bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
APPROACH METHOD FOR FLEXIBLE REALLOCATION OF RESERVED SEATS ON LONG - DISTANCE TRAINS
Authors: GRUNEWALD Erik , RUDOLPH Florian , TREMER Daria
Published: March 2022

Finding a reserved seat on long-distance train travel is supported by aids on platforms and within the train in order to keep the passenger’s journey as short as possible and to minimise unnecessary walking within the train. The allocation of a seat to a carriage number on the reservation and the consideration of the carriage position indicator devices on the platform provide the opportunity to wait for the arrival of the train on a section of the platform that is close to the reserved seat. Nevertheless, there are various situations in reality in which this can only be achieved to a limited extent. Varying carriage order, the provision of a replacement train or tight transfer connection can lead to the train being entered at an unfavourable position. This is followed by the passenger trying to find a seat on the train which can amount to considerable traffic. Equipped with a flexible seat reservation procedure, this kind of traffic could be drastically reduced. The solution provides the opportunity to reallocate reserved seats in order to minimize the way a passenger has to walk inside the train to his seat. By means of microscopic simulations, various boarding scenarios demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach. Less passenger movement on the train results in an increase in passenger comfort and reduces the space that is required for such movement, which could instead be used for other purposes. On the platform, this procedure means that passengers no longer need to wait for the arrival of the train at a location that is closest to the allocated seat. Instead, passengers can choose a place on the platform convenient to them, without this having a disruptive effect on system performance.
A GENERAL FRAMEWORK FOR EVALUATING DRIVER SCHEDULES IN PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Authors: BALOGH János , DÁVID Balázs , KRÉSZ Mikós , TÓTH Attila , TÓTH László
Published: March 2022

A unified approach is presented as the principle for a potential framework for evaluating driver schedules in public transport. There are two reasons for the need for such a framework. On the one hand, constructing optimal driver schedules is a challenging problem, and practical solutions cannot be compared to the optimum, which brings about the need to analyse the results with respect to an appropriate estimated value. On the other hand, the specific constraints and rules in different countries and for different companies make it difficult to model solutions in a unified way. Our new approach provides a solution to the above problems by employing an efficient general methodology from both the data modelling and process modelling point of view. By introducing the concept of reducible working time, our approach gives a realistic evaluation framework with an efficient solution method. The applicability of our approach is demonstrated through real-world cases.
La expulsión de los barrios populares del casco histórico de Cartagena (España) = The expulsion of working-class neighbourhoods in the historic centre of Cartagena
Authors: Viedma-Guiard Andrés
Published: March 2022

ResumenEl objeto del presente trabajo es la revisión crítica de la intervención y el planeamiento urbanístico en el casco histórico de la ciudad de Cartagena (España), con el objetivo de evaluar de qué manera se ha realizado un proceso de expulsión planificada de los barrios populares históricos. Para ello, se parte del análisis de los procesos de industrialización y urbanización desde el siglo XVIII hasta la actualidad, realizando una genealogía de los diferentes instrumentos de planificación que han intervenido en el ámbito de estudio, y relacionándolos con la evolución y el funcionamiento de los diferentes modos de producción, espacialización y territorialización del sistema capitalista. Además, la lectura de estos barrios como un ejemplo de común urbano por su papel como soporte de las redes sindicales y de movilización política, el sostenimiento de las tareas de cuidados y la reproducción social, y el carácter heterotópico de uno de estos espacios como “barrio chino”, permiten entender este proceso de expulsión y eliminación de los barrios como un ejercicio de desposesión o cercamiento del común.AbstractThe purpose of this paper is to analyse critically the intervention and urban planning in the historic centre of the city of Cartagena (Spain), in order to evaluate how a process of planned expulsion of the historic working-class neighbourhoods has been carried out. Starting from the analysis of the processes of industrialization and urbanization of the city from the eighteenth century to the present, the investigation makes a genealogy of the different planning instruments that have intervened in the area of study, relating them to the evolution and characteristics of the different modes of production, spatialization and territorialization of the capitalist system. In addition, these neighbourhoods are read as an example of urban commons due to their role as a support for political mobilization networks, care tasks and social reproduction, and the heterotopic character of one of these spaces as a red-light district, allowing us to understand this process of expulsion and elimination of neighbourhoods as an enclosure of the commons.
El proceso de regionalización y su influencia en la definición espacial del territorio en el Noroeste Argentino en el XX = The regionalization process and its influence on the spatial definition of the Northwest Argentinian territory in the 20th century
Authors: Elina Rossi Silvia
Published: March 2022

