bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social media interventions for autistic individuals: Systematic review
Authors: Gabarron Elia , Skafle Ingjerd , Nordahl-Hansen Anders , Wynn Rolf
Published: March 2023

Background

Research on the use of digital technologies for delivering behavioral interventions has shown mixed evidence on their efficacy for improving both autistic symptoms and co-occurring psychiatric disorders. Little knowledge exists on the specific use or efficacy of using social media in interventions aimed at autistic individuals.

Objective

To review and describe the current existing evidence-based research on the use of social media in interventions aimed at autistic individuals.

Methods

A search was conducted across 8 databases (PubMed; EMBASE; Cochrane Library; PsycInfo; ERIC; Education Source; Web of Science; and IEEE Xplore). We included primary studies and reviews that dealt with autism spectrum disorder (ASD); described interventions that use social media; and reported results from the intervention. The quality of the evidence of the included primary studies was graded according to the GRADE criteria, and the risk of bias in systematic reviews was assessed by drawing on the AMSTAR guidelines. Results were synthesized and sorted by quality of evidence.

Results

A total of nine articles were included in this review: eight primary studies (five non-randomized interventions and three randomized interventions) and one systematic review. The total number of participants with an ASD-diagnosis in the included studies was 164 (aged 5 to 22 years old). Studies weighted as being of moderate quality of evidence have reported significant positive effects in the groups that received the social media interventions: increased social engagement and participation in life situations; increased physical activity level; increased improvement on occupational performance, specified goals, and behavioral problems; and decreased plaque scores coupled with parent reports of intervention success. None of the studies have reported any negative effects linked to social media interventions.

Conclusion

There is very little evidence of good quality on the use of social media in interventions aimed at autistic individuals. While there is a need for more high-quality studies, all the included studies, with one exception found positive results of the interventions. These findings are encouraging, suggesting that social media-based interventions may in fact be useful for supporting behavioral changes in autistic individuals.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=337185, identifier CRD42022337185.
Waist-to-height ratio and new-onset hypertension in middle-aged and older adult females from 2011 to 2015: A 4-year follow-up retrospective cohort study from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study
Authors: Wu Yang , Tong Yingmu , Wang Hai , Zhang Xing , Long Yunxiang , Li Qinglin , Ren Jie , Liu Chang
Published: March 2023

Background

Central obesity was closely associated with hypertension. Middle-aged and older adult females, defined as those aged 45 and above, were more likely to suffer from central obesity. For waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) was used as central obesity assessment, the object of this study was to illustrate the relationship between WHtR and the incidence of hypertension in middle-aged and older adult females in China.

Methods

Data used in this prospective cohort study was derived from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) in a baseline survey from 2011 to 2012 with a follow-up duration of 4 years. The waist-to-height ratio was calculated as waist circumstance divided by height, and the cohort was divided into different groups based on WHtR level. The outcome variable was new-onset hypertension.

Results

Of the 2,438 participants included in the study, 1,821 (74.7%) had high WHtR levels (WHtR ≥ 0.5). As WHtR was closely related to new-onset hypertension in a multivariable logistics regression mode [OR: 7.89 (95% CI: 2.10–29.67)], individuals with high WHtR were also more likely to suffer from hypertension compared with low WHtR levels [OR: 1.34 (95% CI: 1.06–1.69)].

Conclusion

WHtR is positively related to the risk of hypertension incidents among middle-aged and older adult females. Individuals with WHtR ≥ 0.5 were more likely to suffer from hypertension.
Future high-resolution and high-cadence observations for unraveling small-scale explosive solar features
Authors: Sterling Alphonse C. , Moore Ronald L. , Panesar Navdeep K. , Samanta Tanmoy , Tiwari Sanjiv K. , Savage Sabrina L.
Published: March 2023

Solar coronal jets are frequently occurring collimated ejections of solar plasma, originating from magnetically mixed polarity locations on the Sun of size scale comparable to that of a supergranule. Many, if not most, coronal jets are produced by eruptions of small-scale filaments, or minifilaments, whose magnetic field reconnects both with itself and also with surrounding coronal field. There is evidence that minifilament eruptions are a scaled-down version of typical filament eruptions that produce solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). Moreover, the magnetic processes building up to and triggering minifilament eruptions, which is often flux cancelation, might similarly build up and trigger the larger filaments to erupt. Thus, detailed study of coronal jets will inform us of the physics leading to, triggering, and driving the larger eruptions. Additionally, such studies potentially can inform us of smaller-scale coronal-jet-like features, such as jetlets and perhaps some spicules, that might work the same way as coronal jets. We propose a high-resolution (∼0″. 1 pixels), high-cadence (∼5 s) EUV-solar-imaging mission for the upcoming decades, that would be dedicated to observations of features of the coronal-jet size scale, and smaller-scale solar features produced by similar physics. Such a mission could provide invaluable insight into the operation of larger features such as CMEs that produce significant Space Weather disturbances, and also smaller-scale features that could be important for coronal heating, solar wind acceleration, and heliospheric features such as the magnetic switchbacks that are frequently observed in the solar wind.
Step-adaptive sound guidance enhances locomotor-respiratory coupling in novice female runners: A proof-of-concept study
Authors: Harbour Eric , Rheden Vincent van , Schwameder Hermann , Finkenzeller Thomas
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Many runners struggle to find a rhythm during running. This may be because 20–40% of runners experience unexplained, unpleasant breathlessness at exercise onset. Locomotor-respiratory coupling (LRC), a synchronization phenomenon in which the breath is precisely timed with the steps, may provide metabolic or perceptual benefits to address these limitations. It can also be consciously performed. Hence, we developed a custom smartphone application to provide real-time LRC guidance based on individual step rate.

