bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elektrik Yapım İşi Sektöründe İş Sağlığı ve Güvenliği Alanındaki Risklerin AHS ve AAS Kullanılarak Önceliklendirilmesi
Authors: ERGÜN Umut , KAHRAMAN Funda
Published: June 2023

Hangi büyüklükte olursa olsun, yoğun rekabet koşulları altında faaliyetlerini sürdürülebilir kılmaya çalışan firmaların kısıtlı olan, zaman, iş gücü ve finansal kaynaklarını en verimli şekilde kullanma zorunluluğu her geçen gün artmaktadır. Kaynakları bu verimli kullanma şartı firmayı, iş sağlığı ve güvenliği alanında yapacağı risk değerlendirmesindeki tehlikelerin giderilmeye nereden başlanması gerektiği, hangi tehlikeye, ne ölçüde kıymet atfederek kaynak aktarması gerektiği konularında da karar verme durumunda bırakmaktadır. Bu çalışmada, elektrik yapım işi sektöründe faaliyet gösteren bir firmanın, klasik Fine Kinney yöntemiyle hazırlanmış olan risk değerlendirme raporundaki tehlikeler 10 kategoriye ayrılmış, alanında uzman kişilerle değerlendirilip, Creative Decisions Foundation kuruluşunun ürettiği SuperDecisions yazılımı aracılığıyla, Analitik Hiyerarşi Süreci (AHS) ve Analitik Ağ Süreci (AAS) yöntemleri kullanılarak tehlike kategorileri önceliklendirilmiştir. Son olarak, AHS ve AAS sonuçları birbirleriyle karşılaştırılarak karar vericilere yön göstermeye çalışılmıştır.
Dünyada ve Türkiye’de Maden Kazaları
Authors: ÖZDEMİR Caner , TUNCA Bekir , ÇÖL Meltem
Published: June 2023

Dünyada her yıl yaklaşık 340 milyon iş kazası ve 160 milyon işle ilgili hastalık meydana gelmektedir. Küresel işgücünün yalnızca %1’ini oluşturan madencilik, iş yerindeki ölümcül kazaların yaklaşık %8’inden sorumludur. Türkiye mesleki ölüm ve yaralanma hızlarında üst sıralarda yer almaktadır. Türkiye’nin en çok ölümle sonuçlanan iş ve madencilik kazası, 13 Mayıs 2014’te Manisa’nın Soma ilçesinde meydana gelen ve 301 kişinin ölümüne neden olan maden felaketidir. Madencilik ile ilgili çalışma gruplarında yüz bin işçi başına ölüm hızları 2018 yılında Türkiye’de 44,0 iken ABD’de 14,1, Polonya’da 9,3 ve Avustralya’da 3,7 olarak saptanmıştır. Yer altı kömür madenlerinde görülen büyük maden kazalarının başlıca nedenleri grizu patlamaları, kömür tozu patlamaları, ani gaz püskürmeleri, göçükler, yangınlar, su baskınları, nakliye ve mekanizasyonla ilgili sorunlardır. Maden kazaları ve felaketleri önlenebilirdir. Modern kömür madenlerinde sıkı güvenlik prosedürleri, sağlık ve güvenlik standartları, işçi eğitimi ve öğretimi olmalıdır. Yer altı kömür madenlerinde gaz izleme ve erken uyarı sistemlerinin kurulması, madenlerin havasının izlenmesi ve kayıt altına alınması gereklidir. Madencilik sektörü için gerekli mevzuat düzenlemelerinin yanında; sürekli izleme, değerlendirme ve denetlemeye ihtiyaç vardır.
Kaynak Çalışanlarının Gürültü Maruziyet Düzeylerinin Belirlenmesine Yönelik Bir İnceleme
Authors: BAYAR Uğur , ARABACI Uğur
Published: June 2023

Bu çalışmada Ankara ilinde metal sektöründe faaliyet gösteren ve gaz altı, toz altı ve/veya örtülü elektrot ark kaynak işi ile çalışma yürüten 15 farklı işyerinde iş sağlığı ve güvenliği koşullarının belirlenmesi adına iş hijyeni fiziksel etkenlerinden kişisel gürültü maruziyeti ölçülmüştür. Ölçümler, ilgili mevzuat kapsamında yetkilendirilmiş ve akredite edilmiş bir laboratuvar tarafından gerçekleştirilmiş ve kalibrasyonu yapılmış olan cihazlarla yapılmıştır. Ulusal mevzuatta ve uluslararası standartlarda belirtilen ölçüm kriterlerine uyulmuş, ölçüm sonucunda elde edilen veriler yine bu kriterler doğrultusunda analiz edilmiştir. İşyerlerinde kaynak çalışanlarına yönelik olarak ayrıca gürültü maruziyetleri konusunda rahatsızlık durumları da sorulmuş, elde edilen çalışan beyanları ile ölçüm sonuçlarının birlikte değerlendirilmesi sağlanmıştır. İşyerlerinin gürültü ölçüm sonuçlarının ve çalışan beyanlarının değerlendirmesini kolaylaştırmak adına benzer büyüklükteki işyerleri gruplandırılmıştır. Böylece işyerleri büyük, orta, küçük ve mikro sınıf olmak üzere dört farklı kategoriye bölünmüş ve yapılan değerlendirmeler bu sınıflandırma kapsamında gerçekleşmiştir. Yapılan çalışmada; kaynak işi ve metal sektöründe ortaya çıkan gürültü maruziyetinin nedenleri ve düzeyleri, bu maruziyetin azaltılması ve önlenmesine yönelik tedbirler, ölçümlerin yapılış yöntemleri, ölçümlerin öncesi, sırası ve sonrasında ortaya çıkan durumlar ile ölçüm sonuçları ve bu sonuçların genel değerlendirmesi ortaya konulmuştur.
Design and development of appropriate desk and chair for secondary schools in Ondo State, Nigeria using anthropometric variables
Authors: OWOYEMİ Jacob Mayowa , ALİYU Dauda , AKİNNUOYE Adetunji
Published: June 2023

