bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Rationale for the Dual-Targeting Therapy for RSK2 and AKT in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Isa Reiko , Horinaka Mano , Tsukamoto Taku , Mizuhara Kentaro , Fujibayashi Yuto , Taminishi-Katsuragawa Yoko , Okamoto Haruya , Yasuda Shusuke , Kawaji-Kanayama Yuka , Matsumura-Kimoto Yayoi , Mizutani Shinsuke , Shimura Yuji , Taniwaki Masafumi , Sakai Toshiyuki , Kuroda Junya
Published: March 2022

Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterized by remarkable cytogenetic/molecular heterogeneity among patients and intraclonal diversity even in a single patient. We previously demonstrated that PDPK1, the master kinase of series of AGC kinases, is universally active in MM, and plays pivotal roles in cell proliferation and cell survival of myeloma cells regardless of the profiles of cytogenetic and genetic abnormalities. This study investigated the therapeutic efficacy and mechanism of action of dual blockade of two major PDPK1 substrates, RSK2 and AKT, in MM. The combinatory treatment of BI-D1870, an inhibitor for N-terminal kinase domain (NTKD) of RSK2, and ipatasertib, an inhibitor for AKT, showed the additive to synergistic anti-tumor effect on human MM-derived cell lines (HMCLs) with active RSK2-NTKD and AKT, by enhancing apoptotic induction with BIM and BID activation. Moreover, the dual blockade of RSK2 and AKT exerted robust molecular effects on critical gene sets associated with myeloma pathophysiologies, such as those with MYC, mTOR, STK33, ribosomal biogenesis, or cell-extrinsic stimuli of soluble factors, in HMCLs. These results provide the biological and molecular rationales for the dual-targeting strategy for RSK2 and AKT, which may overcome the therapeutic difficulty due to cytogenetic/molecular heterogeneity in MM.
Genome-Wide Identification, Characterization, and Expression Profiling of AP2/ERF Superfamily Genes under Different Development and Abiotic Stress Conditions in Pecan (Carya illinoinensis)
Authors: Yang Bingbing , Yao Xiaohua , Zeng Yanru , Zhang Chengcai
Published: March 2022

The ethylene-responsive element (AP2/ERF) is one of the keys and conserved transcription factors (TFs) in plants that play a vital role in regulating plant growth, development, and stress response. A total of 202 AP2/ERF genes were identified from the pecan genome and renamed according to the chromosomal distribution of the CiAP2/ERF genes. They were divided into four subfamilies according to the domain and phylogenetic analysis, including 26 AP2, 168 ERF, six RAV, and two Soloist gene family members. These genes were distributed randomly across the 16 chromosomes, and we found 19 tandem and 146 segmental duplications which arose from ancient duplication events. The gene structure and conserved motif analysis demonstrated the conserved nature of intron/exon organization and motifs among the AP2/ERF genes. Several cis-regulatory elements, which were related to light responsiveness, stress, and defense responses, were identified in the promoter regions of AP2/ERFs. The expression profiling of 202 CiAP2/ERF genes was assessed by using RNA-Seq data and qRT-PCR during development (pistillate flowering development, graft union development, and kernel development) and under abiotic stresses (waterlogging, drought). Moreover, the results suggested that the ERF-VII members may play a critical role in waterlogging stress. These findings provided new insights into AP2/ERF gene evolution and divergence in pecan and can be considered a valuable resource for further functional validation, as well as for utilization in a stress-resistance-variety development program.
Chemical Synthesis, Pharmacokinetic Properties and Biological Effects of JM-00266, a Putative Non-Brain Penetrant Cannabinoid Receptor 1 Inverse Agonist
Authors: Muller Tania , Demizieux Laurent , Troy-Fioramonti Stéphanie , Buch Chloé , Leemput Julia , Belloir Christine , Pais de Barros Jean-Paul , Jourdan Tony , Passilly-Degrace Patricia , Fioramonti Xavier , Le Bon Anne-Marie , Vergès Bruno , Robert Jean-Michel , Degrace Pascal
Published: March 2022

Targeting cannabinoid 1 receptors (CB1R) with peripherally restricted antagonists (or inverse agonists) shows promise to improve metabolic disorders associated with obesity. In this context, we designed and synthetized JM-00266, a new CB1R blocker with limited blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Pharmacokinetics were tested with SwissADME and in vivo in rodents after oral and intraperitoneal administration of JM-00266 in comparison with Rimonabant. In silico predictions indicated JM-00266 is a non-brain penetrant compound and this was confirmed by brain/plasma ratios and brain uptake index values. JM-00266 had no impact on food intake, anxiety-related behavior and body temperature suggesting an absence of central activity. cAMP assays performed in CB1R-transfected HEK293T/17 cells showed that the drug exhibited inverse agonist activity on CB1R. In addition, JM-00266 counteracted anandamide-induced gastroparesis indicating substantial peripheral activity. Acute administration of JM-00266 also improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in wild-type mice, but not in CB1R−/− mice. Furthermore, the accumulation of JM-00266 in adipose tissue was associated with an increase in lipolysis. In conclusion, JM-00266 or derivatives can be predicted as a new candidate for modulating peripheral endocannabinoid activity and improving obesity-related metabolic disorders.
Peptide Human Neutrophil Elastase Inhibitors from Natural Sources: An Overview
Authors: Marinaccio Lorenza , Stefanucci Azzurra , Scioli Giuseppe , Della Valle Alice , Zengin Gokhan , Cichelli Angelo , Mollica Adriano
Published: March 2022