Methods

Sixteen novice-intermediate female runners completed two control runs outdoors and indoors at a self-selected speed with auditory step rate feedback. Then, the runs were replicated with individualized breath guidance at specific LRC ratios. Hexoskin smart shirts were worn and analyzed with custom algorithms to estimate continuous LRC frequency and phase coupling.

Results

LRC guidance led to a large significant increase in frequency coupling outdoor from 26.3 ± 10.7 (control) to 69.9 ± 20.0 % (LRC) “attached”. There were similarly large differences in phase coupling between paired trials, and LRC adherence was stronger for the indoor treadmill runs versus outdoors. There was large inter-individual variability in running pace, preferred LRC ratio, and instruction adherence metrics.

Discussion

Our approach demonstrates how personalized, step-adaptive sound guidance can be used to support this breathing strategy in novice runners. Subsequent investigations should evaluate the skill learning of LRC on a longer time basis to effectively clarify its risks and advantages.
Soil quality and fertility dynamics under a continuous cassava-maize rotation in the semi-deciduous forest agro-ecological zone of Ghana
Authors: Adjei Eric Owusu , Ayamba Benedicta Essel , Buri Mohammed Moro , Biney Nathaniel , Appiah Kwasi
Published: March 2023

The practice of crop rotation is known to significantly influence soil nutrient dynamics, depending on the type of rotation and the crops involved. As such, a field study was conducted to find out the effect of continuous cassava-maize rotation, where mineral fertilizer was only applied to the maize crop, on soil nutrients dynamics and soil quality thereof under varying rotation periods. The study revealed that Soil Organic Matter (SOM) and levels of soil nutrients, such as total nitrogen, available phosphorus and exchangeable cations (potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sodium) significantly declined with rotation period. Long term maize–cassava rotation led to subsoil (20–50cm) acidification. Soil quality as measured by Carbon Management Index (CMI) on the different aged rotations decreased with age, with the longest rotation period giving the least quality. These results and observations imply that long term cassava-maize rotation reduced soil quality and the resilience of the cropping system for continuous sustainable crops production. A regression analysis of soil nutrients with CMI under the continuous cassava-maize rotation identified the crucial role of soil total N (r2= 0.56) and exchangeable K (r2= 0.44) in sustaining productive cassava-maize rotation system and improved soil quality within the semi-deciduous forest agro-ecological zone. It is thus, recommended that enhanced and targeted organic and inorganic fertilization regime could be deployed on the cassava-maize rotation system to improve the inherently low levels of nutrients and increase crop yields.
Combining systemic and pragmatic approaches for the holistic diagnosis of a farm in agroecological transition in a health context
Authors: Cremilleux Maeva , Michaud Audrey , Cayre Patrice , Martin Bruno , Rigolot Cyrille , Michelin Yves
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Today, agriculture and livestock farming are facing environmental, social and health challenges. The agroecological transition is a possible response to these challenges. It requires changes in practices but also an evolution in farmers' ways of thinking and relationships with living things. Some diagnostics of farms, such as the global analysis of farms, behaviors and practices.

Methods

We therefore propose a holistic approach combining a global analysis of farms and a pragmatic approach to understand the functioning of agricultural production systems. This pragmatic turn enables to integrate the ways in which the farmer's reality is established, the performance of the system, the associated metrics and the farmer's relationship with life.

Results and discussion

Using the example of a farm in transition, we show that it is the combination researcher's stance and allows for a renewed dialogue between research and farmers in the field.
The value of lactate dehydrogenase to albumin ratio and immune inflammation biomarkers in colorectal cancer
Authors: Wu Jiali , Wu Ao , Wang Songzi , Zeng Chunxian , Wang Ruizhi , Zhou Juan , Wang Dong
Published: March 2023

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent gastrointestinal cancers. Evidence for the importance of inflammation and immunology in the development and progression of CRC is growing steadily. The purpose of this study was to determine the clinical importance of Lactic Dehydrogenase (LDH) to Albumin (ALB) Ratio (LAR) and immune-inflammation biomarkers (IIBs) in patients with CRC.

Methods

This study enrolled 382 CRC patients. The LAR was determined as the serum LDH(U/l) to ALB(g/l) ratio. We compared the levels of LAR and IIBs in different TNM stages and tumor differentiation. The relationship between LAR and IIBs and overall survival (OS) of CRC was determined by Cox regression models. A prognostic nomogram was created using the results of the multivariate analysis and the effectiveness of the nomogram was assessed using the ROC, calibration, and decision curves. We evaluated the relationship between LAR and IIBs and clinical features of CRC.

