bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analisis Tingkat Efisiensi Kerja dan Jumlah Karyawan Bagian Produksi Dengan Pendekatan Metode Work Load Analysis (WLA) (Studi Kasus PT. X)
Authors: Semnasti Rusindiyanto , Semnasti Yekti Condro Winursito , Semnasti Isna Nugraha , Semnasti Hafid Syaifullah , Semnasti Friska Aryanti
Published: November 2023

ABSTRAK

X adalah perusahaan yang bergerak di bidang pengemasan karton dengan bahan baku utama berupa kertas. Saat ini, perusahaan mengalami kesulitan dalam mencapai target produksi yang diinginkan. Oleh karena itu, perusahaan berusaha untuk meningkatkan motivasi dan produktivitas para pekerjanya. Salah satu langkah yang diambil adalah melakukan pengukuran waktu kerja di setiap stasiun kerja sesuai dengan urutan proses produksi, sehingga dapat diperoleh estimasi waktu yang seharusnya diperlukan oleh pekerja untuk menyelesaikan tugas mereka. Work Load Analysis (WLA) adalah metode yang digunakan untuk menganalisis aktivitas yang timbul dan beban kerja yang diakibat dalam proses produksi. Metode ini memungkinkan pembuatan model matematis untuk menentukan jumlah karyawan yang optimal. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, dapat dihasilkan tingkat efisiensi setiap proses produksi dan setelah mengetahui beban kerja di setiap bagian, dapat ditentukan jumlah karyawan yang optimal di masing-masing bagian.

Kata Kunci: Tingkat Efisiensi Kerja, Jumlah Karyawan, Metode Work Load Analysis.

 

ABSTRACT

X is a company that operates in the cardboard packaging sector with the main raw material being paper. Currently, the company is experiencing difficulties in achieving the desired production targets. Therefore, companies try to increase the motivation and productivity of their workers. One of the steps taken is to measure working time at each work station in accordance with the sequence of the production process, so that an estimate of the time it should take workers to complete their tasks can be obtained. Work Load Analysis (WLA) is a method used to analyze the activities that arise and the workload caused in the production process. This method allows creating mathematical models to determine the optimal number of employees. Based on the research results, the efficiency level of each production process can be generated and after knowing the workload in each section, the optimal number of employees in each section can be determined.

Keywords: Work Efficiency Level, Number of Employees, Work Load Analysis Method.
Analisis Biaya Perawatan Pada Mesin Carding Dengan Metode Preventive Maintenance Policy Di PT. XYZ
Authors: Riko Riko Khaerul Anam , Semnasti Dana Prianjani , Semnasti Hafid Syaifullah , Semnasti Isna Nugraha
Published: November 2023

PT. XYZ adalah pabrik tekstil pemintalan benang (spinning). Proses Produksi pemintalan benang mempunyai beberapa proses tahapan. Dari sekian banyak mesin dalam proses pemintalan, mesin Carding memiliki hasil output yang sangat berpengaruh terhadap proses akhir pemintalan bahkan mesin carding disebut juga jantungnya semua mesin proses produksi pemintalan benang. Karena mesin Carding berjalan terus menerus maka diperlukan kegiatan pemeliharaan (maintenance). Ada dua jenis perbaikan dalam maintenance yaitu secara repair dan secara preventive. Setelah dilakukan perhitungan biaya menggunakan repair dan preventive maintenance policy dapat diketahui biaya dari kedua jenis perawatan mesin carding untuk kelas kerusakan A lebih baik dilakukan proses perawatan menggunakan repair policy karena lebih murah dibandingkan dengan menggunakan preventive police. Untuk kelas kerusakan B lebih baik dilakukan proses perawatan menggunakan preventive policy dengan periode 3 bulan sekali karena lebih murah dibanding menggunakan repair policy. Analisis biaya dapat digunakan sebagai alat manajemen untuk memprediksi biaya di masa depan, mengukur sistem biaya keuntungan, dan melakukan analisis sensitivitas.
Optimasi Komposisi Malam Batik Tulis dari Bahan Daur Ulang dengan Menggunakan Metode Taguchi
Authors: Rahmad Dodi , Herliansyah Muhammad Kusumawan , Sudiarso Andi , Haerudin Agus
Published: November 2023

Perkembangan kerajinan batik tulis tradisional sebagai salah satu kebudayaan Indonesia mampu menarik perhatian dunia internasional. Nilai ekspor batik yang tinggi menunjukkan peminat Batik yang cukup besar. Malam batik sebagai salah satu bahan utama memiliki pengaruh terhadap kualitas produk batik. Secara umum bahan malam batik tulis meliputi: kote, kendal, gondorukem, damar/matakucing, parafin, dan microwax. Bahan alternatif lain yang dapat digunakan sebagai bahan baku malam yaitu malam bekas dan minyak goreng bekas (minyak jelantah). Malam daur ulang menggunakan bahan baku daur ulang seperti malam bekas dan minyak jelantah. Malam bekas dan minyak jelantah diolah terlebih dahulu sebelum digunakan sebagai bahan baku malam batik tulis. Metode pada penelitian ini menggunakan Taguchi untuk mendapatkan nilai optimal dari karakteristik respon kontinuitas tebal garis. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan komposisi optimal malam daur ulang terdiri dari malam bekas 41,5%, minyak jelantah 2,9%, parafin 9,8%, microwax 6,8%, gondorukem 24,4%, dan damar/matakucing 14,6%.
Analisis Dampak Program Kesehatan dan Keselamatan Kerja (K3) Terhadap Penurunan Kecelakaan Kerja di Industri Konstruksi
Authors: Semnasti Adiek Astika Clara Sudarni , Semnasti Rizqi Novita Sari , Semnasti Kinanti Resmi Hayati , Semnasti Tranggono , Semnasti Fitriatus Solehah
Published: November 2023

