bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metal resistance of Sorbus gorodkovii Pojark in the impact zone of the “Pechenganickel”
Authors: Vasilevskaya Natalia , Sidorchuk Anton
Published: April 2024

The results of influence of industrial pollution on vegetative growth and pollen fertility of Sorbus gorodkovii (Gorodkov,s rowan) in the impact area of the Pechenganickel plant (city of Zapolyarny), are presented. Five experimental sites with S. gorodkovii were laid in the vicinity of processing plant. Leaf measurements (leaf length and the total length of 2 middle leaflets of a compound leaf) were carried out every 7 days in June and July. Samples of S. gorodkovii inflorescences with mature pollen were selected from each experimental site. Studies of pollen fertility were carried out by acetocarmine method. It was found that S. gorodkovii is resistant to chronical pollution of the environment by heavy metals. Leaves growth was significantly inhibited only in the beginning of their ontogenesis. Pollen fertility in the vicinity of the processing plant in the city of Zapolyarny, was high. Obtained data confirms the previous results of some authors that in Subarctic climate and impact of industrial pollution in the Kola Peninsula, trees rapidly adapted to anthropogenic stress and increases resistance to heavy metals.
The possibility of using heat pipe heat exchangers in the helium dryers in the conditions of Turkmenistan
Authors: Aynazarova Oguljan , Kowsyyev Wepa , Gylychmyradov Muhammetmyrat , Myradov Yusup , Gurdov Agajuma
Published: April 2024

This scientific work presents the results of research on the use of heat pipes in helium dryers placed in a greenhouse, where it reuses heat from the greenhouse to heat the drying chamber. Experiments have shown that the average value of the heat pipeefficiency is equal to 0.33 when the air velocity changes from 2.54 m/s to 5.08 m/s. This difference is equal to 10.8% from the maximum value. This result decreases as the number of rows increases, and when the number of pipes is increased from 2 rows to 16 rows, the average value of the variation in efficiency is equal to ~0.80. Its difference from the maximum efficiency is equal to 3.6%.
Sorting with a popqueue
Authors: Cioni Lapo , Ferrari Luca
Published: April 2024

We introduce a new sorting device for permutations, which we call popqueue. It consists of a special queue, having the property that any time one wants to extract elements from the queue, actually all the elements currently in the queue are poured into the output. We illustrate two distinct optimal algorithms, called Min and Cons, to sort a permutation using such a device, which allow us also to characterize sortable permutations in terms of pattern avoidance. We next investigate what happens by making two passes through a popqueue, showing that the set of sortable permutations is not a class for Min, whereas it is for Cons. In the latter case we also explicitly find the basis of the class of sortable permutations. Finally, we study preimages under Cons (by means of an equivalent version of the algorithm), and find a characterization of the set of preimages of a given permutation. We also give some enumerative results concerning the number of permutations having k preimages, for k = 1, 2, 3, and we conclude by observing that there exist permutations having k preimages for any value of k ≥ 0.
Optimization of large cast Haynes 282 based on thermal induced cracks: formation and elimination
Authors: Yang Yujin
Published: April 2024

Haynes 282, a wrought material, attracts the attention from casting application due to its excellent mechanical properties. Fracture of large cast Haynes 282 were found before yielding during tensile test in previous researches, but the reasons have not been fully understood. In this study, various heat treatments were designed and applied for large cast Haynes 282 to reveal the fracture before yielding. Thermodynamic calculation, residual stress calculation combined with microstructural examination were utilized to analyze the reasons of fracture. It has been found that there are grain boundary cracking and grain boundary precipitate cracking in the tensile sample. The grain boundary cracking is mostly attributed to the melting of the low melting point phases such as some segregated matrix and μ phases. The grain boundary precipitate cracking is associated with the blocky Ti, Mo rich MC carbides, and it is more likely to be caused by the quenching after the second homogenization treatment. Optimized heat treatment has been proposed and proven to be workable for the large cast Haynes 282.
Re-Design Sistem Parkir Berbasis Internet of Things Melalui Pendekatan Ergonomic Partisipatory
Authors: Said Ade Irawan , Sofi Nurdiyana , Yusri Ardhini Ramadhani , Damanik Tania Sephia Azzahra , Basumerda Chancard
Published: April 2024

The interesting idea of a Smart City can be realized by developing conventional things into more effective and efficient innovations with the Internet of Things (IoT). Parking is one of the most crucial needs in the most city in Indonesia. The large number of vehicles, inefficient parking systems, and about existing parking system in Indonesia. This research aims to redesign an ergonomic, modern and solution parking system to effectively reduce parking problems in Indonesia. VOC was obtained through a questionnaire distributed to parking lot users at FTI UII and Pakuwon Mall to determine consumer needs as an initial database for data processing using the QFD and HOQ methods. Then Usability testing was carried out on the UI prototype of the proposed parking application which had been designed as material for evaluating and developing a parking system based on 3 ISO attributes. Next, the results of the iteration based on the previous method are repeated to achieve optimal product design through an ergonomic participatory FGD approach with stake holders and ergonomic experts. The final iteration results were agreed as a proposed parking system to answer the problems and challenges of the Smart City concept.
Addressing Work Posture and Ergonomic Risk Factors in Traditional Batik-Making: A Case Study of MSME Batik Bakaran Juwana Workers
Authors: Soraya Putri Arinda , Nur Oktavi Azizah Ariffa , Setiawan Eko , Tri Nugroho Munajat , Revanola Zainida Maya
Published: April 2024