ResumenEl artículo analiza el proceso de regionalización y su influencia en el estudio y planificación del territorio argentino en el siglo XX. La región, definida conceptual y espacialmente, ha sido frecuentemente el marco geográfico que guiaba o condicionaba las investigaciones disciplinares o los planes de gestión urbana y territorial. Comprender los criterios con que se realizaron estas demarcaciones espaciales permite identificar su pertinencia como unidades de análisis para estudiar las relaciones sociales, económicas y culturales que configuraron el territorio. En el marco de la tesis de doctorado: “La estructura funcional del Noroeste Argentino y su influencia en la definición espacial del territorio en los siglos XVI al XXI”, entender cómo se configuró el Noroeste argentino como una región cultural posibilitó no solo delimitarlo sino, fundamentalmente, visibilizar su construcción histórica y como su estructura funcional se articuló con las demás regiones en las distintas etapas del desarrollo del país.AbstractThe article analyses the regionalization process and its influence on the study and planning of the Argentine territory in the 20th century. The region, defined conceptually and spatially, has frequently been the geographic framework that guided or conditioned disciplinary research or urban and territorial management plans. Understanding the criteria with which these spatial demarcations were made allows us to identify their relevance as units of analysis to study the social, economic, and cultural relationships that shaped the territory. In the framework of the doctoral thesis: "The functional structure of the Argentine Northwest and its influence on the spatial definition of the territory in the 16th to the 21st centuries", understanding how the Argentine Northwest was configured as a cultural region made it possible not only to delimit it but, fundamentally, make visible its historical construction and how its functional structure was articulated with the other regions in the different stages of the country's development.
Análisis de riesgo en áreas urbanas ante una amenaza volcánica: caso ciudad de Latacunga = Risk analysis in urban areas threatened by volcanic activity: Latacunga city case
Authors: Calles Ortiz Johana Paola
Published: March 2022

ResumenEste artículo forma parte de un estudio más amplio enfocado en la gestión del riesgo de desastres y su relación con las áreas urbanas. Distintas ciudades del mundo se ven afectadas de manera reiterada por la ocurrencia de eventos de origen natural como erupciones volcánicas, inundaciones, deslizamientos o terremotos, visibilizando la vulnerabilidad de estos territorios y el riesgo al que se expone la población. En este contexto, a partir de un análisis espacial, mediante el uso de información geográfica, se estudia la afectación del área urbana de la ciudad de Latacunga en el caso de la posible erupción del volcán Cotopaxi. Los resultados obtenidos demuestran que los lahares conducidos por el río Cutuchi afectarían al 68% del área urbana, ocasionando daños a equipamientos e infraestructura. Evidenciando así, la necesidad de conocer de manera integral la amenaza, para utilizar adecuadamente los recursos de preparación y respuesta ante una emergencia o desastre.AbstractThis article is part of the larger study focused on disaster risk management and its relationship with urban areas. Different cities in the world are repeatedly affected by the occurrence of events of natural origin such as volcanic eruptions, floods, landslides or earthquakes, making visible the vulnerability of these territories and the risk to which the population is exposed. In this context, based on a spatial analysis, through the use of geographic information, the impact of the urban area of Latacunga city in the case of the possible eruption of the Cotopaxi volcano is studied. The results obtained show that the lahars carried by the Cutuchi River would affect 68% of the urban, causing damage to equipment and infrastructure. Thus evidencing the need to understand the threat in a comprehensive manner, to properly use the resources of preparation and response to an emergency and disaster.
Obesity Accelerates Age Defects in Human B Cells and Induces Autoimmunity +
Authors: Frasca Daniela
Published: March 2022

Aging is associated with systemic inflammation and decreased production of protective antibodies while the production of autoimmune antibodies is increased. Our results have shown that the human obese adipose tissue (AT), which increases in size with aging, contributes to systemic and B cell intrinsic inflammation, reduced protective and increased pathogenic B cell responses leading to increased secretion of autoimmune antibodies.

With this R56 funding, we have been able to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which the human obese AT induces intrinsic B cell inflammation and dysfunctional B cell responses, stimulates the secretion of autoimmune antibodies, whose specificity has been characterized, and engages different AT cell types in antigen presentation pathways to allow secretion of these autoimmune antibodies. Briefly, immune cells are recruited to the AT by chemokines released by both non-immune (adipocytes) and by resident and infiltrating immune cells. We have identified several mechanisms responsible for the release of "self" antigens, and we have shown that reduced oxygen availability and hypoxia, cell cytotoxicity and DNA damage induce cell death and lead to further release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, "self" protein antigens, cell-free DNA and lipids. We have also identified different antigen presenting cells in the AT, responsible for the activation of pathogenic B cells, class switch and secretion of autoimmune IgG antibodies. The experiments performed have allowed the discovery of novel mechanisms for pathogenic responses and the identification of pathways to target in order to promote better humoral immunity during aging.
Innovation Work Chains in US Retail: Automation, Tracking and AI Adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Stopford Nikki , O’Reilly Jacqueline
Published: March 2022

The 2020 global pandemic led to record grocery sales and significantly accelerated the adoption of online retail services. This trend is expected to grow as mainstream retailers aim to keep up with the speed of delivery from ‘digitally native’ competitors and changing consumer expectations. Technological innovation is being introduced to different parts of the retail supply chain leading to a changing landscape for jobs. Here we develop the concept of Innovation Work Chains (IWC). We use this framing to discuss how the introduction of different types of innovative technology are likely to impact on employment practices across the supply chain in large-scale grocery retail. This research draws on sector reports and extensive interviews with Walmart US and one of their technology partner organisations in the USA. The focus is on how automation technologies like robots, tracking technologies and AI have become pivotal to the efficient management of retail supply chains. The evidence suggests that an iterative process of adoption and adaption is required to develop company specific solutions. However, legacy systems can pose a challenge to the speed at which automation technologies can be efficiently integrated. The concept of Innovation Work Changes highlights the differential impact on the employment landscape across the retail eco-system
Activity of peptidases and glycosidases of the digestive tract in some species of bony fish of Vietnam
Authors: Kuz’mina V. V. , Slynko E. E. , Kulivatskaya E. A. , Karpova E. P. , Dinh Cu Nguyen
Published: March 2022

