bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Inter-Laboratory Comparative Study on the Influence of Reagents to Perform the Identification of the Xylella fastidiosa Subspecies Using Tetraplex Real Time PCR
Authors: Pucci Nicoletta , Scala Valeria , Cesari Erica , Crosara Valeria , Fiorani Riccardo , L’Aurora Alessia , Lucchesi Simone , Tatulli Giuseppe , Barra Eleonora , Ciarroni Serena , De Amicis Francesca , Fascella Salvatore , Giacobbi Francesca , Gaffuri Francesca , Gualandri Valeria , Landi Lucia , Loconsole Giuliana , Molinatto Giulia , Pollastro Stefania , Raimondo Maria Luisa , Rizzo Domenico , Roggia Chiara , Silletti Maria Rosaria , Talevi Simona , Testa Marco , Loreti Stefania
Published: September 2023

In 2022, a test performance study (TPS) assessing the influence of different master mixes on the performance of the tetraplex real-time PCR (TqPCR) assay was organized. TqPCR allows for the specific detection and identification of Xylella fastidiosa (Xf) subspecies in a single reaction. Eighteen official laboratories of the Italian National Plant Protection Organization received a panel of 12 blind samples, controls, primers, probes, and different master mixes to participate in the TPS. Furthermore, the Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification of the Council for Agricultural Research and Economics performed an intra-laboratory study (ITS) on spiked plant matrices to evaluate the analytical sensitivity of TqPCR employing the selected master mixes with the best performance. Naturally infected samples were analyzed for subspecies identification via TqPCR compared with the official multilocus-sequence-typing (MLST) method. The best results in this comparative study were obtained using Fast Universal PCR Master Mix (Applied Biosystems) and Brilliant multiplex QPCR Master Mix (Agilent), and they confirmed that the TqPCR test is reliable, offering the advantage of identifying this subspecies at the same time, thus saving time and resources. The TqPCR assay is suggested among the tests to be used by laboratories performing the official diagnosis of Xf to support the activities of official monitoring.
Rational Design of Novel Peptidomimetics against Influenza A Virus: Biological and Computational Studies
Authors: Scala Maria Carmina , Marchetti Magda , Superti Fabiana , Agamennone Mariangela , Campiglia Pietro , Sala Marina
Published: September 2023

Effective therapy against the influenza virus is still an unmet goal. Drugs with antiviral effects exist, but the appearance of resistant viruses pushes towards the discovery of drugs with different mechanisms of action. New anti-influenza molecules should target a good candidate, as a new anti-influenza molecule could be an inhibitor of the influenza A virus hemagglutinin (HA), which plays a key role during the early phases of infection. In previous work, we identified two tetrapeptide sequences, SLDC (1) and SKHS (2), derived from bovine lactoferrin (bLf) C-lobe fragment 418–429, which were able to bind HA and inhibit cell infection at picomolar concentration. Considering the above, the aim of this study was to synthesize a new library of peptidomimetics active against the influenza virus. In order to test their ability to bind HA, we carried out a preliminary screening using biophysical assays such as surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and orthogonal immobilization-free microscale thermophoresis (MST). Biological and computational studies on the most interesting compounds were carried out. The methods applied allowed for the identification of a N-methyl peptide, S(N-Me)LDC, which, through high affinity binding of influenza virus hemagglutinin, was able to inhibit virus-induced hemagglutination and cell infection at picomolar concentration. This small sequence, with high activity, represents a good starting point for the design of new peptidomimetics and small molecules.
In Vitro Assessment of Gold Nanoparticles on Telomerase Activity and Telomere Length in Human Fibroblasts
Authors: Han Xuesheng , Hirschel Alice , Tsapekos Menelaos , Perez Diego , Vollmer David
Published: September 2023

Telomerase activity coincides with lengthening of the ends of chromosomes known as telomeres. Telomere length is used as a marker for cellular aging. Telomeres shorten over time as cells divide, and certain bioactive compounds such as gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) may slow the shortening of telomeres by increasing telomerase activity. The objective of the present study is to assess the effect of AuNPs on telomerase activity and telomere length in human fibroblasts. Telomerase activity was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in primary human lung fibroblasts (IMR90) and using quantitative PCR-based telomeric repeat amplification protocol (Q-TRAP) in primary human dermal fibroblasts, neonatal (HDFn). Telomere length was determined by Telomere Analysis Technology (TAT®)assay in HDFn. In IMR90, all AuNP treatments showed significant increases in telomerase activity when compared to earlier passages. HDFn treated with AuNPs at 0 ppm, 0.05 ppm, 0.5 ppm, or 5 ppm did not show significant differences in telomerase activity compared to the control group. Significant differences in telomere length in HDFn were observed at 2 weeks of 0.05 and 0.5 ppm AuNPs under oxidative culture conditions as compared to the control group. The study showed preliminary evidence that AuNPs may increase telomerase activity and decelerate the shortening of telomeres in human fibroblasts, suggesting its potential anti-aging effects, which warrants further investigation.
A Novel NOX Inhibitor Alleviates Parkinson’s Disease Pathology in PFF-Injected Mice
Authors: Ofori Kwadwo , Ghosh Anurupa , Verma Dinesh Kumar , Wheeler Darice , Cabrera Gabriela , Seo Jong-Bok , Kim Yong-Hwan
Published: September 2023

