bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AI-Based Hazard Detection for Railway Crossings
Authors: Espinoza Darren , Ali Gasser , Tarawneh Constantine
Published: June 2024

Grade crossings are critical elements of the railway infrastructure due to the potential risk of vehicle collisions with trains. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were more than 1,600 vehicle-train, and 500 human-train collisions in 2020. Researchers, transportation organizations, and government bodies are constantly exploring practices and technologies to improve safety at crossings. Examples of safety standards include sensors, motion detectors, depth cameras, and many other innovative technologies. The goal of this paper is to investigate the applications of computer vision using Artificial Intelligence (AI) deep learning models to enhance railway safety. Deep learning models can provide a robust and cost-effective solution to detect multiple hazards at crossings under different conditions such as lightning and weather. To achieve that goal, a model is developed and trained using a dataset of images at crossings collected and labeled by the authors. The trained model can use footage from cameras installed at grade crossings to detect multiple hazards such as vehicles, pedestrians, and animals. The model can be a robust solution to provide uninterrupted monitoring of crossings.
Counteracting Freeze-Thaw Deterioration Using Fiber Reinforced Concrete for Railroad Ties
Authors: Albahttiti Mohammed , Fernandez Janet , Zarate Yesenia , Naso Colin
Published: June 2024

Prestressed concrete railroad ties are crucial components of the railway system. These ties carry heavy loads and endure constant exposure to the elements. As water infiltrates the concrete, it can freeze and expand, exerting substantial pressure on the material. Subsequently, when the temperature rises, the ice within the concrete melts, causing the material to contract. This continuous expansion and contraction can lead to the formation of cracks, weakening the structural integrity of the concrete. In railway applications, this poses a significant problem, as damaged ties can compromise the safety and reliability of train tracks.

The focus of this study is to determine the impact of fiber reinforcement on the performance of concrete under freeze-thaw conditions. Notably, fiber reinforcement has been used as a means to reduce and control cracking in various concrete applications. The entire concrete construction is reinforced by a network made of steel fibers. The fibers act as a bonding agent when a fracture develops, allowing for the delayed propagation of cracks and the absorption of tensile loads at any point.

Concrete with steel fiber reinforcement has a greater potential to absorb energy during fracture. Demonstrating greater support structure, homogeneity and easier application logistics are just two advantages of fiber-reinforced concrete. This observation raises questions about the role that fiber reinforcement can have in increasing freeze-thaw durability and resistance to cracking. The random distribution of fibers in concrete railroad ties, often used to enhance tensile strength and crack resistance, might be the missing link needed for better durability of these ties. The aim of this research is to find a middle ground between improving concrete strength and longevity through fiber reinforcement and reducing the chances of localized damage from freeze-thaw cycles.
Opportunistic ship source level measurements in the Western Canadian Arctic
Authors: Shajahan Najeem , Halliday William D. , Dawson Jackie , Maksagak Ivor , Weese Kyle , Melling Humfrey , Niemi Andrea , Vagle Svein , Williams Bill , Insley Stephen J.
Published: June 2024

Increased ship traffic due to climate change increases underwater noise in the Arctic. Therefore, accurate measurements of underwater radiated noise are necessary to map marine sound and quantify shipping's impact on the Arctic ecosystem. This paper presents a method to calculate opportunistic source levels (SLs) using passive acoustic data collected at six locations in the Western Canadian Arctic from 2018 to 2022. Based on Automatic Identification System data, acoustic data, and a hybrid sound propagation model, the SLs of individual ships were calculated within a 5 km radius of each measurement site. A total of 66 measurements were obtained from 11 unique vessels, with multiple measurements from the same vessel type contributing more SLs. For vessels with propeller cavitation, measured SLs correlated positively with vessel parameters, such as speed and length. SL and speed did not correlate well for vessels without propeller cavitation. The JOMOPANS-ECHO SL model produced good agreement with measured SL for certain ship types (container ships, a tanker, and a passenger vessel). However, significant differences between measurement and model are evident for certain polar-class ships that travel in the Arctic, indicating that more controlled SL measurements are needed.
Constructing static two-electron lithium-bromide battery
Authors: Li Xinliang , Wang Yanlei , Lu Junfeng , Li Pei , Huang Zhaodong , Liang Guojin , He Hongyan , Zhi Chunyi
Published: June 2024

Despite their potential as conversion-type energy storage technologies, the performance of static lithium-bromide (SLB) batteries has remained stagnant for decades. Progress has been hindered by the intrinsic liquid-liquid redox mode and single-electron transfer of these batteries. Here, we developed a high-performance SLB battery based on the active bromine salt cathode and the two-electron transfer chemistry with a Br
−
/Br
+
redox couple by electrolyte tailoring. The introduction of NO
3
−
improved the reversible single-electron transition of Br
−
, and more impressively, the coordinated Cl
−
anions activated the Br
+
conversion to provide an additional electron transfer. A voltage plateau was observed at 3.8 V, and the discharge capacity and energy density were increased by 142 and 159% compared to the one-electron reaction benchmark. This two-step conversion mechanism exhibited excellent stability, with the battery functioning for 1000 cycles. These performances already approach the state of the art of currently established Li-halogen batteries. We consider the established two-electron redox mechanism highly exemplary for diversified halogen batteries.
Metabolic inflexibility promotes mitochondrial health during liver regeneration
Authors: Wang Xun , Menezes Cameron J. , Jia Yuemeng , Xiao Yi , Venigalla Siva Sai Krishna , Cai Feng , Hsieh Meng-Hsiung , Gu Wen , Du Liming , Sudderth Jessica , Kim Dohun , Shelton Spencer D. , Llamas Claire B. , Lin Yu-Hsuan , Zhu Min , Merchant Salma , Bezwada Divya , Kelekar Sherwin , Zacharias Lauren G. , Mathews Thomas P. , Hoxhaj Gerta , Wynn R. Max , Tambar Uttam K. , DeBerardinis Ralph J. , Zhu Hao , Mishra Prashant
Published: June 2024