Elastases are a broad group of enzymes involved in the lysis of elastin, the main component of elastic fibres. They are produced and released in the human body, mainly by neutrophils and the pancreas. The imbalance between elastase activity and its endogenous inhibitors can cause different illnesses due to their excessive activity. The main aim of this review is to provide an overview of the latest advancements on the identification, structures and mechanisms of action of peptide human neutrophil elastase inhibitors isolated from natural sources, such as plants, animals, fungi, bacteria and sponges. The discovery of new elastase inhibitors could have a great impact on the pharmaceutical development of novel drugs through the optimization of the natural lead compounds. Bacteria produce mainly cyclic peptides, while animals provide for long and linear amino acid sequences. Despite their diverse natural sources, these elastase inhibitors show remarkable IC50 values in a range from nM to μM values, thus representing an interesting starting point for the further development of potent bioactive compounds on human elastase enzymes.
MicroRNA-mRNA Regulatory Network Mediates Activation of mTOR and VEGF Signaling in African American Prostate Cancer
Authors: Gujrati Himali , Ha Siyoung , Mohamed Azah , Wang Bi-Dar
Published: March 2022

African American (AA) men exhibit 1.6-fold higher prostate cancer (PCa) incidence and 2.4-fold higher mortality rates compared to European American (EA) men. In addition to socioeconomic factors, emerging evidence suggests that intrinsic biological differences may explain part of PCa disparities. In this study, we applied microRNA (miRNA)-driven bioinformatics to evaluate whether differential miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks play a role in promoting the AA PCa disparities. 10 differentially expressed miRNAs were imported to mirPath V.3 algorithm, leading to identification of 58 signaling pathways differentially regulated in AA PCa versus EA PCa. Among these pathways, we particularly focused on mTOR and VEGF signaling, where we identified 5 reciprocal miRNA-mRNA pairings: miR-34a-5p/HIF1A, miR-34a-5p/PIK3CB, miR-34a-5p/IGFBP2, miR-99b-5p/MTOR and miR-96-5p/MAPKAPK2 in AA PCa versus EA PCa. RT-qPCR validation confirmed that miR-34a-5p, miR-99b-5p and MAPKAPK2 were downregulated, while miR-96-5p, IGFBP2, HIF1A, PIK3CB and MTOR were upregulated in AA PCa versus EA PCa cells. Transfection of miRNA mimics/antagomir followed by RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis further verified that IGFBP2, HIF1A and PIK3CB are negatively regulated by miR-34a-5p, whereas MTOR and MAPKAPK2 are negatively regulated by miR-99b-5p and miR-96-5p, respectively, at mRNA and protein levels. Targeting reciprocal pairings by miR-34a-5p mimic, miR-99b-5p mimic or miR-96-5p antagomir downregulates HIF1α, PI3Kβ, mTOR, IGFBP2 but upregulates MAPKAPK2, subsequently reducing cell proliferation and sensitizing docetaxel-induced cytotoxicity in PCa cells. These results suggest that miRNA-mRNA regulatory network plays a critical role in AA PCa disparities, and targeting these core miRNA-mRNA pairings may reduce PCa aggressiveness and overcome the chemoresistance in AA patients.
Structural and Computational Studies of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Binding Mechanisms with Nanobodies: From Structure and Dynamics to Avidity-Driven Nanobody Engineering
Authors: Verkhivker Gennady
Published: March 2022

Nanobodies provide important advantages over traditional antibodies, including their smaller size and robust biochemical properties such as high thermal stability, high solubility, and the ability to be bioengineered into novel multivalent, multi-specific, and high-affinity molecules, making them a class of emerging powerful therapies against SARS-CoV-2. Recent research efforts on the design, protein engineering, and structure-functional characterization of nanobodies and their binding with SARS-CoV-2 S proteins reflected a growing realization that nanobody combinations can exploit distinct binding epitopes and leverage the intrinsic plasticity of the conformational landscape for the SARS-CoV-2 S protein to produce efficient neutralizing and mutation resistant characteristics. Structural and computational studies have also been instrumental in quantifying the structure, dynamics, and energetics of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein binding with nanobodies. In this review, a comprehensive analysis of the current structural, biophysical, and computational biology investigations of SARS-CoV-2 S proteins and their complexes with distinct classes of nanobodies targeting different binding sites is presented. The analysis of computational studies is supplemented by an in-depth examination of mutational scanning simulations and identification of binding energy hotspots for distinct nanobody classes. The review is focused on the analysis of mechanisms underlying synergistic binding of multivalent nanobodies that can be superior to single nanobodies and conventional nanobody cocktails in combating escape mutations by effectively leveraging binding avidity and allosteric cooperativity. We discuss how structural insights and protein engineering approaches together with computational biology tools can aid in the rational design of synergistic combinations that exhibit superior binding and neutralization characteristics owing to avidity-mediated mechanisms.
Beneficial Effects of Dietary Nitrite on a Model of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Induced by High-Fat/High-Cholesterol Diets in SHRSP5/Dmcr Rats: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Sonoda Kunihiro , Kono Yuka , Kitamori Kazuya , Ohtake Kazuo , Shiba Sachiko , Kasono Keizo , Kobayashi Jun
Published: March 2022