Oxidative stress-mediated damage is often a downstream result of Parkinson’s disease (PD), which is marked by sharp decline in dopaminergic neurons within the nigrostriatal regions of the brain, accounting for the symptomatic motor deficits in patients. Regulating the level of oxidative stress may present a beneficial approach in preventing PD pathology. Here, we assessed the efficacy of a nicotinamide adenine phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX) inhibitor, an exogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) regulator synthesized by Aptabio therapeutics with the specificity to NOX-1, 2 and 4. Utilizing N27 rat dopaminergic cells and C57Bl/6 mice, we confirmed that the exposures of alpha-synuclein preformed fibrils (PFF) induced protein aggregation, a hallmark in PD pathology. In vitro assessment of the novel compound revealed an increase in cell viability and decreases in cytotoxicity, ROS, and protein aggregation (Thioflavin-T stain) against PFF exposure at the optimal concentration of 10 nM. Concomitantly, the oral treatment alleviated motor-deficits in behavioral tests, such as hindlimb clasping, rotarod, pole, nesting and grooming test, via reducing protein aggregation, based on rescued dopaminergic neuronal loss. The suppression of NOX-1, 2 and 4 within the striatum and ventral midbrain regions including Substantia Nigra compacta (SNc) contributed to neuroprotective/recovery effects, making it a potential therapeutic option for PD.
The Impact of Abnormal Lipid Metabolism on the Occurrence Risk of Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Wei Yaqin , Zhao Hui , Kalionis Bill , Huai Xu , Hu Xiaoyi , Wu Wenhui , Jiang Rong , Gong Sugang , Wang Lan , Liu Jinming , Xia Shijin , Yuan Ping , Zhao Qinhua
Published: September 2023

The aim was to determine whether lipid molecules can be used as potential biomarkers for idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH), providing important reference value for early diagnosis and treatment. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry-based lipidomic assays allow for the simultaneous detection of a large number of lipids. In this study, lipid profiling was performed on plasma samples from 69 IPAH patients and 30 healthy controls to compare the levels of lipid molecules in the 2 groups of patients, and Cox regression analysis was used to identify meaningful metrics, along with receiver operator characteristic curves to assess the ability of the lipid molecules to predict the risk of disease in patients. Among the 14 lipid subclasses tested, 12 lipid levels were significantly higher in IPAH patients than in healthy controls. Free fatty acids (FFA) and monoacylglycerol (MAG) were significantly different between IPAH patients and healthy controls. Logistic regression analysis showed that FFA (OR: 1.239, 95%CI: 1.101, 1.394, p < 0.0001) and MAG (OR: 3.711, 95%CI: 2.214, 6.221, p < 0.001) were independent predictors of IPAH development. Among the lipid subclasses, FFA and MAG have potential as biomarkers for predicting the pathogenesis of IPAH, which may improve the early diagnosis of IPAH.
Neuro-Urology and Biobanking: An Integrated Approach for Advancing Research and Improving Patient Care
Authors: Botter Sander M. , Kessler Thomas M.
Published: September 2023

Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying neuro-urological disorders is crucial for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions. Through the establishment of comprehensive biobanks, researchers can collect and store various biological specimens, including urine, blood, tissue, and DNA samples, to study these mechanisms. In the context of neuro-urology, biobanking facilitates the identification of genetic variations, epigenetic modifications, and gene expression patterns associated with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction. These conditions often present as symptoms of neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injury, and many others. Biobanking of tissue specimens from such patients is essential to understand why these diseases cause the respective symptoms and what can be done to alleviate them. The utilization of high-throughput technologies, such as next-generation sequencing and gene expression profiling, enables researchers to explore the molecular landscape of these conditions in an unprecedented manner. The development of specific and reliable biomarkers resulting from these efforts may help in early detection, accurate diagnosis, and effective monitoring of neuro-urological conditions, leading to improved patient care and management. Furthermore, these biomarkers could potentially facilitate the monitoring of novel therapies currently under investigation in neuro-urological clinical trials. This comprehensive review explores the synergistic integration of neuro-urology and biobanking, with particular emphasis on the translation of biobanking approaches in molecular research in neuro-urology. We discuss the advantages of biobanking in neuro-urological studies, the types of specimens collected and their applications in translational research. Furthermore, we highlight the importance of standardization and quality assurance when collecting samples and discuss challenges that may compromise sample quality and impose limitations on their subsequent utilization. Finally, we give recommendations for sampling in multicenter studies, examine sustainability issues associated with biobanking, and provide future directions for this dynamic field.
The P-Site Loop of the Universally Conserved Bacterial Ribosomal Protein L5 Is Required for Maintaining Both Translation Rate and Fidelity
Authors: Bubunenko Mikhail G. , Korepanov Alexey P.
Published: September 2023