Mitochondria are critical for proper organ function and mechanisms to promote mitochondrial health during regeneration would benefit tissue homeostasis. We report that during liver regeneration, proliferation is suppressed in electron transport chain (ETC)–dysfunctional hepatocytes due to an inability to generate acetyl-CoA from peripheral fatty acids through mitochondrial β-oxidation. Alternative modes for acetyl-CoA production from pyruvate or acetate are suppressed in the setting of ETC dysfunction. This metabolic inflexibility forces a dependence on ETC-functional mitochondria and restoring acetyl-CoA production from pyruvate is sufficient to allow ETC-dysfunctional hepatocytes to proliferate. We propose that metabolic inflexibility within hepatocytes can be advantageous by limiting the expansion of ETC-dysfunctional cells.
Synthesis of a stable crystalline nitrene
Authors: Janssen Marvin , Frederichs Thomas , Olaru Marian , Lork Enno , Hupf Emanuel , Beckmann Jens
Published: June 2024

Nitrenes are a highly reactive, yet fundamental, compound class. They possess a monovalent nitrogen atom and usually a short life span, typically in the nanosecond range. Here, we report on the synthesis of a stable nitrene by photolysis of the arylazide MSFluindN3(1), which gave rise to the quantitative formation of the arylnitrene MSFluindN (2) (MSFluind is dispiro[fluorene-9,3′-(1′,1′,7′,7′-tetramethyl-s-hydrindacen-4′-yl)-5′,9′′-fluorene]) that remains unchanged for at least 3 days when stored under argon atmosphere at room temperature. The extraordinary life span permitted the full characterization of2by single-crystal x-ray crystallography, electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, and superconducting quantum interference device magnetometry, which supported a triplet ground state. Theoretical simulations suggest that in addition to the kinetic stabilization conferred by the bulky MSFluind aryl substituent, electron delocalization across the central aromatic ring contributes to the electron stabilization of2.
ι-Carrageenan catabolism is initiated by key sulfatases in the marine bacterium
Pseudoalteromonas haloplanktis
LL1
Authors: Liu Guang-Lei , Wu Sheng-Lei , Sun Zhe , Xing Meng-Dan , Chi Zhen-Ming , Liu Ya-Jun
Published: June 2024

Marine bacteria contribute substantially to cycle macroalgae polysaccharides in marine environments. Carrageenans are the primary cell wall polysaccharides of red macroalgae. The carrageenan catabolism mechanism and pathways are still largely unclear.
Pseudoalteromonas
is a representative bacterial genus that can utilize carrageenan. We previously isolated the strain
Pseudoalteromonas haloplanktis
LL1 that could grow on ι-carrageenan but produce no ι-carrageenase. Here, through a combination of bioinformatic, biochemical, and genetic analyses, we determined that
P. haloplanktis
LL1 processed a desulfurization-depolymerization sequential pathway for ι-carrageenan utilization, which was initiated by key sulfatases PhSulf1 and PhSulf2. PhSulf2 acted as an endo/exo-G4S (4-O-sulfation-β-D-galactopyranose) sulfatase, while PhSulf1 was identified as a novel endo-DA2S sulfatase that could function extracellularly. Because of the unique activity of PhSulf1 toward ι-carrageenan rather than oligosaccharides,
P. haloplanktis
LL1 was considered to have a distinct ι-carrageenan catabolic pathway compared to other known ι-carrageenan-degrading bacteria, which mainly employ multifunctional G4S sulfatases and exo-DA2S (2-O-sulfation-3,6-anhydro-α-D-galactopyranose) sulfatase for sulfate removal. Furthermore, we detected widespread occurrence of PhSulf1-encoding gene homologs in the global ocean, indicating the prevalence of such endo-acting DA2S sulfatases as well as the related ι-carrageenan catabolism pathway. This research provides valuable insights into the enzymatic processes involved in carrageenan catabolism within marine ecological systems.

IMPORTANCE

Carrageenan is a type of linear sulfated polysaccharide that plays a significant role in forming cell walls of marine algae and is found extensively distributed throughout the world’s oceans. To the best of our current knowledge, the ι-carrageenan catabolism in marine bacteria either follows the depolymerization-desulfurization sequential process initiated by ι-carrageenase or starts from the desulfurization step catalyzed by exo-acting sulfatases. In this study, we found that the marine bacterium
Pseudoalteromonas haloplanktis
LL1 processes a distinct pathway for ι-carrageenan catabolism employing a specific endo-acting DA2S-sulfatase PhSulf1 and a multifunctional G4S sulfatase PhSulf2. The unique PhSulf1 homologs appear to be widely present on a global scale, indicating the indispensable contribution of the marine bacteria containing the distinct ι-carrageenan catabolism pathway. Therefore, this study would significantly enrich our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying carrageenan utilization, providing valuable insights into the intricate roles of marine bacteria in polysaccharide cycling in marine environments.
Osmotic stress response of the coral and oyster pathogen
Vibrio coralliilyticus
: acquisition of catabolism gene clusters for the compatible solute and signaling molecule
myo
-inositol
Authors: Boas Lichty Katherine E. , Loughran Rachel M. , Ushijima Blake , Richards Gary P. , Boyd E. Fidelma
Published: June 2024

