bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
System Integration Testing in the Factory for Train Control and Signaling Systems
Authors: Lakshminarayanan Sridevi , Tadanki Sravani Rao 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Complex and large brownfield or greenfield signaling projects require a robust test regime to mitigate deployment risks, reduce delays to migration and reduce operational risks. Specifically, tightly coupled wayside and onboard signaling systems like CBTC signaling systems require a test regime that focuses on resolution of all major non-conformances, a.k.a., software/hardware defects, prior to deployment at site. While the technology has been advancing and agencies are ready to adapt, the contractors and suppliers who provide this technology are constantly persevering to improve their system integration approach. Integration risks increase when new functionality and / or new hardware are introduced. In addition, absence of a robust productization strategy by the supplier results in the supplier integrating the entire signaling system on every project, leading to additional time and cost for the agency.
To achieve a robust integration approach and test regime, the factory test setup and integration test setup must mimic the real-world system as closely as possible. This includes integration of:
1. The signaling subsystems that make up the core signaling system,
2. The core signaling system with external interfaces, e.g., the existing railway infrastructure, and
3. The core signaling system with types of rolling stock the agency uses for operations and maintenance.
Factory testing begins with validating that the hardware is built to specification, followed by validation of software and interfaces. System integration and functional testing may be performed using a virtualized environment instead of target hardware. In fact, some signaling system suppliers have moved from using the target machine factory setup to using Virtual Machine (VM) environment for their factory testing.
There are several advantages with utilizing the virtualized environment for factory testing and software interface integration. To mitigate the risks involved with a purely virtualized environment for system integration, a mix of target and VMs for system integration may also be considered. This paper will discuss the different approaches to system integration, while considering the advantages, disadvantages, risks, and mitigations for these approaches, ultimately resulting in a smooth migration to the new/upgraded signaling system, highly desired by agencies, and safe operations at site. This paper will also touch upon the advantages of integrating the signaling system hardware and functionality as a product, to be deployed on multiple projects, and the advantages of product integration for projects and hence to the agencies.
Antimalarial activity of cecropin antimicrobial peptides derived from
Anopheles
mosquitoes
Authors: Lou Junchao , Zhang Dongying , Wu Jingyao , Zhu Guoding , Zhang Meihua , Tang Jianxia , Fang Yaqun , He Xiaoqin , Cao Jun 
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACT

The emergence of clinically drug-resistant malaria parasites requires the urgent development of new drugs. Mosquitoes are vectors of multiple pathogens and have developed resistance mechanisms against them, which often involve antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). An-cecB is an AMP of the malaria-transmitting mosquito genus
Anopheles
, and we herein report its antimalarial activity against
Plasmodium falciparum
3D7, the artemisinin-resistant strain 803, and the chloroquine-resistant strain Dd2
in vitro
. We also demonstrate its anti-parasite activity
in vivo
, using the rodent malaria parasite
Plasmodium berghei
(ANKA). We show that An-cecB displays potent antimalarial activity and that its mechanism of action may occur through direct killing of the parasite or through interaction with infected red blood cell membranes. Unfortunately, An-cecB was found to be cytotoxic to mammalian cells and had poor antimalarial activity
in vivo
. However, its truncated peptide An-cecB-1 retained most of its antimalarial activity and avoided its cytotoxicity
in vitro
. An-cecB-1 also showed better antimalarial activity
in vivo
. Mosquito-derived AMPs may provide new ideas for the development of antimalarial drugs against drug-resistant parasites, and An-cecB has potential use as a template for antimalarial peptides.
Periprosthetic giant cell tumour of the tibia: en bloc resection and megaprosthesis revision
Authors: Panos Athanasios , Agathangelidis Filon , Givissis Panagiotis , Samoladas Efthimios 
Published: June 2024

