bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Multi-target drugs for the treatment of cognitive impairment and fatigue in post-COVID syndrome: focus on Ginkgo biloba and Rhodiola rosea
Authors: Mueller Juliane K. , Müller Walter E. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractCognitive impairment, depression and (mental) fatigue represent the most frequent neuropsychiatric symptoms of the post-COVID syndrome. Neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction have been identified as common pathophysiological mechanisms underlying these symptoms. Attempts to treat post-COVID-associated cognitive impairment and fatigue with different drugs available for other diseases have not yet been successful. One probable explanation could be that these drugs work by one specific mechanism of action only and not in a broad multi-target way. Therefore, they will not address the broad pathophysiological spectrum possibly responsible for cognitive impairment, depression and fatigue in post-COVID syndrome. Notably, nearly all drugs currently under investigation for fatigue in post-COVID syndrome are rather addressing one single target instead of the several pathomechanisms underlying this condition. Contrary to this approach, herbal drugs often consist of many different ingredients with different pharmacological properties and pharmacological targets. Therefore, these drugs might be a promising approach for the treatment of the broad symptomatic presentation and the pathophysiological mechanisms of cognitive impairment and fatigue following a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Of these herbal drugs, extracts of Ginkgo biloba and Rhodiola rosea probably are the best investigated candidates. Their broad pharmacological spectrum in vitro and in vivo includes anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant as well as properties reducing cognitive impairment and fatigue. In several studies, both drugs showed positive effects on physical and mental fatigue and impaired cognition. Moreover, depressive symptoms were also reduced in some studies. However, even if these results are promising, the data are still preliminary and require additional proof by further studies.
Deep learning for thyroid nodule examination: a technical review
Authors: Das Debottama , Iyengar M. Sriram , Majdi Mohammad S. , Rodriguez Jeffrey J. , Alsayed Mahmoud 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIn recent years, the incidence of thyroid cancer has increased dramatically, resulting in an increased demand for early thyroid nodule examination. Ultrasound (US) imaging is the modality most frequently used to image thyroid nodules; However, the low image resolution, speckle noise, and high variability make it difficult to utilize traditional image processing techniques. Recent advances in deep learning (DL) have increased research into the automated processing of thyroid US images. We review three main image processing tasks for thyroid nodule analysis: classification, segmentation, and detection. We discuss the advantages and limitations of the recently proposed DL techniques as well as the data availability and algorithmic efficacy. In addition, we investigate the remaining obstacles and future potential for automated analysis of thyroid US images.
Investigating the electronic properties of PANI/graphene/PVDF/PTFE nanocomposite
Authors: Mahmoud Aya Allah , Khafagy Rasha M. , Ibrahim Medhat. A. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractManufacturing of clean energy is an important topic of research for modern life. This paves the way toward investigating easy manufacturing; high-performance energy storage materials. In this sense, conducting polymers such as polyaniline (PANI) are modified with graphene (G) then bound with poly vinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and poly tetrafluoro ethylene (PTFE) to enhance their electronic properties to be used as electrode material in energy storage applications. Furthermore, molecular modeling based on density functional theory at B3LYP/LanL2DZ level of theory was utilized to study the interaction between PANI; G; PVDF and PTFE. Some important properties are calculated such as the total dipole moment (TDM), HOMO/LUMO energy gap (ΔE), and molecular electrostatic potential (MESP). TDM of PANI was found to be 3.994 Debye and increased to 6.010, 9.012, and 9.822 Debye for PANI/G/PTFE, PANI/G/PVDF/PTFE, and PANI/G/PVDF, respectively. ΔE of PANI is 4.353 eV and decreased because of the interaction of PANI with G and polymer binders to reach 3.507, 3.095, and 2.127 eV for PANI/G/PTFE, PANI/G/PVDF, and PANI/G/PVDF/PTFE, respectively. From MESP result, the reactivity and electronic properties increased with the interaction of PANI with G and polymer binders. PANI/G/PVDF/PTFE composite was dedicated as the most suitable candidate for electrode material for many applications.
Establishing a framework for best practices for quality assurance and quality control in untargeted metabolomics
Authors: Mosley Jonathan D. , Schock Tracey B. , Beecher Chris W. , Dunn Warwick B. , Kuligowski Julia , Lewis Matthew R. , Theodoridis Georgios , Ulmer Holland Candice Z. , Vuckovic Dajana , Wilson Ian D. , Zanetti Krista A. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) practices are key tenets that facilitate study and data quality across all applications of untargeted metabolomics. These important practices will strengthen this field and accelerate its success. The Best Practices Working Group (WG) within the Metabolomics Quality Assurance and Quality Control Consortium (mQACC) focuses on community use of QA/QC practices and protocols and aims to identify, catalogue, harmonize, and disseminate current best practices in untargeted metabolomics through community-driven activities.

