bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancing intra-aural disease classification with attention-based deep learning models
Authors: Demircan Furkancan , Ekinci Murat , Cömert Zafer 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Ear diseases are defined as pathological conditions that indicate dysfunction or abnormal function of the ear organ, which is part of the auditory system of living organisms that regulates hearing and balance functions. These diseases usually manifest as conditions that affect the internal components of the ear structure and can manifest themselves with symptoms such as hearing loss, ear pain, balance problems, and fluid accumulation in the ear. The accuracy of the diagnosis depends on expert knowledge and subjective opinion. This method is prone to human error. This study presents a novel computer-aided diagnosis system for otoscope images of ear diseases, utilizing a vision transformer-based feature extractor combined with machine learning classifiers to provide accurate second opinions for ENT specialists. For this purpose, a new model based on state-of-the-art vision transformer feature extractor and machine learning models is proposed. In the experimental study, the dataset, comprising 880 eardrum images categorized into four classes (CSOM, earwax, myringosclerosis, and normal), was split into training (70%), validation (10%), and testing (20%) subsets. Each image was preprocessed to 420 × 380 pixels to fit the input dimensions of the models. The vision transformer architecture was utilized for feature extraction, followed by classification using various machine learning algorithms including kNN, SVM, and random forest. As a result, the model using vision transformer feature extractor and k-nearest neighbors (kNN) algorithm achieved 99.00% accuracy. In this study, a deep learning-based and computer-aided diagnosis system, in other words, a computational model, was developed instead of the current human error-prone disease diagnosis method used by ear nose throat (ENT) specialists. The main purpose of the deep learning-based decision support system is to support the diagnosis process where expert knowledge is difficult to access and to provide an alternative opinion to the expert diagnosis.
Accuracy Controlled Schemes for the Eigenvalue Problem of the Radiative Transfer Equation
Authors: Dahmen Wolfgang , Mula Olga 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The criticality problem in nuclear engineering asks for the principal eigenpair of a Boltzmann operator describing neutron transport in a reactor core. Being able to reliably design, and control such reactors requires assessing these quantities within quantifiable accuracy tolerances. In this paper, we propose a paradigm that deviates from the common practice of approximately solving the corresponding spectral problem with a fixed, presumably sufficiently fine discretization. Instead, the present approach is based on first contriving iterative schemes, formulated in function space, that are shown to converge at a quantitative rate without assuming any a priori excess regularity properties, and that exploit only properties of the optical parameters in the underlying radiative transfer model. We develop the analytical and numerical tools for approximately realizing each iteration step within judiciously chosen accuracy tolerances, verified by a posteriori estimates, so as to still warrant quantifiable convergence to the exact eigenpair. This is carried out in full first for a Newton scheme. Since this is only locally convergent we analyze in addition the convergence of a power iteration in function space to produce sufficiently accurate initial guesses. Here we have to deal with intrinsic difficulties posed by compact but unsymmetric operators preventing standard arguments used in the finite dimensional case. Our main point is that we can avoid any condition on an initial guess to be already in a small neighborhood of the exact solution. We close with a discussion of remaining intrinsic obstructions to a certifiable numerical implementation, mainly related to not knowing the gap between the principal eigenvalue and the next smaller one in modulus.
Rare cancer survivorship research funding at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), 2017 to 2023
Authors: Gallicchio Lisa , Mollica Michelle , Tesauro Gina , Doose Michelle , Guida Jennifer L. , Maher Molly E. , Tonorezos Emily 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Purpose
Rare cancers are defined as those for which there are less than 15 cases per 100,000 in the population annually. While much progress in detection and treatment has been made over the past decade for many rare cancers, less progress has been made in understanding survivorship needs. The objective of this study was to characterize the National Institutes of Health (NIH) cancer survivorship grant portfolio focused on rare cancers and to identify gaps specific to this area of science.

Methods
Newly awarded grants focused on rare cancers in the NIH cancer survivorship research portfolio from Fiscal Year (FY) 2017 to FY2023 were identified. Grant characteristics were abstracted and described. In addition, the number of grants for each rare cancer type was mapped to current Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program incidence and relative survival rates.