This research was conducted on batik-making workers. Based on observations, the batik process making is done manually using inappropriate work postures and repetitive movements that can trigger complaints musculoskeletal. This research aims to analyze work posture and ergonomic risk factors in the process of making batik. The research method used is WERA and NERPA. The research was conducted at 8 stations with 10 activities carried out by 43 workers. The results of the WERA method show that there are 2 activities at the low-risk level and 8 activities at a medium-risk level, so the activities require further research and need changes. While the NERPA method showed that there were three activities with a score of 3 namely, two activities with a score of 4, two activities with a score of 6, and three activities with a score of 7. Activities with scores of 6 and 7 not only require further investigation but also require changes. These activities are cloth dyeing, cloth dyeing in dyeing tubs, cloth dyeing in boiling furnaces, cloth washing and cloth drying. Proposed improvements include using a table, raising the water tank, raising the stove, providing a water tank, and lowering the height of the drying area.
Ergonomic Assessment Using the Ergonomic Checklist Method in the Production Unit
Authors: Mustika Astuti , Prastawa Heru , Rosyada Zainal
Published: April 2024

PT XYZ is engaged in the garment manufacturing industry and has become a garment manufacturing company with exports to five continents with modern manufacturing facilities in Southeast Asia. In the current condition of PT XYZ, there are still vulnerable and risky areas with the potential for work accidents. This prone and risky condition can be seen in the work environment where there are still scattered items, a low level of security, insufficient lighting, insufficient air ventilation, inadequate hand tools for workers, or the way employees lift materials where employees still make bending and twisting movements that are harmful to employee’s health. Based on the book “Ergonomic Checkpoints: Practical and Easy-to-Implement Solutions for Improving Safety, Health, and Working Conditions” published by the International Labour Organization and the International Energy Agency, this study uses observation and interviews to collect data, using 132 ergonomic checklist questions and provides improvement recommendations. From the research 15 points still need to be done correctly, so they are prioritized for improvement. Recommended improvements include creating two-way lanes in the production unit to facilitate worker mobility and other recommendations.
Research on Affective Ergonomics of User Preferences towards Train Compartment Design
Authors: Yohanny Dinda Karina , Purwaningrum Lu’Lu’ , Mulyono Ambar
Published: April 2024

Trains as public transportation have experienced quite significant passenger growth. One type of train that has just been developed is a compartment, a room to maintain passenger’s privacy during the trip. However, train design needs to pay more attention to passenger preferences. Uncovering this can be done using the Kansei Engineering method, which has successfully increased the value of products such as cars and others. Previously, research had been carried out with the results of favorite compartment designs with a minimalist theme, green color palette, decorative painting, glossy, and dominant wood motif finishing. However, this research has not addressed the affective side’s influence on design specifications more deeply. The research objective is to determine train compartment interior design specifications that suit user preferences and respondent clustering. This research will be carried out using a questionnaire with a semantic differential scale, which is tested using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Cluster Analysis. The research results show that user preferences influence the interior design specifications of the compartment and the favorite design samples chosen by most respondents. The results of this research can be a reference for train manufacturers and the general public.
The Impact of Social Norms, Personality, and Time Perspective Factors On Indonesian Highways Safety Driving Behavior
Authors: Azzikrullah Hanif Qai’d , Widyanti Ari , Sari Hasrini
Published: April 2024

The number of traffic accidents per year increases in proportion to the number of drivers. The higher traffic accident in particular on highways is due to speeding behavior. Traffic accidents are caused by the environment, the vehicle, and the driver factors. The purpose of this study is to incorporate driver personality, time perspective, and applicable norms, on the speeding behavior model and design proposals for intervention policies, and improve current policies on driving behavior to maintain and increase safety driving the highways speed limit. Personality (BFI-10) was incorporated into the model to investigate which personality types that often speed, time perspective (ZTPI-18) was use to understand the current driver behavior from past experience and the driver will likely take in future, while the theory of normative social behavior (TNSB) was incorporated to enhance the theory of planned behavior (TPB) model used in previous studies. The method used in this paper is the PRISMA framework. Result of this study is a conceptual model that incorporates variables of TPB, TNSB, BFI-10 personality inventory, and ZTPI-18 and consists of 23 variables. Further study will be conducted to prove the conceptual model by using the method of self-report questionnaires, field observations, and driving simulations.
Investigating of mining accidents involving trapped mine workers: A human factors-based method for analysis and classification (a case study of an illegal gold mining in banyumas, indonesia)
Authors: Asyari Hasyim , Athoillah Mohammad Ghiyats , Huaida Akasa , Fasya Firdan Haidar , Setyawan Fityan Shobar
Published: April 2024