For the first time, the activity and pH dependence of digestive enzymes were studied in fish inhabiting the Mekong Delta: duskyfin glassy perchlet Parambassis wolffii, smallscale croaker Boesemania microlepis, catfish Pangasius macronema, and representatives of the family Cyprinidae. Significant interspecific differences were revealed in the level of peptidase and glycosidase activity providing hydrolysis of protein and carbohydrate food components. The greatest interspecific differences are characteristic of glycosidases: the level of enzymatic activity in Cyprinidae fish exceeds that in P. wolffii by 13.6 times. The differences in the level of peptidase activity in fish of different species are lower: in the case of the activity of stomach enzymes in P. wolffii, the values are 1.8 times higher than those in P. macronema, and in the case of total activity of stomach and intestinal enzymes in the same species, the values are 1.5 times higher. The data obtained confirm the concept that the digestive hydrolase activity depends on the fish feeding spectrum. The activity of intestinal enzymes decreases more significantly in the acidic pH zone than in the basic one. Consequently, acidification of the intestinal environment will negatively affect the digestive processes in these fish species.
Variability in the number of rays and specification of the dorsal fin formula of the black scorpionfish Scorpaena porcus Linnaeus, 1758 (Pisces: Scorpaenidae) from the Black Sea
Authors: Polin A. A. , Pashkov A. N. , Denisova T. V.
Published: March 2022

Out of the morphological criteria for the fish species, the meristic (countable) characters are of the key role, in particular the number of rays in the fins. It is one of the stable signs of fish morphotype not subjected to size and age variability. At the same time, it is a clear taxonomic criterion. The aim of the work was to study the variability in the number of rays in the dorsal fin and to specify its formula for the black scorpionfish inhabiting the Black Sea off the coasts of the North Caucasus and Crimea. In total, 232 individuals of the black scorpionfish were investigated; those were sampled from six areas of the Black Sea off the coasts of the North Caucasus (Bolshoi Utrish, Magri, Loo, and Adler) and Crimea (Sevastopol and Feodosiya). The number of rays in the dorsal fin of each fish was counted, with dividing them into hard (unbranched) and soft (branched) ones. As established, the total number of rays in the dorsal fin of the black scorpionfish inhabiting the coasts of the North Caucasus and Crimea averaged (22.1 ± 0.02); the number of hard rays, (12.0 ± 0.01); and the number of soft rays, (10.1 ± 0.03). All three indicators are characterized by low variability (coefficient of variation is lower than 10 %). Fish caught off the coasts of the North Caucasus and Crimea differ statistically significantly from each other in the number of soft rays in the dorsal fin [(10.1 ± 0.03) and (10.0 ± 0.04), respectively] and in the total number of rays in the dorsal fin [(22.1 ± 0.03) and (22.0 ± 0.04), respectively]. The analysis of the results obtained reveals six possible variants of the dorsal fin formula for the black scorpionfish. Those are: D XI 10; D XI 11; D XII 9; D XII 10; D XII 11; and D XIII 10. The most common variant is D XII 10 averaging 83.2 % (75.0–88.9 % depending on the area). The updated dorsal fin formula for the black scorpionfish inhabiting the coasts of the North Caucasus and Crimea has the following form: D (XI) XII (XIII) (9) 10 (11). The formula can be used when compiling the species guides of the Black Sea fish. The results obtained were compared with those of other researchers. The causes for the disagreement between the results were analyzed.
Outbreak of marine mucilage in the Sea of Marmara in 2021
Authors: Medvedeva A. V. , Stanichny S. V.
Published: March 2022

An outbreak of marine mucilage in the Sea of Marmara in the spring and summer of 2021 is described. Based on satellite data, an analysis of similar outbreaks in the previous decade was carried out. As shown, the current situation is unique both in terms of the water area coverage and phenomenon duration. The need for comprehensive research is emphasized in order to understand the causes of the occurrence of the marine mucilage and the consequences of its effect on the marine ecosystem and economic activities in coastal waters.
desinformación en las redes de mensajería instantánea. Estudio de las fake news en los canales relacionados con la ultraderecha española en Telegram
Authors: Díez Garrido María , Renedo Farpón Cristina , Cano-Orón Lorena
Published: March 2022