Marine bacteria experience fluctuations in osmolarity that they must adapt to, and most bacteria respond to high osmolarity by accumulating compatible solutes also known as osmolytes. The osmotic stress response and compatible solutes used by the coral and oyster pathogen
Vibrio coralliilyticus
were unknown. In this study, we showed that to alleviate osmotic stress
V. coralliilyticus
biosynthesized glycine betaine (GB) and transported into the cell choline, GB, ectoine, dimethylglycine, and dimethylsulfoniopropionate, but not
myo
-inositol.
Myo
-inositol is a stress protectant and a signaling molecule that is biosynthesized and used by algae. Bioinformatics identified
myo
-inositol (
iol
) catabolism clusters in
V. coralliilyticus
and other
Vibrio
,
Photobacterium
,
Grimontia
, and
Enterovibrio
species. Growth pattern analysis demonstrated that
V. coralliilyticus
utilized
myo
-inositol as a sole carbon source, with a short lag time of 3 h. An
iolG
deletion mutant, which encodes an inositol dehydrogenase, was unable to grow on
myo
-inositol. Within the
iol
clusters were an MFS-type (
iolT1
) and an ABC-type (
iolXYZ
) transporter and analyses showed that both transported
myo
-inositol. IolG and IolA phylogeny among
Vibrionaceae
species showed different evolutionary histories indicating multiple acquisition events. Outside of
Vibrionaceae
, IolG was most closely related to IolG from a small group of
Aeromonas
fish and human pathogens and
Providencia
species. However, IolG from hypervirulent
A. hydrophila
strains clustered with IolG from
Enterobacter,
and divergently from
Pectobacterium
,
Brenneria
, and
Dickeya
plant pathogens. The
iol
cluster was also present within
Aliiroseovarius
,
Burkholderia
,
Endozoicomonas
,
Halomonas
,
Labrenzia
,
Marinomonas
,
Marinobacterium
,
Cobetia
,
Pantoea
, and
Pseudomonas
, of which many species were associated with marine flora and fauna.

IMPORTANCE

Host associated bacteria such as
Vibrio coralliilyticus
encounter competition for nutrients and have evolved metabolic strategies to better compete for food. Emerging studies show that
myo
-inositol is exchanged in the coral-algae symbiosis, is likely involved in signaling, but is also an osmolyte in algae. The bacterial consumption of
myo
-inositol could contribute to a breakdown of the coral-algae symbiosis during thermal stress or disrupt the coral microbiome. Phylogenetic analyses showed that the evolutionary history of
myo
-inositol metabolism is complex, acquired multiple times in
Vibrio
, but acquired once in many bacterial plant pathogens. Further analysis also showed that a conserved
iol
cluster is prevalent among many marine species (commensals, mutualists, and pathogens) associated with marine flora and fauna, algae, sponges, corals, molluscs, crustaceans, and fish.
Generation of recombinant viruses directly from clinical specimens of COVID-19 patients
Authors: Yamamoto Hirotaka , Tamura Tomokazu , Ichikawa Takaya , Taguchi Yudai , Mori Kento , Oguri Satoshi , Suzuki Rigel , Suzuki Saori , Teshima Takanori , Fukuhara Takasuke
Published: June 2024

Rapid characterization of the causative agent(s) during a disease outbreak can aid in the implementation of effective control measures. However, isolation of the agent(s) from crude clinical samples can be challenging and time-consuming, hindering the establishment of countermeasures. In the present study, we used saliva specimens collected for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2—a good example of a practical target—and attempted to characterize the virus within the specimens without virus isolation. Thirty-four saliva samples from coronavirus disease 2019 patients were used to extract RNA and synthesize DNA amplicons by PCR. New primer sets were designed to generate DNA amplicons of the full-length spike (S) gene for subsequent use in a circular polymerase extension reaction (CPER), a simple method for deriving recombinant viral genomes. According to the S sequence, four clinical specimens were classified as BA. 1, BA.2, BA.5, and XBB.1 and were used for the
de novo
generation of recombinant viruses carrying the entire S gene. Additionally, chimeric viruses carrying the gene encoding GFP were generated to evaluate viral propagation using a plate reader. We successfully used the RNA purified directly from clinical saliva samples to generate chimeric viruses carrying the entire S gene by our updated CPER method. The chimeric viruses exhibited robust replication in cell cultures with similar properties. Using the recombinant GFP viruses, we also successfully characterized the efficacy of the licensed antiviral AZD7442. Our proof-of-concept demonstrates the novel utility of CPER to allow rapid characterization of viruses from clinical specimens.