Industri konstruksi adalah salah satu sektor yang paling penting dalam perekonomian global, tetapi juga merupakan salah satu sektor dengan risiko tertinggi terkait kecelakaan kerja dan masalah K3. K3 bukan hanya masalah etika, tetapi juga memiliki implikasi langsung pada produktivitas proyek, biaya, dan kesejahteraan pekerja. Proyek pembangunan Gedung XYZ merupakan proyek konstruksi besar yang menjadi fokus penelitian ini. Proyek ini melibatkan berbagai jenis pekerjaan, termasuk konstruksi struktur bangunan, instalasi mekanikal dan listrik, hingga penyelesaian interior. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memahami pengaruh dari program K3 yang diimplementasikan terhadap penurunan kecelakaan kerja dalam proyek pembangunan Gedung XYZ. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian yang telah dianalisis dengan cermat, dapat disimpulkan bahwa implementasi program Kesehatan dan Keselamatan Kerja (K3) yang ditingkatkan dalam proyek pembangunan Gedung XYZ telah memberikan dampak positif yang signifikan. Terdapat penurunan yang sangat berarti dalam jumlah kecelakaan kerja, dengan tingkat kecelakaan yang mengalami penurunan hingga 83,3% setelah program K3 diimplementasikan. Ini mencerminkan efektivitas program dalam menciptakan lingkungan kerja yang lebih aman bagi pekerja. Peningkatan kesadaran pekerja tentang K3 dan penggunaan PPE menciptakan lingkungan kerja yang lebih aman, yang pada gilirannya berkontribusi pada peningkatan produktivitas dan efisiensi kerja
Re-Layout Gudang Sparepart dengan Metode Class-Based Storage
Authors: Sihaloho Beatric Aditya , Semnasti Dina Rachmawaty , Semnasti Syarif Hidayatuloh
Published: November 2023

PT. XYZ merupakan salah satu perusahaan industri manufaktur yang memproduksi beberapa jenis excavator yaitu excavator 200 standar excavator 200 long arm excavator 80 amphibious dan excavator 200 amphibious. Penelitian ini berfokus pada excavator 200 standar karena excavator tipe ini adalah produk dengan penjualan terbanyak di tahun 2022. Permasalahan yang dihadapi oleh PT. XYZ adalah perusahaan masih menggunakan sistem penyimpanan sparepart pada layout gudang secara acak dan mengakibatkan ada beberapa sparepart diletakan pada area gudang yang kosong hingga ada sparepart yang menutupi area pejalan kaki. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk memberi layout usulan yang lebih optimal dari segi penyimpanan sparepart serta dapat mengurangi jarak perpindahan di gudang. metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode Class-Based Storage dengan cara menghitung dan mengelompokan sparepart berdasarkan storage police.Hasil yang diperoleh dari penelitian ini adalah terdapat selisih jarak perpindahan sebesar 32,365 m dari jarak perpindahan pada layout awal.
Analisis Pemborosan Pada Proses Produksi Gula Kristal Putih (GKP) Menggunakan Metode Lean Six Sigma dan FMEA
Authors: Wardani Maghfirah , Semnasti Sumiati
Published: November 2023

PT XYZ merupakan salah satu perusahan di Jawa Timur yang bergerak di bidang agroindustri tebu dengan produk utama Gula Kristal Putih (GKP). Dalam proses produksi Gula Kristal Putih (GKP) masih terdapat berupa waste. Metode Lean Six Sigma digunakan untuk membantu dalam mereduksi waste yang terjadi di PT XYZ dengan menggunakan tahapan kerja DMAIC, yaitu Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control serta didukung dengan penggunaan tools big picture mapping, E-Downtime waste, Root Cause Analysis, dan Failure Mode and Effect Analysis. Gambaran Big Picture Mapping menunjukkan hasil perhitungan Process Cycle Effisiency (PCE) sebesar 92% yang artinya 8% sisanya merupakan non value added time. Berdasarkan analisis yang telah dilakukan, waste defect dengan nilai sigma sebesar 3,654; excess process dengan nilai sigma sebesar 3,654; dan waiting dengan nilai sigma sebesar 3,026 merupakan jenis waste yang paling banyak terjadi di PT XYZ. Usulan perbaikan yang diberikan antara lain berupa penerimaan seluruh pengiriman bahan baku tebu yang ditujukan ke PT XYZ, memberikan prosedur yang sesuai standar, dan meminimalkan kesalahan pada tiap bagian dan mengoptimalkan proses pada tiap bagian sesuai Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) yang telah ditetapkan di perusahaan.
Analisis Kemampuan Proses Produksi Jaket PT. XYZ dengan Metode Seven Tools
Authors: Aidil Joumil Aidil , Nugraha Isna , Semnasti Achmad Gufron
Published: November 2023