The bacterial ribosomal 5S rRNA-binding protein L5 is universally conserved (uL5). It contains the so-called P-site loop (PSL), which contacts the P-site tRNA in the ribosome. Certain PSL mutations in yeast are lethal, suggesting that the loop plays an important role in translation. In this work, for the first time, a viable Escherichia coli strain was obtained with the deletion of the major part of the PSL (residues 73–80) of the uL5 protein. The deletion conferred cold sensitivity and drastically reduced the growth rate and overall protein synthesizing capacity of the mutant. Translation rate is decreased in mutant cells as compared to the control. At the same time, the deletion causes increased levels of −1 frameshifting and readthrough of all three stop codons. In general, the results show that the PSL of the uL5 is required for maintaining both the accuracy and rate of protein synthesis in vivo.
Identification and Validation of a Stable Major-Effect Quantitative Trait Locus for Kernel Number per Spike on Chromosome 2D in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Li Zhi , Luo Qinyi , Deng Yawen , Du Ke , Li Xinli , Ren Tianheng
Published: September 2023

A recombinant inbred line population including 371 lines was developed by a high kernel number per spike (KNPS) genotype T1208 and a low KNPS genotype Chuannong18 (CN18). A genetic linkage map consisting of 11,583 markers was constructed by the Wheat55K SNP Array. The quantitative trait loci (QTLs) related to KNPS were detected in three years. Eight, twenty-seven, and four QTLs were identified using the ICIM-BIP, ICIM-MET, and ICIM-EPI methods, respectively. One QTL, QKnps.sau-2D.1, which was mapped on chromosome 2D, can explain 18.10% of the phenotypic variation (PVE) on average and be considered a major and stable QTL for KNPS. This QTL was located in a 0.89 Mb interval on chromosome 2D and flanked by the markers AX-109283238 and AX-111606890. Moreover, KASP-AX-111462389, a Kompetitive Allele-Specific PCR (KASP) marker which closely linked to QKnps.sau-2D.1, was designed. The genetic effect of QKnps.sau-2D.1 on KNPS was successfully confirmed in two RIL populations. The results also showed that the significant increase of KNPS and 1000-kernel weight (TKW) was caused by QKnps.sau-2D.1 overcoming the disadvantage due to the decrease of spike number (SN) and finally lead to a significant increase of grain yield. In addition, within the interval in which QKnps.sau-2D.1 is located in Chinese Spring reference genomes, only fifteen genes were found, and two genes that might associate with KNPS were identified. QKnps.sau-2D.1 may provide a new resource for the high-yield breeding of wheat in the future.
The Protective Effects of Moisturizer Containing Potentilla anserina Extract in the Topical Treatment of Skin Damage Caused by Masks
Authors: Choi Hyeong , Ha Ji Hoon , Kang Hee Cheol , Seo Won Sang , Bin Bum-Ho
Published: September 2023

The use of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in significant societal changes, particularly for individuals with sensitive skin. To address this issue, the researchers explored traditional medicine and identified Potentilla anserina extract as a potential solution due to its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing effects. This research investigated how this extract influences skin hydration, barrier function, and itching. The findings revealed that the extract had a hydrating effect by elevating Aquaporin-3 (AQP3) expression. Additionally, the study demonstrated that the extract improved skin barrier function, with Filaggrin (FLG) expression being approximately three times higher (p < 0.001) in the Potentilla-anserina-extract-treated group compared to the control group and the genes associated with itching being reduced. In this process, we researched and developed HPβCD (hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin)-Liposome containing Potentilla anserina extract, gradually and sustainably releasing the active components of the Potentilla anserina extract. During four weeks of clinical trials involving individuals wearing masks for over 6 h a day, a moisturizer containing Potentilla anserina extract demonstrated a notable reduction in skin redness. Hemoglobin values (A.U.), which serve as indicators of skin redness, showed decreases of 5.06% and 6.74% in the test area inside the mask after 2 and 4 weeks, respectively, compared to the baseline measurements. Additionally, the moisturizer containing Potentilla anserina extract notably decreased Trans Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL), with reductions of 5.23% and 9.13% observed in the test area inside the mask after 2 and 4 weeks, respectively. The moisturizer, especially in the test area treated with the extract-containing moisturizer, significantly enhanced skin hydration compared to the control group. The Corneometer values (A.U) exhibited notable increases of 11.51% and 15.14% in the test area inside the mask after 2 and 4 weeks, respectively. These discoveries emphasize the potential of Potentilla anserina extract and its utility in tackling skin issues caused by mask wearing, including enhancing moisture, fortifying the skin’s barrier, and alleviating itching. These results indicate that moisturizers incorporating specific ingredients provide greater benefits compared to conventional moisturizers.
Early Growth Response 1 Contributes to Renal IR Injury by Inducing Proximal Tubular Cell Apoptosis
Authors: Jeong Kyuho , Je Jihyun , Dusabimana Theodomir , Kim Hwajin , Park Sang Won
Published: September 2023