Aim of review
A present goal of the Best Practices WG is to develop a working strategy, or roadmap, that guides the actions of practitioners and progress in the field. The framework in which mQACC operates promotes the harmonization and dissemination of current best QA/QC practice guidance and encourages widespread adoption of these essential QA/QC activities for liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Key scientific concepts of review
Community engagement and QA/QC information gathering activities have been occurring through conference workshops, virtual and in-person interactive forum discussions, and community surveys. Seven principal QC stages prioritized by internal discussions of the Best Practices WG have received participant input, feedback and discussion. We outline these stages, each involving a multitude of activities, as the framework for identifying QA/QC best practices. The ultimate planned product of these endeavors is a “living guidance” document of current QA/QC best practices for untargeted metabolomics that will grow and change with the evolution of the field.
The bioavailability of particulate nitrogen in eroded sediment: Catchment sources and processes
Authors: Garzon-Garcia Alexandra , Burton Joanne M. , Ellis Rob , Askildsen Maria , Bloesch Philip , De Hayr Rob , Moody Phil 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Anthropogenic land use change has caused an increase in particulate nutrient loads from catchments draining to the Great Barrier Reef (GBR). The research in GBR catchments has indicated that particulate nutrients are bioavailable to both freshwater and marine phytoplankton, but relative importance of this source of nutrients to the GBR is unknown. We quantified the contribution of this source of bioavailable nitrogen in a dry-tropics grazing and a wet-tropics fertilized mixed land use catchment of the GBR.

Materials and methods
The different bioavailable nitrogen pools and associated processes through which dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) is generated from eroded sediment (mass of DIN generated per mass of sediment) were identified. These pools and processes were quantified from a range of representative sediment sources (e.g. surface and subsurface soil and different land uses). We collected 17 sediment source samples in the wet tropics and 41 in the dry tropics. We combined the N pool concentration data with spatial and hydrological fine sediment modelling to estimate the contribution from different sources and processes/pools to the end-of-catchment DIN load.

Results and discussion
The modelled load of DIN generated from sediment accounted for all the monitored DIN load in the grazing-dominated catchment but was insignificant in the fertilized mixed land use catchment. Sediment from surface erosion (hillslope erosion) and some soil types contributed disproportionally to the modelled DIN generation. Fast solubilisation of DIN was the main process in the catchments studied. The importance of mineralisation of the organic fraction increased with the time the sediment was in suspension.

Conclusion
Particulate nutrients in sediment are a significant source of bioavailable nitrogen in eroding grazing catchments. The processes that drive this bioavailability are complex, vary with sediment source and operate at different timeframes and spatial scales.
Microstructural investigation of the unsaturated hydraulic properties of hydrochar-amended soils
Authors: Dong Huan , Leung Anthony Kwan , Liu Jianbin , Chen Rui , Lui Wingyan 
Published: February 2024