Furniture provision is a major component of teaching and learning facilities in schools which is usually done without considering the body measurements of users leading to discomfort for the users. A survey of anthropometric measurements of secondary school students in Ondo State of Nigeria was carried out alongside the size of existing chairs and desks in order to determine the level of mismatch. Obtained data were analyzed and the population of students was grouped into 5th, 25th, 50th, 75th, and 95th percentiles. In Ondo State, Bio-characteristics of the students showed that the average age of students from JSS 1-SSS 3 increased from 10 years for JSS 1 to 16 for SSS3 which conformed with the entry and exit age requirement. Ergonomically compliant furniture was designed with adjustable features using 36.25 cm as the lower limit point and with the upper limit of 46.85 cm for seat height while lower limit was 54.46 cm for desk and upper limit having 67.60 cm. With these measurements, a typical desk and chair was produced by using round pipe and laminated board. Selection of non-adjustable furniture is both impracticable and unsuitable for a large of people; hence provision of adjustable compliant furniture was preferred to accommodate the entire population.
Karakteristik Ibu Hamil dengan Kejadian Ketuban Pecah Dini (KPD) dI RSIA Husada Bunda Tahun 2021
Authors: Hastuty Milda , Lubis Dumasari , Riani Riani , Hardianti Sri
Published: June 2023

Maternal and perinatal mortality rates remain high worldwide with up to 99% of maternal deaths due to problems in labour or the postpartum period. Maternal mortality in developing countries is highest at 450/100,000 births, compared to developed countries. Premature rupture of membranes is defined as rupture of membranes before the date of birth. It can occur late in pregnancy or before delivery. Under normal circumstances, 8-10% of pregnant women experience premature rupture of membranes. The purpose of this study was to determine the characteristics of pregnant women with the incidence of KPD at Husada Bunda Hospital in 2021. This type of research is descriptive analytic with a cross sectional study design carried out on pregnant women at RSIA Husada Bunda. A total of 126 respondents of the age of pregnant women who were not at risk were 26 respondents experiencing BPH, 118 respondents who were not anaemic in pregnant women were 24 respondents experiencing BPH and 204 respondents of parity who were not at risk were 42 respondents experiencing BPH. Based on the results of the study it can be concluded that there is an incidence of KPD at Husada Bunda Hospital which occurs KPD is 46 people (20.6%). It is hoped that health workers can provide knowledge about KPD to pregnant women when mothers do ANC and mothers know the characteristics of KPD so that KPD does not occur.
Hubungan Antara Pengetahuan Dengan Persepsi Ibu Hamil Tentang Vaksin Covid-19
Authors: Sari Inda Permata , Mbuik Yuniarti , Ferdinandus Euvanggelia Dwilda
Published: June 2023

Pregnancy with Covid-19 increases the risk of maternal morbidity. Covid-19 vaccination in pregnant women as an effort to reduce the transmission of Covid-19 in pregnancy. The low Covid-19 vaccination achievement of 38 out of 1,150 pregnant women coverage can be influenced by the perception of pregnant women. This study aims to determine the relationship between the level of knowledge and perceptions of pregnant women about the Covid-19 vaccine. Cross sectional design, purposive sampling technique with 169 pregnant women as respondents. Univariate data analysis in frequency distribution and bivariate analysis of chi-square test. The results showed the characteristics of pregnant women Respondents were 134 pregnant women (79.3%) aged 20-35 years, 52 pregnant women (30.8%) with less knowledge about the Covid-19 vaccine and 65 pregnant women (38.5%). ) has a negative perception. The test results obtained p-value = 0.000 (p <0.05), there is a relationship between the level of knowledge and the perception of pregnant women about the Covid-19 vaccine. The level of knowledge of pregnant women is sufficient and the perception is positive at the Plaju Palembang Health Center, but there are still some who have a negative perception. It is recommended to increase the knowledge of pregnant women with education about the Covid-19 vaccine in pregnancy through pregnant women involving their husbands and families to vaccinate Covid-19 without hesitation.
Stabilitas Vitamin D3 pada Dadih (Susu Kerbau Fermentasi)
Authors: Ramdika Sari Bema , Afifah Diana Nur , Legowo Anang Mohamad , Muniroh Muflihatul , Nindita Yora , Mahati Endang
Published: June 2023