We present a case detailing the diagnosis and management of a periprosthetic giant cell tumour in a female patient in her 70s, who had undergone total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for primary osteoarthritis in her right knee 7 years prior. The patient reported 4 months of painful weight-bearing. Various imaging modalities, including plain radiographs, CT scans and MRI, revealed a sizeable lytic lesion beneath the TKA prosthesis, along with loosening of the tibial component.Blood tests and analyses of synovial fluid ruled out periprosthetic joint infection, and a biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of a giant cell tumour of the bone. Treatment entailed en bloc resection of the tumour and revision of the TKA using a hinged, oncological-type megaprosthesis. Surgical procedures involved careful resection of the proximal tibia, preservation of vasculature and the creation of a medial gastrocnemius muscle flap. Following surgery, the patient underwent supervised rehabilitation with a functional brace.
Study protocol: optical coherence tomography angiography for the detection of neovascular age-related macular degeneration: a comprehensive multicentre diagnostic accuracy study in the UK—the ATHENA study
Authors: Niestrata Magdalena , Deeks Jonathan J , Takwoingi Yemisi , Sivaprasad Sobha , Patel Praveen J , Keane Pearse A , Kernohan Ashleigh , Vale Luke , Denniston Alastair K , Gale Richard , Khan Adam R , McKinnon William , Agarwal Ridhi , de Salvo Gabriella , Minos Evangelos , Barbeiro Paulo , Chakravarthy Usha , Waheed Nadia K , Madhusudhan Savita , Peto Tunde , Balaskas Konstantinos 
Published: June 2024

IntroductionThe diagnosis of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), the leading cause of visual impairment in the developed world, relies on the interpretation of various imaging tests of the retina. These include invasive angiographic methods, such as Fundus Fluorescein Angiography (FFA) and, on occasion, Indocyanine-Green Angiography (ICGA). Newer, non-invasive imaging modalities, predominately Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCTA), have drastically transformed the diagnostic approach to nAMD. The aim of this study is to undertake a comprehensive diagnostic accuracy assessment of the various imaging modalities used in clinical practice for the diagnosis of nAMD (OCT, OCTA, FFA and, when a variant of nAMD called Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy is suspected, ICGA) both alone and in various combinations.Methods and analysisThis is a non-inferiority, prospective, randomised diagnostic accuracy study of 1067 participants. Participants are patients with clinical features consistent with nAMD who present to a National Health Service secondary care ophthalmology unit in the UK. Patients will undergo OCT as per standard practice and those with suspicious features of nAMD on OCT will be approached for participation in the study. Patients who agree to take part will also undergo both OCTA and FFA (and ICGA if indicated). Interpretation of the imaging tests will be undertaken by clinicians at recruitment sites. A randomised design was selected to avoid bias from consecutive review of all imaging tests by the same clinician. The primary outcome of the study will be the difference in sensitivity and specificity between OCT+OCTA and OCT+FFA (±ICGA) for nAMD detection as interpreted by clinicians at recruitment sites.Ethics and disseminationThe study has been approved by the South Central—Oxford B Research Ethics Committee with reference number 21/SC/0412.Dissemination of study results will involve peer-review publications, presentations at major national and international scientific conferences.Trial registration numberISRCTN18313457.
Investigating the use of actor-network theory in healthcare: a protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Ryan Tadhg , Hynes Briga , Ryan Nuala , Finucane Aisling 
Published: June 2024

Healthcare systems are confronted with constant challenges and new crisis waves necessitating a transformation of current approaches to healthcare delivery. Transformation calls for integration, partnerships, interprofessional teamwork and collaboration between all healthcare stakeholders to create improved access and more personalised healthcare outcomes for patients. However, healthcare organisations are complex systems, comprising multiple stakeholders, and the existence of professional silos and functions which have varying degrees of interaction hampering the delivery of effective integrated healthcare. Research investigating the underpinning operations of how the various healthcare stakeholders integrate is lacking. To address this gap, the use of actor-network theory (ANT) can provide insight into underlying dynamics, interactions, interdependencies, governance processes and power dynamics of stakeholders in healthcare. ANT represents a suitable theoretical lens as it helps to appreciate the dynamics and underpinning behaviours of complex organisations and explains how networks are developed and how actors join networks and form associations. Our systematic review will identify and evaluate available evidence to understand the interplay between stakeholders and all associated entities that impact collaboration and integration in healthcare delivery.Methods and analysisUsing the Population-Intervention-Comparison-Outcome framework, the databases MEDLINE, CINAHL Complete, SCOPUS, PubMed, APA PsycINFO, Business Source Complete and Academic Search Complete will be searched using Boolean terms to identify peer-reviewed literature concerning ANT in healthcare. All relevant articles published between January 2013 and September 2023 will be eligible for inclusion. A thematic approach will be employed to appraise and analyse the extracted data to assess the various definitions of ANT and the use of ANT in healthcare settings, interactions and collaboration.Ethics and disseminationGiven that no primary data will be captured, ethical approval will not be required for this study. Findings will be shared and ultimately published through open access peer-reviewed journals and reports.PROSPERO registration number455283.
Effectiveness of web-based intervention on reducing symptom burden, improving self-management capabilities and self-efficacy among prostate cancer survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Li Yaqin , Zhu Keping , Wang Lijuan , Zhang Ying , Hou Sijia , Wang Wei 
Published: June 2024