AbstractHydrochar is an urban soil amender that supports plant growth on slopes. It is a biomass-derived carbon-rich material produced by the hydrothermal carbonation process; thus, it has a different pore structure from biochar produced by pyrolysis. The effects of hydrochar on the hydraulic properties of unsaturated compacted soils and the underlying pore-level soil-hydrochar interaction mechanisms are unclear. In this study, silty-clay sand was amended by grass-derived hydrochars produced at two hydrothermal carbonisation temperatures (180 and 240 °C, denoted as H-180 and H-240, respectively) with different mass proportions ($${f}_{{\text{H}}}$$

f
H

). The pore and throat size distributions, water retention curves (WRCs) and hydraulic conductivity functions (HCFs) of the soils with and without amendment were measured. The results showed that hydrochar improved the soil water retention capability as the smaller hydrochar particles filled the soil pores with diameters larger than 290 μm. Compared with the increase in air-entry value made by H-180, the one made by H-240 was more substantial as this type of hydrochar altered the soil pores to be smaller in size. Hydrochar also increased the hydraulic conductivity of the soil by half to one order of magnitude due to the increase in the throat frequency and the presence of hydrochar intra-pores. One exception was the amendment by H-180 at $${f}_{{\text{H}}}$$

f
H

of 2.5%, wherein the HCF was reduced due to pore clogging at throat diameters less than 90 μm and more than 250 μm. Finally, amending the soil with either H-180 or H-240 at $${f}_{{\text{H}}}$$

f
H

of 5% always improved the WRC and HCF, thereby benefiting plant water uptake.
High dose proton and photon-based radiation therapy for 213 liver lesions: a multi-institutional dosimetric comparison with a clinical perspective
Authors: Bonù Marco Lorenzo , Nicosia Luca , Turkaj Ana , Pastorello Edoardo , Vitali Paola , Frassine Francesco , Toraci Cristian , Spiazzi Luigi , Lechiara Marco , Frittoli Barbara , Grazioli Luigi , Ghirardelli Paolo , Costantino Gianluca , Barbera Fernando , Borghetti Paolo , Triggiani Luca , Portolani Nazario , Buglione Michela , Dionisi Francesco , Giacomelli Irene , Lancia Andrea , Magrini Stefano Maria , Tomasini Davide 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) and Proton therapy (PT) are both options in the management of liver lesions. Limited clinical-dosimetric comparison are available. Moreover, dose-constraint routinely used in liver PT and SRT considers only the liver spared, while optimization strategies to limit the liver damaged are poorly reported.

Methods
Primary endpoint was to assess and compare liver sparing of four contemporary RT techniques. Secondary endpoints were freedom from local recurrence (FFLR), overall survival (OS), acute and late toxicity. We hypothesize that Focal Liver Reaction (FLR) is determined by a similar biologic dose. FLR was delineated on follow-up MRI. Mean C.I. was computed for all the schedules used. A so-called Fall-off Volume (FOV) was defined as the area of healthy liver (liver-PTV) receiving more than the isotoxic dose. Fall-off Volume Ratio (FOVR) was defined as ratio between FOV and PTV.

Results
213 lesions were identified. Mean best fitting isodose (isotoxic doses) for FLR were 18Gy, 21.5 Gy and 28.5 Gy for 3, 5 and 15 fractions. Among photons, an advantage in terms of healthy liver sparing was found for Vmat FFF with 5mm jaws (p = 0.013) and Cyberknife (p = 0.03). FOV and FOVR resulted lower for PT (p < 0.001). Three years FFLR resulted 83%. Classic Radiation induced liver disease (RILD, any grade) affected 2 patients.

Conclusions
Cyberknife and V-MAT FFF with 5mm jaws spare more liver than V-MAT FF with 10 mm jaws. PT spare more liver compared to photons. FOV and FOVR allows a quantitative analysis of healthy tissue sparing performance showing also the quality of plan in terms of dose fall-off.
Agenda-Cutting durch SLAPPs?
Authors: Krüger Uwe , Beuthner Max , Endt Connor 
Published: February 2024