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a chronic liver disease that leads to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Endothelial dysfunction caused by hepatic lipotoxicity is an underlying NASH pathology observed in the liver and the cardiovascular system. Here, we evaluated the effect of dietary nitrite on a rat NASH model. Stroke-prone, spontaneously hypertensive 5/Dmcr rats were fed a high-fat/high-cholesterol diet to develop the NASH model, with nitrite or captopril (100 mg/L, each) supplementation in drinking water for 8 weeks. The effects of nitrite and captopril were evaluated using immunohistochemical analyses of the liver and heart tissues. Dietary nitrite suppressed liver fibrosis in the rats by reducing oxidative stress, as measured using the protein levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase components and inflammatory cell accumulation in the liver. Nitrite lowered the blood pressure in hypertensive NASH rats and suppressed left ventricular chamber enlargement. Similar therapeutic effects were observed in a captopril-treated rat NASH model, suggesting the possibility of a common signaling pathway through which nitrite and captopril improve NASH pathology. In conclusion, dietary nitrite attenuates the development of NASH with cardiovascular involvement in rats and provides an alternative NASH therapeutic strategy.
Effect of Trehalose and Ceftriaxone on the Stability of Aggregating-Prone Tau Peptide Containing PHF6* Sequence: An SRCD Study
Authors: Honisch Claudia , Torni Federica , Hussain Rohanah , Ruzza Paolo , Siligardi Giuliano
Published: March 2022

The tau protein, a soluble protein associated with microtubules, which is involved in the assembly and stabilization of cytoskeletal elements, was found to form neurofibrillary tangles in different neurodegenerative diseases. Insoluble tau aggregates were observed to be organized in paired helical filaments (PHFs) and straight filaments (SFs). Recently, two small sequences (306–311 and 275–280) in the microtubule-binding region (MTBR), named PHF6 and PHF6*, respectively, were found to be essential for tau aggregation. Since a possible therapeutic approach consists of impairing amyloid formation either by stabilizing the native proteins or reducing the level of amyloid precursors, here we use synchrotron radiation circular dichroism (SRCD) at Diamond B23 beamline to evaluate the inhibitory effects of two small molecules, trehalose and ceftriaxone, against the aggregation of a small peptide containing the PHF6* sequence. Our results indicate that both these molecules, ceftriaxone and trehalose, increased the stability of the peptide toward aggregation, in particular that induced by heparin. With trehalose being present in many fruits, vegetables, algae and processed foods, these results support the need to investigate whether a diet richer in trehalose might exert a protective effect toward pathologies linked to protein misfolding.
Are the Main Methionine Sources Equivalent? A Focus on DL-Methionine and DL-Methionine Hydroxy Analog Reveals Differences on Rainbow Trout Hepatic Cell Lines Functions
Authors: Pinel Karine , Heraud Cécile , Morin Guillaume , Dias Karine , Marcé Annaëlle , Beauclair Linda , Fontagné-Dicharry Stéphanie , Masagounder Karthik , Klünemann Martina , Seiliez Iban , Beaumatin Florian
Published: March 2022

The replacement of fishmeal by plant proteins in aquafeeds imposes the use of synthetic methionine (MET) sources to balance the amino acid composition of alternative diets and so to meet the metabolic needs of fish of agronomic interest such as rainbow trout (RT-Oncorhynchus mykiss). Nonetheless, debates still exist to determine if one MET source is more efficiently used than another by fish. To address this question, the use of fish cell lines appeared a convenient strategy, since it allowed to perfectly control cell growing conditions notably by fully depleting MET from the media and studying which MET source is capable to restore cell growth/proliferation and metabolism when supplemented back. Thus, results of cell proliferation assays, Western blots, RT-qPCR and liquid chromatography analyses from two RT liver-derived cell lines revealed a better absorption and metabolization of DL-MET than DL-Methionine Hydroxy Analog (MHA) with the activation of the mechanistic Target Of Rapamycin (mTOR) pathway for DL-MET and the activation of integrated stress response (ISR) pathway for MHA. Altogether, the results clearly allow to conclude that both synthetic MET sources are not biologically equivalent, suggesting similar in vivo effects in RT liver and, therefore, questioning the MHA efficiencies in other RT tissues.
Serious Gaming for Behaviour Change: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hammady Ramy , Arnab Sylvester
Published: March 2022

Over the years, there has been a significant increase in the adoption of game-based interventions for behaviour change associated with many fields such as health, education, and psychology. This is due to the significance of the players’ intrinsic motivation that is naturally generated to play games and the substantial impact they can have on players. Many review papers measure the effectiveness of the use of gaming on changing behaviours; however, these studies neglect the game features involved in the game design process, which have an impact of stimulating behaviour change. Therefore, this paper aimed to identify game design mechanics and features that are reported to commonly influence behaviour change during and/or after the interventions. This paper identified key theories of behaviour change that inform the game design process, providing insights that can be adopted by game designers for informing considerations on the use of game features for moderating behaviour in their own games.
“Saving Precious Seconds”—A Novel Approach to Implementing a Low-Cost Earthquake Early Warning System with Node-Level Detection and Alert Generation
Authors: Prasanna Raj , Chandrakumar Chanthujan , Nandana Rasika , Holden Caroline , Punchihewa Amal , Becker Julia S. , Jeong Seokho , Liyanage Nandika , Ravishan Danuka , Sampath Rangana , Tan Marion Lara
Published: March 2022