Uno de los focos más descontrolados y por los que más se difunde la desinformación son las plataformas de mensajería instantánea, debido principalmente a la privacidad de los espacios de comunicación que se crean en ellas. La difusión de noticias falsas en estas redes dificulta su detección y se complica así la labor del fact-checking. Tanto Whatsapp como Telegram fueron redes utilizadas e integradas en la campaña electoral de las anteriores elecciones en Estados Unidos (Journell, 2017; Allcott y Gentzkow, 2017), en Reino Unido con motivo del Brexit (Kucharski, 2016), en Brasil (Novomisky, 2018), y recientemente en las elecciones autonómicas de Andalucía (España) (Viejo, 2018). Esta investigación toma como caso de estudio el flujo de comunicación en Telegram durante la campaña para las Elecciones Generales de 2019 en España y tiene por objeto el análisis de la desinformación distribuida en Telegram por Vox.
Multi-ethnic Investigation of Risk and Immune Determinants of COVID-19 Outcomes
Authors: Jun Tomi , Mathew Divij , Sharma Navya , Nirenberg Sharon , Huang Hsin-Hui , Kovatch Patricia , Wherry E John , Huang Kuan-lin
Published: March 2022

Background: Disparate COVID-19 outcomes have been observed between Hispanic, Non-Hispanic Black, and White patients. The underlying causes for these disparities are not fully understood. Methods: This was a retrospective study utilizing electronic medical record data from five hospitals within a single academic health system based in New York City. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify demographic, clinical, and lab values associated with in-hospital mortality. Results: 3,086 adult patients with self-reported race/ethnicity information presenting to the emergency department and hospitalized with COVID-19 up to April 13, 2020 were included in this study. While older age (multivariable OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.05-1.07) and baseline hypoxia (multivariable OR 2.71, 95% CI 2.17-3.36) were associated with increased mortality overall and across all races/ethnicities, Non-Hispanic Black (median age 67, IQR 58-76) and Hispanic (median age 63, IQR 50-74) patients were younger and had different comorbidity profiles compared to Non-Hispanic White patients (median age 73, IQR 62-84; p<0.05 for both comparisons). Among inflammatory markers associated with COVID-19 mortality, there was a significant interaction between the Non-Hispanic Black population and interleukin-1-beta (interaction p-value 0.04). Conclusions: This analysis of a multi-ethnic cohort highlights the need for inclusion and consideration of diverse popualtions in ongoing COVID-19 trials targeting inflammatory cytokines.
Geomorphic Signatures and Reconstruction of the Surface Deformation in Highly Undulating Mountainous Areas: A Case Analysis of A Small Watershed on the Jinsha River, China
Authors: Gu Zhenkui
Published: March 2022

Monitoring the deformation phenomenon in high undulating mountainous areas links surface process research and geological disaster prevention. InSAR-based observation is an effective method, but layerover phenomena easily restrict its application. Based on a series of geomorphic parameters and limited observation results of InSAR technology, this paper attempts to reconstruct surface deformations in the missing observation area by constructing a random forest model to compensate for the layerover problem at the grid scale. The results show that it is a feasible scheme to reconstruct the characteristics of terrain variation in the missing observation area through geomorphic parameters, and the larger the angle between radar observation direction and dominant slope direction of the observation area, the greater the correlation between the reconstructed topography deformation characteristics and the actual observed results. In addition, before the model building of geomorphic parameter selection, elevation variation, hypsometric integral value, slope form, lithology, slope variation, and aspect variation can be considered to affect the surface deformation greatly, which are closely related to the spatial autocorrelation of these parameters. These understandings are of great significance for eliminating the layerover problem that often occurred in alpine canyon regions in InSAR observation and for further identifying disaster areas.
Description of Prasinibacter corallicola gen. nov., sp. nov., a zeaxanthin-producing bacterium isolated from stony coral Porites lutea
Authors: Yu Kefu , Wang Guanghua , Liu Jianfeng , Li Yuanjin , Li Jin , Luo Jixin , Chen Biao , Liao Zhiheng , Su Hongfei , Liang Jiayuan
Published: March 2022

Thermal stress is considered one of the main causes of mass scleractinian coral degradation; however, it is still unknown how corals can adapt to future global warming. In this study, ten genera of coral-associated flavobacteria were shown to produce zeaxanthin, a carotenoid antioxidant, which may help coral holobionts to alleviate thermal stress. In addition, a novel zeaxanthin-producing flavobacterium, designated R38T, was identified using polyphasic taxonomy. Although strain R38T shared a maximum 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of 93% with Mesoflavibacter aestuarii KYW614T, phylogenetic analyses based on whole genome and 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain R38T forms a distinct branch in a robust cluster composed of strain R38T and Leptobacterium flavescens KCTC 22160T under the family Flavobacteriaceae. Strain R38T exhibited average nucleotide identities of 70.2% and 72.5% for M. aestuarii KYW614T and L. flavescens KCTC 22160T, respectively. The only detected respiratory quinone was menaquinone 6 (MK-6). The genomic DNA G + C content was 33.2 mol%. The major polar lipids were phosphatidylmethylethanolamine, phosphatidylethanolamine, one unidentified ninhydrin phospholipid, three unidentified ninhydrin-positive lipids, and three unidentified lipids. The major cellular fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0, iso-C15 : 0ω6c, C16:2 DMA, and C13:1ω3c. The distinct biochemical, chemotaxonomic, phylogenetic, and phylogenomic differences from validly published taxa suggest that strain R38T represents a new species of a new genus, for which Prasinibacter corallicola gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain R38T (= MCCC 1K03889T = KCTC 72444T).
Ascending Aortic Wall Degeneration in Patients with Bicuspid Versus Tricuspid Aortic Valve
Authors: Mennander Ari , Kholova Ivana , Pelttari Saku , Paavonen Timo
Published: March 2022