The number of illegal mining sites in Indonesia is estimated to be around 2.700, with the number of mining accidents reaching 104 in the period 2013-2021. The number of accidents is high and often causes fatalities. This research focuses on reactivating illegal mining in Pancurendang as a source of livelihood for the local community. We focused on analyzing the causes of the trapping of 8 miners in Pancurendang Mine. It revealed more than 110 mining pits, with 30 active mining pits in the mine. The methodology we used was the Human Factor Analysis Classification System (HFACS) framework to process the data. Data collection was conducted by direct observation at the incident site, interviews with miners and the national rescue agency, as well as a comprehensive literature review. Improvements were proposed in a hierarchical analysis based on the HFACS Framework. The analysis showed that the incident was caused by several factors, such as skill-based error, physical environment, absence of supervisor, organizational physics and societal. The results of this study highlight the need for the development of professional mine organizations, safer working environments and responsibility for safety in small-scale gold mining, and provide valuable insights in the development of geotechnical engineering.
Analysis Of Occupational Safety And Health (OSH) Application Of Assessment And Hazard Risk Control In The Mie Soon Industry Center Of Manjung Village, Klaten
Authors: Anis Muchlison , Asiyatun  , Satriyono Raden Danang Aryo Putro
Published: April 2024

Sentra Industri Mie Soon Desa Manjung is one of the Mie Soon processing and trading businesses located in Desa Manjung, Ngawen, Klaten. The research was conducted on 10 UMKMs under the auspices of the Adi Mulyo Cooperative. Some of these Mie Soon processing businesses still use manual labour and as well as a lack of awareness among workers regarding the implementation of Occupational Safety and Health (K3). Other backgrounds include lack of awareness about Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), lack of lighting in the packaging room, manual removal of sacks of palm flour and firewood, repetitive movement activities for long periods, hands pierced by nails and zinc edges, itchiness due to chlorine, chlorine explodes, odor sting washing waste and so forth. This study aims to assess the previous application of K3 and control potential hazards in reducing work accidents. Based on the conducted assessment of OSH using WISE, it can be concluded that the implementation of OSH in UMKM Mie Soon Desa Manjung is not optimal. The results of the recapitulation and calculation of UMKM J which has the largest percentage of 11%, suggested immediate action. The results of RRN calculations using the SWIFT method identified 7 risks divided into one of the main priority, four of the medium priority, three of the low priority, and one of the lowest priority. Therefore, an improvement of UMKM working activities, especially those in main priority, needs to be seized. These working activities are composed of posture load, operator error, exposure to sharp and hot materials, manual handling, and chemicals.
E-Airs: Interactive Ergonomic Monitoring System for Work Posture
Authors: Irham Dzakiyyuddin Muhammad Fatih , Soewardi Hartomo , Maharani Erika Ariana , Tanjung Ar Royyan Utama
Published: April 2024

Work posture and/or position of work is a crucial problem in work system. Unnatural posture will lead to discomfort when doing the task such as pain at part of body such that it will cause accident in the end. This accident will affect level of work performance of the worker so as the work productivity fails achieve a target determined. The failure mode, of course, results in a big loss for a company. This state should be avoided by use of the natural posture by worker in completing a job. However, many workers do not still understand what kind of a natural and unnatural work posture directly. So, this condition has high risk for being occurred the discomfort. Thus, it is important to develop a tool for helping them to identify a certain posture of work. Objective of this study is to design a monitoring system devices to capture and to determine an natural posture of the worker based on ergonomic principles. Rapid Upper Limb Assessment method is applied to determine a risk of work posture. Machine Learning concept is implemented to support in designing a system by also applying python programming language. Result of this study shows that monitoring system devices developed is usable in informing an unnatural posture of worker in completing a job. Thus, this result will beneficial for worker to improve work posture to be natural position so as discomfort can be prevented.
Measurement and Evaluation of Potential Ergonomic Hazards in the Packing Area of PT Tirta Investama Klaten Factory
Authors: Elsa Dwi Rahmawati , Novie Susanto , Rahmad Samsudin
Published: April 2024

PT Tirta Investama Klaten Factory is a company that produces bottled drinking water. Most production activities use machines, but there are still activities carried out manually, namely in the packing area during box lifting activities. Box lifting activities that are carried out repeatedly over a certain period can potentially cause occupational diseases, namely musculoskeletal disorders. After conducting initial interviews with workers, it was discovered that workers in the packing area felt pain and tingling in their bodies. Based on these problems, it is necessary to measure and evaluate potential ergonomic hazards to identify potential health and worker protection problems due to ergonomic hazards. The method used SNI 9011:2021, a tool for measuring and evaluating potential ergonomic hazards in the workplace, and used QEC (Quick Exposure Checklist) to measure posture load from two points of view. The research results showed that the box lifting activity had the worst percentage exposure value of 76.14% and the worst ERF score of 7 (hazardous conditions). Apart from having an awkward posture, the results showed that symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders experienced by workers were also caused by factors such as age and length of service.
Analysis Of The Nutritional Status Of Pediatric Tuberculosis Patients After Treatment At The X General Hospital Center
Authors: Rayhana  , Shabariah Rahmini , Anandita Kisi
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Indonesia is currently ranked 2nd in the country with the highest number of tuberculosis (TB) cases. TB disease in children cannot be separated from the role of nutritional status. Poor nutrition can cause immunological disorders and affect the disease healing process.