Vitamin D deficiency and inadequacy is a worldwide problem that can cause serious health problems. Vitamin D reduce the risk of osteoporosis, cancer, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease. Vitamin D is obtained from four sources such as sun exposure, food, supplements and fortification food. The research was conducted in October 2019. The purpose of this study was to see the stability of vitamin D3 in dadih during storage. The High Performance Liquid Chromatogaphy (HPLC) method was used to calculate vitamin D3 levels in fortified dadih. Quantification of vitamin D3 was done on day 0, day 3, day 9, day 16, day 23 and day 30. Statistical analysis showed that there was no significant difference in the level of vitamin D3 in dadih for 30 days of storage although there was a decrease in the level of vitamin D3 in dadih on the fourth week but it was not significantly (p> 0.05). In conclusion, Vitamin D3 in the dadih was stable for 30 days of storage although there was a decrease in vitamin D3 levels on the 16th and 30th days of storage due to the undetectable vitamin D3 in some samples. The addition of vitamin D3 to dadih is suggested using encapsulation techniques to increase solubility, longer shelf life, prevention of chemical degradation, better dispersibility, higher bioavailability and effectiveness.
Analisis Logam Berat pada Air Waduk Tunggu Pampang
Authors: Sugrani Andis , Malik Muh. Rivai , Fitriana Fitriana , Taufiq Nuramaniyah
Published: June 2023

Water pollution is the entry or inclusion of living things, substances, energy and or other components into the water by human activities, so that the quality of the water drops to a level that causes the water to not function according to its designation. The Waiting Pampang Reservoir is open and accessible to the general public including fishing activities. The consequences if the water in this reservoir contains heavy metals will also accumulate in marine biota (fish). If these fish are consumed, it will have an impact on human health. This study aims to determine heavy metals in the waiting reservoir water in the city of Makassar. Analysis of the metal content of Hg,Pb,Cu and Cd in the sample using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) calibration curve method. Before the samples were analyzed in SSA, sample preparation was carried out using the wet destruction method. The results of the analysis with SSA showed that the heavy metals in the sample had exceeded the threshold set by the 2011 Minister of Health, namely mercury (Hg) of 0.015, lead (Pb) of 0.08, copper (Cu) of 0.05 and cadmium (Cd) of 0. ,05. In conclusion, the water sample of the Waiting Pampang Reservoir has exceeded the maximum limit for heavy metal contamination in water that has been set by the government. It is recommended to add more sampling points to reservoir water.
Hubungan Konsumsi Sayur dan Buah dengan Kegemukan Remaja di Kota Padang
Authors: Yuniarti Elsyie
Published: June 2023

Less consumption of vegetables and fruit in adolescents causes obesity. Vegetables and fruit are sources of fiber, vitamins and minerals. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between vegetable and fruit consumption and obesity in adolescents in Padang City. This research is a quantitative research with an analytic type using an observational cross sectional study design. Data collection in June-August 2022 at four high schools in the city of Padang with a total sample of 240 respondents. The sampling technique is multi-stage random sampling. Analysis using the chi square test. The results showed that there was no significant relationship between vegetable consumption habits and obesity in adolescents with a value of p=0.273, there was a relationship between the portion of vegetable consumption and obesity in adolescents with a value of p=0.000, there was no relationship between fruit consumption habits and obesity in adolescents with p = 0.121, there is a relationship between fruit consumption and obesity in adolescents with p = 0.049. Conclusion: The prevalence of obesity in adolescents in Padang City is 19.6%, more than 50% of adolescents have a habit and portion of consuming vegetables and fruit that is still lacking. It is recommended that adolescents have the habit of consuming vegetables and fruit as recommended, namely ≥3 servings/day (≥250 gr/day) of vegetables and ≥3 servings/day (≥150 gr/day) of fruit.
Uji Kinerja Turbin Crossflow Skala Laboratorium Sebagai Pembangkit Listrik
Authors: Jayanegara Sudarmanto
Published: June 2023

The increase in electricity consumption goes hand in hand with the growth of population and industry. Sustainable power plants such as turbines are one option. Turbines and generators are the main components as well as the availability of sufficient water discharge to turn the turbine so that it can be forwarded to the generator. This research was conducted in order to test the performance of a turbine laboratory scale that has been designed. The output power generated in the crossflow turbine is 12.5 Watt to 287.906 Watt for a load of 100 Watt and a variable guide blade with a static head of 0.25 kg/cm
Lumbar and pelvis movement comparison between cross-court and long-line topspin forehand in table tennis: based on musculoskeletal model
Authors: He Yuqi , Liang Minjun , Fang Yufei , Fekete Gusztáv , Baker Julien S. , Gu Yaodong
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Cross-court and the long-line topspin forehand is the common and basic stroke skill in table tennis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences in lumbar and pelvis movements between cross-court and long-line topspin forehand strokes in table tennis based on musculoskeletal demands using OpenSim.

Materials and Methods: The eight-camera Vicon system and Kistler force platform were used to measure kinematics and kinetics in the lumbar and pelvis movement of sixteen participants (Weight: 69.89 ± 1.58 kg; Height: 1.73 ± 0.03 m; Age: 22.89 ± 2.03 years; BMI: 23.45 ± 0.69 kg/m2; Experience: 8.33 ± 0.71 years) during cross-court and long-line topspin forehand play. The data was imputed into OpenSim providing the establishment of the Giat2392 musculoskeletal model for simulation. One-dimensional statistical parametric mapping and independent samples t-test was performed in MATLAB and SPSS to analyze the kinematics and kinetics.

Results: The results show that the range of motion, peak moment, and maximum angle of the lumbar and pelvis movement in cross-court play were significantly higher than in the long-line stroke play. The moment of long-line in the sagittal and frontal plane was significantly higher than cross-court play in the early stroke phase.