PT XYZ merupakan perusahaan manufaktur yang bergerak dalam bidang industri konveksi. Perusahaan ini memproduksi pakaian jadi seperti pakaian wanita, pakaian pria, pakaian anak-anak, pakaian olahraga maupun pakaian-pakaian politik. Untuk salah satu contoh produknya sendiri yaitu jaket. Dalam proses produksi PT XYZ terdapat beberapa kecacatan jaket diantaranya sablon salah cetak, jahitan lepas, dan sablon rusak, Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui penyebab kecacatan yang terjadi dalam proses produksi serta mengetahui usulan perbaikan supaya dapat menghasilkan jaket yang berkualitas. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini yaitu metode seven tools. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan yaitu data primer dan data sekunder. Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah PT XYZ menghasilkan sablon salah cetak sebanyak 328 unit dengan presentase cacat sebesar (27%), jahitan lepas sebanyak 387 unit dengan presentase cacat sebesar (33%), dan sablon rusak sebanyak 483 unit dengan presentase cacat sebesar (40%). Untuk nilai Cp pada penelitian ini sebesar 0,33 yang artinya proses tidak mampu memenuhi spesifikasi konsumen atau dianggap not capable. Sehingga proses tidak tepat di tengah spec. limit dengan 66,8% dari spesifikasi yang terpakai proses. Berdasarkan hasil observasi, pengolahan dan analisis data, penulis memberikan saran kepada pemilik PT XYZ adalah sekiranya melakukan pemantauan proses produksi secara berkala untuk memberikan arahan dan masukan kepada operator guna meminimalisir kerugian.
Analisis Kelayakan Ekonomi dan Sensitivitas Pengembangan Industri Jasa
Authors: Semnasti Sinta Dewi , Semnasti Mega Cattleya P. A. Islami , Semnasti Rizqi Novita Sari , Semnasti Christabela Jesselyn
Published: November 2023

Feasibility study digunakan untuk mengukur dan menilai tingkat kelayakan pada sebuah proyek atau investasi. Kegiatan ini dilakukan untuk dapat mengetahui seberapa layak suatu rencana proyek atau investasi tersebut dijalankan. Penambahan jumlah mesin fotocopy pada industri jasa DJ Fotocopy merupakan sebuah investasi yang perlu untuk dianalisis tingkat kelayakannya dari sisi ekonomi sebelum investasi tersebut dijalankan. Berdasarkan hasil analisis yang telah dilakukan, investasi penambahan mesin fotocopy sebagai upaya pengembangan DJ Fotocopy cukup layak untuk dilakukan. Hal ini didukung dengan nilai Net Present Value (NPV) sebesar Rp 7.515.33, Internal Rate of Return (IRR) sebesar 22,71%, nilai Return on Investment (ROI) sebesar 34,16% dan Periode pengembalian modal investasi atau Payback Period sebesar 2,821 tahun setelah investasi ini dijalankan. Sebaiknya DJ Fotocopy mengembangkan strategi pemasaran yang lebih baik agar bisa mempertahankan atau meningkatkan pendapatan karena kelayakan investasi ini sangat sensitif terhadap penurunan pendapatan.
Inovasi Sistem Lampu (Automatic Light Sensor) sebagai Penerangan Jalan Otomatis dengan Metode Etnografi Pada Perumahan Puri Surya Jaya, Cluster Taman Athena
Authors: Sari Rizqi Novita , Islami Mega Cattleya P.A , Dewi Sinta , Wardana Muhammad Dony Putra
Published: November 2023

Lampu merupakan salah satu kebutuhan elektronik yang sangat dibutuhkan dalam kegiatan sehari-hari. Namun, seringkali penggunaan lampu ini membuat pemborosan energi karena kelalaian dalam penggunaannya. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah menemukan solusi permasalahan mengenai pencahayaan di Puri Surya Jaya, Cluster Taman Athena, serta merancang suatu produk inovasi yang dapat menjawab permasalahan tersebut. Lampu sensor cahaya otomatis atau automatic light sensor adalah sebuah produk inovasi yang memiliki prinsip kerja memutus dan menyambung aliran listrik pada lampu rumah tangga yang dapat berjalan otomatis sesuai dengan kondisi sehari-hari. Mekanisme dari produk ini yaitu berawal dari bagian sensor cahaya akan menerima banyak atau sedikitnya cahaya yang diterima oleh sensor cahaya, Ketika cahaya yang diterima banyak, maka sensor yang terhubung ke motherboard akan memutus sementara aliran listrrik yang mengalir ke lampu sehingga lampu secara otomatis akan mati. Namun ketika cahaya yang diterima sensor cahaya sedikit maka sensor yang terhubung ke motherboard akan menyambungkan aliran listrik yang mengalir ke lampu sehingga lampu secara otomatis akan menyala.
Characterization of Secondary Metabolites Profile from Methanol Fraction of Temurui (Murraya koenigii (Linn.) Spreng) Leaves Using UPLC-MS
Authors: Permata Intania , Santoni Adlis , Afrizal Afrizal , Afandi Trisno
Published: November 2023

The leaves of the temurui (Murraya koenigii (Linn.) Spreng) plant have long been known and used by Indonesian and even Asian people as a traditional medicine to treat stomach aches and diabetes. This study aimed to determine the secondary metabolite profile of the methanol extract of M. koenigii leaves. Murraya koenigii leaves fine powder was extracted in stages using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol. Each extract was prepared using a mixture of water, formic acid, acetonitrile, and formic acid, then injected into the UPLC-MS, then analyzed with MassLynx and ChemSpider. The results showed that the metabolite profile of the methanol extract of M. koenigii leaves contained 13 compounds, including phenolic, steroid, and alkaloid groups. Those compounds could be tested to identify their bioactivity.
Antibacterial Effect of Cinnamon and Citronella Oils Combination Against Acne-Related Bacteria
Authors: Mulyaningsih Sri , Ramadhan Arya Guna , Putranti Widyasari
Published: November 2023