ZusammenfassungDie Presse- und Wissenschaftsfreiheit ist die wichtigste Voraussetzung, damit Journalist:innen kritisch berichten und Wissenschaftler:innen ungehindert forschen können. Diese Studie untersucht an einem Fallbeispiel, inwiefern Berichterstattung und Forschung durch juristische Anwaltsstrategien beeinflusst, behindert oder sogar beendet werden können. Vor dem theoretischen Hintergrund der Konzepte Agenda Cutting und Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) wird diese Fragestellung am Beispiel der deutschen Adelsfamilie der Hohenzollern untersucht, die in den vergangenen Jahren massiv juristisch gegen Medienschaffende und Forschende vorgegangen ist. Es wurden leitfadengestützte Interviews mit zehn Betroffenen (fünf Journalisten und fünf Wissenschaftler:innen) geführt. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass es der Hohenzollern-Familie zwar nicht gelang, die Berichterstattung und Forschung zu unterbinden. Doch führten die Abmahnungen und Klagen zu einer teilweise erheblichen Verunsicherung, v. a. wegen des finanziellen Risikos, sowie zur Beeinträchtigung der Arbeit durch die Bindung von Zeit und Kraft. Bei den befragten Journalisten führte das juristische Vorgehen hauptsächlich zu einem defensiveren Sprachgebrauch, zuweilen auch zu einer Vermeidung des Themas. Die Wissenschaftler:innen vernetzten und solidarisierten sich untereinander und forschten weiterhin zu der Thematik, äußerten sich jedoch in der Folge seltener in klassischen Medien. In beiden Berufsgruppen gab es somit Anzeichen für einen chilling effect, die als Verluste für die allgemeine Öffentlichkeit gewertet werden können. Besonders bedroht von der juristischen Vorgehensweise waren offenbar freie Medienschaffende, Journalist:innen kleinerer Medien und befristet beschäftigte Doktorand:innen, die weniger gut abgesichert waren.
Robust functional logistic regression
Authors: Akturk Berkay , Beyaztas Ufuk , Shang Han Lin , Mandal Abhijit 
Published: February 2024

AbstractFunctional logistic regression is a popular model to capture a linear relationship between binary response and functional predictor variables. However, many methods used for parameter estimation in functional logistic regression are sensitive to outliers, which may lead to inaccurate parameter estimates and inferior classification accuracy. We propose a robust estimation procedure for functional logistic regression, in which the observations of the functional predictor are projected onto a set of finite-dimensional subspaces via robust functional principal component analysis. This dimension-reduction step reduces the outlying effects in the functional predictor. The logistic regression coefficient is estimated using an M-type estimator based on binary response and robust principal component scores. In doing so, we provide robust estimates by minimizing the effects of outliers in the binary response and functional predictor variables. Via a series of Monte-Carlo simulations and using hand radiograph data, we examine the parameter estimation and classification accuracy for the response variable. We find that the robust procedure outperforms some existing robust and non-robust methods when outliers are present, while producing competitive results when outliers are absent. In addition, the proposed method is computationally more efficient than some existing robust alternatives.
An improved CFAR algorithm for multiple environmental conditions
Authors: Rihan Mostafa Y. , Nossair Zaki B. , Mubarak Roaa I. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe primary objective of radar digital signal processing is to detect and identify targets in complicated situations, such as those involving clutter or several closely positioned targets. The constant false alarm rate (CFAR) method is more effective for target recognition and has better control over the false alarm rate. Many studies have been conducted on the design of CFAR, but previous CFAR algorithms have not been effective in all or most environmental fields and target scenarios. In this study, an algorithm called Censored Mean Clutter Map CFAR (CM-CM CFAR) has been developed and tested for various environmental conditions. When compared to a fixed false alarm rate, the suggested CFAR algorithm’s Monte Carlo simulation results demonstrated a high detection probability in a variety of environments. This work designs a real-time CM-CM CFAR processor using field-programmable gate array (FPGA) technologies. Xilinx ARTIX 7 FPGA technology is used to develop and map a scalable parallel framework. Consequently, the implementation required 23,741 LUTs and 1825 FF. It is verified that the complexity and operating speed of the suggested CFAR processor are extremely appropriate for real-time implementation when compared to the results of the previously proposed FPGA implementation.
Parasitism of ladybirds by Hesperomyces in the Canary Islands
Authors: Ceryngier Piotr , Romanowski Jerzy , Van Caenegem Warre , Haelewaters Danny 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBetween 2016 and 2022, the ladybird (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) fauna was surveyed on seven main islands of the Canary Islands archipelago. Adult specimens were collected and screened for thalli of Laboulbeniales (Ascomycota: Laboulbeniomycetes). Altogether, 9,807 ladybird specimens belonging to 39 species were screened, of which 103, representing 10 species, were infected by Laboulbeniales of the genus Hesperomyces. Morphological and molecular examination allowed to distinguish at least seven host-specific Hesperomyces species belonging to three groups: He. virescens species complex (associated with Adalia decempunctata, Harmonia axyridis, Hyperaspis vinciguerrae, Novius cruentatus, Parexochomus nigripennis, and P. quadriplagiatus), He. coccinelloides species complex (Scymnus nubilus, Sc. subvillosus durantae, and Stethorus tenerifensis), and a species (on Nephus flavopictus) that cannot be assigned to either of the above species complexes or the currently described species in the genus. The most widespread and abundant species was Hesperomyces ex St. tenerifensis; it was recorded on all seven islands with prevalence rates ranging between 0.04 and 0.19.
Understanding the Role of Palliative Care Within Routine Care of Advanced Liver Disease
Authors: Jarrett Simone A. , Bley Edward , Kalman Richard S. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
This paper aims to investigate the crucial role of palliative care in the management of chronic liver disease (CLD) and cirrhosis. Faced with a global surge in liver-related morbidity and mortality, our goal is to understand the impact of early engagement with palliative care specialists on symptom management, quality of life, and the overall trajectory of advanced liver disease.