IntroductionProstate cancer is the most common malignant disease within the male genitourinary system. Advances in cancer screening and treatment have significantly ameliorated the survival rates of patients with prostate cancer. Nonetheless, prostate cancer survivors report various degrees of cancer-related symptoms. These symptoms cause physiological and psychological suffering, leading to a deterioration of quality of life. Web-based interventions may facilitate the management of symptoms due to their flexibility, accessibility and convenience. However, the efficacy of web-based interventions in reducing symptom burden remains to be confirmed. Consequently, this systematic review and meta-analysis aims to comprehensively synthesise existing evidence, evaluate the effectiveness of web-based interventions in reducing symptom burden among patients and furnish a reference for clinical practice.Methods and analysisThis protocol strictly adheres to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocol guidelines. We will comprehensively search six databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, Embase, CINAHL and PsycINFO) from their inception to March 2024 in order to identify clinical trials on the efficacy of web-based interventions for prostate cancer survivors. Two reviewers will independently conduct study selection, data extraction and quality assessment. The risk bias of included studies will be assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for randomised trials 2.0, and the strength of evidence will be assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) guideline. Meta-analysis will be performed using STATA V.16.0, and the effect size will be calculated using the standardised mean difference and its 95% CI. Heterogeneity will be assessed using Cochran’s Q statics and inconsistency will be measured using the I2statistics. Potential sources of bias will be evaluated.Ethics and disseminationEthics approval is not required for this review as no human participants will be involved. The results will be disseminated via a peer-reviewed journal or an academic conference.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42023457718.
Road safety implications of the partial legalisation of cannabis in Germany: protocol for a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Schranz Anna , Verthein Uwe , Manthey Jakob 
Published: June 2024

IntroductionGermany is reforming its legal approach to cannabis, allowing the possession and cultivation of cannabis for recreational purposes. The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of the policy reform on (1) The prevalence of cannabis use in the general population and (2) Driving under the influence of cannabis (DUIC) among regular users.Methods and analysisA quasi-experimental research design will be employed, with repeated cross-sectional surveys on self-reported DUIC and cannabis use conducted at three measurement points in Germany (intervention group) and Austria (control group) over a 2-year observation period (2023–2025). Data will be collected from approximately 50 000 individuals aged between 18 years and 64 years. To minimise reporting biases in the measurement of DUIC, we will use direct and indirect assessments via crosswise model and motor vehicle accident data from official statistics. In a difference-in-difference framework, regression analyses and interrupted time series analysis will be carried out for hypothesis testing.Ethics and disseminationParticipants will be informed about voluntary participation, data protection laws and the option to delete data on request. Ethical approval was obtained from the Local Psychological Ethics Committee of the Centre for Psychosocial Medicine in Hamburg, Germany (reference number: 0686). Findings will be disseminated through scientific networks and will be key for a comprehensive evaluation of the cannabis law reform. The findings will facilitate the design and implementation of road safety measures.
Bereaved pupil support in schools: teacher training
Authors: Crooks Jodie , Orr Austin , Irvine Christine , Simpson-Greene Charlotte , Hudson Briony , McEwan Joan 
Published: June 2024

ObjectivesApproximately, 1600 pupils are bereaved by a parent or sibling each year in Northern Ireland, equating to at least one child in every school class. Despite this, many children who are bereaved do not receive support from their school or college. Unsupported childhood bereavement is a risk factor for a number of social, psychological and educational difficulties. We aimed to carry out a service evaluation to explore the impact of a bereavement training course delivered to teaching staff in Northern Ireland.MethodsA mixed methods, participant-oriented evaluation was carried out. Data were collected via a survey distributed at baseline (prior to training) and 4-month follow-up, and semistructured interviews. All participants were staff within the school community who had participated in the training. Quantitative survey data were analysed via statistical analysis, and open-text survey responses and interview data were analysed via thematic analysis.ResultsQuantitative survey responses indicated statistically significant improvements in teachers’ confidence and knowledge on supporting bereaved children after the training. Six key themes were developed from interview data: the impact of the training on teaching staff’s confidence, knowledge, on the schools’ policy and practice, the impact on pupils, and whole school training.ConclusionsGiven the significant role that teachers have in a child’s formative years, it is essential that teaching staff are adequately trained and equipped to recognise and support both prebereavement and grief in pupils. A whole school bereavement training programme can be effective, as part of a wider culture and practice which values bereavement support in school.
Opioid prescribing for cancer pain in Latin America: systematic review
Authors: Leiva ofelia , Chukwusa Emeka , Nkhoma Kennedy , Dittborn Mariana , Turrillas Pamela , Pastrana Tania 
Published: June 2024