Results
A total of 93 survivorship grants focused on one or multiple rare cancer types were funded from FY2017 to FY2023. Approximately 85% of these grants investigated one of four cancer types: leukemia, head & neck, ovarian and brain. Few grants focused on other rare cancer types, such as multiple myeloma (n = 5), testicular cancer (n = 3), rectal cancer (n = 1), thyroid cancer (n = 1), and cervical cancer (n = 0). About half of the grants (50.5%) were observational studies; 34.4% focused explicitly on pediatric cancer survivors.

Conclusions
Survivorship research for many rare cancer types is limited. This paucity of research is a barrier to the identification of survivorship needs and the development of interventions to address these needs.
Feeding behavior and preference of the invasive blue crab (Callinectes sapidus Rathbun, 1896) for Mediterranean native bivalves in mesocosm
Authors: Cabiddu Serenella , Addis Pierantonio , Palmas Francesco , Pusceddu Antonio , Solari Paolo , Pasquini Viviana 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
We investigated in mesocosm the feeding behavior and prey preference of the invasive blue crab Callinectes sapidus for different commercially exploited Mediterranean native bivalves. No-choice prey size and video-recorded prey-choice experiments were designed to test the following null hypotheses: (i) prey mortality do not vary when prey species are provided singularly nor with prey size; (ii) the predator does not have preferences when prey are provided simultaneously; (iii) manipulating, consuming, and handling times do not vary among prey species. We show that adult male C. sapidus individuals exhibit a cyclic feeding/resting behavior and a preference for Ruditapes decussatus, followed by Mytilus galloprovincialis and Cerastoderma glaucum. Based on our results, we anticipate that the preference of C. sapidus toward R. decussatus, one of the most important native commercial species in lagoons along the Italian coastline, could soon have consequences not only on the lagoons’ trophic webs, but also on the local economy.
Where are you heading to, Cannabis research?
Authors: Tarkowski Petr , Kopecký Pavel , Riboulet-Zemouli Kenzi , Frébort Ivo 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Cannabis is one of the most widely grown multi-purpose crops. It has been at the center of scientific attention for many years, mainly due to its unique chemical composition. The strongest natural fibers possessing antibacterial properties can be obtained from plant stalks. Seeds contain oil with well-balanced fatty acids and seed meal is a good source of digestible protein. In addition, Cannabis plants produce secondary metabolites, including bioactive cannabinoids, terpenes, phenolic compounds, and alkaloids. Phytocannabinoids, predominantly produced in Cannabis, represent thoroughly studied class of the compounds with wide range of pharmacological activities. In addition, more than 40 jurisdictions have undertaken policy reforms to liberalize the use of Cannabis products for medical and/or non-medical adult use. An appropriate measures need to be taken to minimize the eventual negative impacts of Cannabis use. Evidence-based education in combination with proportionate sanctions is the only way to maximize the positive outcomes of Cannabis policy reforms. It is also crucial to secure microbial, chemical quality and safety of Cannabis products, likely via introducing international standards based on inter-laboratory validation. Finally, technical and ethical challenges associated with promising tools to improve the quality and yield of Cannabis production, such as in vitro-, new breeding techniques and polyploidy should be solved.
The definition of highly cited researchers: the effect of different approaches on the empirical outcome
Authors: Frietsch Rainer , Gruber Sonia , Bornmann Lutz 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In 2001 onetime and since 2014 annually, Clarivate (and the former Thomson Reuters) has used publication and citation data to identify exceptional researchers—highly cited researchers (HCRs)—in nearly all disciplines. The approach used by Clarivate has not been without criticism. HCRs can be defined differently; the approach of Clarivate is one possibility among several others. HCRs can be identified by considering field-normalized citation rates or absolute numbers of citations; inclusion or exclusion of self-citations; full counting or fractional counting of publications; all authors, only corresponding authors or only first authors; short, long or varying citation windows; and short or long publication periods. In this study, we are interested in the effect different approaches have on the empirical outcomes. One may expect HCRs lists with large overlaps of authors, since all approaches are based on the same (bibliometric) data. As we demonstrated with five different variants of defining HCRs, the selection among these options has a significant influence on the sample of selected researchers and their characteristics that are thereby defined as highly cited. Some options have a stronger influence on the outcome than other options such as the length of the citation window or the focus on all authors versus only the corresponding author. Based on the empirical results of this study, we recommend that the user of HCR lists should always be aware of the influence these options have on the final lists of researchers.