Methodology: The research method used was cross-sectional which was carried out at Central General Hospital X in July 2019. A sample of 72 pediatric tuberculosis patients was taken using a simple random sampling technique. The data used is secondary data from medical records for the period January 2016-December 2018 to look at the characteristics of pediatric TB patients and analyze the evaluation of nutritional status after treatment. Data analysis used the non-parametric Wilcoxon test.

Results: The highest age was in the 5-14 year category (51.4%). In the Wilcoxon test, a p-value of 0.000 (<0.05) was obtained, which stated that there was a significant difference between nutritional status before and after treatment.

Conclusion: Compliance with pediatric TB patients in undergoing treatment will improve the patient’s nutritional status.
Utilization of Luffa for Acoustic Panel on Interior Wall, A Technical and Perceptual Approach
Authors: Ayu Roro , Mulyono Ambar , Purwandaru Pandu
Published: April 2024

Luffa Cylindrica is one of Indonesia’s biodiversity, which provides several benefits, such as for making handycraft, cleaning tool and event for building materials. This study aims to investigate the ability of Luffa as a sound absorber and its visual impression when applied to interior walls. The first stage is testing the damping ability of panels made of Luffa. Several specimens of Luffa acoustic panels were made with PVAc adhesive and then tested to determine their damping ability. From the test results using the impedance tube method (ASTME1050-12), the samples met the soundproof requirements with an absorption coefficient of 0.15 - 0.206 at a frequency of 1600 Hz. The lost sound transmission values obtained are in the range of 40-60 dB. Thus, Luffa can be used as a good sound-absorbing material. The next stage is the development of the visual design of the panel so that it has a certain aesthetic or perceptual value. Three designs were made with variations in shape and color into nine samples applied to a wall of interior space. The semantic differential method assessment found that simple and decorative impressions dominated when the panel was applied to interior walls.
Perforation of descending colonic cancer as a rare cause of gas gangrene of the lower limb in an 80-year-old female: a case report
Authors: Hua Ruoyue , Zhong Jun , Xian Jianlin , Liang Yaoqi , Gan Zilin , Deng Shoupeng
Published: April 2024

Gas gangrene is a rare, severe gas-producing infection that can be related to colorectal cancer. Gas gangrene can be confirmed by radiologic findings and crepitation on touch. Spontaneous gas gangrene can be associated with colorectal cancer. An 80-year-old female complaint about a sudden abdominal pain, accompanied with progressive swelling pain in thigh and fever. Diagnosis based on assessment findings were gas gangrene and descending colonic cancer perforation. Emergency surgery was performed for debridement and drainage, followed by vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) with polyurethane (PU). Two more surgical interventions were given before the colonic tumor surgery. The patient recovered well in the long-term follow-up. This report demonstrates the diagnosis, treatment, and management of a successful case of gas gangrene caused by perforation of descending colonic cancer. Accurate preoperative diagnosis and reasonable use of VSD (PU) material played an important role in the treatment of this case.
High burden of noma in the Gambella region of Ethiopia: a 12-year retrospective study on noma cases from the Facing Africa database
Authors: Gebretsadik Heron Gezahegn , Abera Yenigat
Published: April 2024

Background

Noma, an infectious disease, mainly affects impoverished children. This study retrospectively assessed noma's prevalence in Ethiopia using data from the Facing Africa database and the 2022 United Nations Development Programme poverty index report.

Methods

A thorough review of medical records spanning 2007 to 2019 identified a total of 235 noma cases. A standardized data extraction template was employed to systematically gather pertinent clinical and demographic data for subsequent analysis. Prevalence rates were calculated nationally and regionally for both the general population and children aged ≤10 y.

Results

The analysis revealed estimated national prevalence rates of 0.65 per 100 000 individuals at risk and 1.9 per 100 000 children aged <10 y at risk. The Gambela region exhibited the highest prevalence rate (11.2 per 100 000), whereas the Benshangul Gumuz region had the lowest (0.25 per 100 000). Similar patterns were observed among children aged ≤10 y, with the Gambela and Benshangul Gumuz regions reporting rates of 32.9 and 0.74 per 100 000, respectively.