Results

The levels of LAR, SII, NLR and PLR in TNM IV stage group (LAR:5.92 (5.23–8.24); SII: 1040.02 (499.51–1683.54); NLR: 2.87 (2.07–5.3); PLR:187.08 (125.31–276.63)) were significantly higher than those in other groups. LAR and NLR showed no significant difference in different tumor differentiation groups, while SII and PLR in undifferentiated groups (SII:543.72 (372.63–1110.20); PLR: 147.06 (106.04–203.92)) were significantly higher than those in well and moderate groups (SII: 474.29 (323.75–716.01); PLR: 126.28 (104.31–167.88)). LAR (HR = 1.317, 95% CI = 1.019–1.454), TNM stage (HR = 2.895, 95% CI = 1.838–4.559), age (HR = 1.766, 95% CI = 1.069–2.922) and lymphocytes (HR = 0.663, 95% CI = 0.456–0.963) were predictors of OS. IIBs, including SII, NLR, and PLR are independent of OS. The LAR-based nomogram AUCs of 1-year, 3-year and 5-year survival probabilities in the training cohort were 0.86, 0.72, and 0.71, respectively, and the AUCs of the validation cohort were 0.85, 0.71, and 0.69 respectively. The LAR-based nomogram's ROC curves and calibration curves demonstrated higher OS discriminative performance. The decision curves demonstrated greater net benefit in the survival prediction.

Conclusion

Preoperative LAR is a potential prognostic marker in CRC patients, while SII, NLR, and PLR are independent of OS. LAR was associated with tumor stage in CRC patients, but not with tumor differentiation.
Intraindividual variance of lower limb rotation in patients with bilateral knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Zheng Xin , Wang Yang-yu-fan , Jin Wang-yi , Huang Chao-ran , Yan Zi-wen , Peng Da-lin , Zhou Shen , Guo Kai-jin , Pan Sheng
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To determine the side-to-side difference in intraindividual rotation alignment of patients with bilateral varus-type knee osteoarthritis (OA) and compare it with control subjects.

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled 60 patients with bilateral varus-type knee OA and 50 control subjects. All cases underwent bilateral lower limb CT angiography. Bilateral femoral and tibial rotation alignment were measured, and the overall lower limb rotation was calculated by two different methods. Method 1 was calculated by subtracting angle of the femoral torsion from the tibial torsion and method 2 was determined by relative rotation of the femoral neck angle to bimalleolar angle. The intraindividual variance and differences between the two groups were analyzed.

Results

Both OA and control samples showed significant differences between right and left for all measurements. Femoral torsion for control group was 10.4 ± 5.5°, tibial torsion was −22.1 ± 6.1°, and overall leg rotation by method 1 was −15.6 ± 7.2° and method 2 was −11.7 ± 8.2°. Femoral torsion, tibial torsion, method 1, and method 2 in the patients with OA were 8.2 ± 6.3°, −18.6 ± 4.1°, −14.9 ± 7.9°, and −10.4 ± 7.6°, respectively. Patients with OA showed a more pronounced retroversion in the femur (p = 0.008) and more internal rotation in the tibia (p < 0.001). No statistical significance of both methods was found between the two groups. Patients with OA had a greater median side-to-side absolute difference in all measurements, though the differences of both two methods of overall lower limb rotation were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

The discrepancy of side-to-side differences of bilateral lower limb rotation ought to be noticed with caution in diagnosing and treating rotational deformities of the lower limb, especially for patients with bilateral knee OA.
Changes in the Properties of Hazelnut Shells Due to Conduction Drying
Authors: Matin Ana , Brandić Ivan , Voća Neven , Bilandžija Nikola , Matin Božidar , Jurišić Vanja , Antonović Alan , Krička Tajana
Published: March 2023

In this study, the physical properties of two hazelnut species were investigated before and after drying at different temperatures and durations. The results showed that the physical properties of the hazelnut samples, including size, volume, density, weight, kernel mass, and shell mass, were significantly affected by temperature, duration, and their interactions. In addition, the moisture content of the samples decreased with increasing temperature and drying duration. The lowest value for the Istarski duguljasti variety was 5.36% (160 °C and 45 min), while the lowest value for Rimski okrugli was measured at 160 °C and 60 min (5.02%). Ash content was affected by both temperature and time, with the Istarski duguljasti variety having a minimum value of 0.84% at 120 °C and 60 min and Rimski okrugli a maximum value of 1.24% at 100 °C and 30 min. The variables of the ultimate analysis, such as nitrogen, carbon, sulfur, and hydrogen, increased with increasing temperature and time. The oxygen content and the higher heating value decreased with increasing temperature. Energy optimization in the drying process is crucial to reduce costs and save time. Effective energy optimization measures can lead to significant cost savings and improved operational efficiency in the drying process.
Differential Assessment of Strategies to Increase Milk Yield in Small-Scale Dairy Farming Systems Using Multi-Agent Modelling and Simulation
Authors: Nyambo Devotha G. , Clemen Thomas
Published: March 2023