Renal ischemia–reperfusion (IR) causes acute kidney injury due to oxidative stress, tubular inflammation, and apoptosis. Early growth response 1 (Egr-1) is a transcription factor belonging to the immediate early gene family and is known to regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Egr-1 expression is induced during renal IR; however, its pathogenic role and underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we investigated the function of Egr-1 during renal IR using C57BL/6 mice and cultured renal proximal tubular HK-2 cells. Egr-1 expression increased immediately, 1–4 h after IR, whereas plasma creatinine and oxidative stress increased progressively over 24 h after IR. Egr-1 overexpression showed greater increases in plasma creatinine, renal tubular injury, and apoptosis than in the control after IR. Egr-1 overexpression also showed significant neutrophil infiltration and increased pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, MIP-2, and IL-6) after IR. Consistently, proximal tubular HK-2 cells showed immediate induction of Egr-1 at 1 h after hypoxia and reoxygenation, where its downstream target, p53, was also increased. Interestingly, Egr-1 overexpression enhanced p53 levels and tubular apoptosis, while the knockdown of Egr-1 reduced p53 levels and tubular apoptosis after H2O2 treatment. Egr-1 was recruited to the p53 promoter, which activates p53 transcription, and Egr-1 induction occurred through Erk/JNK signaling kinases, as the specific inhibitors blocked its expression. Taken together, these results show that Egr-1 is upregulated in proximal tubular cells and contributes to renal IR injury by inducing tubular apoptosis, mediated by p53 transcriptional activation. Thus, Egr-1 could be a potential therapeutic target for renal IR injury.
Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles Protect Cortical Astrocytes from Oxygen–Glucose Deprivation through Activation of the Ca2+ Signaling System
Authors: Varlamova Elena G. , Baryshev Alexey S. , Gudkov Sergey V. , Babenko Valentina A. , Plotnikov Egor Y. , Turovsky Egor A.
Published: September 2023

Most of the works aimed at studying the cytoprotective properties of nanocerium are usually focused on the mechanisms of regulation of the redox status in cells while the complex effects of nanocerium on calcium homeostasis, the expression of pro-apoptotic and protective proteins are generally overlooked. There is a problem of a strong dependence of the effects of cerium oxide nanoparticles on their size, method of preparation and origin, which significantly limits their use in medicine. In this study, using the methods of molecular biology, immunocytochemistry, fluorescence microscopy and inhibitory analysis, the cytoprotective effect of cerium oxide nanoparticles obtained by laser ablation on cultured astrocytes of the cerebral cortex under oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) and reoxygenation (ischemia-like conditions) are shown. The concentration effects of cerium oxide nanoparticles on ROS production by astrocytes in an acute experiment and the effects of cell pre-incubation with nanocerium on ROS production under OGD conditions were studied. The dose dependence for nanocerium protection of cortical astrocytes from a global increase in calcium ions during oxygen–glucose deprivation and cell death were demonstrated. The concentration range of cerium oxide nanoparticles at which they have a pro-oxidant effect on cells has been identified. The effect of nanocerium concentrations on astrocyte preconditioning, accompanied by increased expression of protective proteins and limited ROS production induced by oxygen–glucose deprivation, has been investigated. In particular, a correlation was found between an increase in the concentration of cytosolic calcium under the action of nanocerium and the suppression of cell death. As a result, the positive and negative effects of nanocerium under oxygen–glucose deprivation and reoxygenation in astrocytes were revealed at the molecular level. Nanocerium was found to act as a “double-edged sword” and to have a strictly defined concentration therapeutic “window”.
Molecular Insight into Iron Homeostasis of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Blasts
Authors: Pourcelot Emmanuel , El Samra Ghina , Mossuz Pascal , Moulis Jean-Marc
Published: September 2023

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains a disease of gloomy prognosis despite intense efforts to understand its molecular foundations and to find efficient treatments. In search of new characteristic features of AML blasts, we first examined experimental conditions supporting the amplification of hematological CD34+ progenitors ex vivo. Both AML blasts and healthy progenitors heavily depended on iron availability. However, even if known features, such as easier engagement in the cell cycle and amplification factor by healthy progenitors, were observed, multiplying progenitors in a fully defined medium is not readily obtained without modifying their cellular characteristics. As such, we measured selected molecular data including mRNA, proteins, and activities right after isolation. Leukemic blasts showed clear signs of metabolic and signaling shifts as already known, and we provide unprecedented data emphasizing disturbed cellular iron homeostasis in these blasts. The combined quantitative data relative to the latter pathway allowed us to stratify the studied patients in two sets with different iron status. This categorization is likely to impact the efficiency of several therapeutic strategies targeting cellular iron handling that may be applied to eradicate AML blasts.
Recent Advances in Bacterial Persistence Mechanisms
Authors: Pan Xiaozhou , Liu Wenxin , Du Qingqing , Zhang Hong , Han Dingding
Published: September 2023