ObjectiveTo explore opioid prescribing patterns for cancer pain in Latin America (LA).MethodsA systematic review was conducted adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Relevant databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, LILACS and Scielo, were searched from inception to June 2023. Empirical studies of opioid prescription patterns in adult palliative care patients with cancer pain were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project tool. Data were analysed using narrative synthesis. Descriptive statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS V.28 (IBM). Categorical variables were summarised using frequencies and percentages and continuous variables as means or medians.ResultsSeventeen studies from six countries were included. Ten were observational, while seven were experimental, including five randomised controlled trials (RCT) and two non-RCT. Most were low or moderate methodological quality. Out of 7809 patients, morphine (54%) and tramadol (18%) were the most prescribed opioids. The median of morphine equivalent daily dose was 26 mg (IQR 26–41).ConclusionLatin America shows lower opioid consumption rates compared with high-income countries for control pain management (CPM). More rigorous research on CPM in LA is needed. Additionally, a comprehensive review of opioid prescription patterns, including non-cancer diagnoses, is necessary.
Agents of Autonomy: A Systematic Study of Robotics on Modern Hardware
Authors: Bakhshalipour Mohammad , Gibbons Phillip B. 
Published: June 2024

As robots increasingly permeate modern society, it is crucial for the system and hardware research community to bridge its long-standing gap with robotics. This divide has persisted due to the lack of (i) a systematic performance evaluation of robotics on different computing platforms and (ii) a comprehensive, open-source, cross-platform benchmark suite.
To address these gaps, we present a systematic performance study of robotics on modern hardware and introduce RoWild, an open-source benchmark suite for robotics that is comprehensive and cross-platform. Our workloads encompass a broad range of robots, including driverless vehicles, pilotless drones, and stationary robotic arms, and we evaluate their performance on a spectrum of modern computing platforms, from low-end embedded CPUs to high-end server-grade GPUs.
Our findings reveal that current architectures experience significant inefficiencies when executing robotic workloads, highlighting the need for architectural advancements. We discuss approaches for meeting these requirements, offering insights for improving the performance of robotics.
The full version of the paper is available in [11], and the source code of the benchmark suite is available in [2].
Towards Understanding and Characterizing the Arbitrage Bot Scam In the Wild
Authors: Li Kai , Guan Shixuan , Lee Darren 
Published: June 2024

This paper presents the first comprehensive analysis of an emerging cryptocurrency scam named "arbitrage bot" disseminated on online social networks. The scam revolves around Decentralized Exchanges (DEX) arbitrage and aims to lure victims into executing a so-called "bot contract" to steal funds from them. To entice victims and convince them of this scheme, we found that scammers have flocked to publish YouTube videos to demonstrate plausible profits and provide detailed instructions and links to the bot contract.
To collect the scam at a large scale, we developed a fully automated scam detection system named CryptoScamHunter, which continuously collects YouTube videos and automatically detects scams. Meanwhile, CryptoScamHunter can download the source code of the bot contract from the provided links and extract the associated scam cryptocurrency address. Through deploying CryptoScamHunter from Jun. 2022 to Jun. 2023, we have detected 10,442 arbitrage bot scam videos published from thousands of YouTube accounts. Our analysis reveals that different strategies have been utilized in spreading the scam, including crafting popular accounts, registering spam accounts, and using obfuscation tricks to hide the real scam address in the bot contracts. Moreover, from the scam videos we have collected over 800 malicious bot contracts with source code and extracted 354 scam addresses. By further expanding the scam addresses with a similar contract matching technique, we have obtained a total of 1,697 scam addresses. Through tracing the transactions of all scam addresses on the Ethereum mainnet and Binance Smart Chain, we reveal that over 25,000 victims have fallen prey to this scam, resulting in a financial loss of up to 15 million USD.
Our work sheds light on the dissemination tactics and censorship evasion strategies adopted in the arbitrage bot scam, as well as on the scale and impact of such a scam on online social networks and blockchain platforms, emphasizing the urgent need for effective detection and prevention mechanisms against such fraudulent activity.