Multi-agent-based modelling and simulation provides an adequate environment to study the real world. This paper presents the use of a multi-agent research and simulation (MARS) framework and model design based on the overview, design concepts, design (ODD) protocol to model and simulate small-scale management strategies that are important for increased milk yield per cow. In reality, strategies for farm management at a small-scale level are purely based on heuristics that cost farmers and lead to inadequate milk yields. A differential assessment of the farming strategies was conducted to yield a data-driven approach for selection of the best strategies, which in turn will optimize investments and increase milk yield. The agent-based modelling and simulation revealed that, the studied strategies based on income, farm, and farmer-based characteristics influenced an increase of up to 7.72 L of milk above the average (12.7 ± 4.89). Generally, there was an increase in milk yield based on the identified evolvement strategies; from a baseline data average milk yield of 12.7 ± 4.89 to simulated milk yield average of 17.57 ± 0.72. Evaluating the agent-based models in real-world scenarios will strengthen the assurance that the identified strategies can move small-scale dairy farmers from low to higher milk producers.
The Absence of Malvidin-3-Glucoside in Petiole Tissue Predicts Rare Red-Type Flower of Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis L.)
Authors: Perkins-Veazie Penelope , Ma Guoying , Schwickerath Jack , Meyer Elisabeth , Chen Hsuan
Published: March 2023

Eastern redbud, Cercis canadensis L., is a popular ornamental tree in the U.S. and has flower colors of purple-type, red-type, and white-type. Most redbuds cultivars have purple-type flowers. Red-types and white-types are much less common. These unusual flower colors have become an important trait for incorporation into novel redbud cultivars. Eastern redbud seedlings require 3–5 years before blooming, making flower color selection a slow and expensive process. The ability to select seedlings for flower color type would significantly increase the efficiency of the breeding process. Redbud flower color is dominated by anthocyanin content; leaf petioles often show visible pink to purple color, indicating the potential presence of anthocyanin. In this study, anthocyanin profiles of 14 cultivars and 25 progenies of ‘Appalachian Red’ (red-type) × ‘Oklahoma’ (purple-type) were determined using HPLC. The petiole anthocyanin profiles were strongly indicative of plant flower-color types. Both peonidin-3-glucoside and malvidin-3-glucoside were dominant in petioles from all purple-type plants. In contrast, malvidin-3-glucoside was absent from petioles of red-type plants, and neither peonidin-3-glucoside nor malvidin-3-glucoside was detected among white-type cultivars. These results indicate that the presence or absence of peonidin-3-glucoside and malvidin-3-glucoside in petioles can be a physiological marker for identifying redbud flower color types.
Abiotic Stress Mitigation: A Case Study from 21 Trials Using a Natural Organic Matter Based Biostimulant across Multiple Geographies
Authors: Sleighter Rachel L. , Hanson Terry , Holden David , Richards Kristen M.
Published: March 2023

Crop productivity and yields can be greatly diminished by abiotic stress events including drought, extreme temperatures, excess moisture, and saline irrigation water. Multiple stressors occurring simultaneously can further exacerbate the strain on plants. Various types of biostimulants have been shown to mitigate abiotic stress and here, the results of 21 trials on corn, wheat, soybean, and various high-value crops are discussed in the context of the abiotic stress that either occurred naturally or was experimentally induced. Treatments in these trials included stressed and non-stressed plants, as well as either an untreated control or grower standard fertilizer applications alone and in combination with a natural organic matter (NOM)-based biostimulant. While stressed plants suffered compared with non-stressed plants, the stressed plants receiving the NOM-based biostimulant were healthier and larger, as indicated by whole, root, and shoot weights and yields at harvest. Plant response was stronger when stress existed, but the biostimulant also led to healthier plants when no stress occurred. Positive results occurred for 20 of the 21 trials, indicating that biostimulants can effectively mitigate abiotic stress events regardless of the plant species tested or the growing conditions encountered, by increasing sap Brix, enzymatic activity, and nutrient use efficiency.
Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Efficacy of Thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) Essential Oil against Foodborne Illness Pathogens, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica Serovar Typhimurium and Bacillus cereus
Authors: Sateriale Daniela , Forgione Giuseppina , De Cristofaro Giuseppa Anna , Pagliuca Chiara , Colicchio Roberta , Salvatore Paola , Paolucci Marina , Pagliarulo Caterina
Published: March 2023

Nowadays, the wide spread of foodborne illness and the growing concerns about the use of synthetic food additives have shifted the focus of researchers towards essential oils (EOs) as possible antimicrobials and preservatives of natural origin. Thanks to their antimicrobial properties against pathogenic and food spoilage microorganisms, EOs have shown good potential for use as alternative food additives, also to counteract biofilm-forming bacterial strains, the spread of which is considered to be among the main causes of the increase in foodborne illness outbreaks. In this context, the aim of this study has been to define the antibacterial and antibiofilm profile of thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) essential oil (TEO) against widespread foodborne pathogens, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium and Bacillus cereus. TEO chemical composition was analyzed through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Preliminary in vitro antibacterial tests allowed to qualitatively verify TEO efficacy against the tested foodborne pathogens. The subsequent determination of minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) values allowed to quantitatively define the bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects of TEO. To evaluate the ability of essential oils to inhibit biofilm formation, a microplate assay was performed for the bacterial biofilm biomass measurement. Results suggest that TEO, rich in bioactive compounds, is able to inhibit the growth of tested foodborne bacteria. In addition, the highlighted in vitro anti-biofilm properties of TEO suggest the use of this natural agent as a promising food preservative to counteract biofilm-related infections in the food industry.
A Six-Year Retrospective Study of Microbiological Characteristics and Antimicrobial Resistance in Specimens from a Tertiary Hospital’s Surgical Ward
Authors: Ioannou Petros , Maraki Sofia , Koumaki Dimitra , Manios Georgios A. , Koumaki Vasiliki , Kassotakis Dimitrios , Zacharopoulos Georgios V. , Kofteridis Diamantis P. , Manios Andreas , de Bree Eelco
Published: March 2023