Conclusions

The study highlights noma's significant impact on children aged <10 y in Ethiopia, especially in the Gambella region. It offers crucial baseline data to assist public health professionals, policymakers and healthcare providers in formulating evidence-based strategies to combat noma and improve affected individuals' well-being.
N-protein vaccine Convacell® is effective against COVID-19: phase 3, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Rabdano Sevastyan Olegovich , Ruzanova Ellina Anatolievna , Vertyachikh Anastasiya Evgenievna , Teplykh Valeriya Aleksandrovna , Emelyanova Alla Borisovna , Rudakov German Olegovich , Arakelov Sergei Aleksandrovich , Pletyukhina Iuliia Vladimirovna , Saveliev Nikita Sergeevich , Lukovenko Anna Alekseevna , Fakhretdinova Liliya Niyazovna , Safi Ariana Sergeevna , Zhirenkina Ekaterina Nikolaevna , Polyakova Irina Nikolaevna , Belozerova Natalia Sergeevna , Klykov Vladislav Vladimirovich , Savelieva Arina Petrovna , Ekimov Aleksey Alerksandrovich , Merkulov Vadim Anatolievich , Yudin Sergei Mihailovich , Kruchko Daria Sergeevna , Berzin Igor Aleksandrovich , Skvortsova Veronika Igorevna ,   Clinical Trial Group
Published: April 2024

We have developed a Convacell®, a COVID-19 vaccine based on the conservative viral nucleocapsid (N) protein. The N protein is evolutionary conservative and is abundantly expressed on the surface of infected cells, allowing anti-N immune response generated by Convacell® to rapidly clear infected cells and provide long-lasting protection against COVID-19. Convacell® has been demonstrated to be safe and highly immunogenic, creating immune responses lasting over a year, in phase I/II and IIb clinical trials. Phase IIb clinical trial has also demonstrated that a single dose vaccination regimen with Convacell® is sufficient to provide an immune response. Here we report the finding of the phase III clinical trial of Convacell®. Two groups of volunteers from Russia have been either vaccinated with a single dose of Convacell® or injected with placebo, and then monitored for incidence of COVID-19 and adverse effects. Anti-N antibody titers at admission were also analyzed, to take into account for potential effects of previous virus encounters. Disease incidence over 6 months results indicate an overall vaccine efficacy of 85.2% (95% confidence interval: 67.4-93.3%). Additionally, Convacell® has shown a good safety profile. Overall, Convacell® demonstrated highly desirable qualities and good performance as a vaccine and can be considered as valuable COVID-19 preventative measure.
DNA methylation correlates with transcriptional noise in response to elevated pCO2in the eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica)
Authors: Venkataraman Yaamini R. , Huffmyer Ariana S , White Samuel J , Downey-Wall Alan , Ashey Jill , Becker Danielle M , Bengtsson Zachary , Putnam Hollie M , Strand Emma , Rodriguez-Casariego Javier A , Wanamaker Shelly A , Lotterhos Kathleen E , Roberts Steven
Published: April 2024

Ocean acidification significantly affects marine calcifiers like oysters, warranting the study of molecular mechanisms like DNA methylation that contribute to adaptive plasticity in response to environmental change. However, a consensus has not been reached on the extent to which methylation modules gene expression, and in turn plasticity, in marine invertebrates. In this study, we investigated the impact of pCO2on gene expression and DNA methylation in the eastern oyster,Crassostrea virginica. After a 30-day exposure to control (572 ppm) or elevated pCO2(2,827 ppm), whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) and RNA-Seq data were generated from adult female gonad tissue and male sperm samples. Although differentially methylated loci (DML) were identified in females (89) and males (2,916), there were no differentially expressed genes, and only one differentially expressed transcript in females. However, gene body methylation impacted other forms of gene activity in sperm, such as the maximum number of transcripts expressed per gene and changes in the predominant transcript expressed. Elevated pCO2exposure increased gene expression variability (transcriptional noise) in males but decreased noise in females, suggesting a sex-specific role of methylation in gene expression regulation. Functional annotation of genes with changes in transcript-level expression or containing DML revealed several enriched biological processes potentially involved in elevated pCO2response, including apoptotic pathways and signal transduction, as well as reproductive functions. Taken together, these results suggest that DNA methylation may regulate gene expression variability to maintain homeostasis in elevated pCO2conditions and could play a key role in environmental resilience in marine invertebrates.
Enhanced behavioural and neural sensitivity to punishments in chronic pain and fatigue
Authors: Mancini Flavia , Mahajan Pranav , Guttesen Anna á V. , Onysk Jakub , Scholtes Ingrid , Shenker Nicholas , Lee Michael , Seymour Ben
Published: April 2024