Current utilization trend of immortalized mast cell lines in allergy research: a systematic review
Authors: Yip Ashley Jia Wen , Lee Yu Zhao , Kow Audrey Siew Foong , Wong Carisa Su-Ann , Lee Ming-Tatt , Tham Chau Ling , Tan Ji Wei 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Today, in the modern world, allergic diseases, also described as atopic allergies, are classified as a type of multifactorial disorder due to the complex interplay between genetics, environment, and socioeconomic factors that influence the disease’s manifestation, severity, and one’s predisposition to allergic diseases. It is undeniable that many reported studies have pointed out that the mast cell is one of the leading key players involved in triggering an allergic reaction. To improve our understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying allergy, various mast cell lines have been employed in vitro to study the pathogenesis of allergic diseases for the past decades. However, there is no consensus on many fundamental aspects associated with their use, such as the effects of culture media composition and the type of inducer used for cell degranulation. As the standardization of research protocols and disease models is crucial, we present the outcome of a systematic review of scientific articles using three major immortalized in vitro mast cell lines (HMC-1, LAD2, and RBL-2H3) to study allergy. This systematic review described the cell source, culture conditions, inducers used for degranulation, and mediators released for examination. We hope that the present systematic review may help to standardize the use of immortalized in vitro mast cell lines in allergy research and serve as a user’s guide to understand the fundamental aspects of allergy as well to develop an effective allergy therapy in the future for the betterment of human good health and wellbeing.
Silymarin: a promising modulator of apoptosis and survival signaling in cancer
Authors: Sharma Ujjawal , Sahni Praveen Kumar , Sharma Bunty , Gupta Madhu , Kaur Damandeep , Mathkor Darin Mansor , Haque Shafiul , Khatoon Sabiha , Tuli Hardeep Singh , Mishra Astha , Ahmad Faraz 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Cancer, one of the deadliest diseases, has remained the epicenter of biological research for more than seven decades. Yet all the efforts for a perfect therapeutic cure come with certain limitations. The use of medicinal plants and their phytochemicals as therapeutics has received much attention in recent years. Silymarin, a polyphenolic flavonoid with a variety of anti-cancerous properties, was isolated from the plant Silybum marianum. The present review centres on the function of silymarin in controlling important signalling pathways related to apoptosis and survival, such as the JAK/STAT pathway, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Bcl-2/Bax, and Fas/FasL. It is emphasised that silymarin's capacity to target these pathways is a key mechanism behind its anticancer effects against a variety of malignancies. By upregulating pro-apoptotic and downregulating anti-apoptotic proteins, silymarin controls a series of events that result in tumor suppression and cell death in a variety of cancer types. The low bioavailability and limited therapeutic efficacy of silymarin are improved by the application of various nano-delivery systems. As efficient carriers, liposomes, polymeric micelles, lipid- and metal-based nanoparticles, increase the solubility and distribution of silymarin in target tissues. Lastly, a number of preclinical studies that provide a basis for upcoming therapeutic interventions are highlighted in the review, providing encouraging directions for additional research and advancement.