Acne vulgaris is a dermatological disease whose pathogenesis is due to high sebum secretion, hyperkeratinization, hormonal changes, or bacterial infections. Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus are bacteria that can induce inflammation in acne. Cinnamomum burmannii and Cymbopogon nardus essential oils have been reported to have antibacterial activity against S. epidermidis and S. aureus. This study aimed to obtain the type of interaction of a combination of C. burmannii and C. nardus oils in inhibiting bacteria associated with acne. Essential oil components were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS). Optimize the combination of C. burmannii and C. nardus oils using the checkerboard method. Furthermore, the Fractional Inhibitory Concentration Index (FICI) value is calculated to determine the effect of a combination that is synergistic, additive, not different or antagonistic. The main components of C. burmannii oil identified are cinnamaldehyde, eucalyptol, cinnamyl acetate, α-limonene, and α-terpineol. While C. nardus oil contains the five largest components: geraniol, citronellal, citronellol, citral, and geranyl acetate. Cinnamomum burmannii oil yielded 0.28%, with a refractive index of 1.5237. Meanwhile, the yield of C. nardus oil was 0.26%, with a refractive index of 1.4667. The combination of both oils yielded a FICI value of 1.5. The conclusion of this study shows that the combination of the two essential oils produces an indifferent effect against both S. epidermidis and S. aureus.
Assessing inorganic nitrogen transport in marine phytoplankton assemblages through the 15N-tracer technique and metatranscriptomics
Authors: Shih CY , Chang KZ , Wang PL , Chang J , Kang LK
Published: November 2023

The availability of inorganic nitrogen is considered one of the limiting factors for primary production in the ocean. However, different phytoplankton possess unique strategies to take up and assimilate nitrate and ammonium to cope with environmental changes. To investigate the nitrogen uptake characteristics of different size-fractionated phytoplankton in natural assemblages, 3 research cruises were conducted in the southern East China Sea in 2018 and 2019. The nitrogen uptake characteristics of 2 size-fractionated natural assemblages, microphytoplankton (20-200 µm) and pico-nanophytoplankton (<20 µm), were measured using the 15N-tracer technique. At most of the stations, significantly higher potential maximum uptake rates of ammonium than of nitrate were detected in the pico-nanophytoplankton, indicating that small phytoplankton possess a relatively superior capacity to take up ammonium. By contrast, comparing the potential maximum uptake rate for nitrate between microphytoplankton and pico-nanophytoplankton showed that microphytoplankton exhibit a higher capacity for nitrate uptake as a nitrogen source compared to pico-nanophytoplankton. However, repressed uptake rates of ammonium and nitrate in microphytoplankton were sometimes found at the coastal station even when ambient nitrate concentrations remained high. Metatranscriptomic analysis of nitrogen transporter genes in microphytoplankton suggests that most diatoms utilize regenerated ammonium before nitrate to maintain their populations at the end of blooms. Metatranscriptomic approaches identify the transcriptional responses of dominant diatoms to explain how diatoms regulate their nitrogen transporter genes to cope with environmental changes in natural assemblages.
Podology issues: Optimization of onychomycosis therapy
Authors: Mayorov R. Yu. , Surkichin S. I.
Published: November 2023

Onychomycosis is an infectious disease of the nail apparatus, caused by pathogenic fungi, manifested in the form of changes in color, configuration of the nail plate, as well as inflammatory processes in the soft tissues adjacent to the nail. Classic therapy in the form of systemic antimycotics is not suitable for everyone (for example, elderly patients with severe liver disorders or concomitant chronic diseases); itraconazole and terbinafine are not combined with a large number of drugs. Therefore, the use of auxiliary non-drug treatment methods becomes extremely important. This article discusses the method of podological treatment of nail plates, proving its effectiveness and safety.
Efficacy of topical forms of sertaconazole in treatment of mycoses of skin
Authors: Kruglova L. S. , Pereverzina N. O.
Published: November 2023

Published research results indicate the high effectiveness of sertaconazole in the treatment of mycoses of the skin. According to a number of studies, it is superior to other antifungal agents in terms of cure rate and speed of action, and also has anti-inflammatory and antipruritic activity.

Material and methods. The aim of the observational study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Zalain cream (sertaconazole 2%) in patients with mycosis of the smooth skin of the groin area. We observed 21 patients (13 men and 8 women) aged from 37 to 72 years with a verified diagnosis of mycosis of smooth skin, confirmed by microscopic and cultural methods. In patients, during a cultural study, a mixed fungal-bacterial infection was isolated in various combinations: 14 (66.7%) – Trichophyton rubrum and Staphylococcus, 7 (33.3%) – Candida albicans and Staphylococcus. Of the concomitant pathologies, the following diseases were most often diagnosed: hypertension (52.4%), obesity (BMI > 30) (47.6%), type 2 diabetes mellitus (42.9%), gastrointestinal diseases (23.8%), diseases of the hepatobiliary system (19.1%). The effectiveness was assessed taking into account the VAS index (erythema, infiltration, desquamation, cracks, itching, burning) and special methods (microscopic and cultural) of the study at control points B1 (before therapy) and B2 (after 4 weeks of therapy). Long-term results of observations (disease relapse) were assessed after 6 months.

Results. The total VAS at control point B 2 decreased by 94.9% (p < 0.01). After therapy (4 weeks), in 18 (85.7%) patients, pathogenic fungi (Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. interdigitale) were not sown during cultural examination. Patients with no laboratory cure were recommended to continue therapy with sertaconazole for 2–4 weeks until complete eradication of pathogenic fungi. Long-term results of observations (6 months) showed relapse of the disease in 28.6% of patients with concomitant metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Also, among patients with relapses, males predominated – 66.7%.