Chronic pain and fatigue in musculoskeletal disease contribute significantly to disability, and recent studies suggest an association with reduced motivation and excessive fear avoidance. In this behavioural neuroimaging study in chronic inflammatory arthritis participants and healthy controls, we aimed to identify the specific behavioral and neural changes associated pain and fatigue during reward and loss decision-making. Computational modeling of behaviour identified a parametric signature, characterized most notably by increased punishment sensitivity. This signature is distinct from patterns previously reported in psychiatric conditions and it aligns with predictions of mechanistic models of chronic pain such as the fear avoidance model. Neural activity associated with the punishment prediction error was enhanced in the right posterior insular cortex, putamen, pallidum, and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Functional network connectivity analysis showed that insula centrality correlated with subjective reports of fatigue and pain. Overall, the findings show that pain and fatigue in chronic pain relate to objective behavioural changes, and can be mapped to a specific pattern of activity in brain circuits of motivation and decision-making.
Shifts and rebound in microbial community function following repeated introduction of a novel species
Authors: Leale Alanna M. , Marquez Francisca Reyes , Zwaan Bas , Smid Eddy J. , Schoustra Sijmen
Published: April 2024

Natural microbial communities continually encounter novel species that may successfully establish or simply be transient, yet both outcomes can alter the resident community composition and function. Preserving natural microbial communities and innovating synthetic ones requires insight on the immediate and long-term impact of species introductions on both composition and function. For instance, it remains unclear whether there are gradual and long-term impacts from repeated invasions where the introduced species fails to establish – so-called failed invaders. To investigate the persistent impacts by failed invaders, we present an experimental test of community stability over multiple generations against repeated novel species introduction. We propagated a natural microbial community from a traditional fermented milk beverage for approximately 100 generations, with or without, repeated introduction ofEscherichia coliat each transfer. Community function was determined by metabolic profiling, and we observed alterations therein immediately afterE. coliintroduction, followed by recovery, or rebound once ceased. In contrast to this proxy of community function, changes in the bacterial community composition were never detected. Our results evidence that community composition and function do not necessarily respond in parallel to an introduced species, potentially due to genotypic changes below species level detection or metabolic plasticity. Our work shows an ability for functional recovery in microbial communities and contributes insight on long-term community stability to sustained disturbances.
Profiling the organ membrane proteome dysregulation in the context of liver disease
Authors: Antony Frank , Brough Zora , Orangi Mona , Aoki Hiroyuki , Babu Mohan , van Hoa Franck Duong
Published: April 2024

Alcohol consumption and high-fat diets often coincide in Western society, exerting negative synergistic effects on the liver. While many studies have demonstrated the impact of ALD and NAFLD on organ protein expression, none have offered a comprehensive view of the dysregulation at the level of the membrane proteome. In this study, we utilize peptidisc and solvent precipitation (SP4) methods to isolate and compare the membrane protein content of the liver with its unique biological functions. Using mice treated with a high-fat diet and ethanol in drinking water, we identified 1,563 liver proteins, with 46% predicted to have a transmembrane segment. Among these, 106 integral membrane proteins are dysregulated compared to the untreated sample. Gene ontology analysis reveals several dysregulated membrane processes associated with lipid metabolism, cell adhesion, xenobiotic processing, and mitochondrial membrane formation. Pathways related to cholesterol and bile acid transport are also mutually affected, suggesting an adaptive mechanism to counter the steatosis of the liver model. Our peptidisc-based membrane proteome profiling thus emerges as an effective way to gain insights into the role of the transmembrane proteome in disease development, warranting further in-depth analysis of the individual effect of the identified dysregulated membrane proteins.
Individual contralesional recruitment in the context of structural reserve in early motor reorganization after stroke
Authors: Mustin Maike , Hensel Lukas , Fink Gereon R. , Grefkes Christian , Tscherpel Caroline
Published: April 2024

The concept of structural reserve in stroke reorganization assumes that the relevance of the contralesional hemisphere strongly depends on the brain tissue spared by the lesion in the affected hemisphere. Recent studies, however, have indicated that the contralesional hemisphere’s impact exhibits region-specific variability with concurrently existing maladaptive and supportive influences. This challenges traditional views, necessitating a nuanced investigation of contralesional motor areas and their interaction with ipsilesional networks.

Our study focused on the functional role of contralesional key motor areas and lesion-induced connectome disruption early after stroke.

Online TMS data of twenty-five stroke patients was analyzed to disentangle interindividual differences in the functional roles of contralesional primary motor cortex (M1), dorsal premotor cortex (dPMC), and anterior interparietal sulcus (aIPS) for motor function. Connectome-based lesion symptom mapping and corticospinal tract lesion quantification were used to investigate how TMS effects depend on ipsilesional structural network properties.

At group and individual levels, TMS interference with contralesional M1 and aIPS but not dPMC led to improved performance early after stroke. At the connectome level, a more disturbing role of contralesional M1 was related to a more severe disruption of the structural integrity of ipsilesional M1 in the affected motor network. In contrast, a detrimental influence of contralesional aIPS was linked to less disruption of the ipsilesional M1 connectivity.

Our findings indicate that contralesional areas distinctively interfere with motor performance early after stroke depending on ipsilesional structural integrity, extending the concept of structural reserve to regional specificity in recovery of function.
Seasonal Variations and the Associated Factors of Acute Appendicitis at a Tertiary Hospital: A Case of SPHMMC, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Daniel Lohide , Negash Fekadu
Published: April 2024

Background

Acute appendicitis, a surgical emergency, is a prevalent pathology with uncertain etiology, influenced by various factors and seasonal variations.