Background
The magnitude of ascending aortic degeneration in patients with bicuspid aortic valves (BAV) is controversial.
Methods
The aim of this study was to investigate ascending aortic wall degeneration in patients with BAV as compared with tricuspid aortic valves (TAV). The ascending aortic wall of 67 consecutive patients was processed for histology and immunohistochemistry. The extent of surgery and wall degeneration were investigated. Unadjusted survival was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Median follow-up for patients with BAV and TAV was 3.8 years (interquartile range [IQR] 3.5-4.1) and 3.7 years (IQR 3.4-3.9), respectively.
Results
There were 33 patients with BAV and 34 with TAV. Mid-ascending aorta diameter was 54 mm (IQR 50-60). Replacement of the aortic valve, together with an ascending aortic prosthesis, was more frequent in BAV vs TAV patients (24% vs 3%, P = 0.013). However, medial fibrosis, elastic fiber thinning, incremental medial degeneration and smooth muscle cell nuclei loss were less prominent in BAV vs TAV patients (0.1 ± 0.4 vs 0.8 ± 1.4, P = 0.016; 0.6 ± 1.4 vs 1.6 ± 2.0, P = 0.027; 1.7 ± 0.7 vs 2.2 ± 0.8, P = 0.045 and 2.3 ± 1.5 vs 3.2 ± 1.3, P = 0.026, respectively).
Conclusions
Since degeneration of the ascending aortic wall was seldom prominent, histopathology alone does not support the need for earlier surgery of the dilated ascending aorta in BAV patients as compared with TAV patients.
LRP6 modulates the phosphorylation of Cx43 via Gαs in ventricular tachycardia of myocardial infarction
Authors: Zhang Xuming , Liu Ya-ling , Cai Ying , Hao Ying , Kang Sheng
Published: March 2022

Background Ventricular tachycardia (VT) and ventricular fibrillation are the most causes of early death in patients with myocardial infarction (MI). This study was aimed to explore whether LRP6 and its upstream genes circRNA1615 and miR-152-3p modulated the phosphorylation of Connexin-43 (Cx43) via Gαs in ventricular tachycardia of MI.Method we constructed the hypoxia cardiomyocyte model and AMI mice, and explored the modulation relationship of LRP6 and its upstream genes circRNA1615 and miR-152-3p. In addition, the immunoblot analysis with monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies were used to detect whether LRP6 and Cx43 were phosphorylated, further investigated that the LRP6 regulated the phosphorylation of its downstream target Cx43 via G-protein alpha subunit Gαs by using cell transfection, FISH assay, HE staining, RT-qPCR, and Western blot techniques.Result LRP6 mRNA expression was significantly reduced in AMI group compared with the control group. Hypoxia could inhibit the protein and phosphorylation levels of LRP6 and Cx43. The expression of circRNA1615 in AMI mice was significantly decreased, but overexpression of circRNA1615 significantly reversed the inhibitory effect of AMI. Also overexpression of circRNA1615 could weaken the effect of miR-152-3p mimic, and the miR-152-3p mimic increased the hypoxia injury of LRP6 and Cx43, further LRP6 interference fragments could aggravate hypoxia injury of Cx43. The overexpression of LRP6 could significantly increase the protein level and phosphorylation level of Cx43, but the interference with LRP6 showed the opposite trend. Noticeably, the interference with Gαs weakened the protein and phosphorylation levels of Cx43, however, the interference with LRP6 further inhibited the protein and phosphorylation levels of Cx43. Finally, the transcriptions of circRNA1615 and LRP6 were inhibited in AMI, but the transcription of miR-152-3p was promoted, and the overexpression of circRNA1615 could weaken the damage effect and VT of AMI.Conclusion LRP6 and its upstream genes circRNA1615 and miR-152-3p modulated the phosphorylation of Cx43 via Gαs in ventricular tachycardia of myocardial infarction.
The Prevention of Rectovaginal Fistula After Rectal Cancer Surgery by Packing With Laparoscopic Dislocated Fat Flap Containing Ovarian Vascular Pedicle Anterior to the Anastomotic Stoma
Authors: Ye Dao-xiong , Huang Sheng-hui , Lin Yu , Huang Ying , Pan Chi
Published: March 2022