Conclusions. Sertaconazole has a wide spectrum of antimycotic activity, which makes it possible to quickly achieve clinical and mycological recovery in patients with mycosis of smooth skin in the groin area.
Substantiation for inclusion of psychocorrective methods in comprehensive program of medical rehabilitation of patients who have suffered COVID‑19 in conditions of sanatorium-resort organization
Authors: Petrova M. S.
Published: November 2023

The new coronavirus infection COVID‑19 both by itself and restrictive measures related to the pandemic (prolonged isolation, compliance with sanitary and epidemiological restrictions, etc.) have a pronounced negative impact on the psycho-emotional state of patients. The article presents the results of a study of the initial psychological state of patients who have undergone a new coronavirus infection COVID‑19, justifies the use of various psychocorrective methods in the conditions of patients’ stay in a sanatorium-resort organization.
A comparative analysis of using cage acrossing the vertebral ring apophysis in normal and osteoporotic models under endplate injury: a finite element analysis
Authors: Wang Jian , Geng Ziming , Ma Xiang , Zhang Zepei , Miao Jun
Published: November 2023

Background: Lateral lumbar fusion is an advanced, minimally invasive treatment for degenerative lumbar diseases. It involves different cage designs, primarily varying in size. This study aims to investigate the biomechanics of the long cage spanning the ring apophysis in both normal and osteoporotic models, considering endplate damage, using finite element analysis.

Methods: Model 1 was an intact endplate with a long cage spanning the ring apophysis. Model 2 was an endplate decortication with a long cage spanning the ring apophysis. Model 3 was an intact endplate with a short cage. Model 4 was an endplate decortication with a short cage. On the basis of the four original models, further osteoporosis models were created, yielding a total of eight finite element models. The provided passage delineates a study that elucidates the utilization of finite element analysis as a methodology to simulate and analyze the biomechanical repercussions ensuing from the adoption of two distinct types of intervertebral fusion devices (cages) within the physiological framework of a human body.

Results: The investigation found no appreciable changes between Models 1 and 2 in the range of motion at the fixed and neighboring segments, the L3-4 IDP, screw-rod stress, endplate stress, or stress on the trabecular bone of the L5. Increases in these stresses were seen in models 3 and 4 in the ranges of 0.4%–676.1%, 252.9%–526.9%, 27.3%–516.6%, and 11.4%–109.3%, respectively. The osteoporotic models for scenarios 3 and 4 exhibit a similar trend to their respective normal bone density models, but these osteoporotic models consistently have higher numerical values. In particular, except for L3-4 IDP, the maximum values of these parameters in osteoporotic Models 3 and 4 were much higher than those in normal bone quality Models 1 and 2, rising by 385.3%, 116%, 435.1%, 758.3%, and 786.1%, respectively.

Conclusion: Regardless of endplate injury or osteoporosis, it is advised to utilize a long cage that is 5 mm longer on each side than the bilateral pedicles because it has good biomechanical features and may lower the likelihood of problems after surgery. Additionally, using Long cages in individuals with osteoporosis may help avoid adjacent segment disease.
The role of TREM2 in Alzheimer’s disease: from the perspective of Tau
Authors: Huang Wendi , Huang Juan , Huang Nanqu , Luo Yong
Published: November 2023

Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2), a pattern recognition receptor abundantly expressed on microglia, has been identified as one of the risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Several studies have already demonstrated the relationship between TREM2 and Tau. TREM2 mutations and altered expression play an important role in Tau phosphorylation. Furthermore, the level of Tau phosphorylation is correlated with soluble TREM2 (sTREM2). However, in different stages of AD, TREM2 seems to have varying effects on Tau pathology. The explicit interaction between TREM2 and Tau, as well as how they affect AD pathology, remains unclear, and there is much evidence to the contrary that requires rational interpretation. Reviewing the dual roles of TREM2 in AD will help identify a more appropriate development strategy for targeting TREM2 to treat AD. Therefore, this review focuses on the interplay between Tau and TREM2 in relation to AD.
Factors associated with health-related quality of life in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: Thai PCI registry
Authors: Siriyotha Sukanya , Pattanaprateep Oraluck , Srimahachota Suphot , Sansanayudh Nakarin , Thakkinstian Ammarin , Limpijankit Thosaphol
Published: November 2023

Background

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has been shown to improve health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). The objectives of this study were to assess the changes in HRQoL and factors influencing these changes in CAD patients after undergoing PCI.

Methods

Data from a nationwide PCI registry across 39 hospitals in Thailand were collected in 2018–2019, including baseline characteristics, comorbid diseases, angiographic CAD severity, procedural details, and type of health insurance. HRQoL, as measured by utility scores, was determined in all patients using the Thai version of EQ-5D-5l at admission, discharge, and 6 and 12 months after discharge. The effects of time after PCI procedure and various factors on mean utility scores were assessed using a mixed-effect linear regression model.

Results

A total of 19,701 patients were included in the analysis; they had a mean age of 64.2 ± 11.7 years and were predominantly (69.1%) male. Following PCI, the mean utility scores increased from 66.6 ± 19.6 at admission to 81.9 ± 13.8 at discharge, and remained stable at 6 and 12 months (86.1 ± 12.3 and 88.0 ± 11.7, respectively). After adjusting for potential confounding variables, several factors were found to be independently associated with improved HRQoL, including angiographic success, male gender, overweight status, dyslipidemia, and radial access. Six other factors were associated with less improved HRQoLs, including cardiogenic shock/IABP support, old age, CKD, clinical presentation (STEMI and NSTEMI), prior cerebrovascular disease, and heart failure. There were no associations of CAD severity and procedural details with HRQoL. No differences were found related to type of health insurance, except that patients who were uninsured or self-pay tended to have less improvement in HRQoL.