IMPORTANCE

Characterization of the causative agent(s) for infectious diseases helps in implementing effective control measurements, especially in outbreaks. However, the isolation of the agent(s) from clinical specimens is often challenging and time-consuming. In this study, saliva samples from coronavirus disease 2019 patients were directly subjected to purifying viral RNA, synthesizing DNA amplicons for sequencing, and generating recombinant viruses. Utilizing an updated circular polymerase extension reaction method, we successfully generated chimeric SARS-CoV-2 viruses with sufficient
in vitro
replication capacity and antigenicity. Thus, the recombinant viruses generated in this study were applicable for evaluating the antivirals. Collectively, our developed method facilitates rapid characterization of specimens circulating in hosts, aiding in the establishment of control measurements. Additionally, this approach offers an advanced strategy for controlling other (re-)emerging viral infectious diseases.
The HTLV-I oncoprotein Tax inactivates the tumor suppressor FBXW7
Authors: Bellon Marcia , Yeh Chien-hung , Bai Xue Tao , Nicot Christophe
Published: June 2024

Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-I) is the etiological agent of adult T-cell leukemia (ATL). Mutational analysis has demonstrated that the tumor suppressor, F-box and WD repeat domain containing 7 (FBXW7/FBW7/CDC4), is mutated in primary ATL patients. However, even in the absence of genetic mutations, FBXW7 substrates are stabilized in ATL cells, suggesting additional mechanisms can prevent FBXW7 functions. Here, we report that the viral oncoprotein Tax represses FBXW7 activity, resulting in the stabilization of activated Notch intracellular domain, c-MYC, Cyclin E, and myeloid cell leukemia sequence 1 (BCL2-related) (Mcl-1). Mechanistically, we demonstrate that Tax directly binds to FBXW7 in the nucleus, effectively outcompeting other targets for binding to FBXW7, resulting in decreased ubiquitination and degradation of FBXW7 substrates. In support of the nuclear role of Tax, a non-degradable form of the nuclear factor kappa B subunit 2 (NFκB2/p100) was found to delocalize Tax to the cytoplasm, thereby preventing Tax interactions with FBXW7 and Tax-mediated inhibition of FBXW7. Finally, we characterize a Tax mutant that is unable to interact with FBXW7, unable to block FBXW7 tumor suppressor functions, and unable to effectively transform fibroblasts. These results demonstrate that HTLV-I Tax can inhibit FBXW7 functions without genetic mutations to promote an oncogenic state. These results suggest that Tax-mediated inhibition of FBXW7 is likely critical during the early stages of the cellular transformation process.

IMPORTANCE

F-box and WD repeat domain containing 7 (FBXW7), a critical tumor suppressor of human cancers, is frequently mutated or epigenetically suppressed. Loss of FBXW7 functions is associated with stabilization and increased expression of oncogenic factors such as Cyclin E, c-Myc, Mcl-1, mTOR, Jun, and Notch. In this study, we demonstrate that the human retrovirus human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 oncoprotein Tax directly interacts with FBXW7, effectively outcompeting other targets for binding to FBXW7, resulting in decreased ubiquitination and degradation of FBXW7 cellular substrates. We further demonstrate that a Tax mutant unable to interact with and inactivate FBXW7 loses its ability to transform primary fibroblasts. Collectively, our results describe a novel mechanism used by a human tumor virus to promote cellular transformation.
Higher genotypic diversity and distinct assembly mechanism of free-living Symbiodiniaceae assemblages than sympatric coral-endosymbiotic assemblages in a tropical coral reef
Authors: Lin Sitong , Li Ling , Zhou Zhi , Yuan Huatao , Saad Osama S. , Tang Jia , Cai Wenqi , Yu Kefu , Lin Senjie
Published: June 2024

While
in hospite
Symbiodiniaceae dinoflagellates are essential for coral health, ambient free-living counterparts are crucial for coral recruitment and resilience. Comparing free-living and
in hospite
Symbiodiniaceae communities can potentially provide insights into endosymbiont acquisition and recurrent recruitment in bleaching recovery. In this study, we studied coral-endosymbiotic and ambient free-living Symbiodiniaceae communities in the South China Sea. We collected samples from 183 coral and ambient plankton samples and conducted metabarcoding to investigate the diversity distribution, driving factors, and assembly mechanisms of the two groups of Symbiodiniaceae. Results revealed
Cladocopium
C1 and
Durusdinium
D1 as dominant genotypes. We detected a higher genotypic diversity in free-living than
in hospite
symbiodiniacean communities, but with shared dominant genotypes. This indicates a genetically diverse pool of Symbiodiniaceae available for recruitment by corals. Strikingly, we found that the cooler area had more Symbiodiniaceae thermosensitive genotypes, whereas the warmer area had more Symbiodiniaceae thermotolerant genotypes. Furthermore,
in hospite
and free-living Symbiodiniaceae communities were similarly affected by environmental factors, but shaped by different assembly mechanisms. The
in hospite
communities were controlled mainly by deterministic processes, whereas the ambient communities by stochastic processes. This study sheds light on the genetic diversity of source environmental Symbiodiniaceae and differential assembly mechanisms influencing Symbiodiniaceae inside and outside corals.