Surgery has revolutionized the practice of medicine by allowing the treatment of conditions amenable to conservative medical management with some of them pathophysiologically involving the prevalence of pathogenic microorganisms. On the other hand, infections such as surgical site infections or urinary tract infections may complicate patients hospitalized in surgical wards leading to considerable morbidity, mortality, and increased healthcare-associated costs. The aim of this study was to present the microbiological characteristics and antimicrobial resistance of all isolates identified in microbiological specimens from a surgical ward of a tertiary hospital in Greece during a six-year period. Only specimens that yielded at least one microorganism were included in the analysis. In total, 1459 strains in 789 positive cultures were isolated. The most common sample sent to the microbiology department was pus from surgical wounds. The most common pathogens among all 1459 strains isolated were Enterobacterales at 33% (n = 482), however, the most common genus was Enterococcus at 22.3% (n = 326). Antimicrobial resistance against third-generation cephalosporins was 23% (n = 111/482) among Enterobacterales, while, the rate of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) was 18.5% (n = 60/324) among Enterococcus species and was increasing in the last years of the study. Antimicrobial resistance of Acinetobacter baumannii to carbapenems was 68.8% (n = 11/16), which was lower than the corresponding rate in other wards in Greece. The antimicrobial resistance rates noted herein raise questions regarding the appropriateness of currently suggested antimicrobials in guidelines and imply that a revision could be required. Practicing clinicians should always be aware of local microbiological data that allow the selection of appropriate antimicrobials for the management of infections. Finally, the increasing rates of VRE noted herein mandate further actions from the point of infection control and antimicrobial stewardship.
GmMPK6 Positively Regulates Salt Tolerance through Induction of GmRbohI1 in Soybean
Authors: Son Seungmin , Kim Jitae , An Chung Sun , Kim Song Lim , Lee Hyoungseok , Im Jong Hee
Published: March 2023

Salt stress is a critical environmental stress that impairs plant growth and development, especially in crop productivity; therefore, understanding the salt response in plants is the basis for their development of salt tolerance. Under salinity, soybean mitogen-activated protein kinase 6 (GmMPK6) is activated and positively regulates reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. However, it is not yet elucidated how GmMPK6 regulates ROS generation and its role in salt tolerance. Here, we show that GmMPK6, solely activated in NaCl treatment, and gene expression of GmRbohI1 was not only reduced by MPK inhibitor SB202190 in NaCl treatment, but also increased in a GMKK1-expressing protoplast. Furthermore, SB202190 and the NADPH-oxidase inhibitor, diphenyleneiodonium chloride, increased susceptibility to salt stress. The expression of GmRD19A was induced by NaCl treatment, but this expression was compromised by SB202190. Consequently, we revealed that GmMPK6 induces ROS generation through the transcriptional regulation of GmRbohI1 and increases salt tolerance in soybean.
Role of 3-Mercaptopyruvate Sulfurtransferase (3-MST) in Physiology and Disease
Authors: Rao Swetha Pavani , Dobariya Prakashkumar , Bellamkonda Harshini , More Swati S.
Published: March 2023

3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST) plays the important role of producing hydrogen sulfide. Conserved from bacteria to Mammalia, this enzyme is localized in mitochondria as well as the cytoplasm. 3-MST mediates the reaction of 3-mercaptopyruvate with dihydrolipoic acid and thioredoxin to produce hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is also produced through cystathionine beta-synthase and cystathionine gamma-lyase, along with 3-MST, and is known to alleviate a variety of illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, and neurological conditions. The importance of cystathionine beta-synthase and cystathionine gamma-lyase in hydrogen sulfide biogenesis is well-described, but documentation of the 3-MST pathway is limited. This account compiles the current state of knowledge about the role of 3-MST in physiology and pathology. Attempts at targeting the 3-MST pathway for therapeutic benefit are discussed, highlighting the potential of 3-MST as a therapeutic target.
Insight into Antioxidant Activity and Peptide Profile of Jinhua Ham Broth Peptides at Different Cooking Times
Authors: Yang Ziyi , Cai Jiaming , Boateng Evans Frimpong , Xing Lujuan , Zhang Wangang
Published: March 2023