The recurrence of bacterial infectious diseases is closely associated with bacterial persisters. This subpopulation of bacteria can escape antibiotic treatment by entering a metabolic status of low activity through various mechanisms, for example, biofilm, toxin–antitoxin modules, the stringent response, and the SOS response. Correspondingly, multiple new treatments are being developed. However, due to their spontaneous low abundance in populations and the lack of research on in vivo interactions between persisters and the host’s immune system, microfluidics, high-throughput sequencing, and microscopy techniques are combined innovatively to explore the mechanisms of persister formation and maintenance at the single-cell level. Here, we outline the main mechanisms of persister formation, and describe the cutting-edge technology for further research. Despite the significant progress regarding study techniques, some challenges remain to be tackled.
Conceptualization and Survey Instrument Development for Website Usability
Authors: Toraman Nevcihan , Pekpazar Aycan , Gumussoy Cigdem Altin
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study is to conceptualize website usability and develop a survey instrument to measure related concepts from the perspective of end users. We designed a three-stage methodology. First, concepts related to website usability were derived using content analysis technique. A total of 16 constructs measuring website usability were defined with their explanations and corresponding open codes. Second, a survey instrument was developed according to the defined open codes and the literature. The instrument was first validated using face validity, pilot testing (n = 30), and content validity (n = 40). Third, the survey instrument was validated using explanatory and confirmatory analyses. In the explanatory analysis, 785 questionnaires were collected from e-commerce website users to validate the factor structure of website usability. For confirmatory factor analysis, a new sample collected from 1086 users of e-commerce websites was used to confirm the measurement model. In addition, nomological validation was conducted by analyzing the effect of website usability concepts on three key factors: “continued intention to use”, “satisfaction”, and “brand loyalty”.
Organoruthenium Complexes Containing Phosphinodicarboxamide Ligands
Authors: Nolla-Saltiel Roberto , Geer Ana M. , Sharpe Helen R. , Huke Cameron D. , Taylor Laurence J. , Linford-Wood Thomas G. , James Ashleigh , Allen Jamie , Lewis William , Blake Alexander J. , McMaster Jonathan , Kays Deborah L.
Published: September 2023

Ruthenium complexes of phosphinocarboxamide ligands, and their use to form metallacycles using halide abstraction/deprotonation reactions are reported. Thus, [Ru(p-cym){PPh2C(=O)NHR}Cl2; R = iPr (1), Ph (2), p-tol (3)] and [Ru(p-cym){PPh2C(=O)N(R)C(=O)N(H)R}Cl2; R = Ph (4), p-tol (5)] were synthesized from [(p-cym)RuCl2]2 (p-cym = para-cymene) and phosphinocarboxamides or phosphinodicarboxamides, respectively. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction measurements on 1–5 reveal coordination to ruthenium through the phosphorus donor, with an intramolecular hydrogen bond between the amine-bound proton and a metal-bound chloride. Six-membered metallacycles formed by halide abstraction/deprotonation of complexes 4 and 5 afforded [Ru(p-cym){κ2-P,N-PPh2C(=O)N(R)C(=O)NR}Cl] [R = Ph (6), p-tol (7)]. These species exist as a mixture of two rotational isomers in solution, as demonstrated by NMR spectroscopy.
Pre-Stroke Loop Diuretics and Anemia in Elderly Patients Are Associated Factors of Severe Renal Dysfunction at the Time of Acute Stroke Onset
Authors: Mori Takahisa , Yano Tetsundo , Yoshioka Kazuhiro , Miyazaki Yuichi
Published: September 2023

Background: Severe renal dysfunction (SRD), an advanced stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD), can limit the treatment options for acute stroke (AS) patients. Therefore, it is important to investigate the associated factors of SRD in AS patients to inhibit CKD progression to SRD before AS. Sex differences exist in the renal function. Therefore, we investigated the frequency of SRD and its associated factors among AS patients by sex. Methods: Our cross-sectional study included patients admitted within 24 h of AS onset between 2013 and 2019 with available pre-stroke medication information. We used the Cockcroft–Gault equation for calculating the creatinine clearance (Ccr) and defined SRD as a Ccr < 30 mL/min. We performed multivariable logistic regression analysis to identify the independent factors associated with SRD. Results: Out of 4294 patients, 3472 matched our criteria. Of these, 1905 (54.9%) were male, with median ages of 75 and 81 years for males and females, respectively. The frequency of SRD was 9.7% in males and 18.7% in females. Loop diuretics and anemia were associated factors of SRD. Conclusions: Pre-stroke loop diuretics and anemia in elderly patients were associated factors of SRD in both sexes. Individualized drug therapy and anemia management are essential to prevent SRD.
Effect of Rebamipide on the Intestinal Barrier, Gut Microbiota Structure and Function, and Symptom Severity Associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Functional Dyspepsia Overlap: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kovaleva Aleksandra , Poluektova Elena , Maslennikov Roman , Karchevskaya Anna , Shifrin Oleg , Kiryukhin Andrey , Tertychnyy Aleksandr , Kovalev Leonid , Kovaleva Marina , Lobanova Olga , Kudryavtseva Anna , Krasnov George , Fedorova Maria , Ivashkin Vladimir
Published: September 2023