This paper presents findings from ongoing research that explores the ability to use Micro-Electromechanical Systems (MEMS)-based technologies and various digital communication protocols for earthquake early warning (EEW). The paper proposes a step-by-step guide to developing a unique EEW network architecture driven by a Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN)-based hole-punching technology consisting of MEMS-based, low-cost accelerometers hosted by the general public. In contrast with most centralised cloud-based approaches, a node-level decentralised data-processing is used to generate warnings with the support of a modified Propagation of Local Undamped Motion (PLUM)-based EEW algorithm. With several hypothetical earthquake scenarios, experiments were conducted to evaluate the system latencies of the proposed decentralised EEW architecture and its performance was compared with traditional centralised EEW architecture. The results from sixty simulations show that the SD-WAN-based hole-punching architecture supported by the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) creates the optimum alerting conditions. Furthermore, the results provide clear evidence to show that the decentralised EEW system architecture can outperform the centralised EEW architecture and can save valuable seconds when generating EEW, leading to a longer warning time for the end-user. This paper contributes to the EEW literature by proposing a novel EEW network architecture.
Identification of Stop Criteria for Large-Scale Laboratory Slab Tests Using Digital Image Correlation and Acoustic Emission
Authors: Christensen Christian Overgaard , Zhang Fengqiao , Garnica Gabriela Zarate , Lantsoght Eva Olivia Leontien , Goltermann Per , Schmidt Jacob Wittrup
Published: March 2022

Advanced monitoring methods are required to identify stop criteria in proof-load tests. In this study, the combined methodology of two-dimensional digital image correlation and acoustic emission is investigated for its applicability for future implementation in field tests. The two monitoring systems are deemed to provide valuable insight with external measurements from digital image correlation and internal measurements from acoustic emission. Two overturned T-section reinforced concrete slabs (0.37 × 1.7 × 8.4 m) tested under laboratory conditions are used for the assessment. The first slab test served as a preliminary test to enable sensor placement and creation of a relevant loading protocol. The main scientific results lead to a proposal for a test procedure using the combined methodology based on results, observations, and experiences from an individual stop criteria assessment for the two methods. The results include full-field plots, an investigation of the time of crack detection and monitoring of crack widths with digital image correlation, and a qualitative assessment of activity vs. load followed by a quantitative evaluation of calm ratios using acoustic emission. The individual results show that both digital image correlation and acoustic emission can identify damage occurrence earlier than other secondary methods. At crack detection (415 kN), crack widths were measured at widths between 0.078 mm to 0.125 mm and can be monitored until reaching the stop criterion at 463 kN (Eurocode SLS threshold of wmax = 0.2 mm). The acoustic emission results were limited by the pre-defined loading protocol and thus, only indicated that damage occurred sometime between 300 kN and 500 kN (pre-defined load levels). Therefore, the proposal for test procedure involves a methodology, where the loading protocol may be updated during testing based on monitoring results and thus provide even more valuable data.
Assessment of Non-Invasive Measurements of Oxygen Saturation and Heart Rate with an Apple Smartwatch: Comparison with a Standard Pulse Oximeter
Authors: Spaccarotella Carmen , Polimeni Alberto , Mancuso Cinzia , Pelaia Girolamo , Esposito Giovanni , Indolfi Ciro
Published: March 2022

The most commonly used method to assess peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) in clinical practice is pulse oximetry. The smartwatch Apple Watch 6 was developed with a new sensor and an app that allows taking on-demand readings of blood oxygen and background readings, day and night. The present study aimed to assess the feasibility and agreement of the Apple Watch 6 compared with a standard SpO2 monitoring system to assess normal and pathological oxygen saturation. We recruited study participants with lung disease or cardiovascular disease and healthy subjects. A total of 265 subjects were screened for enrolment in this study. We observed a strong positive correlation between the smartwatch and the standard commercial device in the evaluation of SpO2 measurements (r = 0.89, p < 0.0001) and HR measurements (r = 0.98, p < 0.0001). A very good concordance was found between SpO2 (bias, −0.2289; SD, 1.66; lower limit, −3.49; and upper limit, 3.04) and HR (bias, −0.1052; SD, 2.93; lower limit, −5.84; and upper limit, 5.63) measured by the smartwatch in comparison with the standard commercial device using Bland–Altman analysis. We observed similar agreements and concordance even in the different subgroups. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that the wearable device used in the present study could be used to assess SpO2 in patients with cardiovascular or lung diseases and in healthy subjects.
Postoperative Thromboembolism According to the Type of Surgery: A Nationwide Study in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Kang Ka-Won , Lee Ji Yoon , Lee Byung-Hyun , Jeon Min Ji , Yu Eun Sang , Kim Dae Sik , Lee Se Ryeon , Choi Chul Won , Park Yong , Sung Hwa Jung , Kim Byung Soo
Published: March 2022

Postoperative thromboembolism (TE) is a serious, but preventable, complication in surgical patients. Orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, and vascular surgery are considered high risk for TE, and current guidelines recommend TE prophylaxis. However, insufficient data exist regarding TE risk in other general surgeries. This study identified the actual incidence and relative risk of postoperative TE in the real world, according to surgery type. Twenty-six surgeries between 1 December 2017 and 31 August 2019 were selected from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database and analyzed for postoperative TE events. Among all patients, 2.17% had a TE event within 6 months of surgery and 0.75% had a TE event owing to anticoagulant treatment. The incidence of total TE events was the highest in total knee replacement (12.77%), hip replacement (11.46%), and spine surgery (5.98%). The incidence of TE with anticoagulant treatment was the highest in total knee replacement (7.40%), hip replacement (7.20%), and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery (3.81%). Hip replacement, total knee replacement, CABG surgery, spine surgery, and cardiac surgery except CABG surgery, showed relatively higher risks for total claimed venous TE. The relative risk of venous TE with anticoagulant treatment was the highest for hysterectomy, partial hepatectomy, hip replacement, cardiac surgery except CABG surgery, and total knee replacement. The relative risk of arterial TE was the highest for cardiac surgery, total knee replacement, and hip replacement. In the real world, the incidence of postoperative TE events from total knee replacement and those from hip replacement remain high, and some surgeries could have a relatively higher risk of TE than other surgeries. For patients undergoing these surgeries, studies to reduce the incidence of postoperative TE in clinical practice should be conducted.
Clinical Evidence of Cannabinoids in Migraine: A Narrative Review
Authors: Lo Castro Flavia , Baraldi Carlo , Pellesi Lanfranco , Guerzoni Simona
Published: March 2022