IMPORTANCE

Symbiodiniaceae dinoflagellates play a pivotal role as key primary producers within coral reef ecosystems. Coral-endosymbiotic Symbiodiniaceae communities have been extensively studied, but relatively little work has been reported on the free-living Symbiodiniaceae community. Conducting a comparative analysis between sympatric coral-endosymbiotic and free-living Symbiodiniaceae communities can potentially enhance the understanding of how endosymbiont communities change in response to changing environments and the mechanisms driving these changes. Our findings shed light on the genetic diversity of source environmental Symbiodiniaceae and differential assembly mechanisms shaping free-living and
in hospite
Symbiodiniaceae communities, with implications in evaluating the adaptive and resilient capacity of corals in response to future climate change.
Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio as a biomarker of acute pulmonary exacerbations in children with cystic fibrosis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tung Nicole Wing Hei , Edmondson Claire , Westrupp Nicole , Rosenthal Mark , Davies Jane C
Published: June 2024

Background

Neutrophils are key contributors to chronic airway inflammation in cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease, although airway and blood-based neutrophil markers are seldom used. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is an accessible biomarker, the clinical utility of which has not been adequately studied.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of the NLR in children with CF and its correlations with acute pulmonary exacerbations and spirometry.

Design

A previous study had collected clinical data from children with CF for a 3-year period between 2016 and 2021. Retrospectively, NLR values were categorised according to patients’ clinical status during blood sample collection as ‘stable’, ‘acute pulmonary exacerbation’ or ‘elective admission for chronic clinical concern’.

Main outcome measures

Demographic characteristics associated with the NLR; changes in NLR values in relation to clinical status; relationship between NLR and lung function.

Results

141 children with CF were included. NLR values during clinical stability were higher in females and increased with age. For children admitted for intravenous antibiotics, NLR values significantly increased from clinical stability (median (IQR)=1.13 (0.75–1.51)) to acute pulmonary exacerbations (median (IQR)=1.50 (0.96–2.65), p=0.001), but similar changes were not observed in elective admissions. The NLR was not associated with lung function.

Conclusions

The NLR demonstrated associations with clinical status in children with CF with significant elevations during acute pulmonary exacerbations. While its utility as a single-marker measure is limited, monitoring the NLR over time may help identify periods of increased inflammation.
Lessons learnt from daily oral PrEP delivery to inform national planning for PrEP ring introduction for women in low-income and middle-income countries: a qualitative inquiry of international stakeholders
Authors: Heck Craig J , Dam Anita , Yohannes Kibret , Deacon Justine , Kripke Katharine , Meyers Kathrine , Poku Ohemaa , Obermeyer Christopher , Wiant Sarah , Quigee Daniela , Larson Martha , Malati Christine , Sobieszczyk Magdalena E , Torres-Rueda Sergio , Castor Delivette
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Some African countries plan to introduce and scale-up new long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis methods (LA-PrEP), like the monthly dapivirine vaginal ring (PrEP ring) and injectable cabotegravir. National costed implementation plans, roadmaps for successful product implementation, are often overlooked. International stakeholders engaged in oral PrEP planning, introduction and scale-up are an information resource of lessons learned to advise LA-PrEP planning. We consulted such international stakeholders and synthesised oral PrEP lessons to inform the development of a costed rollout plan template for LA-PrEP.

Methods

From selected global health organisations (five international nongovernmental, four donor, four university/research and two multilateral), we interviewed 27 representatives based in America, Europe, Asia and Africa about strategic content and approaches for LA-PrEP policy, programming and implementation. We conducted a thematic analysis of the interview data for implementation considerations.

Results

From the consultations, we identified six implementation themes for LA-PrEP introduction and scale-up: (1) ethically increasing choice and avoiding coercion; (2) de-stigmatising PrEP by focusing on preference rather than risk-based eligibility; (3) integrating LA-PrEP into services that are more woman-oriented, couple-oriented and family-oriented, and providing private spaces for LA-PrEP delivery; (4) de-medicalising delivery of relatively safe products (eg, PrEP ring); (5) constructing multilevel, nuanced communication strategies to address measured and perceived product efficacy and effectiveness; and (6) devising product-agnostic, modular approaches to service delivery. Despite the widespread emphasis on integration, few stakeholders offered empirical examples of successful integration approaches and frameworks.

Conclusions

Lessons learnt from stakeholder participants suggest standardised and modular processes can improve efficiencies in LA-PrEP planning and implementation. Tiered communication strategies addressing product efficacy and effectiveness will improve clients’ and providers’ efficacy in making informed decisions. Integration is important for LA-PrEP delivery, but data on empirical integration approaches and frameworks is minimal: further research in this discipline is needed.
Breaking barriers: assessing the impact of clinical quality improvements on reducing health disparities in hypertension care among Mumbai’s urban slums
Authors: Li Shang Ju , Miles Thomas , Vasisht Itisha , Dere Harshwardhan , Agyekum Celestina , Massoud Rashad
Published: June 2024

The clinical quality improvement initiatives, led by the organisation’s Health Equity Working Group (HEWG), aim to support healthcare providers to provide equitable, quality hypertension care worldwide. After coordinating with the India team, we started monitoring the deidentified patient data collected through electronic health records between January and May 2021. After stratifying data by age, sex and residence location, the team found an average of 55.94% of our hypertensive patients control their blood pressure, with an inequity of 11.91% between male and female patients.

The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of using clinical quality improvement to improve hypertension care in the limited-resourced, mobile healthcare setting in Mumbai slums. We used the model for improvement, developed by Associates in Process Improvement. After 9-month Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles, the average hypertensive patients with controlled blood pressure improved from 55.94% to 89.86% at the endpoint of the initiative. The gender gap reduced significantly from 11.91% to 2.19%. We continued to monitor the blood pressure and found that the average hypertensive patients with controlled blood pressure remained stable at 89.23% and the gender gap slightly increased to 3.14%. Hypertensive patients have 6.43 times higher chance of having controlled blood pressure compared with the preintervention after the 9-month intervention (p<0.001).