Recent Findings
While strides have been made in preventing and treating specific etiologies of CLD, such as viral infections, the escalating rates of alcohol use and obesity present new challenges for physicians. Despite advancements, liver transplantation unfortunately remains an elusive solution for many due to various constraints. Our review underscores the underutilization of palliative care in this context, emphasizing its potential to mitigate symptoms and enhance the overall well-being of patients and their caregivers.

Summary
Implementing palliative care early during CLD proves instrumental in reducing symptoms, hospitalizations, and resource utilization. This not only improves the quality of life for patients but also signifies a paradigm shift in approaching the uncertainties surrounding advanced liver disease. Urging further research and global initiatives, our findings advocate for a comprehensive integration of palliative care in the holistic management of patients with advanced liver disease.
Reviewing the Evidence on Sibling Sexual Behaviour: Impact on Research, Policy and Practice
Authors: McCartan Kieran F. , King-Hill Sophie , Allardyce Stuart 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
This paper reviews recent research into sibling sexual behaviour (SSB). This is an emerging professional and community issue that binds together a limited evidence base across research, practice and policy in psychology, criminology, politics, social work and policy studies. The review will demonstrate that a multi-disciplinary, life course, family system approach is the most effective way of starting to develop interventions to prevent and respond to this issue.

Recent Findings
SSB has previously been researched as a form of intrafamilial abuse or sibling incest. As a result of this SSB is poorly and inconsistently defined as a concept, meaning that research, practice and policy are sometimes at odds with each other and need to pull together to develop a cohesive framing of the issue. This means that a lot of older research needs to be contextualised in new emerging frames of thinking and ways of working. Current research emphasises the importance of understanding the role of the family system in creating conditions where SSB can occur and its central role in preventing and stopping it from occurring. The research also stresses the importance of professionals understanding the family context of SSB and has the confidence to identify and work proactively with families in a multi-agency and cross-disciplinary way.

Summary
The prevention of, and response to, SSB requires a multi-level, multi-disciplinary approach. Successful prevention of and response to SSB are as much about the family system as it is about the attitudes, behaviours and experiences of the siblings impacted by the abuse.