Background: Rectovaginal fistula (RVF) is an abnormal channel formed by epithelial tissue between the anterior wall of rectum and the posterior wall of vagina, which is manifested as vaginal gassing and defecation. It is one of the common complications of female pelvic surgeries. With the increase of proctectomy for rectal cancer, the number of postoperative rectovaginal fistulas also increases. Once RVF occurs, although there are various treatments available, the failure rate is high [1]. RVF causes great suffer to women and is still a major problem in practice. Therefore, it is significant for female rectal cancer patients to prevent RVF after rectal cancer surgery and reduce its incidence. In this study, we introduce a new approach to prevent RVF during rectal cancer radical operation.Methods: In this two-arm randomized controlled trial, all operations were performed according to the principle of TME radical resection in rectal cancer surgery. Experimental group:The anterior rectal wall of about 1 cm distal to the anastomosis was dislocated. Before the anastomosis of the rectal end, a fat flap (usually left side) containing ovarian vascular pedicle was dislocated, measured by 10-15 cm in length and 2 cm in width. The fat flap containing ovarian vascular pedicle was packed and fixed anterior to the anastomotic stoma with fibrin glue.Control group :All operations were performed according to the principle of TME radical resection in rectal cancer surgery. Participants will be compared on several variables, including Incidence of rectovaginal fistula after operation(primary outcomes),the occurrence time of postoperative rectovaginal fistula,the occurrence time of rectovaginal fistula after stoma closure and other postoperative complications, such as anastomotic leakage, chylous leakage, intestinal obstruction, etc(secondary outcomes).Data collection will take place baseline , within one weeks post treatment and at 14-month follow-up .Determine that whether there was a statistical difference in the incidence of rectovaginal leakage between the experimental group and the control group.Discuss the feasibility of this method for the prevention of postoperative rectovaginal fistula.Discussion: It is easy and effective to prevent RVF after rectal cancer surgery by packing with laparoscopic dislocated fat flap containing ovarian vascular pedicle anterior to the anastomotic stoma.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry(ChiCTR)Rregistration ID: ChiCTR20003144.Registered on June 26, 2019.
Effectiveness of Nootropics in Combination with Cholinesterase Inhibitors on Cognitive Function in Mild-to-Moderate Dementia: A Study Using Real-world Data
Authors: Kang Minjae , Lee Dan Bee , Kwon Sungchan , Lee Eun , Kim Woo Jung
Published: March 2022

BackgroundThe clinical benefits of nootropics in the treatment of cognitive decline has been either limited or controversial. This study aimed to observe the effectiveness of cholinesterase inhibitor (ChEI) and nootropics combination in the treatment of cognitive impairment in dementia. MethodsData were based on electronic medical records in a university health system. Patients with mild-to-moderate dementia and no history of prior cognitive enhancer use were included (n = 583). The subjects were categorized into the ChEI only group and the ChEI and nootropics combination group. The primary outcome measure was the change in cognitive function, as assessed by the mini-mental state examination (MMSE) from baseline to 300–400 days after the first ChEI prescription. Subsequent analyses were conducted in consideration of the dementia type, medical adherence, and type of nootropics. ResultsThe changes in MMSE scores from baseline to endpoint were not significantly different between the two groups. In Alzheimer’s dementia, the combination group showed significantly less deterioration in MMSE language subscale scores compared to the ChEI only group (F = 6.86, p = 0.009), and the difference was consistent in the highly adherent subjects (F = 10.16, p = 0.002). The choline alfoscerate and the ginkgo biloba extract subgroups in Alzheimer’s dementia showed more significant improvements in the MMSE language subscale scores compared to the other nootropics subgroup (F = 7.04, p = 0.001). ConclusionsThe present study showed that the effectiveness of ChEI and nootropics combination on cognition may appear differently according to the dementia type. It emphasizes the need for well-controlled studies to generalize the effectiveness of nootropics across various clinical settings.
Rolling e-learning courses on COVID-19: an Italian experience
Authors: Fabrizio Pregliasco , Rosa Valetto Maria , Filippo Anelli , Andrea Mandelli , Nicoletta Scarpa , Pietro Dri
Published: March 2022

Background We report the results of an e-learning project focused on the progressively acquired knowledge on Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19), targeted to Italian healthcare professionals. and funded by the Italian National Federation of the Associations of Doctors, Surgeons and Dentists (FNOMCeO) and the Federation of Orders of Italian Pharmacists (FOFI). Methods The core course was launched as soon as the first cases of COVID-19 occurred in Italy. Several courses have been published throughout 2020 to meet the pandemic-related educational needs and offer continuously updated and evidence-based contents, supported by evidence-based scientific information and institutional sources. Results From February 22nd to December 31st, 2020, 70,825 health professionals enrolled in the main course and 67,103 (94.7%) passed, obtaining the Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits. The participants accounted for approximately 19% and 12% of all Italian practising physicians/dentists and pharmacists, respectively. Over 99.5% of participants considered the contents of high quality, relevant and appropriate for their immediate educational needs. Conclusion The Italian e-learning offer developed in the first nine months of the pandemic achieved wide dissemination and excellent acceptance by healthcare professionals working in the field. This educational model provides healthcare professionals with evidence-based and tailored information. During pandemics it offers several advantages: time flexibility, remote participation, continuous updating following the emerging evidence.
Environmental fragility as an indicator of the risk of contamination by human action in watersheds used for public supply in western Paraná, Brazil.
Authors: Peres Kelly Krampe , Guicho Ricardo , Medeiros Gabriela , Amaral Mailor Wellinton Wedig , Silva Thais Tagliati da , Pilatti Maria Clara , Prior Maritane , Bueno Norma Catarina
Published: March 2022