Conclusion

HRQoL improved significantly after PCI in these subjects, as observed through 1 year of follow-up. Identifying the factors influencing these improvements may assist clinicians in tailoring patient interventions to optimise quality of life after PCI.
Case Report: Myocardial dissection caused by ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm in association with a bicuspid aortic valve
Authors: Zhou Xinyan , Xu Yan , He Qian , Tan Na , Chu Jixiang , Liu Bin , Zhu Yu , Liao Chengde , Jiang Yu
Published: November 2023

In this report, we present a case of left-right sinus fusion in a Ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (RSVA) that perforated into the myocardium, giving rise to myocardial dissection. The existence of an anomalous bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is contemplated as a potential etiological element in this context. Employing multimodal imaging modalities, encompassing transthoracic echocardiography and computed tomography (CT), facilitated the visualization of a dissecting hematoma situated within the myocardium subsequent to the RSVA. Following this, our patient underwent an Cabrol surgical intervention, received patch repair, and underwent mitral valve annuloplasty, during which a three-year period transpired without the occurrence of any deleterious cardiac events. In summary, this report establishes the cornerstone for the surgical intervention of RSVA, shedding light on the efficacious handling of RSVA-associated myocardial dissection. It posits that the presence of a BAV may serve as a predisposing factor to RSVA rupture, potentially elevating the susceptibility to myocardial dissection. The utilization of diverse multimodal imaging methodologies played an indispensable role in the detection of a hematoma within the myocardial tissue subsequent to the RSVA rupture. The uneventful three-year postoperative follow-up of the patient underscores the efficacy of the undertaken interventions.
Common variable immunodeficiency—an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Mattila Juho , Pitkänen Niina , Järveläinen Hannu
Published: November 2023

Atherosclerosis, a disease of chronic inflammation of the arterial wall, is the main cause of most cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), a group of diseases characterized by frequent infections due to defective antibody production and lack of human immunoglobulins, plays a role in immune activation and inflammation. Thus, it can be hypothesized that CVID increases the risk for atherosclerotic CVDs. On the other hand, it is also possible that CVID patients are protected from atherosclerotic CVDs based on their life-long immunoglobulin therapy. Here, we examined whether patients with CVID have an increased risk for atherosclerotic CVDs or whether they are protected from these diseases. Using an electronic patient database registry search of a population of 83 CVID patients and their age- and sex-matched, tenfold larger control population we demonstrate that CVID patients have a statistically significantly higher risk for coronary heart disease (OR 2.4, p = 0.015) and peripheral vascular disease (OR 12.5, p < 0.001). Regarding cerebrovascular disease, there was a trend towards CVID patients having more strokes or ischemic attacks, but the difference was not statistically significant (OR 2.0, p = 0.133). The combined OR for CVID patients for atherosclerotic CVDs was 2.6 (p = 0.001). CVID population had more hypertension, but smoking was more seldom. There were no statistically significant differences in the incidence of diabetes or levels of serum total, HDL or LDL cholesterol, or glycosylated hemoglobin A1c between CVID patients and their controls. CVID patients had infections more frequently and the OR for autoimmune diseases was 3.8 (p < 0.001). Finally, a multivariate logistic analysis showed that CVID is an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic CVDs (p = 0.002). The present study demonstrates for the first time that CVID is an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic CVDs. Further studies are required to fully understand the exact mechanisms behind this.
Research on the dismantling of double-arch tunnel after long-term service—the case study of Huangmeishan Tunnel demolition project
Authors: Kou Xinyu , Li Xiaojun , Xie Jiangning , Rusuli Adili , Li Tao , Rui Yi
Published: November 2023

Mountain tunnel structures are subject to a variety of diseases with increasing service life. Earlier tunnels may need to be demolished and expanded because of the poor serving capacity. But few studies of tunnel demolition projects are available. Based on the demolition project of Huangmeishan Tunnel, this paper discusses the demolition scheme of the double-arch tunnel, calculates the stability of the slope, and investigates the defects and material performance in the tunnel. The water leakage in the tunnel mainly occurred at the mid-partition wall and the drainage pipe was clogged severely. The largest width of the crack detected is 15 mm. Material performance tests indicated that the concrete material strength exceeded the design values. In the loading test, the largest displacements of the tunnel arch and haunch were 1.73 and 1.32 mm, which verified the safety of heavy vehicles in construction. Finally, suggestions are given to avoid similar phenomena in other tunnels during the design, construction, and operation phase. The novelty of this study lies in its comprehensive analysis of a tunnel demolition project. The findings of this study contribute to enhancing the knowledge and understanding of tunnel demolition and support the safe and efficient execution of future demolition projects.
Regulation of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in spinal cord injury: an updated review
Authors: Guo Xinyu , Jiang Chao , Chen Zhe , Wang Xiaohui , Hong Fan , Hao Dingjun
Published: November 2023

Cytokines are involved in neural homeostasis and pathological processes associated with neuroinflammation after spinal cord injury (SCI). The biological effect of cytokines, including those associated with acute or chronic SCI pathologies, are the result of receptor-mediated signaling through the Janus kinases (JAKs) as well as the signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) DNA-binding protein families. Although therapies targeting at cytokines have led to significant changes in the treatment of SCI, they present difficulties in various aspects for the direct use by patients themselves. Several small-molecule inhibitors of JAKs, which may affect multiple pro-inflammatory cytokine-dependent pathways, as well as STATs, are in clinical development for the treatment of SCI. This review describes the current understanding of the JAK-STAT signaling in neuroendocrine homeostasis and diseases, together with the rationale for targeting at this pathway for the treatment of SCI.
Novel nomogram for predicting survival in advanced non-small cell lung cancer receiving anti-PD-1 plus chemotherapy with or without antiangiogenic therapy
Authors: Wu Yahua , Lv Chengliu , Lin Mingqian , Hong Yaping , Du Bin , Yao Na , Zhu Yingjiao , Ji Xiaohui , Li Jiancheng , Lai Jinhuo
Published: November 2023

Background

This study aimed to develop and validate a novel nomogram to predict survival in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) receiving programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) inhibitor plus chemotherapy with or without antiangiogenic therapy.