Conclusion: The lumbar and pelvis embody greater weight transfer and greater energy production mechanisms when players performed cross-court compared to long-line topspin forehand. Beginners could enhance their motor control strategies in forehand topspin skills and master this skill more easily based on the results of this study.
Antibody screening reveals antigenic proteins involved in Talaromyces marneffei and human interaction
Authors: Wangsanut Tanaporn , Amsri Artid , Pongpom Monsicha
Published: June 2023

Talaromycosis is a fungal infection that generally affects immunocompromised hosts and is one of the most frequent systemic mycoses in HIV patients, especially in endemic areas such as Southeast Asia. Talaromyces marneffei, the causative agent of talaromycosis, grows as a mold in the environment but adapts to the human body and host niches by transitioning from conidia to yeast-like cells. Knowledge of the human host and T. marneffei interaction has a direct impact on the diagnosis, yet studies are still lacking. The morbidity and mortality rates are high in taloromycosis patients if the diagnosis and treatments are delayed. Immunogenic proteins are excellent candidates for developing detection tools. Previously, we identified antigenic proteins that were recognized by antibodies from talaromycosis sera. Three of these identified proteins have been previously characterized in detail, while the others have not been explored. To expedite the progress of antigen discovery, the complete list of antigenic proteins and their features was fully reported in this study. Functional annotation and Gene Ontology examination revealed that these proteins showed a high association with membrane trafficking. Further bioinformatics analyses were performed to search for antigenic protein characteristics, including functional domains, critical residues, subcellular localization, secretory signals, and epitope peptide sequences. Expression profiling of these antigenic encoding genes was investigated using quantitative real-time PCR. The results demonstrated that most genes were expressed at low levels in the mold form, but were highly upregulated in the pathogenic yeast phase, consistent with the antigenic role of these genes during the human-host interaction. Most transcripts accumulated in the conidia, suggesting a role during phase transition. The collection of all antigen-encoding DNA sequences described here is freely accessible at GenBank, which could be useful for the research community to develop into biomarkers, diagnostic tests, research detection tools, and even vaccines.
Peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase Pin1 interacts with hepatitis B virus core particle, but not with HBc protein, to promote HBV replication
Authors: Kwon Hyeonjoong , Kim Jumi , Song Chanho , Sajjad Muhammad Azhar , Ha Jiseon , Jung Jaesung , Park Sun , Shin Ho-Joon , Kim Kyongmin
Published: June 2023

Here, we demonstrate that the peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase Pin1 interacts noncovalently with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) core particle through phosphorylated serine/threonine-proline (pS/TP) motifs in the carboxyl-terminal domain (CTD) but not with particle-defective, dimer-positive mutants of HBc. This suggests that neither dimers nor monomers of HBc are Pin1-binding partners. The 162TP, 164SP, and 172SP motifs within the HBc CTD are important for the Pin1/core particle interaction. Although Pin1 dissociated from core particle upon heat treatment, it was detected as an opened-up core particle, demonstrating that Pin1 binds both to the outside and the inside of the core particle. Although the amino-terminal domain S/TP motifs of HBc are not involved in the interaction, 49SP contributes to core particle stability, and 128TP might be involved in core particle assembly, as shown by the decreased core particle level of S49A mutant through repeated freeze and thaw and low-level assembly of the T128A mutant, respectively. Overexpression of Pin1 increased core particle stability through their interactions, HBV DNA synthesis, and virion secretion without concomitant increases in HBV RNA levels, indicating that Pin1 may be involved in core particle assembly and maturation, thereby promoting the later stages of the HBV life cycle. By contrast, parvulin inhibitors and PIN1 knockdown reduced HBV replication. Since more Pin1 proteins bound to immature core particles than to mature core particles, the interaction appears to depend on the stage of virus replication. Taken together, the data suggest that physical association between Pin1 and phosphorylated core particles may induce structural alterations through isomerization by Pin1, induce dephosphorylation by unidentified host phosphatases, and promote completion of virus life cycle.
Diffusible signal factor primes plant immunity against Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc) via JA signaling in Arabidopsis and Brassica oleracea
Authors: Zhao Qian , Liu Fang , Song Cong , Zhai Tingting , He Ziwei , Ma Limei , Zhao Xuemeng , Jia Zhenhua , Song Shuishan
Published: June 2023

Background

Many Gram-negative bacteria use quorum sensing (QS) signal molecules to monitor their local population density and to coordinate their collective behaviors. The diffusible signal factor (DSF) family represents an intriguing type of QS signal to mediate intraspecies and interspecies communication. Recently, accumulating evidence demonstrates the role of DSF in mediating inter-kingdom communication between DSF-producing bacteria and plants. However, the regulatory mechanism of DSF during the Xanthomonas-plant interactions remain unclear.

Methods

Plants were pretreated with different concentration of DSF and subsequent inoculated with pathogen Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc). Pathogenicity, phynotypic analysis, transcriptome combined with metabolome analysis, genetic analysis and gene expression analysis were used to evaluate the priming effects of DSF on plant disease resistance.