Treatment of functional digestive disorders is not always effective. Therefore, a search for new application points for potential drugs is perspective. Our aim is to evaluate the effect of rebamipide on symptom severity, intestinal barrier status, and intestinal microbiota composition and function in patients with diarrheal variant of irritable bowel syndrome overlapping with functional dyspepsia (D-IBSoFD). Sixty patients were randomized to receive trimebutine (TRI group), trimebutine + rebamipide (T + R group), or rebamipide (REB group) for 2 months. At the beginning and end of the study, patients were assessed for general health (SF-36), severity of digestive symptoms (Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating and 7 × 7 scales), state of the intestinal barrier, and composition (16S rRNA gene sequencing) and function (short-chain fatty acid fecal content) of the gut microbiota. The severity of most digestive symptoms was reduced in the REB and T + R groups to levels similar to that observed in the TRI group. The duodenal and sigmoidal lymphocytic and sigmoidal eosinophilic infiltration was decreased only in the REB and T + R groups, not in the TRI group. Serum zonulin levels were significantly decreased only in the REB group. A decrease in intraepithelial lymphocytic infiltration in the duodenum correlated with a decrease in the severity of rumbling and flatulence, while a decrease in infiltration within the sigmoid colon correlated with improved stool consistency and decreased severity of the sensation of incomplete bowel emptying. In conclusion, rebamipide improves the intestinal barrier condition and symptoms in D-IBSoFD. The rebamipide effects are not inferior to those of trimebutine.
Size Matters: How to Characterize ADPKD Severity by Measuring Total Kidney Volume
Authors: Prince Martin R. , Weiss Erin , Blumenfeld Jon D.
Published: September 2023

Following patients with Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) has been challenging because serum biomarkers such as creatinine often remain normal until relatively late in the disease [...]
Geometrical Analysis of an Oscillating Water Column Converter Device Considering Realistic Irregular Wave Generation with Bathymetry
Authors: Mocellin Ana Paula Giussani , Maciel Rafael Pereira , Oleinik Phelype Haron , dos Santos Elizaldo Domingues , Rocha Luiz Alberto Oliveira , Ziebell Juliana Sartori , Isoldi Liércio André , Machado Bianca Neves
Published: September 2023

Given the increasing global energy demand, the present study aimed to analyze the influence of bathymetry on the generation and propagation of realistic irregular waves and to geometrically optimize a wave energy converter (WEC) device of the oscillating water column (OWC) type. In essence, the OWC WEC can be defined as a partially submerged structure that is open to the sea below the free water surface (hydropneumatic chamber) and connected to a duct that is open to the atmosphere (in which the turbine is installed); its operational principle is based on the compression and decompression of air inside the hydropneumatic chamber due to incident waves, which causes an alternating air flow that drives the turbine and enables electricity generation. The computational fluid dynamics software package Fluent was used to numerically reproduce the OWC WEC according to its operational principles, with a simplification that allowed its available power to be determined, i.e., without considering the turbine. The volume of fluid (VOF) multiphase model was employed to treat the interface between the phases. The WaveMIMO methodology was used to generate realistic irregular waves mimicking those that occur on the coast of Tramandaí, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The constructal design method, along with an exhaustive search technique, was employed. The degree of freedom H1/L (the ratio between the height and length of the hydropneumatic chamber of the OWC) was varied to maximize the available power in the device. The results showed that realistic irregular waves were adequately generated within both wave channels, with and without bathymetry, and that wave propagation in both computational domains was not significantly influenced by the wave channel bathymetry. Regarding the geometric evaluation, the optimal geometry found, H1/Lo = 0.1985, which maximized the available hydropneumatic power, i.e., the one that yielded a power of 25.44 W, was 2.28 times more efficient than the worst case found, which had H1/L = 2.2789.
State-of-the-Art Review and Future Perspectives on Maneuvering Modeling for Automatic Ship Berthing
Authors: Zhang Song , Wu Qing , Liu Jialun , He Yangying , Li Shijie
Published: September 2023

Automatic berthing is at the top level of ship autonomy; it is unwise and hasty to hand over the control initiative to the controller and the algorithm without the foundation of the maneuvering model. The berthing maneuver model predicts the ship responses to the steerage and external disturbances, and provides a foundation for the control algorithm. The modular MMG model is widely adopted in ship maneuverability studies. However, there are two ambiguous questions on berthing maneuver modeling: What are the similarities and differences between the conventional MMG maneuvering model and automatic berthing maneuvering model? How can an accurate automatic berthing maneuvering model be established? To answer these two questions, this paper firstly performs bibliometric analysis on automatic berthing, to discover the hot issues and emphasize the significance of maneuver modeling. It then demonstrates the similarities and differences between the conventional MMG maneuvering model and the automatic berthing maneuvering model. Furthermore, the berthing maneuver specifications and modeling procedures are explained in terms of the hydrodynamic forces on the hull, four-quadrant propulsion and steerage performances, external disturbances, and auxiliary devices. The conclusions of this work provide references for ship berthing mathematical modeling, auxiliary device utilization, berthing aid system improvement, and automatic berthing control studies.
Experimental Investigation on Particle Breakage Behavior of Marine Silica Sand under High-Stress Triaxial Shear
Authors: Chen Rong , Zhao Tong , Wu Zhiyong , Hao Dongxue , Xue Nan , Yuan Chi
Published: September 2023