Objective

To determine the seasonal variations and the associated factors of Acute Appendicitis.

Methods

The study analyzed demographic features, seasonal variation, length of hospital stay, and surgical treatment outcomes in 384 patients treated from 01/01/2022 to 31/12/ 2022 G.C. The patients were presented in four different seasons; December-February as winter, March-May as autumn, June-August as summer, and September-Nov as spring, which were assessed to describe seasonal variation and compare to what are observed in other countries. SPSS version 26 was used for all the statistical assessments and analyses.

Results

Out of all 384 patients, 64.3% were males and 35.7% were females. The mean age was 20.8, male: female, 1.8:1. The majority of patients were in their 2nd and 3rd decades of life, and more common in the male 10–19 age group (22.1%). 23.9% of cases were observed in autumn, 22.7% in winter, 20.6% in spring, and 32.8% in summer. 10.1% increase in summer as compared to winter, 8.9% increase as compared to autumn, and 12.2% increase as compared to spring. The highest admissions were in the summer (32.8%). July had the highest number of cases (12.5%), which coincided with heavy rainy months, the rainiest days, and the lowest sunlight hours. The highest rainfall was observed in July (386mm) and August (491 mm), and the lowest sunlight hours were observed in July (6.1 hours) and August (5.9 hours), respectively. Monthly cases correlated positively with rainfall (Pearson’s R =.637, p<.05) and negatively with sunlight hours (Pearson’s R = -.618, p<.05). Complicated cases were slightly more common (50.9%), more in the 10–19 age group. Males had more complicated cases (38.3%) than females (20.8%). Complicated cases tend to present after 48 hours. The commonest postoperative complication was wound infection (5.5%). The mean length of hospital stay was 2.47 days, with no death was reported in the study period.

Conclusion

Peak appendicitis in summer is linked to rainfall and sunlight hours, affecting the 11-20 age groups.
Unravelling biomolecular and community grammars of RNA granules via machine learning
Authors: Ban Zhan , Yan Yan , Dawson Kenneth A.
Published: April 2024

RNA granules are dynamic compartments within cells that play a crucial role in posttranscriptional regulation of gene expression. They are associated with a variety of human neurodegenerative diseases. While RNA granules play vital roles in cellular functions, the comprehension of their assembly has remained elusive.

In this study, we employed robust machine learning models combining residue content and physicochemical features to accurately identify potential RNA granule (i.e.,stress granule and P-body) proteome within the human proteome. Our models achieved good performance with high areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of up to 0.88, outperforming previous liquid-liquid phase separation models. Intriguingly, the predicted RNA granule proteome reveals a significant enrichment in biological functions and domains associated with RNA granule-related processes, mirroring findings from observed high-confidence RNA granule protein datasets. Furthermore, our analysis unveils critical physicochemical attributes, notably hydrophobicity, influencing the formation of RNA granules.

Using the constructed model, we uncovered the central roles of RNA granule proteins with high propensities within the comprehensive RNA granule protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and their commonality in diverse RNA granules. Furthermore, we identified prominent clusters with dense PPIs, significantly contributing to critical biological processes within diverse RNA granules, including translation, mRNA decay, rRNA processing, and mRNA splicing. This analysis proposes a hypothesis: dense PPI clusters are integral functional subunits, constituting relatively stable ‘cores’ within diverse RNA granules.

In conclusion, this study provides a comprehensive molecular and community-based foundation for understanding the importance of PPIs in the stability of RNA granule formation and functionality. This analysis contributes to a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the intricate nature of RNA granules and opens avenues for future research and therapeutic interventions targeting RNA granule- related diseases.
Consensus Guidelines for the Management of Peritoneal Surface Malignancies: Introduction and Methodology
Authors:   PSM Writing Group,   PSM Consortium Group, Turaga Kiran K.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The management of peritoneal surface malignancies (PSM) remains a challenge, characterized by limited high-level evidence and reliance on expert opinions. This paper outlines the methodology used in the development of clinical management pathways for PSM.

Methods

Building upon the Chicago Consensus Guidelines, a multidisciplinary North American panel was surveyed using a Modified Delphi technique to gauge the levels of agreement with clinical management pathways. Rapid systematic reviews were undertaken to address contentious questions specific to disease sites, which were structured using the Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome framework.

Results

Two consecutive rounds of voting were conducted between June 2023 and February 2024, addressing nine pathways spanning various conditions associated with PSM (colorectal, appendiceal, gastric, and neuroendocrine neoplasms, peritoneal mesothelioma, and gastrointestinal obstruction). The first Delphi consensus round involved 228 participants, of which 198 (87%) responded in the second round. Over 90% consensus was achieved in most blocks across all pathways. Eleven rapid systematic reviews were conducted, including 183 studies cumulatively out of 13,595 abstracts screened through PubMed. Perspectives from patient advocates and international experts were incorporated into these guidelines. The consortium’s multilevel approach also involved the creation of a peritoneal oncology curriculum, recommendations for billing and coding, and shared resources for perioperative care and patient information.