This paper discusses the efforts to improve hypertension care and reduce health inequities in Mumbai’s urban slums. We highlighted the methods used to identify and bridge health inequity gaps and the testing of PDSA cycles to improve care quality and reduce disparities. Our findings have shown that clinical quality improvement initiatives and the PDSA cycle can successfully improve health outcomes and decrease gender disparity in the limited-resource setting.
Using systems mapping within the process evaluation of a randomised controlled trial of the ACE active ageing programme in England and Wales
Authors: Cavill Nick , Greaves Colin , Chatwin Katie E , Szekeres Zsofia , Davies Amy , Hawley-Hague Helen , Crone Diane , Withall Janet , Thompson Janice , Stathi Afroditi
Published: June 2024

Background

System mapping has mainly been used to develop theories and understanding of complex systems; to hypothesise how an intervention might work in a complex system or to inform intervention development. There are a few examples of the use of system mapping as part of process evaluation. In this paper, we describe an innovative approach to using system mapping as part of the process evaluation of a randomised controlled trial of the Active, Connected, Engaged (ACE) community-based active ageing programme.

Method

Ten participatory workshops were held across three of the ACE sites (Cardiff, Stoke-on-Trent and Manchester, UK). These involved over 100 participants, volunteers and stakeholders (from National Health Service, statutory and voluntary sectors). Their aim was to gather area-specific information on participants’ barriers and facilitators to physical activity and the needs of peer volunteers and service providers; and create ‘baseline’ system maps before the launch of the programme in the three areas of ACE delivery.

Results

System maps were produced showing the main outcome (physical activity) and the interactions between the key motivators and barriers described by older people, as well as ideas from stakeholders and volunteers about how these barriers can be addressed. Findings led to refinements to ACE intervention processes and the study’s logic model.

Conclusions

System mapping helped to refine the ACE processes and fine-tune the logic model. The value of this approach will increase in the next phase when it will be used to explore any changes to the physical activity system including changes to stakeholders’ ways of working and collaborating to tackle barriers to activity following the completion of the ACE trial.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN17660493.
Prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder and depressive symptoms among civilians residing in armed conflict-affected regions: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ahmed Syed Hassan , Zakai Aabia , Zahid Maha , Jawad Muhammad Youshay , Fu Rui , Chaiton Michael
Published: June 2024

Background

Globally, populations afflicted by armed conflict are known to have high rates of mental health disorders.

Aims

This meta-analysis aims to estimate the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depressive symptoms among civilians residing in armed conflict-affected regions.

Methods

This meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. A literature search employing MEDLINE(R), Embase Classic+Embase, APA PsycINFO, Ovid Healthstar, Journal@Ovid Full Text, Cochrane, PTSDpubs and CINAHL was conducted from inception until 19 March 2024 to identify relevant studies. Quality assessment was performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Prevalence Studies, and a Comprehensive Meta-Analysis was used to conduct the statistical analysis.

Results

The search yielded 38 595 articles, of which 57 were considered eligible for inclusion. The included studies comprised data from 64 596 participants. We estimated a prevalence of 23.70% (95% CI 19.50% to 28.40%) for PTSD symptoms and 25.60% (95% CI 20.70% to 31.10%) for depressive features among war-afflicted civilians. The subgroup analysis based on time since the war and the country’s economic status revealed the highest prevalence for both PTSD and depressive symptoms was present during the years of war and in low/middle-income countries.

Conclusions

The results of this study provide conclusive evidence of the detrimental impacts of armed conflict on mental health outcomes. Hence, it is crucial to emphasise the significance of both physical and mental health in the aftermath of war and take appropriate humanistic measures to overcome challenges in the management of psychiatric illnesses.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023416096.
Efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided versus landmark-guided neuraxial puncture: a systematic review, network meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: de Carvalho Clístenes Crístian , Porto Genuino Willgney , Vieira Morais Maria Clara , de Paiva Oliveira Heleno , Rodrigues Adolfo Igor , El-Boghdadly Kariem
Published: June 2024

Background

Data suggest that preprocedural ultrasound may improve the efficacy of central neuraxial puncture. However, it remains uncertain whether these findings can be extended to various clinical scenarios, including diverse patient populations and the application of real-time ultrasound guidance. Additionally, it is unclear whether ultrasound-guided techniques improve safety and patient-centered outcomes.

Methods

We searched six databases for randomized trials of adult patients undergoing neuraxial puncture, comparing real-time ultrasound, preprocedural ultrasound, and landmark palpation for efficacy, safety and patient-centered outcomes. Our primary outcome was a failed first-attempt neuraxial puncture. After two-person screening and data extraction, meta-analyses were conducted and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach was applied to assess the certainty of evidence.