Results

We found that the low concentration of DSF could prime plant immunity against Xcc in both Brassica oleracea and Arabidopsis thaliana. Pretreatment with DSF and subsequent pathogen invasion triggered an augmented burst of ROS by DCFH-DA and DAB staining. CAT application could attenuate the level of ROS induced by DSF. The expression of RBOHD and RBOHF were up-regulated and the activities of antioxidases POD increased after DSF treatment followed by Xcc inoculation. Transcriptome combined with metabolome analysis showed that plant hormone jasmonic acid (JA) signaling involved in DSF-primed resistance to Xcc in Arabidopsis. The expression of JA synthesis genes (AOC2, AOS, LOX2, OPR3 and JAR1), transportor gene (JAT1), regulator genes (JAZ1 and MYC2) and responsive genes (VSP2, PDF1.2 and Thi2.1) were up-regulated significantly by DSF upon Xcc challenge. The primed effects were not observed in JA relevant mutant coi1-1 and jar1-1.

Conclusion

These results indicated that DSF-primed resistance against Xcc was dependent on the JA pathway. Our findings advanced the understanding of QS signal-mediated communication and provide a new strategy for the control of black rot in Brassica oleracea.
The arc-scale spatial distribution of volcano erosion implies coupled magmatism and regional climate in the Cascades arc, United States
Authors: O’Hara D. , Karlstrom L.
Published: June 2023

The morphology and distribution of volcanic edifices in volcanic terrains encodes the structure and evolution of underlying magma transport as well as surface processes that shape landforms. How magmatic construction and erosion interact on long timescales to sculpt these landscapes, however, remains poorly resolved. In the Cascades arc, distributed volcanic edifices mirror long-wavelength topography associated with underlying crustal magmatism and define the regional drainage divide. The resulting strong along- and across-arc modern precipitation gradients and extensive glaciation provide a natural laboratory for climate-volcano interactions. Here, we use 1,658 volcanic edifice boundaries to quantify volcano morphology at the arc-scale, and reconstruct primary edifice volumes to create first-order estimations of Cascades erosion throughout the Quaternary. Across-arc asymmetry in eroded volumes, mirroring similarly asymmetric spatial distribution of volcanism, suggests a coupling between magmatism and climate in which construction of topography enhances erosion by orographic precipitation and glaciers on million-year timescales. We demonstrate with a coupled landscape evolution and crustal stress model that mountain building associated with magmatism and subsequent orographically-induced erosion can redistribute surface loads and direct subsequent time-averaged magma ascent. This two-way coupling can thus contribute to Myr-scale spatial migration of volcanism observed in the Cascades and other arcs globally.
Structural insights into the HNF4 biology
Authors: Beinsteiner Brice , Billas Isabelle M. L. , Moras Dino
Published: June 2023

Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 4 (HNF4) is a transcription factor (TF) belonging to the nuclear receptor (NR) family that is expressed in liver, kidney, intestine and pancreas. It is a master regulator of liver-specific gene expression, in particular those genes involved in lipid transport and glucose metabolism and is crucial for the cellular differentiation during development. Dysregulation of HNF4 is linked to human diseases, such as type I diabetes (MODY1) and hemophilia. Here, we review the structures of the isolated HNF4 DNA binding domain (DBD) and ligand binding domain (LBD) and that of the multidomain receptor and compare them with the structures of other NRs. We will further discuss the biology of the HNF4α receptors from a structural perspective, in particular the effect of pathological mutations and of functionally critical post-translational modifications on the structure-function of the receptor.
Obesity and PCOS radically alters the snRNA composition of follicular fluid extracellular vesicles
Authors: Wyse Brandon A. , Salehi Reza , Russell Stewart J. , Sangaralingam Mugundhine , Jahangiri Sahar , Tsang Benjamin K. , Librach Clifford L.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The ovarian follicle consists of the oocyte, somatic cells, and follicular fluid (FF). Proper signalling between these compartments is required for optimal folliculogenesis. The association between polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and extracellular vesicular small non-coding RNAs (snRNAs) signatures in follicular fluid (FF) and how this relates to adiposity is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine whether FF extracellular vesicle (FFEV)-derived snRNAs are differentially expressed (DE) between PCOS and non-PCOS subjects; and if these differences are vesicle-specific and/or adiposity-dependent.

Methods

FF and granulosa cells (GC) were collected from 35 patients matched by demographic and stimulation parameters. FFEVs were isolated and snRNA libraries were constructed, sequenced, and analyzed.

Results

miRNAs were the most abundant biotype present, with specific enrichment in exosomes (EX), whereas in GCs long non-coding RNAs were the most abundant biotype. In obese PCOS vs. lean PCOS, pathway analysis revealed target genes involved in cell survival and apoptosis, leukocyte differentiation and migration, JAK/STAT, and MAPK signalling. In obese PCOS FFEVs were selectively enriched (FFEVs vs. GCs) for miRNAs targeting p53 signalling, cell survival and apoptosis, FOXO, Hippo, TNF, and MAPK signalling.

Discussion

We provide comprehensive profiling of snRNAs in FFEVs and GCs of PCOS and non-PCOS patients, highlighting the effect of adiposity on these findings. We hypothesize that the selective packaging and release of miRNAs specifically targeting anti-apoptotic genes into the FF may be an attempt by the follicle to reduce the apoptotic pressure of the GCs and stave off premature apoptosis of the follicle observed in PCOS.
Assessing the impact of deficit irrigation strategies on agronomic and productive parameters of Menara olive cultivar: implications for operational water management
Authors: Ibba Khaoula , Kassout Jalal , Boselli Vladimiro , Er-Raki Salah , Oulbi Sara , Mansouri Loubna El , Bouizgaren Abdelaziz , Sikaoui Lhassane , Hadria Rachid
Published: June 2023