Conclusion

Experts indicated high levels of agreement with most pathway blocks across disease sites. These guidelines do not replace the need for high-level evidence but serve as guiding principles for critical decisions within the current landscape of PSM care.
Assessment of chemical methods in the removal of the spore coat and exosporium layers ofClostridioides difficileSpores
Authors: Sanchez Javier , Romero-Rodriguez Alba , Troncoso-Cotal Scarlett , Paredes-Sabja Daniel
Published: April 2024

Clostridioides difficilespores are essential for initiation, recurrence and transmission of the disease. The spore surface layers are composed of an outermost exosporium layer that surrounds another proteinaceous layer, the spore coat. These spore surfaces layers are responsible for initial interactions with the host and spore resistance properties contributing to transmission and recurrence of CDI. During spore-development, assembly of both layers is tightly interconnected thus studying the surface is essential for understanding the assembly of these layers and identification of potential targets for therapeutics. Several spore coat /exosporium extraction methods have utilized different extraction procedures making comparison across studies difficult and their impact on spore surface layer properties remains unclear. Here, we tested how commonly used chemical methods remove the spore coat /exosporium layers, analyzing treated-spores by phase contrast microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, western blotting, and lysozyme-triggered germination to functionally characterize the extraction efficiency of these treatment on these layers. Our results provide a systematic analysis and offer a platform for future spore coat and exosporium-related studies.
A systematic review of sample size estimation accuracy on power in malaria cluster randomised trials measuring epidemiological outcomes
Authors: Biggs Joseph R , Challenger Joseph D , Hellewell Joel , Churcher Thomas S , Cook Jackie
Published: April 2024

Introduction Cluster randomised trials (CRTs) are the gold standard for measuring the community-wide impacts of malaria control tools. CRTs rely on well-defined sample size estimations to detect statistically significant effects of trialled interventions; however these are often predicted poorly by investigators. Here, we review the accuracy of predicted parameters used in sample size calculations for malaria CRTs with epidemiological outcomes. Methods We searched for published malaria CRTs using four online databases in March 2022. Eligible trials included those with malaria-specific epidemiological outcomes which randomised at least six geographical clusters to study arms. Predicted and observed sample size parameters were extracted by reviewers for each trial. Pair-wise correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the accuracy of predicted control-arm outcome estimates and desired relative reductions (effect sizes) between arms compared to what was observed. Among trials which retrospectively calculated an estimate of heterogeneity in cluster outcomes, we recalculated study power according to observed trial estimates. Results Of the 1889 records identified and screened, 108 articles were eligible and comprised of 71 malaria CRTs. Among trials that included sample size calculations (91.5%, 65/71), most estimated cluster heterogeneity using the coefficient of variation (k) (80%, 52/65) which were often predicted without using prior data (67.7%, 44/65). Predicted control-arm epidemiological outcomes correlated weakly with those observed, with 61.2% (19/31) of prevalence estimates overestimated. Among the minority of trials which retrospectively calculated cluster heterogeneity (20%, 13/65), empirical values contrasted with those used in sample size estimations and often compromised study power. Observed effect sizes were often smaller than had been predicted at the sample size stage (72.9%, 51/70) and were typically higher in the first, compared to the second, year of trials. Overall, effect sizes achieved by malaria interventions tested in trials decreased between 1995 and 2021. Conclusions Study findings reveal sample size parameters in malaria CRTs were often inaccurate and resulted in underpowered studies. Future trials must strive to obtain more representative epidemiological sample size inputs to ensure interventions against malaria are adequately evaluated. Registration This review is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022315741).
Anchor-Enhanced Bead Design for Reduced Oligonucleotide Synthesis Errors in Single-cell sequencing
Authors: Sun Jianfeng , Philpott Martin , Loi Danson , Hoffman Gabriela , Robson Jonathan , Mehta Neelam , Calcutt Eleanor , Gamble Vicki , Brown Tom , Brown Tom , Oppermann Udo , Cribbs Adam P
Published: April 2024

Single-cell transcriptomics, reliant on the incorporation of barcodes and unique molecular identifiers (UMIs) into captured polyA+ mRNA, faces a significant challenge due to synthesis errors in oligonucleotide capture sequences. These inaccuracies, which are especially problematic in long-read sequencing, impair the precise identification of sequences and result in inaccuracies in UMI deduplication. To mitigate this issue, we have modified the oligonucleotide capture design, which integrates an interposed anchor between the barcode and UMI, and a ‘V’ base anchor adjacent to the polyA capture region. This configuration is devised to ensure compatibility with both short and long-read sequencing technologies, facilitating improved UMI recovery and enhanced feature detection, thereby improving the efficacy of droplet-based sequencing methods.