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) influences many biological functions, and hence, its pharmacological modulation may be useful for several disorders, such as migraine. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that the ECS is involved in the modulation of trigeminal excitability. Additionally, clinical data have suggested that an endocannabinoid deficiency is associated with migraine. Given these data, phytocannabinoids, as well as synthetic cannabinoids, have been tried as migraine treatments. In this narrative review, the current clinical evidence of potential ECS involvement in migraine pathogenesis is summarized. Furthermore, studies exploring the clinical effects of phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids on migraine patients are reviewed.
Baseline Physical Activity Behaviors and Relationships with Fitness in the Army Training at High Intensity Study
Authors: Heinrich Katie M. , Streetman Aspen E. , Kukić Filip , Fong Chunki , Hollerbach Brittany S. , Goodman Blake D. , Haddock Christopher K. , Poston Walker S. C.
Published: March 2022

United States Army soldiers must meet physical fitness test standards. Criticisms of the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) include limited testing of only aerobic and muscular endurance activity domains; yet, it is unclear what levels of aerobic and muscle strengthening activity may help predict performance in aspects of the new Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). This study explored relationships between baseline self-reported aerobic and muscle strengthening activities and APFT- and ACFT-related performance. Baseline participant data (N = 123) were from a cluster-randomized clinical trial that recruited active-duty military personnel (mean age 33.7 ± 5.7 years, 72.4% White, 87.0% college-educated, 81.5% Officers). An online survey was used for self-report of socio-demographic characteristics and weekly aerobic and muscle-strengthening physical activity behaviors. Participants also completed the APFT (2 min push-ups, 2 min sit-ups, 2-mile run) and ACFT-related measures (1-repetition maximum deadlift, pull-up repetitions or timed flexed arm hang, horizontal jump, and dummy drag). Bivariate logistic regression found greater aerobic and muscle-strengthening activity predicted better APFT performance, while better ACFT-related performance was predicted by greater muscle-strengthening activity. Although our data are mostly from mid-career officers, command policies should emphasize the new Holistic Health and Fitness initiative that encourages regular aerobic and muscle-strengthening physical activity for soldiers.
Establishing an Agenda for Biofouling Research for the Development of the Marine Renewable Energy Industry in Indonesia
Authors: Iswadi Agung , Porter Joanne S. , Bell Michael C. , Garniati Leuserina , Harris Robert E. , Priyotomo Gadang
Published: March 2022

Marine renewable energy holds strategic potential in Indonesia, not only to meet the target of renewable energy share in the national energy mix but also to provide equal access to clean energy throughout the archipelago. Marine energy in Indonesia is still in the early phase of development, which mainly focusses on resources assessment and power generation through technology prototype testing. Based on a review of available literature, it is found that specific research on the effects of biofouling on material durability of marine energy infrastructure in Indonesia has yet to be addressed. In this study, a matrix that identifies and predicts key fouling organisms and their possible risks on marine renewable energy infrastructure in tropical waters of Indonesia is developed by analysing previous findings in temperate and subtropical waters. Based on the matrix developed, calcareous polychaetes (Serpulidae), barnacles (Amphibalanus spp.), and bivalves (Perna viridis) are among possible key fouling organisms that might pose risks to marine energy infrastructure in Indonesia, such as by adding weight and drag and causing corrosion. Further studies and detailed and statistically robust analysis of the biofouling and its impacts are needed to support the development of the technological performance of marine renewable energy in Indonesia.
Berthing Assistant System Using Reference Points
Authors: Mentjes Jan , Wiards Hilko , Feuerstack Sebastian
Published: March 2022

With more goods to be transported oversea, traffic and vessels’ dimensions increase while berthing areas merely remain constant and thus challenge ship masters and pilots to maneuver in small basins with dense traffic even in bad weather situations. Too fast approaches or steep angles of attack result in damages to fenders, quay walls, or even impact the hull structure. We propose a shore-based, vessel-independent berthing assistant system to support sailors by Reference Points that are aligned to a quay’s meter markings and identify the precise berthing location by measuring distance and approach speed. For this purpose, we define the concept of a Berthing Support Area (BSA), which specifies an area in which, subject to constraints, safe berthing is provided. Within this area there are Reference Points, perpendicular distance measurements at arbitrary positions, which are implemented with a set of LiDAR sensors that have been integrated into the quay wall. In a test campaign with a vessel equipped with DGPS sensors, we sailed seven different maneuvers and evaluated the precision and the accuracy of the Reference Points for speed and distance measurements.
The Dynamics of Maximum Lengths for the Invasive Silver-Cheeked Toadfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus) in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Ulman Aylin , Kalogirou Stefanos , Pauly Daniel
Published: March 2022