Results

Analysis of 71 studies involving 7153 patients, both real-time ultrasound (OR 0.30; 95% credible interval (CrI) 0.15 to 0.58; low certainty) and preprocedural ultrasound (OR 0.33; 95% CrI 0.24 to 0.44; moderate certainty) showed a significant reduction in the risk of a failed first neuraxial puncture. Real-time ultrasound had the best performance for preventing first-attempt failures (low certainty evidence). Although real-time ultrasound was also the leading method for reducing the risk of complete neuraxial puncture failure, the results did not show a statistically significant difference when compared with landmark palpation. Preprocedural ultrasound, however, significantly reduced the odds of complete puncture failure (OR 0.29; 95% CrI 0.11 to 0.61). These ultrasound-guided approaches also contributed to a reduction in certain complications and increased patient satisfaction without any other significant differences in additional outcomes. Trial sequential analysis confirmed that sufficient information was achieved for our primary outcome.

Conclusions

Ultrasound-guided neuraxial puncture improves efficacy, reduces puncture attempts and needle redirections, reduces complication risks, and increases patient satisfaction, with low to moderate certainty of evidence. Despite real-time ultrasound’s high ranking, a clear superiority over preprocedural ultrasound is not established. These results could prompt anesthesiologists and other clinicians to reassess their neuraxial puncture techniques.
Clinical implications of haemodynamics in symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis by computational fluid dynamics modelling: a systematic review
Authors: Liu Yu , Li Shuang , Liu Haipeng , Tian Xuan , Liu Yuying , Li Ziqi , Leung Thomas W , Leng Xinyi
Published: June 2024

Background

Recently, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has been used to simulate blood flow of symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (sICAS) and investigate the clinical implications of its haemodynamic features, which were systematically reviewed in this study.

Methods

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses and Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology statements, we searched PubMed and Embase up to March 2024 and screened for articles reporting clinical implications of haemodynamic parameters in sICAS derived from CFD models.

Results

19 articles met the inclusion criteria, all studies recruiting patients from China. Most studies used CT angiography (CTA) as the source image for vessel segmentation, and generic boundary conditions, rigid vessel wall and Newtonian fluid assumptions for CFD modelling, in patients with 50%-99% sICAS. Pressure and wall shear stress (WSS) were quantified in almost all studies, and the translesional changes in pressure and WSS were usually quantified with a poststenotic to prestenotic pressure ratio (PR) and stenotic-throat to prestenotic WSS ratio (WSSR). Lower PR was associated with more severe stenosis, better leptomeningeal collaterals, prolonged perfusion time and internal borderzone infarcts. Higher WSSR and other WSS measures were associated with positive vessel wall remodelling, regression of luminal stenosis and artery-to-artery embolism. Lower PR and higher WSSR were both associated with the presence and severity of cerebral small vessel disease. Moreover, translesional PR and WSSR were promising predictors for stroke recurrence in medically treated patients with sICAS and outcomes after acute reperfusion therapy, which also provided indicators to assess the effects of stenting treatment on focal haemodynamics.

Conclusions

CFD is a promising tool in investigating the pathophysiology of ICAS and in risk stratification of patients with sICAS. Future studies are warranted for standardisation of the modelling methods and validation of the simulation results in sICAS, for its wider applications in clinical research and practice.
Merits of atomic cascade computations
Authors: Fritzsche S. , Sahoo A. K. , Sharma L. , Wu Z. W. , Schippers S.
Published: June 2024

Atomic cascades refer—first and foremost—to the stepwise de-excitation of excited atoms owing to the emission of electrons or photons. Apart from dedicated experiments at storage rings and synchrotrons, such cascades frequently occur in astro and plasma physics, material research, surface science and at various places elsewhere. In addition, moreover, “atomic cascades” have been found a useful concept for modeling atomic behavior under different conditions, for instance, when dealing with the photoabsorption of matter, the generation of synthesized spectra, or for determining a rather wide class of (plasma) rate coefficients. We here compile and discuss several atomic cascades (schemes) that help predict cross sections, rate coefficients, electron and photon spectra, or ion distributions. We also demonstrate how readily these schemes have been implemented within JAC, the Jena Atomic Calculator. Emphasis is placed on the classification of atomic cascades and their (quite) natural breakdown into cascade computations, to deal with the electronic structure and transition amplitudes of atoms and ions, as well as the cascade simulation of those properties and spectra, that are experimentally accessible. As an example, we show and discuss the computation of dielectronic recombination plasma rate coefficients for beryllium-like gold ions. The concept of atomic cascades and its implementation into JAC can be applied for most ions across the periodic table and will facilitate the modeling and interpretation of many forthcoming observations.

Graphical abstract
Characterisation of a hollow-cathode lamp to measure accurate branching fractions of rare-earth elements.
Authors: Sen Sarma Pratyush Ranjan , Belmonte Maria Teresa , Mar Santiago
Published: June 2024

This work describes the tests performed with a newly built hollow-cathode lamp to ensure its capability to measure atomic parameters such as transition probabilities accurately. We discuss the design of the lamp and the experimental setup that will be used to measure transition probabilities. We show the discharge characteristics of the lamp and also the stability of spectral emission of the lamp over a period of two hours. Finally, it is concluded that the experimental setup, the lamp, and a camera with high resolving power are well suited for the measurement of the transition probabilities of doubly ionised rare-earths like Nd III.