Applying environmental fragility in studies evaluating watershed can guide policy decisions on monitoring and management regarding soil use planning, improving water quality for public supply. The objective of this study is to characterize the environmental fragility as well as to relate it to water quality factors of catchment rivers for public supply in western Paraná, Brazil, in order to evaluate the influence of anthropic actions on catchment sources. Water quality data such as temperature (Temp; C), electrical conductivity (Ec; mS/cm−1), dissolved oxygen (DO; mg L−1), turbidity (Turb; NTU) and pH were measured on site by the multi-parameter probe HORIBA brand, model U-5000. Slope data were obtained from the site of the National Institute of Space Research (INPE). Soil use and occupation was performed in the QGis software, with image obtained from the Sentinel 2A Satelite. Köppen-Geiger classification was used for the climate type. For the environmental fragility maps, the variables slope, climate, soil use and occupation were analyzed using the QGis raster software calculator. The intermediate fragility class predominates in the nine municipalities studied, making it necessary to manage them aimed at restoration and conservation, and the municipalities that are the largest areas of high fragility class are: Guaraniaçu, Catanduvas and Cascavel, demanding greater attention. The variation in fragility mainly responded to the pH, E. coli and DQO temperature values, which can be strongly associated with the difference in soil use and slope of the areas evaluated.
Traumatic Injury Mortality Prediction (TRIMP-ICDX): A New Comprehensive Evaluation Model According to the ICD-10-CM Codes
Authors: zhang guohu , wang muding , cong degang , lai dengpan , fan wenhui
Published: March 2022

Background
Various assessment methods based on the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Edition, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM), such as ICD-10-CM Injury Severity Score (ICISS), trauma mortality prediction model (TMPM-ICD10), and injury mortality prediction (IMP-ICDX), are purely anatomic trauma assessment, which need to be further improved. Traumatic injury mortality prediction (TRIMP-ICDX) is a comprehensive assessment method based on anatomic injuries and incorporating available information to determine whether it is superior to Trauma and Injury Severity Score (TRISS) and IMP-ICDX in predicting trauma outcomes.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study was based on data from 704,287 trauma patients admitted to 710 trauma centers in the National Trauma Data Bank of the United States in 2016. The TRIMP-ICDX was established using anatomical injury, physiological reserves, and physiological response indicators. Its performance was compared with the IMP-ICDX and TRISS by examining the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration (Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test, HL), and the Akaike information criterion (AIC).
Results
The TRIMP-ICDX showed significantly better discrimination better calibration, and a lower AIC compared with TRISS and IMP-ICDX. Similar results were found in statistical comparisons among different body regions.
Conclusions
As a comprehensive evaluation method based on the ICD-10-CM lexicon TRIMP-ICDX is significantly better than IMP-ICDX and TRISS with respect to both discriminative power and calibration. The TRIMP-ICDX should become a research method for the comprehensive evaluation of trauma severity.
Tyche: a free novel web-based solution for efficient and unbiased analysis of scientific images
Authors: Schippers Philipp , Rösch Gundula , Sohn Rebecca , Holzapfel Matthias , Junker Marius , Rapp Anna E. , Jenei-Lanzl Zsuzsa , Zaucke Frank , Meurer Andrea
Published: March 2022

Background
Scientific image analysis is crucial in many research fields but it can be hampered by subjectivity and bias. Thus, image analysis should be performed anonymized by multiple observers and images displayed in a random order. Yet in radiology for example most PACS-viewers display patient metadata which could influence the analysis. Although desirable, including multiple observers can be logistically difficult as files have to be provided including spreadsheets to document the analyzed parameters.
Methods
To address these challenges we created a browser-based program displaying scientific images anonymized and in a random order. Observers are invited by the project master via a project-specific URL that is only temporarily valid. The project master can design an unlimited number of project-specific questions which will be displayed next to each image. As the analysis is performed online, results from all observers are summarized in real-time and the data are immediately visible to the project master. In this study, we present the process of analysis using histological and radiological images and compare Tyche with the traditional “offline” desktop bound way.
Results
Tyche allows users to upload anonymized images and create single choice and numeric questions specifically for these images. Via temporarily active URLs, access to the data can be provided to observers who can analyze images within any web browser using the integrated tools (zoom, length, etc.). Next to each image, the defined questions and answers are displayed and results are immediately visible. Aspects of traditional image analysis like laborious file sharing via clouds or e-mail with observers and data gathering via potentially error-prone spreadsheets become obsolete. Performing a histologic image analysis, no difference in results comparing Tyche with the offline analysis were found.
Conclusion
Tyche is a lightweight, web-based tool that facilitates anonymized image analysis by multiple observers and reduces subjectivity and bias.
Factors Influencing Uptake and Utilization of Mutual Health Insurance in Cameroon: The case of Bamenda Ecclesiastical Province Health Assistance
Authors: Asah Flora Nah , Ngolle Ngube Nestor
Published: March 2022