Methods

A total of 271 patients with advanced NSCLC who received anti-PD-1 plus chemotherapy with or without antiangiogenic therapy were enrolled in our center and randomized into the training cohort (n = 133) and the internal validation cohort (n = 138). Forty-five patients from another center were included as an independent external validation cohort. The nomogram was created based on the multivariate Cox regression analysis to predict overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). The performance of the nomogram was assessed using the concordance index (C-index), the time-dependent area under the receiver operating (ROC) curves (AUCs), calibration curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

Four factors significantly associated with OS were utilized to create a nomogram to predict OS: Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS), programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, chemotherapy cycle, and pretreatment lactate dehydrogenase–albumin ratio (LAR). Six variables significantly associated with PFS were incorporated into the development of a nomogram for predicting PFS: ECOG PS, histology, PD-L1 expression, chemotherapy cycle, pretreatment platelet to lymphocyte (PLR), and pretreatment LAR. The C-indexes of the nomogram for predicting OS and PFS were 0.750 and 0.747, respectively. The AUCs for predicting the 6-month, 12-month, and 18-month OS and PFS were 0.847, 0.791, and 0.776 and 0.810, 0.787, and 0.861, respectively. The calibration curves demonstrated a good agreement between predictions and actual observations. The DCA curves indicated that the nomograms had good net benefits. Furthermore, the nomogram model was well-validated in the internal and external cohorts.

Conclusion

The novel nomogram for predicting the prognosis of advanced NSCLC receiving anti-PD-1 plus chemotherapy with or without antiangiogenic therapy may help guide clinical treatment decisions.
Expansion modes of primate nervous system structures in the light of the Prosomeric Model
Authors: Ruiz-Cabrera Sara , Pérez-Santos Isabel , Zaldivar-Diez Josefa , García-Cabezas Miguel Ángel
Published: November 2023

The expansion of human and non-human primate central nervous system structures has been a paramount question for classic and contemporary studies in comparative vertebrate neuroanatomy. These studies can benefit from framing data analysis within the Prosomeric Model, which defines a common Bauplan for all vertebrate species, including mammals. According to this model, the vertebrate nervous system is composed of several Fundamental Morphological Units (FMUs) that are defined and delineated by characteristic gene expression profiles. Thus, the expansion of neural structures can be traced back to heterochronic neurogenesis, cell lineage specification, and axon growth in their corresponding FMUs. In the present article, we exemplify the use of the Prosomeric Model as the proper theoretical framework for analyzing the expansion of the cerebral and cerebellar cortices, the pontine nuclei, the striatum, the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system, the thalamus, and the amygdala in primates compared to rodents. We describe the quantitative (volume and neuron number) and qualitative (cytoarchitectonic and cell type differences) expansion of these structures in primates versus rodents and define different expansion modes. Then, we relate these modes to the developmental primary events of specification and secondary events of histogenesis, like neurogenesis. We conclude that the systematic analysis of the molecular regulation of primary and secondary developmental events in each FMU in rats, primates, and other mammals could provide the necessary insight to identify the causal mechanisms of the expansion modes described in the present article.
Revealing the impact of TOX3 on osteoarthritis: insights from bioinformatics
Authors: Wang Zhengyan , Ding Shuang , Zhang Chunyan , Zhan Hongsheng , Li Yunfei , Yan Jing , Jia Yuyan , Wang Xukai , Wang Ying
Published: November 2023

Osteoarthritis, a prevalent long-term condition of the joints, primarily impacts older individuals, resulting in discomfort, restrictions in mobility, and a decrease in overall well-being. Although Osteoarthritis is widely spread, there is a lack of successful interventions to stop the advancement of the condition. Numerous signaling pathways have been emphasized in recent research on Osteoarthritis, yet the diagnostic significance of numerous genes has not been investigated. To identify genes that were expressed differently in osteoarthritis, we utilized the Gene Expression Omnibus database. To identify marker genes, we built machine learning models including Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator and Random Forest. We categorized Osteoarthritis samples and performed immune cell infiltration analysis based on the expression patterns of these characteristic genes. Both the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator and Random Forest models selected six marker genes (TOX3, ARG1, CST7, RERGL, COL11A1, NCRNA00185) out of a total of 17 differentially expressed genes. The osteoarthritis samples were categorized into two groups, namely a high expression group and a low expression group, based on the median levels of TOX3 expression. Comparative analysis of these groups identified 85 differentially expressed genes, showing notable enrichment in pathways related to lipid metabolism in the group with high expression. Analysis of immune cell infiltration revealed noticeable differences in immune profiles among the two groups. The group with high expression of TOX3 showed a notable increase in Mast cells and Type II IFN Response, whereas B cells, Cytolytic activity, Inflammation-promoting cells, NK cells, pDCs, T cell co-inhibition, Th1 cells, and Th2 cells were significantly decreased. We constructed a ceRNA network for TOX3, revealing 57 lncRNAs and 18 miRNAs involved in 57 lncRNA-miRNA interactions, and 18 miRNA-mRNA interactions with TOX3. Validation of TOX3 expression was confirmed using an external dataset (GSE29746), revealing a notable increase in Osteoarthritis samples. In conclusion, our study presents a comprehensive analysis identifying TOX3 as a potential feature gene in Osteoarthritis. The distinct immune profiles and involvement in fat metabolism pathways associated with TOX3 expression suggest its significance in Osteoarthritis pathogenesis. The study establishes a basis for comprehending the intricate correlation between characteristic genes and Osteoarthritis, as well as for the formulation of individualized therapeutic approaches.
Risk of pneumothorax in Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome during pregnancy and birth
Authors: Steinlein Ortrud K. , Reithmair Marlene , Syunyaeva Zulfiya , Sattler Elke C.
Published: November 2023

Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome (BHDS) is a genetic disorder characterized by fibrofolliculomas, renal cell cancer and lung cysts. Patients are at risk to develop pneumothorax but the magnitude of this risk during pregnancy is unknown. Information was obtained from 46 women with BHDS that had at least one pregnancy (BHDS-with preg), 18 female BHDS relatives without pregnancies (BHDS-no preg) and 25 non-BHDS female relatives with at least one pregnancy (noBHDS-with preg). In total, 77 pneumothoraces occurred in the BHDS-with preg group (mean 1.7/patient) and 11 in the BHDS-no preg group. Comparison of patient years for the first two groups showed pneumothorax incidence rates of 0.054 and 0.016, respectively. The incidence rate difference was significant [0.038 (CI 0.02–0.057), value of p-value 0.0001]. This difference is not caused by an increased number of patients with pneumothorax but by an increased number of pneumothoraces per patient. Pregnancy in BHDS therefore might be a risk factor for multiple pneumothoraces.
The relationship between skeletal muscle mass to visceral fat area ratio and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease subtypes in middle-aged and elderly population: a single-center retrospective study
Authors: Xing Mengchen , Ni Yanlan , Zhang Ye , Zhao Xiaoqian , Yu Xin
Published: November 2023

Background

It has been reported that decreased muscle mass combined with excessive visceral adipose tissue are significantly correlated with the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, it has not been explored among populations with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) subtypes. We aimed to investigate whether appendicular skeletal muscle mass to visceral fat area ratio (SVR), an indicator of sarcopenic obesity, influences on the risk of MAFLD subtypes and its hepatic condition in middle-aged and elderly population.

Methods

A total of 4,003 middle-aged and elderly subjects were finally enrolled in this single-center retrospective study. Abdominal ultrasonography was employed for hepatic steatosis diagnosis. Participants were divided into four groups: diabetes-MAFLD, overweight/obese-MAFLD, lean-MAFLD and no MAFLD. Appendicular skeletal muscle mass as well as visceral fat area (VAF) was estimated by bioimpedance analysis measurements. Liver fibrosis was defined as a Fibrosis-4 index (FIB-4) and the NAFLD Fibrosis Score (NFS). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval between SVR and MAFLD subtypes/hepatic condition stratified by sex.

Results

Participants with MAFLD subtypes had a significant lower value of SVR compared with those without MAFLD (P<0.001), while high quartiles of FIB-4 and NFS also showed a decreasing value of SVR in comparison with its lower quartiles (Pfor trend<0.001). The lowest quartile of SVR increased the prevalence of MAFLD subtypes [adjusted OR (95%CI): 2.96 (1.48 ~ 5.93) male /3.30(1.46 ~ 7.46) female for diabetes-MAFLD, 1.91(1.26 ~ 2.88) male /4.48(1.91 ~ 10.49) female for overweight/obese-MAFLD and 4.01(1.46 ~ 10.98) male/2.53(1.19 ~ 5.37) female for lean-MAFLD groups] compared with the highest quartile of SVR (all Pfor trend<0.001). Besides, the interaction effect of gender on the relationship between SVR and MAFLD subtypes was statistically significant (all Pfor interaction<0.001).Restricted cubic spline indicated an inverse association between SVR and the risk of MAFLD subtypes with linearity (all P for non-linearity>0.05). The lowest quartile of SVR also increases the risk of MAFLD fibrosis in both males and females.

Conclusion

Our study concluded that a decrease in SVR (appendicular skeletal muscle mass divided by visceral fat area) is significantly associated with an increased prevalence of developing MAFLD subtypes and liver fibrosis in middle-aged and older persons of both genders.
Exploring the links between necrotizing enterocolitis and cow's milk protein allergy in preterm infants: a narrative review
Authors: Moak Rosemary , Boone Neal , Eidson Natalie , Rohrer Allison , Engevik Mindy , Williams Kelli , Chetta Katherine
Published: November 2023

A broad range of allergic disorders and intolerance are associated with cow's milk protein in the infant diet. Allergy and intolerance to cow's milk proteins are commonly recognized in the healthy term infant, and the prevalence cow's milk protein intolerance (CMPI) varies widely but 5 challenge confirmed studies free from selection bias ranged from 1.9%-4.9%. These disorders are classified by the presence of IgE, non-IgE or T-cell-mediated signaling. Additionally, the severity of these adverse food reactions can range from mild gastrointestinal symptoms to severe sepsis-like episodes, as in the case of food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES). Food protein-induced intolerance in the healthy young infant lies in stark contrast to enterocolitis that typically occurs in the preterm neonate. Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a distinct progressive disease process, usually characterized by a high mortality rate, with a risk of death from 30% to 50%. While its exact etiology is unclear, its main triggers include formula (cow's milk protein), hypoxia, perfusion-related issues, and unregulated inflammation in the premature intestine. The distinction between NEC and cow's milk protein intolerance is difficult to discern in some cases. In the late preterm population, infants with colitis can have both NEC and cow's milk intolerance on the differential. In infants with multiple episodes of mild NEC, cow's milk protein intolerance may be the underlying diagnosis. In this review, we compare the pathophysiological characteristics, diagnosis and treatment of disorders of cow's milk protein intolerance with the entity of preterm NEC. This review highlights similarities in both entities and may inspire future cross-disciplinary research.