The olive tree is an iconic tree in the Mediterranean region, traditionally cultivated under rainfed conditions; however, olive cultivars are also found outside the Mediterranean region and are widely used for oil and olive production. However, with the increasing aridity and global changes, olive agroecosystems are facing sustainability challenges. This study aims to evaluate the effect of two deficit irrigation strategies on the agronomic and productive parameters of the Menara, olive cultivar as a tool for operational irrigation water management. For this purpose, an experiment was conducted on an olive orchard for two consecutive years (2021 and 2022), comparing four regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) treatments and two sustained deficit irrigation (SDI) treatments, with fully irrigated trees. The results showed that moderate and controlled water stress under RDI did not significantly affect the yield of the Menara olive cultivar. In addition, by reducing plant water requirement by 20% during sensitive periods and by 40% during normal periods, under RDI, it is possible to save between 25% and 30% of irrigation water and to increase water productivity by 5%–20% with a slight decrease in fruit yield ranging between 10% and 15%. However, the trees subjected to the sustained deficit irrigation strategy exhibited a reduced capacity for shoot growth compared to those under RDI and fully irrigated conditions. Our findings showed that water deprivation during sensitive periods reduced phenological traits and slowed down shoot growth. Furthermore, the water status of the trees was reflected in fruit volume, as a decrease in water supply resulted in a corresponding reduction in fruit volume. Although the study provides important insights into water management strategies for olive cultivation, the short observation period does not allow for long-term plant adaptation evaluation and productivity beyond 2 years. Therefore, it is recommended that future studies extend the observation period to better understand plant adaptation to irrigation regimes.
Assessing uncertainty in genomic offset forecasts from landscape genomic models (and implications for restoration and assisted migration)
Authors: Lachmuth Susanne , Capblancq Thibaut , Keller Stephen R. , Fitzpatrick Matthew C.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Ecological genomic models are increasingly used to guide climate-conscious restoration and conservation practices in the light of accelerating environmental change. Genomic offsets that quantify the disruption of existing genotype–environment associations under environmental change are a promising model-based tool to inform such measures. With recent advances, potential applications of genomic offset predictions include but are not restricted to: (1) assessing in situ climate risks, (2) mapping future habitat suitability while accounting for local adaptations, or (3) selecting donor populations and recipient areas that maximize genomic diversity and minimize maladaptation to future environments in assisted migration planning. As for any model-based approach, it is crucial to understand how arbitrary decisions made during the modeling process affect predictions and induce uncertainty.

Methods

Here, we present a sensitivity analysis of how various modeling components influence forecasts of genomic offset-based metrics, using red spruce (Picea rubens), a cool-temperate tree species endemic to eastern North America, as a case study. We assess the effects of genomic marker set, climatic predictor set, climate change scenario, and “not-to-exceed” offset threshold and evaluate how uncertainty in predictions varies across space.

Results

Climate change scenario induced by far the largest uncertainty to our forecasts; however, the choice of predictor set was also important in regions of the Southern and Central Appalachians that are of high relevance for conservation and restoration efforts. While much effort is often expended in identifying candidate loci, we found that genomic marker set was of minor importance. The choice of a maximum offset threshold to limit transfers between potential donor and recipient locations in assisted migration programs has mostly affected the magnitude rather than geographic variation in our predictions.

Discussion

Overall, our model forecasts suggest high climate change risks across the entire distributional range of red spruce and strongly underscore the potential for assisted migration to help ameliorate these risks. In that regard, populations in the Southern and Central Appalachians as well as along the US and Canadian east coast seem the best candidates for both in situ conservation and relocation.
Environmental filtering, spatial processes and biotic interactions jointly shape different traits communities of stream macroinvertebrates
Authors: Liu Guohao , Lin Zongwei , Qi Xinxin , Wang Yixia , Wang Yaochun , Jiang Wanxiang , He Fengzhi , Wu Naicheng
Published: June 2023

The metacommunity concept has been widely used to explain the biodiversity patterns at various scales. It considers the influences of both local (e.g., environmental filtering and biotic interactions) and regional processes (e.g., dispersal limitation) in shaping community structures. Compared to environmental filtering and spatial processes, the influence of biotic interactions on biodiversity patterns in streams has received limited attention. We investigated the relative importance of three ecological processes, namely environmental filtering (including local environmental and geo-climatic factors), spatial processes and biotic interactions (represented by interactions of macroinvertebrates and diatom), in shaping different traits of macroinvertebrate communities in subtropical streams, Eastern China. We applied variance partitioning to uncover the pure and shared effects of different ecological processes in explaining community variation. The results showed that environmental filtering, spatial processes, and biotic interactions jointly determined taxonomic and trait compositions of stream macroinvertebrates. Spatial processes showed a stronger influence in shaping stream macroinvertebrate communities than environmental filtering. The contribution of biotic interactions to explain variables was, albeit significant, rather small, which was likely a result of insufficient representation (by diatom traits) of trophic interactions associated with macroinvertebrates. Moreover, the impact of three ecological processes on macroinvertebrate communities depends on different traits, especially in terms of environmental filtering and spatial processes. For example, spatial processes and environmental filtering have the strongest effect on strong dispersal ability groups; spatial processes have a greater effect on scrapers than other functional feeding groups. Overall, our results showed that the integration of metacommunity theory and functional traits provides a valuable framework for understanding the drivers of community structuring in streams, which will facilitate the development of effective bioassessment and management strategies.
Major depressive disorder plays a vital role in the pathway from gastroesophageal reflux disease to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zou Menglong , Zhang Wei , Shen Lele , Xu Yin , Zhu Ying
Published: June 2023

Background: Observational studies have shown a bidirectional association between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), but it is not clear whether this association is causal. In our previous study, we found that depression was a hot topic of research in the association between COPD and GERD. Is major depressive disorder (MDD) a mediator of the association between COPD and GERD? Here, we evaluated the causal association between COPD, MDD, and GERD using Mendelian randomization (MR) study.