There is often obvious particle breakage for silica sand under high-stress, which will lead to the bearing capacity reduction and excessive settlement of the foundation. This paper focuses on the particle breakage characteristics of marine silica sand from the East China Sea under high-stress conditions. A series of conventional triaxial tests for silica sand, including consolidated drained (CD) and consolidated undrained (CU) shear tests, were conducted under the confining pressures in the range of 2–8 MPa to investigate the breakage rule during the shearing process. The developments of particle breakage index Br with axial strain ε1 and volumetric strain εv present hyperbolic and linear trends, respectively. A hyperbolic model was adopted to describe the relationship of Br and ε1 and the corresponding model parameters were obtained. The particle breakage index also has a good correlation with the input work per unit volume under various average stresses, regardless of the stress history. Furthermore, the relationship between the fractal dimension and the particle breakage was studied based on the particle size distribution curve. It is concluded that the fractal dimension increases in an up–convex hyperbolic trend with the increase of particle breakage index. The dividing radius for whether the silica sand particles exhibit the fractal features is determined as approximately 0.4 mm. This is anticipated to provide reference and supplementary test data for analyzing sand constitutive models/environments regarding particle crushing.
Is the Plant Bolboschoenus maritimus an Adequate Biomonitor for Trace Metal Contamination in Saltmarshes? A Field Study from the Óbidos Lagoon (Portugal)
Authors: Santos Márcia S. S. , Pedro Carmen A. , Ferreira Susana M. F. , Gonçalves Sílvia C.
Published: September 2023

Monitoring the negative impacts of trace metals is crucial to assess the health and stability of ecosystems. In salt marshes, halophyte plants were reported as possible bioaccumulators of these elements. The aim of this work was to explore the bioaccumulation potential of Bolboschoenus maritimus as a tool for monitoring the presence of metals in coastal environments. Bolboschoenus maritimus were collected from a brackish water lagoon, and the presence of the trace metals lead, cadmium, and nickel were seasonally evaluated in distinct parts of the plants, and in water and sediment samples. Lead was the trace metal with the highest concentration detected in water and sediments of the sampling site. The highest lead concentrations in B. maritimus were recorded in the spring season. The transport index indicated an accumulation of lead in the leaves of around 70% in the spring of 2009. Cadmium in leaves in spring and summer of 2009 reached values above 5 mg Cd. kg−1. Nickel was not detected in most samples collected. Bolboschoenus maritimus was considered an adequate biomonitor for lead and cadmium, since it bioaccumulates both metals with seasonally distinct results, as the bioaccumulation factor results indicated.
On the Added Modal Coefficients of a Rotating Submerged Cylinder Induced by a Whirling Motion—Part 2: Numerical Investigation
Authors: Roig Rafel , Sánchez-Botello Xavier , Escaler Xavier
Published: September 2023

Part 2 of this work presents a numerical methodology, validated using the experimental results presented in Part 1, to calculate the added modal coefficients of a submerged cylinder in water both when it oscillates and when it rotates with a whirling motion. The numerical methodology is based on computational fluid dynamic simulations that obtain the added modal forces on the cylinder when it is forced to vibrate with mode shapes calculated using acoustic-structural modal analysis. Then, these forces are processed with a curve-fitting algorithm to extract all the coefficients. Most numerical coefficients presented a close agreement with the corresponding experimental ones, although the added modal damping was overestimated. In general, the added modal mass was found to be independent of both the rotating speed and the whirling frequency except for low whirling frequencies when it increased. The added modal damping was found to depend on both parameters, and the rest of the coefficients were independent of the whirling frequency and only depended on the rotating speed. As a conclusion, this numerical approach has permitted the study of particular conditions that could not be experimentally tested and thus broadened the knowledge of the behavior of the added modal coefficients of rotating submerged cylinders.
A Cost–Benefit Approach to Assess the Physical and Economic Feasibility of Sand Bypassing Systems
Authors: Lima Márcia , Ferreira Ana Margarida , Coelho Carlos
Published: September 2023

The artificial sand bypassing systems are coastal interventions designed to transfer sediments from areas of accretion to areas where erosion is observed. The goal of these systems is to reduce the littoral drift gradients where sediment transport is interrupted (vicinity of river mouths or port structures) and maintain a balanced sediment distribution along the shoreline. However, these systems present high initial investment costs as well as ongoing expenses for operation and maintenance. To assess the feasibility of sand bypassing systems in mitigating coastal erosion from a long-term perspective (decades), a comprehensive understanding of their performance is necessary, considering both physical and economic aspects. Thus, a cost–benefit assessment numerical tool, COAST, is applied to evaluate and discuss the effectiveness of bypassing systems during their life cycle. First, a comprehensive analysis is conducted for a generic study area, and then, the feasibility of the systems is discussed for two real study areas of the Portuguese West coast (Barra-Vagueira and Figueira da Foz-Leirosa). The generic results demonstrate as the importance of systems location or transposed flow volumes. On the other hand, the analysis of the two real case studies revealed that, under similar conditions, the results of the cost–benefit analysis can be contradictory. For the Barra-Vagueira stretch, the work indicates that the bypass system is not economically viable, whereas for Figueira da Foz-Leirosa, it is cost-effective. The study shows the importance of the site-specific conditions to evaluate the best option for a medium to long-term planned coast, highlighting the relevance of the proposed approach to assess the physical and economic feasibility of sand bypassing systems.
Characterization of Alternaria alternata and Alternaria scrophulariae Brown Spot in Colombian quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa)
Authors: Fonseca-Guerra Ingrid Rocío , Beltrán Pineda Mayra Eleonora , Benavides Rozo Martha Elizabeth
Published: September 2023