Background
Mutual health insurance schemes are a tool to curb excessive out-of-pocket payments for healthcare services to the poor and vulnerable communities. However, the uptake and utilization of these insurance schemes are low. This study explores factors that influence the uptake and utilization of mutual health insurance schemes.
Methods
This was a descriptive qualitative case study conducted among 20 Adherents and seven staff of BEPHA Kumbo. Multiple data sources were used, including semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and a review of documents. We used the content analysis method to analyze the data.
Results
This study found multiple level factors; individual, community, and system factors that influenced uptake and utilization of MHI schemes. The study revealed that reliability in the scheme, membership criteria and access to the insurer were enablers. At the same time, annual contribution fees, adverse selection, and the lack of national HMI policy were threats influencing uptake and utilization of MHI schemes.
Conclusions
MHI schemes can expand coverage and increase access to healthcare services among marginalized and vulnerable people in the community and prevent them from plunging into perpetual impoverishment. However, the factors identified influence them either negatively or positively from performing to the optimum.
Boosting maternal and neonatal anti SARS-CoV-2 humoral immunity using a third mRNA vaccine dose
Authors: Cahen-Peretz Adva , Tsaitlin-Mor Lilah , Kam Hadas Allouche , Fraenkel Rachelle , Kabessa Maor , Cohen Sarah , Lipschuetz Michal , Oiknine-Djian Esther , Liansky Sapir , Goldman-Wohl Debra , Walfisch Asnat , Kovo Michal , Neeman Michal , Wolf Dana , Yagel Simcha , Beharier Ofer
Published: March 2022

Importance: To minimize COVID-19 pandemic burden and spread, third booster dose vaccination campaigns commenced worldwide. Since pregnant patients are at increased risk for severe disease, they were recently included in that policy despite the lack of available evidence regarding the impact of a third boosting dose during pregnancy; underscoring the urgent need for relevant data. Objective: We aimed to characterize the effect on anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers of the third, boosting dose of mRNA Pfizer BNT162b2 vaccine in pregnancy, and profile its most common side effects. Design: Prospective cohort study of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers measured at the time of delivery in maternal and cord blood, and dedicated side effect questionnaire. Setting: Labor and delivery ward and virology laboratory of a large, urban, university-affiliated medical center.Participants: Gravidae (N=216) without history of COVID-19 disease, presenting for delivery were divided to two groups by vaccination status: parturients who received a third boosting dose of Pfizer BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine, were compared to those vaccinated with the 2-dose regimen. Main Outcomes: Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers measured in maternal and cord blood samples collected at delivery and side effect profile.Results: We found a robust surge in maternal and cord blood levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 titers at the time of delivery: parturients that received a third boosting dose had titers 4.7-fold higher as compared to 2-dose vaccinated parturients. The effect of the third boosting dose remained significant when controlling for the trimester of most recent vaccine dose, suggesting additive immunity extends beyond that obtained after the second dose. Efficient transplacental transfer was observed. Neonatal (cord blood) anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers positively correlated with (r= 0.745; P< .0001) and were significantly higher than maternal levels (p<0.0001). Overall, fewer side effects were reported following the third dose as compared to the second vaccine dose among the 2-dose group, with lower rates of injection site pain and swelling, myalgia, and general malaise. Conclusions and relevance: The third, boosting dose of mRNA Pfizer BNT162b2 vaccine augmented maternal and neonatal immunity with mild side effects. These data provide essential evidence to bolster clinical and public health guidance, reassure patients, and increase vaccine uptake among pregnant patients.
Structural evolution and strain generation of derived-Cu catalysts during CO2 electroreduction
Authors: Lei Qiong , Huang Liang , Yin Jun , Davaasuren Bambar , Yuan Youyou , Dong Xinglong , Wu Zhi-peng , Wang Xiaoqian , Yao Ke Xin , Lu Xu , Han Yu
Published: March 2022

Copper (Cu)-based catalysts generally exhibit high selectivity toward valuable C2+ products during the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). However, the origin of this selectivity and the influence of precursor materials on it are not fully understood due to the elusive evolution of catalysts during the CO2RR. We combined operando X-ray diffraction (XRD) and operando Raman spectroscopy to monitor the structural and compositional evolution of three oxidized Cu precursors (Cu2(OH)2CO3, Cu(OH)2, and CuO) during the CO2RR. The results indicated that the three precursors were completely reduced to Cu(0) with similar grain sizes (~ 11 nm) despite their different electroreduction kinetics when delivering their maximum Faradaic efficiencies for C2+ products. The high density of grain boundaries associated with the small grain size explains their significantly enhanced C2+ selectivity (68–73%) compared to bulk Cu (~ 13%). Operando Raman spectroscopy revealed the lack of co-occurrence of CO2RR intermediates and Cu2(OH)2CO3, Cu(OH)2, CuO, or Cu2O, ruling out the involvement of these oxidized Cu species in the CO2RR. Most interestingly, operando XRD indicated that the Cu nanocrystals derived from Cu(OH)2 and Cu2(OH)2CO3 exhibited noticeable tensile strains of 0.43%~0.55% during the in situ electroreduction of precursors, which could not be detected by conventional ex situ XRD. In contrast, Cu nanocrystals derived from CuO were hardly strained. Density functional theory calculations suggested that the tensile strain in Cu lattice is conducive to promoting the overall CO2RR selectivity, which is consistent with the experimental observations. Therefore, the excellent CO2RR performance of some derived Cu catalysts is attributed to the combined effect of the small grain size and lattice strain, both of which are the result of the in situ electroreduction of precursors. The findings, for the first time, establish correlations between Cu precursors, lattice strains, and catalytic behaviors, demonstrating the unique ability of operando characterization techniques in probing catalyst evolution during electrochemical processes.