The Eastern Mediterranean Sea is the most invaded sea on the planet, with 666 non-indigenous species now recorded in the region. However, not all of these become successful in their new environments. Success here is defined by wide geographical spread, increased abundances, and larger maximum sizes than their native range. The silver-cheeked toadfish Lagocephalus sceleratus (Gmelin 1789) was first recorded in the Mediterranean Sea in 2003. It has now spread to all corners of the basin and is increasingly abundant in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea where it reaches monstrous sizes compared to the maximum sizes reported from its native range. This contribution presents three well-documented new weight records from the Dodecanese Islands, Greece: one specimen weighing 8.5 kg from 2012, and two specimens weighing 8 and 9 kg, respectively, from 2021. The latter is also confirmed with other well-documented larger-size records, along with a physiological hypothesis suggesting how such large sizes are reached.
Risk Factors for COVID-19 Associated Mucormycosis: The Ophthalmologist’s Perspective
Authors: Bilgic Alper , Kodjikian Laurent , Sudhalkar Aditya , Dwivedi Shyamal , Vasavada Viraj , Shah Arpan , Dziadzko Mikhail , Mathis Thibaud
Published: March 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a dramatic rise in the incidence of rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) in India. The purpose of our report is to describe the prevalence of ROCM in the context of SARS-CoV-2 infection during the second Indian COVID-19 wave, as well as its diagnostics proceeding, and to discuss the challenges met in the time frame from the suspected diagnosis to the therapeutic decision in such patients. We conducted a retrospective multicentre case series study at six centres of Sudhalkar and Raghudeep group of hospitals in India. ROCM was confirmed in 38 (2.5%) of the 1546 patients admitted with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The average time to establish a diagnosis was 16 days. In total, 19 (50%) patients suffered from type 2 diabetes and were mostly treated with hypoglycaemic agents (in 90% of cases). The standard of care for SARS-CoV-2 management included systemic steroids therapy, intravenous remdesivir for 5 days, and concomitant prophylactic antibiotic therapy following admission. The median (IQR) blood glucose levels in all patients during the course of hospitalisation was 320 (250.5–375) mg/dl. A total of 16% of patients had an irreparable functional loss, and the mortality was 5%. We may hypothesise that excessive administration of antibiotics that profoundly affects human microbiota, coupled with poorly controlled glycaemia and unprotocolised haphazard steroid administration, contribute to a favourable setting for mucormycosis infections.
Routine Surveillance of Healthcare-Associated Infections Misses a Significant Proportion of Invasive Aspergillosis in Patients with Severe COVID-19
Authors: Ebner Julia , Van den Nest Miriam , Bouvier-Azula Lukas , Füszl Astrid , Gabler Cornelia , Willinger Birgit , Diab-Elschahawi Magda , Presterl Elisabeth
Published: March 2022

Rates of invasive aspergillosis (IA) among COVID-19 ICU patients seem to reach over 30% in certain settings. At Vienna General Hospital (VGH), all rooms in COVID-19 ICUs were put under negative pressure as a protective measure, thus increasing the risk of exposure to environmental pathogens for patients. Even though all ICU patients are surveilled for healthcare-associated infections (HAI), there were concerns that the routine protocol might not be sufficient for IA detection. We reviewed the electronic patient charts of all patients with COVID-19 admitted to ICUs between 1 March 2020 and 31 July 2021 for fungal co- or superinfections, comparing four diagnostic algorithms based on different recommendations for the diagnosis of IA (according to EORTC/MSG, BM-AspICU, IAPA and CAPA) to our routine surveillance protocol. We found that out of 252 patients who were admitted to the ICU during the study period, 25 (9.9%) fulfilled the criteria of probable or possible IA of at least one algorithm. The IAPA definitions detected 25 and the CAPA definition 23 probable and 2 possible cases, out of which only 16 were classified as hospital-acquired IA by routine surveillance. In conclusion, adjustment of the routine protocol using a classification system especially designed for respiratory viral illness seems useful for the surveillance of IA in a highly vulnerable patient cohort.
Sound-absorption coefficient of a pin-holder structure for sound waves incident in the direction perpendicular to the cylinder's axis
Authors: Satoh Takamasa , Sakamoto Shuichi , Unai Shunsuke , Isobe Takunari , Iizuka Kenata , Tasaki Katsuhiko , Nitta Isami , Shintani Tetsushi
Published: March 2022

In this study, the sound-absorption coefficients of a pin-holder structure consisting of a group of cylinders were estimated and compared with the experimental values for the case where sound waves are incident in the direction perpendicular to the cylinder's axis. To estimate the sound-absorption
coefficient, the gap in the pinholder structure is divided into elements and approximated as being between two parallel planes, taking the exact shape of the divided elements into account. The characteristic impedance and propagation constant of the approximated clearances were calculated
and treated as a one-dimensional transfer matrix. The transfer matrices for each element were used to calculate the sound-absorption coefficient. The calculated theoretical values were compared with the experimental ones. In the experiment, the samples were fabricated using a 3D printer, and
the sound-absorption coefficient was measured using a two-microphone impedance-measurement tube. Although the experimental and theoretical values differed, they showed similar trends. We also found that the prediction error in the practical sound-absorption coefficient could be reduced by
adjusting the diameter of the pins used in the calculation.
D’Élatée à Delphes : un étolarque et un xystarque
Authors: Rousset Denis , Strasser Jean-Yves
Published: March 2022