Aging and tumors: a dynamic interaction
Authors: Zhang Yudi , Zhu Siqiang , Liu Zhaodong , Hu Yonghao , Zhang Yongjian , Shang Liang , Li Leping 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Aging is an inevitable physiological process in organisms, and the development of tumors is closely associated with cellular senescence. This article initially examines the role of cellular senescence in tumorigenesis, emphasizing the correlation between telomere length—a marker of cellular senescence—and tumor risk. Concurrently, the study explores the expression levels of senescence-associated markers, such as p16, p53, and mTOR, in the context of tumor development. Additionally, the study investigates the impact of tumors on cellular and organismal senescence, including the effects on immune system function and metabolic processes. Ultimately, the discussion explores the potential application of anti-aging strategies in tumor therapy and considers the possibility of utilizing senescence mechanisms as a novel therapeutic approach for tumors. This research provides novel insights into the complex interplay between senescence and tumor development, suggesting potential strategies for future preventative measures and therapeutic interventions.
“This Community has to Self-Regulate”: Resilience in Alt-Sex Practitioners’ Responses to Consent Violations
Authors: Moxie Jessamyn , Benson J. Kevin , Wright Susan , McCabe Sean , Moody Brianna , Willard Jessica , Stambaugh Russell , Cramer Robert J. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Introduction
Alt-sex (i.e., BDSM, kink, leather, polyamory and open relationships) practitioners are marginalized. They face violations of their consent, including but not limited to sexual consent. Although consent violations can lead to negative outcomes, resilience describes mobilizing resources and assets to mitigate these effects. Resilience related to consent violations among alt-sex practitioners is under-researched.

Methods
We conducted an international electronic survey focused on experiences with consent violations from 2019 to 2020. We analyzed open-ended survey responses related to resilience from 1711 alt-sex practitioners.

Results
We find evidence of individual and interpersonal strategies supporting resilience, and community aspects that challenge resilience in relation to consent violations. The intrapersonal level included mindfulness, coping and self-care, and calculated risk-taking. At the interpersonal level, participants described communication, social support, and development of trust. The community level included climate and authorities. The development of trust and social support, both at the interpersonal level, are linked to the community level, such as community climate.

Conclusions
Alt-sex practitioners may benefit from resilience-strengthening interventions, and alt-sex practitioners’ approaches to consent violations may be applicable to the broader population in building resilience.

Policy Implications
While legal and health policies exclude or stigmatize alt-sex practitioners, our findings support the importance of alternative recommendations or guidelines (e.g., the Model Penal Code related to sexual assault, clinical practice guidelines related to alt-sex).
Two-Dimensional Reconstructed Image of a Subsurface Structure Using Continuous Scanned Photothermal Imaging
Authors: Kim Moojoong , Kim Hyunjung 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This study presents the two-dimensional (2D) image of a subsurface structure reconstructed using an imaging method based on the photothermal effect. The photothermal imaging method is based on the deflection method using two lasers: pump and probe lasers. A continuous scanning technique is proposed for 2D (x- and y-directions) surface scanning. The continuous scanning method is compared with the conventional point-by-point scanning technique, and a low-pass fast Fourier transform filter and a Marr-Hildreth detector are found to produce significant results. The photothermal imaging method with continuous 2D surface scanning is performed on three copper-resin double-layer samples with different subsurface structures. The subsurface structures of the copper-resin double-layer samples comprise a square block of 5×5 mm2 area and blocks shaped as the alphabet letters “T” and “F”. The letters are 3 mm wide and 10×13 mm2 in area. All three shapes are 1 mm thick and located at a depth of 0.5 mm from the surface of the copper block. The reconstructed photothermal images show an absolute error within 0.122 mm compared with the actual subsurface structure, equivalent to a 2.3% relative error.
Are We Adequately Promoting Climate Change Adaptation to Address the Increasing Heatwaves Affecting the Elderly?