This present study aimed to investigate the effects of various cooking times (1 h, 1.5 h, 2 h, 2.5 h, named as JHBP-1, JHBP-1.5, JHBP-2, JHBP-2.5) on the antioxidant activity and peptide profile of Jinhua ham broth peptides (JHBP). The peptides extracted from uncooked ham were used as an uncooked group with the name of JHBP-0. The results revealed that the antioxidant efficacy in the four cooked groups changed dramatically compared to JHBP-0. After cooking, the DPPH radical scavenging activity, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity and superoxide anion radical scavenging activity decreased, except for the Fe2+ chelation and ABTS+ scavenging capacity which increased significantly. However, the cooked groups still showed a strong antioxidant capacity. In particular, the superoxide anion radical scavenging ability and the Fe2+ chelation action were significantly stronger compared to glutathione (GSH) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) (p < 0.05). JHBP-1.5 also displayed stronger antioxidant capacity than the other three cooked groups, and its secondary structure and mass distribution changed significantly after cooking, specifically with an increased proportion of helix and <1 kDa peptides. Moreover, the constitution of free amino acids (FAAs) and the types of peptides released in the broth increased significantly with a longer cooking time. In total, 1306 (JHBP-0), 1352 (JHBP-1), 1431 (JHBP-1.5), 1500 (JHBP-2), and 1556 (JHBP-2.5) peptide sequences were detected using LC-MC/MC. The proportion of <1 kDa peptides also gradually increased as the cooking time extended, which is consistent with the molecular weight distribution measurements.
Antioxidant Properties of Thymoquinone, Thymohydroquinone and Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) Seed Oil: Scavenging of Superoxide Radical Studied Using Cyclic Voltammetry, DFT and Single Crystal X-ray Diffraction
Authors: Sakib Raiyan , Caruso Francesco , Aktar Sandjida , Belli Stuart , Kaur Sarjit , Hernandez Melissa , Rossi Miriam
Published: March 2023

Black cumin seeds and seed oil have long been used in traditional foods and medicine in South Asian, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean countries and are valuable flavor ingredients. An important ingredient of black cumin is the small molecule thymoquinone (TQ), which manifests low toxicity and potential therapeutic activity against a wide number of diseases including diabetes, cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, the antioxidant activities of black seed oil, TQ and a related molecule found in black cumin, thymohydroquinone (THQ), were measured using a direct electrochemical method to experimentally evaluate their superoxide scavenging action. TQ and the black seed oil showed good superoxide scavenging ability, while THQ did not. Density Functional Theory (DFT) computational methods were applied to arrive at a chemical mechanism describing these results, and confirmed the experimental Rotating Ring Disk Electrode (RRDE) findings that superoxide oxidation to O2 by TQ is feasible, in contrast with THQ, which does not scavenge superoxide. Additionally, a thorough inquiry into the unusual cyclic voltammetry pattern exhibited by TQ was studied and was associated with formation of a 1:1 TQ-superoxide radical species, [TQ-O2]−•. DFT calculations reveal this radical species to be involved in the π-π mechanism describing TQ reactivity with superoxide. The crystal structures of TQ and THQ were analyzed, and the experimental data reveal the presence of stacking intermolecular interactions that can be associated with formation of the radical species, [TQ-O2]−•. All three of these methods were essential for us to arrive at a chemical mechanism that explains TQ antioxidant activity, that incorporates intermolecular features found in the crystal structure and which correlates with the measured superoxide scavenging activity.
Combustion Systems and Fuels Used in Engines—A Short Review
Authors: Szpica Dariusz
Published: March 2023

In the coming years, strong measures are planned to reduce emissions from various transportation modes [...]
Interpretative Structural Modeling Analyzes the Hierarchical Relationship between Mid-Air Gestures and Interaction Satisfaction
Authors: Guo Haoyue , Pan Younghwan
Published: March 2023

Mid-air gestures as a new form of human–computer interaction has a wide range of satisfaction factors, for which the primary and secondary relationships and hierarchical relationships between factors are unclear. By examining usability definitions, collecting satisfaction questionnaires and user interviews, 30 observed variables were obtained and a scale was developed. A total of 310 valid questionnaires were collected, and six latent variables were summarized through factor analysis. The matrix quantitative analysis of latent variables based on interpretative structural model theory was used to construct a hierarchical model of influencing factors of satisfaction with mid-air gestures. The study shows that the influencing factors of mid-air gesture satisfaction can be divided into three levels. The first layer of attractiveness is the direct influencing factor on the surface and the goal of mid-air gesture design. In the second layer, Simplicity and Efficiency, Simplicity and Tiredness, and Tiredness and Friendliness interact with each other. Simplicity positively affects Friendliness, and Efficiency positively affects Tiredness. The third layer, Intuitiveness is the root layer influencing factor, which affects Simplicity. This study provides a theoretical basis for the design of mid-air gesture so that it can be designed and selected more objectively.
Study on Beat Vibration of a High Temperature Superconducting EDS Maglev Vehicle at Low Speed
Authors: Yu Qing-Song , Wang Min , Yao Guo-Feng , Zhang Shi-Xuan , Yang Jing , Shao Nan
Published: March 2023