Nouvelle étude d’une dédicace découverte à Élatée de Phocide, datant de la fin du IIe s. ou du début du IIIe s. ap. J.-C. (Bull. 2014, 248 ; Ann. Épigr. 2013, 1435) : offerte par un étolarque, dont le titre même démontre l’existence alors d’une organisation coiffant l’Étolie, la dédicace honore un xystarque des Pythia. Entre cette dédidace et la base amphictionique érigée à Delphes CID IV 164, un rapprochement s’impose, au point que l’inscription d’Élatée amène à retoucher l’édition de celle de Delphes. Ces dédicaces pourraient avoir formé une paire d’offrandes réciproques entre T. Flavius Eurydikos et M. Aur. Euagathos, deux notables éminents dans l’Amphictionie et la vie agonistique de la Grèce Centrale vers 200 ap. J.-C.
“Ottimi frammenti di vasi e tazze” : Athènes – Tarquinia – Paris, l’historique des fragments de vases attiques de la collection de Luynes
Authors: Colonna Cécile , Bernard Marie-Amélie
Published: March 2022

Within the collection of the duke of Luynes, the black-figure and red-figure fragments of Greek pottery form a set of an exceptional quality, which provenance had been forgotten. The study of archive records, ancient publications and the fragments themselves shows that they most certainly come from the excavations led by M. Fossati and P. Manzi in Tarquinia in 1829. The modern history of these beautiful fragments can then be reconstructed, shedding light on the complex relations between archeologists, traders and collectors, and those late-archaic vases regain an Etruscan and funerary archaeological context.
Bekir Yıldız'ın "Türkler Almanya'da" Adlı Romanının Odaklanma Yöntemi İle Analizi
Authors: DÜNDAR Faruk
Published: March 2022

Günümüz dünyasında göç, en önemli toplumsal sorunların başında gelmektedir. Türk toplumu için ise Türklerin Almanya’ya göçü önemli bir toplumsal konudur. Bu konu, Almanya’ya göç eden Türk işçilerin sayısının yüksek olması nedeniyle, Türk yazarlar tarafından ele alınmış, hem Almanya’ya göç edenlerin yaşadıkları deneyimler hem de Türk toplumunda bu göçün yol açtığı sorunlar bu yazarların eserlerinde dile getirilmiştir. Hatta bazı yazarlar eserlerinde Almanya’daki kendi deneyimlerini anlatmışlardır. Bunlardan biri de Bekir Yıldız’dır. Almanya’ya bir Türk işçi olarak göç eden Bekir Yıldız, kendi gözlemlerinden ve deneyimlerinden yola çıkarak Türkler Almanya’da romanını yazmıştır. Bekir Yıldız, kendi yaşadıklarını anlattığı bu romanda, Almanya’ya göç eden Türk işçilerin Almanlar tarafından ötekileştirilmesinin yanı sıra, bu işçilerin Türk toplumu tarafından da ötekileştirilmesini ele almaktadır. Aynı zamanda, Türk toplumunu ve Alman toplumunu karşılaştırmakta, Alman toplumunun Türk toplumundan daha iyi olan özelliklerini romanında yansıtmaktadır. Bu çalışma, yazarın Türkler Almanya’da romanında dile getirdiği Türk işçilerin Almanya’da ve Türkiye’de ötekileştirilmesini, Türk-Alman karşılaştırmasını anlatıbilim metotlarından odaklanma tekniğini kullanarak analiz etmektedir.
MENGUPAS PRAKTIK PENGELOLAAN ADMINISTRASI KEUANGAN KANTOR KECAMATAN
Authors: Nora Erfianingtyas  , Wahyudi Utomo Supri , Wahyuning Sulistyowati Nur
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this study was to find out more about the financial administration management practices of the West District Head Office, West District, Magetan Regency. This type of qualitative research is descriptive and data obtained from interviews, observations, and documentation. The study resulted in the findings that the West Camat office in managing financial administration is in accordance with Permendagri No.64 of 2013 and the financial information compiled includes LRA; LO; balance sheet; LPE; and CaLK. The obstacles faced by the sub-district office are delays in the preparation and reporting of financial information, besides that the compilers of financial information at the West sub-district office are not from the accounting department.

Abstrak

Tujuan penelitian ini mengetahui lebih jauh praktik pengelolaan administrasi keuangan Kantor Camat Barat Kecamatan Barat Kabupaten Magetan. Jenis penelitian kualitatif deskriptif dan data didapatkan dari interview, pengamatan, dan dokumentasi. Penelitian menghasilkan temuan bahwa kantor Camat Barat dalam pengelolaan administrasi keuangan sudah sesuai Permendagri No.64 Tahun 2013 dan informasi finansial yang disusun meliputi LRA; LO; Neraca; LPE; dan CaLK. Hambatan yang dihadapi kantor camat adalah keterlambatan dalam penyusunan dan pelaporan informasi finansial, selain itu penyusun informasi finansial pada kantor Camat Barat bukan berasal dari jurusan akuntansi.
Peran Public Relations di Industri Perhotelan
Authors: Amanda Ajeng Safira Rizki , Hamidah Siti Salafiyah , Rusdiana Rudi , Muhammad Fandi
Published: March 2022