Authors: Hutton Alison , Maud Kim , Giggins Helen , Skipp Michela , Verdon-Kidd Danielle 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Australia is a significant hotspot for heatwaves due to its geographical location and pronounced climatic variability, and heatwave exposure is expected to further increase in the future with anthropogenic climate change. With the intent to support United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good health and well-being) and 13 (Climate action), in this study we identified key challenges and opportunities for adapting to heatwaves, focusing on the most vulnerable members of our community—older adults. A naturalistic, qualitative approach was selected for this study. Data were collected via semistructured interviews. Key insights were captured through a series of semistructured interviews with key informants from local government agencies and community groups that provide care for older adults in New South Wales, Australia. Questions centered around current preventative measures adopted by the organization regarding heatwaves, level of heatwave knowledge of local residents, and common effects of heatwaves in the local community. The findings highlight four primary challenges: (1) increasing duration and intensity of heatwaves; (2) lack of knowledge among older adults regarding symptoms and the effect on the body; (3) the financial and social impacts of heatwaves; and (4) inadequate urban planning practices and building codes including the need for the creation of cool and green spaces. This study provides important insights for protecting our most vulnerable populations from the growing threat of heatwaves.
Evaluation of the Microstructural, Mechanical, Tribological, and Corrosion Properties of Zinc-Based Composites Reinforced Silica Beach Sand Particulates
Authors: Ogbonna V. E. , Popoola O. M. , Popoola A. P. I. , Mashoeu O. C. , Adeosun S. O. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In this study, the characterization of mechanical, tribological, and corrosion behavior of silica sand-reinforced zinc (Zn) alloy composites was carried out. The zinc alloy matrix composites were developed at 0- and 10-wt% SiO2 sand particulates reinforcement using stir-casting technique. Microstructural examination, mechanical, tribological, and corrosion behavior evaluation of the composites were conducted using scanning electron microscope/optical microscope, nanoindentation test, tribometer device, and potentiodynamic tester, respectively. Results obtained from the microstructural analysis revealed that the SiO2 particulates were well dispersed into the zinc-based alloy matrix. The addition of SiO2 sand particles into the Zn alloy matrix improved its hardness and elastic modulus by approximately 48.4% and 16.2%, respectively. Additionally, the wear test and corrosion test revealed that the wear rate and corrosion rate of the composites decreased with the SiO2 sand particles incorporation, which indicates SiO2 sand reinforcement efficiency on improving the wear resistance and corrosion resistance of the Zn-based alloy materials and a guide for a better control of their wear and corrosion. These findings suggest the potential usability of SiO2 sand particle-reinforced Zn-based alloy composite materials for specific mechanical load-bearing, friction, and corrosion control applications.
Development and Evaluation of Machine Learning Based Predictive Models for Tribological Properties of Blended Coatings at Elevated Temperature
Authors: Jatavallabhula Jagadesh Kumar , Shabana Shabana , Pappula Bridjesh 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The current research is undertaken to evaluate the Tribological properties like wear and Coefficient of Friction (CoF) of three popular blended coatings on a mild steel substrate at elevated temperature. The scope of the research also includes predicting the tribological properties by employing three Machine Learning (ML) based predictive models viz. Elastic Net, k-NN and Random Forest regressions. The regressions are fit and tested at different proportions of Training and Testing data to find the best proportion. Random Forest regression is observed to be the best fit based on the acceptable values of MSE and R-Squared. Random Forest regression model of wear yielded MSE and R-Squared values as 22.01 and 0.95 for Coating 1, 5.75 and 1 for Coating 2, and 14.13 and 1 for Coating 3, respectively. Likewise, Random Forest regression model of CoF yielded MSE and R-Squared values as 0.01 and 0.99 for Coating 1, 0 and 1 for Coating 2, and 0 and 1 for Coating 3, respectively. The deviation between the experimental and predicted results (tested data: experimental runs 3, 14, and 29) in wear using the Random Forest algorithm for Coating 1, Coating 2, and Coating 3 is found to be 21.18%, − 2.72%, and 0.42%; − 4.54%, − 13.87, and 2.57%; 11.85%, 1.69%, and 1.89%, respectively. The deviation for CoF is found to be 6.29%, 1.56%, and 2.93%; − 0.86%, − 0.56%, and 0.20%; 0.85%, − 0.19%, and 0.17%, respectively. The variance between the actual experimental and predicted results from Random Forest regression is observed to be relatively acceptable.