Alternaria is a saprophytic and opportunistic fungus with a worldwide distribution that can affect the quality of various agricultural products, such as fruits, cereals, and pseudocereals. This research was carried out to investigate the population of this genus associated with quinoa cultivation in plots located in the Boyacá department (Colombia), the country’s third-largest quinoa-producing department. The present study found 17 Alternaria isolates, of which 13 were identified as A. alternata and 4 as A. scrophulariae (formerly A. conjuncta) employed molecular markers of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and translation elongation factor 1α (TEF-1α). In the pathogenicity test under greenhouse conditions, all the Alternaria isolates showed some degree of pathogenicity on Piartal quinoa cultivar plants although no significant differences were found in isolates. The severity indices ranged from 2 to 5, and the percentage of affected leaves per plant ranged between 15% and 40%. This fungus affected the foliar tissue of quinoa, resulting in chlorotic and necrotic spots, symptoms that can generate a reduction in the quality and productivity of crops. This is the first time that the pathogenicity of Alternaria spp. in the Piartal variety has been described and the first report of this genera in quinoa crops of Colombia.
Differential Effects of Input Quantity and Input Quality on Bilingual Development: A Study with Kurdish–English Adolescents
Authors: Faraj Ismael Rafaat , Hamid Twana Saadi
Published: September 2023

Previous research has shown that both input quantity and quality play a role in dual language learning. However, it is unclear whether input quantity factors (e.g., school input) and input quality factors (e.g., home media input) work similarly in the language development of bilinguals while other potential internal and external factors are controlled for. This paper addressed this issue through investigating the influence of input quantity and input quality factors, both at the individual and group levels, on morphosyntax, vocabulary size, and lexical access ability in the Kurdish-L1 and English-L2 of Kurdish–English bilingual adolescents. Data were collected via a battery of standardized and researcher-developed measures and a detailed questionnaire. The results from backward regressions revealed that higher parental Kurdish proficiency and more exposure to Kurdish input through siblings and reading activities were associated with better Kurdish morphosyntactic skill, while a larger Kurdish vocabulary size was predicted by more exposure to native-speaker input in Kurdish. Both more Kurdish input received in preschool/school and through Kurdish media were related to better lexical access ability in Kurdish. Further, more exposure to English input in preschool/school predicted better English morphosyntactic skill and a larger vocabulary size, whereas higher paternal English proficiency was associated with better lexical access ability in English. Hierarchical regression analyses showed that input quality was more important in explaining Kurdish morphosyntactic and vocabulary size skills and lexical access ability in both languages, while input quantity explained more variance in English morphosyntactic and vocabulary size skills. Out-of-class Kurdish input outweighed instructional input to a certain extent in relation to Kurdish skills and lexical access ability in English, while instructional English input was more important for English morphosyntax and vocabulary size.
Translating Migration: Art Installations against Dehumanizing Labelling Practices
Authors: Taviano Stefania
Published: September 2023

Migration is commonly described as a threat through images of invasion and flood in Western media. Migrants and asylum seekers tend to be the target of hate speech together with other vulnerable groups and minorities, such as disabled people, and definitions and labels have precise implications in terms of social justice and human rights. Migrant is an umbrella term used to refer to a variety of people who leave their countries of origin. Out-of-quota and dubliner are further labels, together with asylum seekers. Through an interdisciplinary approach, adopting a translation perspective on social justice, I would like to focus on the ways these labelling practices affect migrants’ and asylum seekers’ lives to the point of violating their rights. A clear example is represented by the English term dublined, translated as dublinati/dublinanti into Italian, and with no translation into German. It derives from the Dublin regulations, signed in 2013 and still valid, and indicates those people who want to apply for asylum in a given country but cannot do so because their fingerprints have been taken and registered in another EU country. Classifications of this kind, combined with further categorisations, such as “ordinary” or “vulnerable”, are applied throughout EU countries and languages to determine whether asylum seekers deserve, and are thus granted, asylum or not. They are informed by a dehumanizing view of migration and translate into “bordering practices” which prevent access to reception systems and welfare services. Resistant translation practices, a new language and art activism can contribute to reversing dehumanizing practices by putting displaced people’s identities at the centre. The Sicilian artist Antonio Foresta is the author of the installation Pace Nostra, a symbolic wave made of migrants’ clothes and Caltanissetta inhabitants’ bedsheets, with both an Italian and Arabic title, which translates migration, commonly perceived as “their” drama, into “our” drama, a common human experience, leading to a common goal: peace.
Fertility Preservation in Pediatric Age: Future Perspective among Andrological Diseases
Authors: Zampieri Nicola
Published: September 2023

Male infertility is a condition that has always been less studied and known than female infertility. Male infertility is increasingly present and increasingly diagnosed. Although several causes are known, to date about 40% of the causes are considered idiopathic. The worldwide denasality can only be slowed if awareness campaigns are implemented on all the diseases that can alter fertile potential, especially in young adolescents. Male infertility is, in addition, associated with several medical conditions. In particular, the association between infertility and testicular cancer, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune diseases, and genetic diseases is well known. For this reason, fertility preservation should not be proposed or be only oncological in nature, as there are several diagnosable pediatric pathologies that are associated with altered fertile potential to whose patients we could offer a gamete preservation pathway. In this paper we propose our experience on fertility preservation in pediatric andrological diseases.