Methods: Based on the FinnGen, United Kingdom Biobank, and Psychiatric Genomics Consortium (PGC) databases, we obtained genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics for the three phenotypes from 315,123 European participants (22,867 GERD cases and 292,256 controls), 462,933 European participants (1,605 COPD cases and 461,328 controls), and 173,005 European participants (59,851 MDD cases and 113,154 controls), respectively. To obtain more instrumental variables to reduce bias, we extracted relevant single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for the three phenotypes from published meta-analysis studies. Bidirectional MR and expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL)-MR were performed using the inverse variance weighting method to assess the causal association between GERD, MDD, and COPD.

Results: There was no evidence of a causal effect between GERD and COPD in the bidirectional MR analysis [forward MR for GERD on COPD: odds ratios (OR) = 1.001, p = 0.270; reverse MR for COPD on GERD: OR = 1.021, p = 0.303]. The causal effect between GERD and MDD appeared to be bidirectional (forward MR for GERD on MDD: OR = 1.309, p = 0.006; reverse MR for MDD on GERD: OR = 1.530, p < 0.001), while the causal effect between MDD and COPD was unidirectional (forward MR for MDD on COPD: OR = 1.004, p < 0.001; reverse MR for COPD on MDD: OR = 1.002, p = 0.925). MDD mediated the effect of GERD on COPD in a unidirectional manner (OR = 1.001). The results of the eQTL-MR were consistent with those of the bidirectional MR.

Conclusion: MDD appears to play a vital role in the effect of GERD on COPD. However, we have no evidence of a direct causal association between GERD and COPD. There is a bidirectional causal association between MDD and GERD, which may accelerate the progression from GERD to COPD.
Triple sexually transmitted infections among pregnant woman in the context of Elimination of mother to child transmission in Southern Ethiopia: Reports from a survey of questionnaires and laboratory studies.
Authors: Israel Eskinder , Hizkel Iskindir , Geta Temesgen , Feleke Tihun , Samuel Beniyam , Markos Desta
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cause a wide range of public health problems if left untreated. They can lead to adverse birth outcomes, including stillbirth, fetal loss, neonatal death, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Although great efforts have been made to reduce STIs nationally, their incidence remains high in Ethiopia, and their co-infection calls for urgent action. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the determinants of three STIs among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) in the context of the elimination of mother-to-child transmission in public health facilities in Sawla Town, Gofa zone, Southern Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study design was conducted among pregnant women attending antenatal care in public health facilities in Sawla Town, Southern Ethiopia, from May to July 2022. Data were collected from pregnant women’s serum using an HIV rapid test, an HBsAg rapid test device, and a VDRL for HIV, HBV, and syphilis, respectively. Descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and percentages, were used to describe each relevant variable. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify the determinants of STIs.

Results

A total of 484 pregnant women attending antenatal care were screened. The mean age of the women was 24.0 ± 4.6 years, and nearly half of the participants had completed secondary school or higher. The overall seroprevalence of three STIs (HIV, HBV, and syphilis) among pregnant women was 6.8%. These three sexually transmitted infections were shown to be more common among pregnant women who were not able to read and write, had tattoos, had previously had an abortion, and had a history of multiple sexual partners.

Conclusions

The seroprevalence found in this study was intermediate in comparison with the WHO standard. Efforts should be made to strengthen the existing health education and RH service integration on STI screening, and treatment that further eliminates vertical infection.
Safety and efficacy of dendritic cell vaccine for COVID-19 prevention after 1-Year follow-up: phase I and II clinical trial final result
Authors: Jonny Jonny , Putranto Terawan Agus , Yana Martina Lily , Sitepu Enda Cindylosa , Irfon Raoulian , Ramadhani Bunga Pinandhita , Sofro Muchlis Achsan Udji , Nency Yetty Movieta , Lestari Endang Sri , Triwardhani Ria , Mujahidah  , Sari Retty Karisma , Soetojo Nur Alaydrus
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Interim analysis of phase I and phase II clinical trials of personalized vaccines made from autologous monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) incubated with S-protein of SARS-CoV-2 show that this vaccine is safe and well tolerated. Our previous report also indicates that this vaccine can induce specific T-cell and B cell responses against SARS-CoV-2. Herein, we report the final analysis after 1 year of follow-up regarding its safety and efficacy in subjects of phase I and phase II clinical trials.

Methods

Adult subjects (>18 years old) were given autologous DCs derived from peripheral blood monocytes, which were incubated with the S-protein of SARS-CoV-2. The primary outcome is safety in phase I clinical trials. Meanwhile, optimal antigen dosage is determined in phase II clinical trials. Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and Non-COVID-19 adverse events (AEs) were observed for 1 year.