Vertical displacement acceleration and the pitch angle record produce the phenomenon of beat vibration when testing a 200 m electro-dynamic suspension (EDS) magnetic levitation (maglev) test vehicle with high-temperature superconducting (HTS) at the CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles Co., Ltd., where the vehicle is clamped and in planar motion. First, to examine this phenomenon, this paper establishes dynamic equations of the vehicle with three degrees of freedom (DOF), and the levitation force on each superconducting magnet (SCM) is calculated by dynamic circuit theory. Second, the theory vertical equilibrium point is obtained from the average of the levitation force for a different velocity and the magneto-motive force (MMF) of the SCM. Third, this paper decouples SCM levitation forces from each other using MATLAB/SIMULINK, and a multi-body dynamic model with six DOF is developed in SIMPACK. All vertical displacements and acceleration responses, as well as the pitch angle and acceleration response from the simulation, appear to show the phenomenon of beat vibration since there are two closing natural frequencies of approximately 2 Hz and 2.4 Hz. Finally, based on the traversing method considering the influence of the velocity, initial vertical displacement, and the MMF of the SCM, the multi-body dynamic model is frequently utilized to study the response of the mean and amplitude of vertical displacement and that of the pitch angle. The results show that increasing the MMF or velocity could decrease the vertical displacement and pitch angle; the mean vertical displacement is a little larger than the theory equilibrium point; and the amplitude of vertical displacement is small when the initial vertical displacement is near the theory equilibrium point. Both the numerical and experimental results verify the validity of the dynamic circuit model and mechanical model in this paper.
Experimental and Numerical Predictions of Cryogenic Leakages in Welded Steel Plates
Authors: Kang Dong , Dai Le , Park Ki-Beom , Choi Young-Hwan , Kim Jeong-Hyeon , Kim Seul-Kee , Lee Jae-Myung
Published: March 2023

This study presented experimental and numerical research to investigate the effect of cryogenic leakage on a plate structure of AH36-grade steel containing welded joints. To simulate the cryogenic leakage conditions, the welded plate was exposed to a temperature of −196 °C by supplying liquid nitrogen (LN2) to the center of the steel plate. The time-dependent temperature history and strain variation were measured by using thermocouples and strain gauges attached to the plate surface. Additionally, the residual stress of the middle surface section before and after the cryogenic leakage process was measured by X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). A three-dimensional finite element model was created with the use of a commercial finite element analysis (FEA) program to simulate the flux-cored arc welding process and cryogenic leakage process. The steel surface temperature dropped sharply and reached approximately −196 °C at 160 s after LN2 supplement. After the first 650 s of the LN2 leakage experiment, the outside of the trough reached approximately −75 °C and −25 °C, depending on the location of the thermal couples. Although there was a relative difference in the results, the experiment and numerical simulation results for temperature and stress distribution showed good agreement. The results could be utilized in the ship design stage adopting welded structures as a basic database.
Effects of Photobiomodulation in Sports Performance: A Literature Review
Authors: González-Muñoz Ana , Perez-Montilla Jose Javier , Cuevas-Cervera Maria , Aguilar-García María , Aguilar-Nuñez Daniel , Hamed-Hamed Dina , Pruimboom Leo , Navarro-Ledesma Santiago
Published: March 2023

The main goal of this study is to analyze photobiomodulation therapy’s effectiveness on improving sports practice. Secondarily, the included studies were methodologically analyzed to verify their quality. A review and appraisal of literature found in Web of Science, ProQuest and Scopus databases was carried out. To evaluate the risk of bias of the included studies. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale and PEDro Internal Validity Scale (IVS) checklists were used. The included randomized clinical trials were in English, conducted on humans and published since 2016. A total of 15 randomized clinical trials were included, 4 of which found an improvement in oxygen volume after an aerobic stress test, while 2 showed no change. Muscle damage decreased in five studies, however, in two of them muscle damage did not change. Blood lactate concentration decreased in two of the studies, while in three of them there was no difference. Muscle soreness was lower in three studies, however, in four of the articles no change was demonstrated. All selected studies were of good methodological quality. On the IVS, six RCTs had a high internal quality and nine of them moderate. Photobiomodulation therapy has a positive effect on sports performance. Scientific studies on the subject are limited and more research in this line is needed.
Criterion Validity and Reliability of the Compact Infrared-Based Photocell ADR Jumping to Estimate Vertical Jump
Authors: Villalon-Gasch Lamberto , Penichet-Tomas Alfonso , Olaya-Cuartero Javier , Jimenez-Olmedo Jose M.
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to determine the criterion validity of the ADR jumping photocell when compared to a motion capture system and to examine the within-session test–retest reliability of the instrument. Thirteen highly trained female volleyball players performed ten countermovement jumps (CMJ) with two minutes rest in-between trials. Jumps were recorded simultaneously by both devices to compare the outcomes. The main results showed significant mean differences between devices (10.6 cm, p < 0.001; ES = 0.9), high Spearman’s correlations (ρ = 0.95), weak CCC (0.25), and SEE = 0.92 cm. Bland–Altman’s plot indicated high systematic errors (10.5 cm), heteroscedasticity of error (slope = 0.026), and all values included among the limits of agreement. The within-session reliability (internal consistency) was very high (ICC = 0.96; CCC = 0.94; SEM = 1.18 cm; CV = 4.21%). In addition, the sensitivity of the instrument showed values of SWC = 0.33 cm. In conclusion, ADR jumping is a valid instrument for the estimation of CMJ in highly trained female volleyball players. Furthermore, the instrument is shown to be a consistent tool in the measurement of CMJ.
Sensitivity Study of Highway Tunnel Light Environment Parameters Based on Pupil Change Experiments and CNN Judging Method
Authors: Liang Bo , Xu Mengdie , Li Zhiting , Niu Jia’an
Published: March 2023

