learning projects. Meanwhile, our reengineering team replicated 7 deep learning models over two years; we interviewed 2 open-source contributors, 4 practitioners, and 6 reengineering team leaders to understand their experiences.

Results

Our results describe how deep learning-based computer vision techniques are reengineered, quantitatively analyze the distribution of defects in this process, and qualitatively discuss challenges and practices. We found that most defects (58%) are reported by re-users, and that reproducibility-related defects tend to be discovered during training (68% of them are). Our analysis shows that most environment defects (88%) are interface defects, and most environment defects (46%) are caused by API defects. We found that training defects have diverse symptoms and root causes. We identified four main challenges in the DL reengineering process: model operationalization, performance debugging, portability of DL operations, and customized data pipeline. Integrating our quantitative and qualitative data, we propose a novel reengineering workflow.

Conclusions

Our findings inform several conclusion, including: standardizing model reengineering practices, developing validation tools to support model reengineering, automated support beyond manual model reengineering, and measuring additional unknown aspects of model reengineering.
Mechanic citizenship: Boston Mayor’s Office of New Urban Mechanics and the constitution of digital citizens
Authors: Boenig-Liptsin Margarita
Published: August 2024

Projects to integrate digital technologies into the fabric of city life depend upon specific visions of politics and technology. In the process of their realization, they re-constitute the identities, agencies, and relations of human inhabitants, re-defining what it means to be a citizen. This article draws on the idiom of co-production and framework of constitutionalism from Science and Technology Studies (STS) to analyze the coming into being of a form of citizenship with smartphone technologies in Boston in the 2010s. When the Boston Mayor’s Office of New Urban Mechanics (MONUM) used newly available smartphone apps to reconfigure the connection among city residents and government, they brought into being a specific mode of citizenship. I term this mode of citizenship “mechanic” to draw attention to the qualities of passivity, infrastructure, and connectedness that characterized MONUM’s early digital citizenship projects. I argue that recognizing that the constitution of the human, and specifically of citizens, is at stake in smart city projects entails re-thinking ethical analysis in contexts of smart cities. Instead of seeking to perform ethical assessments of technological consequences (“ethics of” approach), scholars might begin with a situated analysis of how humans as citizens are constituted through smart city projects (“ethics in” approach). By identifying the political affordances and commitments of the emergent digital citizenship models, scholars can make visible alternative forms of living and engaging politically in the city.
Research in Transnational Higher Education: Mixed Methods, Mixed Locations, and Mixed Assumptions
Authors: Schueller Jessica , Aschenberger Filiz Keser , Lane Jason
Published: August 2024

Transnational education (TNE) occurs when higher education institutions traverse borders to provide educational experiences outside their home countries. Such mobility creates several research challenges, as such institutions exist between worlds. They must balance home and host country legal requirements, navigate home and branch administrative norms, adjust to differing cultural and learning expectations, and even serve different student populations. To understand this complexity, researchers must employ mixed-method approaches, which are currently limited in higher education studies. In this paper, we explore TNE as a unique setting for conducting research. We outline our design choices and the challenges we faced in conducting research on TNE institutions. For the paper’s central focus, we unpack a cross-cultural case study, which employs multi- and mixed-methods research, to assess the role of labor market outcomes at critical junctures of the student lifecycle at a binational university. By incorporating perspectives from the institution, alumni, and current and prospective students, we present a holistic view of perceived and actual graduate outcomes. This case vividly illustrates the limitations of mono-method studies. Furthermore, it demonstrates how mixed-method studies are useful for generating more meaningful outcomes in TNE research.
Assessment of sperm chromosomal abnormalities using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH): implications for reproductive potential
Authors: Luongo Francesca Paola , Annunzi Eugenia , Girolamo Francesca , Belmonte Giuseppe , Ponchia Rosetta , Piomboni Paola , Luddi Alice
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Chromosomal abnormalities play an important role in male infertility, which is becoming a significant issue in human fertility. Aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of spermatic aneuploidies and diploidies in human sperm, according to semen parameters.

Methods

We performed semen analysis according to the 6th edition of WHO criteria in 50 male subjects; samples were divided into normozoospermic (n = 23) or those with altered seminal parameters (n = 27). To assess chromosomal numerical alterations of sperm, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was used.

Result

A significant increase in aneuploidies and diploidies was observed in samples with altered seminal parameters. Furthermore, stratifying this group, we observed a significant increase in aneuploidies and total abnormalities in oligozoospermic, asthenoteratozoospermic (AT), and oligoteratoasthenozoospermic (OAT) samples compared to normozoospermic.

Conclusion

Our results showed the correlation between altered seminal parameters and numerical chromosomal abnormalities, confirming that sperm FISH analysis could be an additional clinical tool to assess reproductive potential in infertile males. Moreover, our results point to the importance of updating the normality ranges for detecting chromosomal aneuploidies using FISH.