Graphical abstract

Graphical abstract illustrating the use of a hollow-cathode lamp setup for accurately measuring branching fractions of rare-earth elements. The setup includes a diffraction grating spectrometer and a CMOS camera to detect radiation across a spectral range of 200 nm to 800 nm with a resolving power of 150,000 at 450 nm
Understanding Vulnerability Inducing Commits of the Linux Kernel
Authors: Jiang Muhui , Jiang Jinan , Wu Tao , Ma Zuchao , Luo Xiapu , Zhou Yajin
Published: June 2024

The Linux kernel is popular and well-maintained. Over the past decade, around 860 thousand commits were merged with hundreds of vulnerabilities (i.e., 223 on average) disclosed every year, taking the total lines of code to 35.1 million in 2022. Many algorithms have been proposed to detect the vulnerabilities, but few studied how they were induced. To fill this gap, we conduct the first empirical study on the Kernel Vulnerability Inducing Commits (KVIC), the commits that induced vulnerabilities in the Linux kernel. We utilized six different methods on identifying the Kernel Vulnerability Fixing Commits (KVFCs), the commits that fix vulnerabilities in the Linux kernel, and proposed the other four different methods for identifying KVICs by using the identified KVFCs as a bridge. In total, we constructed the first dataset of KVICs with 1,240 KVICs for 1,335 CVEs. We conducted a thorough analysis on the characteristics, purposes, and involved human factors of the KVICs and obtained many interesting findings and insights. For example, KVICs usually have limited reviewers and can still be induced by experienced authors or maintainers. Based on these insights, we proposed several suggestions to the Linux community to help mitigate the induction of KVICs.
Müller Glial Cell–Dependent Regeneration of the Retina in Zebrafish and Mice
Authors: Jui Jonathan , Goldman Daniel
Published: June 2024

Sight is one of our most precious senses. People fear losing their sight more than any other disability. Thus, restoring sight to the blind is an important goal of vision scientists. Proregenerative species, such as zebrafish, provide a system for studying endogenous mechanisms underlying retina regeneration. Nonregenerative species, such as mice, provide a system for testing strategies for stimulating retina regeneration. Key to retina regeneration in zebrafish and mice is the Müller glial cell, a malleable cell type that is amenable to a variety of regenerative strategies. Here, we review cellular and molecular mechanisms used by zebrafish to regenerate a retina, as well as the application of these mechanisms, and other strategies to stimulate retina regeneration in mice. Although our focus is on Müller glia (MG), niche components and their impact on MG reprogramming are also discussed.
AgCuO/Cu2O Nanozyme-Based Colorimetric and Photoelectrochemical Dual-Models Strategy for Sensing Hg2+ in Serum
Authors: Gu Xinxin , Cheng Tao , Yin Tairu , Guo Xiaoyu , Liu Xinling , Wen Ying , Yang Haifeng , Wu Yiping
Published: June 2024

A stable and highly visible-light responsive semiconductor material of AgCuO/Cu2O was prepared to develop a colorimetric and photoelectrochemical (PEC) dual-sensing mode for broad-range Hg2+ detection. The AgCuO/Cu2O was evidenced with Hg2+-enhanced peroxidase activity. In the solution, the appearance of Hg2+ promotes AgCuO/Cu2O to catalyze more 3, 3′, 5, 5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) oxidization, deepening the color of the TMB solution and increasing the light absorption, thus realizing the colorimetric detection of Hg2+. The linear response range is 1 nmol·l−1 to 10 μmol·l−1, and the detection limit is 3.5 nmol·l−1. On the electrode surface, the emergence of Hg2+ facilitates AgCuO/Cu2O to convert more 4-chloro-1-naphthol (4-CN) into insoluble precipitates benzo-4-chlorohexadienone (4-CD), depressing the PEC signal and realizing the PEC detection of Hg2+ with a linear response range of 10 pmol·l−1 to 10 μmol·l−1 and a detection limit of 8.7 pmol·l−1. The enhancement of the enzyme-mimicking activity of AgCuO/Cu2O by Hg2+ is closely related to the in situ formation of the Ag-Hg amalgam. The colorimetric and the PEC sensing modal complement each other, significantly broadening the detection range of Hg2+ and ensuring the reliability and accuracy of the results. The work paves the way for sensitive, selective, and accurate determination of Hg2+ in serum samples.
ECS Celebrates the Life of Allen J. Bard
Authors: Chaves Frances
Published: June 2024

The ECS community is mourning the passing of our colleague and friend, Allen (Al) J. Bard, on February 11, 2024. Throughout a distinguished career that brought him worldwide recognition for his pioneering scientific achievements, Al was a beloved and respected member of the ECS community as an author, Fellow, awardee, editor, meeting participant and organizer, and more.
Oral Chronic Mucositis in a Known Lichen Planus Pigmentosus Patient
Authors: Pinchaleaw Dalad , Limlawan Pirawish
Published: June 2024

Oral manifestations of mucocutaneous inflammatory diseases such as lichenoid dermatoses often affect the patient’s quality of life through the symptoms of pain and burning sensation. In this case report, a patient with known lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP), a variant of lichenoid dermatoses that rarely affect oral mucosa, presented with chronic pain in the oral cavity for 2 months. Her intraoral examination revealed multiple pseudomembranous ulcers with erythematous areas and white striae similar to erosive lichen planus. The histological assessment revealed chronic mucositis, while the direct immunofluorescent examination showed negative results, contradicting the diagnosis of both lichen planus and LPP. Thus, the diagnosis was given as chronic mucositis, and the topical steroid was given. After 6 weeks of steroid application, the lesion resolved. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of chronic mucositis in LPP patients. This report could raise the awareness of clinicians to carefully take history as the patient with LPP may suffer from chronic mucositis in the oral cavity as well.