There is a sparsity of research regarding the nonlinear relationship between the sensitivity of the light environment parameters in the middle section of the tunnel under multi-factor conditions in multiple samples. Due to the lack of research, the present study was conducted in order to investigate said relationship. To determine the parameters of the eye-movement characteristics required for the convolutional neural network prediction evaluation, a tunnel simulation model was established using DIALux10 simulation software and a series of dynamic driving tests were conducted based on an indoor simulation experimental platform. Further, through employing the residual network ResNet to extract data features and the pyramidal pooling network module, a convolutional neural network judging model with adaptive learning capabilities was established for investigating the nonlinear relationship of sensitivity of light environment parameters. Following the test, the degree of influence on the diameter of the pupil for the different levels of each factor were: the optimal configuration of the staggered layout on either side of the lamp arrangement, the optimal 3 m height under the different sidewall painting layout height conditions, the optimal green painting color under the different sidewall painting color conditions, and the optimal 6500 k under different LED light source color temperature conditions. The results of the present study serve to expand the use of the convolutional neural network model in tunnel light environment research and provide a new path for evaluating the quality of tunnel light environment.
Deep Visual Waterline Detection for Inland Marine Unmanned Surface Vehicles
Authors: Chen Shijun , Huang Jing , Miao Hengfeng , Cai Yaoqing , Wen Yuanqiao , Xiao Changshi
Published: March 2023

Waterline usually plays as an important visual cue for the autonomous navigation of marine unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) in specific waters. However, the visual complexity of the inland waterline presents a significant challenge for the development of highly efficient computer vision algorithms tailored for waterline detection in a complicated inland water environment that marine USVs face. This paper attempts to find a solution to guarantee the effectiveness of waterline detection for the USVs with a general digital camera patrolling variable inland waters. To this end, a general deep-learning-based paradigm for inland marine USVs, named DeepWL, is proposed, which consists of two cooperative deep models (termed WLdetectNet and WLgenerateNet, respectively). They afford a continuous waterline image-map estimation from a single video stream captured on board. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed approach via qualitative and quantitative assessment on the concerned performances. Moreover, due to its own generality, the proposed approach has the potential to be applied to the waterline detection tasks of other water areas such as coastal waters.
Profiling miRNAs of Teleost Fish in Responses to Environmental Stress: A Review
Authors: Cao Quanquan , Zhang Hailong , Li Tong , He Lingjie , Zong Jiali , Shan Hongying , Huang Lishi , Zhang Yupeng , Liu Haifeng , Jiang Jun
Published: March 2023

miRNAs are a class of endogenous and evolutionarily conserved noncoding short RNA molecules that post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression through sequence-specific interactions with mRNAs and are capable of controlling gene expression by binding to miRNA targets and interfering with the final protein output. The miRNAs of teleost were firstly reported in zebrafish development, but there are recent studies on the characteristics and functions of miRNAs in fish, especially when compared with mammals. Environmental factors including salinity, oxygen concentration, temperature, feed, pH, environmental chemicals and seawater metal elements may affect the transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulators of miRNAs, contributing to nearly all biological processes. The survival of aquatic fish is constantly challenged by the changes in these environmental factors. Environmental factors can influence miRNA expression, the functions of miRNAs and their target mRNAs. Progress of available information is reported on the environmental effects of the identified miRNAs, miRNA targets and the use of miRNAs in fish.
Parasites of Sardinella maderensis (Lowe, 1838) (Actinopterygii: Clupeidae) and Their Potential as Biological Tags for Stock Identification along the Coast of West Africa
Authors: Ogbon Abdou Matinou , Afoakwah Richmond , Mireku Kwadwo Kesse , Tossavi Nounagnon Darius , MacKenzie Ken
Published: March 2023

This study is the first to provide information on the parasite fauna of Sardinella maderensis along the coasts of Benin and Ghana, and the first to investigate the potential use of parasites as biological tags in fish population studies in the area. It may thus serve as a starting point for upcoming studies. From February to June 2021, a total of 200 S. maderensis were sampled from the fishing port of Cotonou (Benin) and the Elmina landing site (Ghana). The prevalence and abundance of each parasite were recorded. The following are the outcomes of this study: Parasite species, such as Parahemiurus merus, Mazocraeoides sp. and Hysterothylacium fortalezae, were recorded along the coasts of Benin and Ghana, while Anisakis sp(p). and Tentacularia coryphaenae were only recorded along the coast of Benin. Parahemiurus merus was the most prevalent and abundant among all the parasites recorded. Anisakis sp(p). and T. coryphaenae were selected as having potential in the stock identification of S. maderensis. Both parasites were only recorded along the coast of Benin at a low prevalence. As a result, examinations of more S. maderensis from each location for these parasites may justify their use in stock identification studies.