Results

A total of 28 subjects in the phase I clinical trial were randomly assigned to nine groups based on antigen and Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony Stimulating Factor (GM-CSF) dosage. In the phase II clinical trial, 145 subjects were randomly grouped into three groups based on antigen dosage. During the 1-year follow-up period, 35.71% of subjects in phase I and 16.54% in phase II had non-COVID AEs. No subjects in phase I experienced moderate–severe COVID-19. Meanwhile, 4.31% of subjects in phase II had moderate–severe COVID-19. There is no difference in both COVID and non-COVID-19 AEs between groups.

Conclusions

After 1 year of follow-up, this vaccine is proven safe and effective for preventing COVID-19. A phase III clinical trial involving more subjects should be conducted to establish its efficacy and see other possible side effects.
Genomic landscape and expression profile of consensus molecular subtype four of colorectal cancer
Authors: Lu Yujie , Gu Dingyi , Zhao Chenyi , Sun Ying , Li Wenjing , He Lulu , Wang Xiaoyan , Kou Zhongyang , Su Jiang , Guo Feng
Published: June 2023

Background

Compared to other subtypes, the CMS4 subtype is associated with lacking of effective treatments and poorer survival rates.

Methods

A total of 24 patients with CRC were included in this study. DNA and RNA sequencing were performed to acquire somatic mutations and gene expression, respectively. MATH was used to quantify intratumoral heterogeneity. PPI and survival analyses were performed to identify hub DEGs. Reactome and KEGG analyses were performed to analyze the pathways of mutated or DEGs. Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis and Xcell were used to categorize the infiltration of immune cells.

Results

The CMS4 patients had a poorer PFS than CMS2/3. CTNNB1 and CCNE1 were common mutated genes in the CMS4 subtype, which were enriched in Wnt and cell cycle signaling pathways, respectively. The MATH score of CMS4 subtype was lower. SLC17A6 was a hub DEG. M2 macrophages were more infiltrated in the tumor microenvironment of CMS4 subtype. The CMS4 subtype tended to have an immunosuppressive microenvironment.

Conclusion

This study suggested new perspectives for exploring therapeutic strategies for the CMS4 subtype CRC.
An updated review of gastrointestinal toxicity induced by PD-1 inhibitors: from mechanisms to management
Authors: Cheng Yiyu , Ling Fangmei , Li Junrong , Chen Yidong , Xu Mingyang , Li Shuang , Zhu Liangru
Published: June 2023

PD-1 inhibitors, as one of commonly used immune checkpoint inhibitors, enable T-cell activation and prevent immune escape by blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway. They have transformed the treatment landscape for cancer in recent years, due to the advantages of significantly prolonging patients’ survival and improving their life quality. However, the ensuing unpredictable immune-related adverse effects (irAEs) plague clinicians, such as colitis and even potentially fatal events like intestinal perforation and obstruction. Therefore, understanding the clinical manifestations and grading criteria, underlying mechanisms, available diverse therapies, accessible biomarkers, and basis for risk stratification is of great importance for the management. Current evidence suggests that irAEs may be a marker of clinical benefit to immunotherapy in patients, so whether to discontinue PD-1 inhibitors after the onset of irAEs and rechallenge after remission of irAEs requires further evaluation of potential risk-reward ratios as well as more data from large-scale prospective studies to fully validate. At the end, the rare gastrointestinal toxicity events caused by PD-1 inhibitors are also sorted out. This review provides a summary of available data on the gastrointestinal toxicity profile caused by PD-1 inhibitors, with the aim of raising clinicians’ awareness in daily practice, so that patients can safely benefit from therapy.
Integrating machine learning algorithms to systematically assess reactive oxygen species levels to aid prognosis and novel treatments for triple -negative breast cancer patients
Authors: Li Juan , Liang Yu , Zhao Xiaochen , Wu Chihua
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Breast cancer has become one of the top health concerns for women, and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) leads to treatment resistance and poor prognosis due to its high degree of heterogeneity and malignancy. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been found to play a dual role in tumors, and modulating ROS levels may provide new insights into prognosis and tumor treatment.

Methods

This study attempted to establish a robust and valid ROS signature (ROSig) to aid in assessing ROS levels. The driver ROS prognostic indicators were searched based on univariate Cox regression. A well-established pipeline integrating 9 machine learning algorithms was used to generate the ROSig. Subsequently, the heterogeneity of different ROSig levels was resolved in terms of cellular communication crosstalk, biological pathways, immune microenvironment, genomic variation, and response to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. In addition, the effect of the core ROS regulator HSF1 on TNBC cell proliferation was detected by cell counting kit-8 and transwell assays.

Results

A total of 24 prognostic ROS indicators were detected. A combination of the Coxboost+ Survival Support Vector Machine (survival-SVM) algorithm was chosen to generate ROSig. ROSig proved to be the superior risk predictor for TNBC. Cellular assays show that knockdown of HSF1 can reduce the proliferation and invasion of TNBC cells. The individual risk stratification based on ROSig showed good predictive accuracy. High ROSig was identified to be associated with higher cell replication activity, stronger tumor heterogeneity, and an immunosuppressive microenvironment. In contrast, low ROSig indicated a more abundant cellular matrix and more active immune signaling. Low ROSig has a higher tumor mutation load and copy number load. Finally, we found that low ROSig patients were more sensitive to doxorubicin and immunotherapy.

Conclusion

In this study, we developed a robust and effective ROSig model that can be used as a reliable indicator for prognosis and treatment decisions in TNBC patients. This ROSig also allows a simple assessment of TNBC heterogeneity in terms of biological function, immune microenvironment, and genomic variation.