This study aims to determine the role of Public Relations in the hospitality industry in managing and maintaining the good image of the hotel. The research instrument used in this research is the method of observation at Grandia Hotel Bandung and giving questionnaires to the staff and Public Relations of Grandia Hotel Bandung. The research method uses a qualitative approach by applying the type of descriptive research, namely from the data that has been collected the researcher tries to draw conclusions. Data analysis techniques include data reduction, data decomposition, and drawing conclusions. The result of this research is that public relations has a duty in shaping the good image of the hotel to the public. With the existence of public relations, the communication that exists is harmonious between the institution and the public by creating good reciprocity. Public relations has two important roles in a company, namely the regulatory function and the supervisory function of a company. Public relations is a very important part in the hospitality industry in creating an image for both internal and external parties. The conclusion of this study is that public relations has an important role in the hospitality industry, namely in creating a positive image of the hotel to the public by maintaining the relationship between the hotel and the public or with other companies becomes more harmonious, and public relations also plays a role in supervising an institution, providing advice and also providing the best solution in solving a company problem.
Modelling method to evaluate the thermo-regulating behaviour
of micro-encapsulated PCMs coated fabric
Authors: OWAIS RAZA SIDDIQUI MUHAMMAD , ZEHRA BALOCH , USAMA NOORANI MUHAMMAD , KASHIF IQBAL , MUHAMMAD ZUBAIR , DANMEI SUN
Published: March 2022

Micro-encapsulated Phase Change Materials (MicroPCMs) have been widely used to enhance the thermal comfort of
the clothing; they can be applied to fabric by various techniques including the coating process. Phase change material
(PCM) has a unique property of latent heat that can absorb and release energy over a constant temperature range which
enhances the thermal comfort of the clothing microenvironment. PCM textile structures are used in making smart textiles
and thermo-regulated garments. An advanced modelling technique was successfully established to develop a finite
element model of woven fabrics coated by MicroPCMs, the developed model was used to simulate and predict the
effective thermal conductivity and thermal resistance
Conjunctivitis due to COVID-19
Authors: Polii Marsekal K. , Supit Wenny P. , Najoan Imelda H. M.
Published: March 2022

Abstract: COVID-19 is a respiratory infectious disease due to SARS-CoV-2 virus. This virus requires angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor to invade cells. ACE2 receptors are also found in the conjunctiva, therefore, the surface tissue of the eye can be a potential target for COVID-19 transmission. The most common ocular manifestation of COVID-19 is conjunctivitis. This study aimed to evaluate whether there was a relationship between conjunctivitis and COVID-19 disease. This was a literature review study using four databases, namely Pubmed, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Clinical Key. The keywords were COVID-19 AND conjunctivitis. The results showed that conjunctivitis due to COVID-19 could be one or the only symptom. The age range of COVID-19 positive samples with conjunctivitis symptoms was dominated by middle-aged to elderly. More often the patients had moderate to asymptomatic degree of symptoms. Supportive therapies such as artificial tear drops and cold compresses greatly helped the healing process. In conclusion, the transmission of COVID-19 infection due to SARS-CoV-2 virus can spread through the conjunctiva. Conjunctivitis can be the only symptom that appears due to COVID-19 infection or as an early sign of infection.Keywords: conjunctivitis; COVID-19  Abstrak: COVID-19 merupakan penyakit infeksi menular pernapasan yang diakibatkan oleh virus SARS-CoV-2. Virus ini membutuhkan reseptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) untuk menginvasi sel-sel. Reseptor ACE2 juga ditemukan pada konjungtiva sehingga jaringan permukaan mata dapat menjadi target potensial untuk penularan COVID-19. Manifestasi okular akibat COVID-19 yang sering ditemukan ialah konjungtivitis. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi apakah terdapat hubungan antara konjungtivitis dengan COVID-19. Jenis penelitian ialah suatu literature review. Pencarian data menggunakan empat database Pubmed, Google Scholar, Science Direct dan Clinical Key dengan kata kunci yaitu COVID-19 AND conjunctivitis. Hasil penelitian mendapatkan bahwa konjungtivitis akibat COVID-19 dapat menjadi salah satu maupun satu-satunya gejala. Rentang usia sampel positif COVID-19 dengan gejala konjungtivitis didominasi oleh middle-aged sampai lanjut usia dan lebih sering pasien derajat gejala asimt-omatik-sedang. Terapi suportif seperti pemberian tetes air mata buatan dan kompres dingin sangat membantu proses penyembuhan. Simpulan penelitian ini ialah penularan infeksi COVID-19 yang disebabkan oleh virus SARS-CoV-2 dapat menyebar melalui konjungtiva. Konjungtivitis dapat menjadi satu-satunya gejala yang muncul akibat infeksi COVID-19 maupun sebagai tanda awal infeksi.Kata kunci: konjungtivitis; COVID-19
PENGEMBANGAN DAYA TARIK WISATA KESENIAN SIKAMBANG DI KABUPATEN TAPANULI TENGAH
Authors: Sitio Intania , Sundari Nasution Mimin
Published: March 2022

This study uses the tourism development theory by Cooper in Sunaryo 2013, with the indicators, namely institutions, accessibility, amenities, public facilities and tourist attraction objects. This study uses a purposive sampling technique with qualitative research and the necessary data such as primary data and secondary data obtained through observation, interviews, and documentation, then analyzed based on the research problem. The results of this study indicate that tourism development based on predetermined indicators is still not optimal, as evidenced by accessibility and public facilities that do not meet. Then the supporting factors for this tourism development are the existence of institutions or organizations involved in tourism development in Central Tapanuli Regency, tourist objects in Central Tapanuli Regency have local artistic characteristics, and community participation is considered quite high. Meanwhile, the inhibiting factors are limited funds and land ownership status.