bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioactive Chemical Constituents and Pharmacological Activities of Ponciri Fructus
Authors: Lamichhane Gopal , Pandey Jitendra , Devkota Hari Prasad
Published: December 2022

Ponciri Fructus is a crude drug obtained from the dried immature fruits of Poncirus trifoliata (L). Raf. (Syn. Citrus trifoliata L.). This study aims to compile and analyze the ethnomedicinal uses, bioactive constituents, and pharmacological activities of Ponciri Fructus. Various online bibliographic databases namely, SciFinder, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science were used for collecting information on traditional uses, biological activities, and bioactive constituents. Concerning ethnomedicinal uses, Ponciri Fructus is extensively used in traditional Korean, Chinese, and Kampo medicines to mitigate allergic reactions, inflammation, edema, digestive complications, respiratory problems, spleen-related problems, liver complications, neuronal pain, hyperlipidemia, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular problems, hernia, sinusitis, and insomnia. Several studies have shown that Ponciri Fructus is a major source of diverse classes of bioactive compounds namely flavonoids, terpenoids, coumarins, phytosterols, and alkaloids. Several in vivo and in vitro pharmacological activity evaluations such as antidiabetic, anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antimelanogenic, gastroprotective, anticancer, and neuroprotective effects have been conducted from Ponciri Fructus. However, scientific investigations focusing on bioassay-guided isolation and identification of specific bioactive constituents are limited. Therefore, an in-depth scientific investigation of Ponciri Fructus focusing on bioassay-guided isolation, mechanism based pharmacological studies, pharmacokinetic studies, and evaluation of possible toxicities is necessary in the future.
Phytochemical Profiling, Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Plants Belonging to the Lavandula Genus
Authors: Dobros Natalia , Zawada Katarzyna Dorota , Paradowska Katarzyna
Published: December 2022

Lavender is a valuable medicinal plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. Currently 39 species are known, but only Lavandula angustifolia is a pharmacopoeial raw material. Lavender has a long history of medicinal use and mainly exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, sedative, antidepressant, spasmolytic, anticholinesterases, antifungal and antibacterial properties. Used internally, it relieves symptoms of mental stress and insomnia and supports digestion. Topical use of lavender in aromatherapy, neuralgia and antiseptics is also known. The constant interest in lavender, and in particular in Lavandula angustifolia, in the field of medicine and pharmacy is evidenced by the growing number of publications. In view of so many studies, it seems important to review traditional and modern extraction techniques that determine the chemical composition responsible for the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of various extracts from the species of the Lavandula genus.
Medicarpin and Homopterocarpin Isolated from Canavalia lineata as Potent and Competitive Reversible Inhibitors of Human Monoamine Oxidase-B
Authors: Oh Jong Min , Jang Hyun-Jae , Kang Myung-Gyun , Mun Seul-Ki , Park Daeui , Hong Su-Jin , Kim Min Ha , Kim Soo-Young , Yee Sung-Tae , Kim Hoon
Published: December 2022

Thirteen compounds were isolated from the Canavalia lineata pods and their inhibitory activities against human monoamine oxidase-A (hMAO-A) and -B (hMAO-B) were evaluated. Among them, compounds 8 (medicarpin) and 13 (homopterocarpin) showed potent inhibitory activity against hMAO-B (IC50 = 0.45 and 0.72 µM, respectively) with selectivity index (SI) values of 44.2 and 2.07, respectively. Most of the compounds weakly inhibited MAO-A, except 9 (prunetin) and 13. Compounds 8 and 13 were reversible competitive inhibitors against hMAO-B (Ki = 0.27 and 0.21 µM, respectively). Structurally, the 3-OH group at A-ring of 8 showed higher hMAO-B inhibitory activity than 3-OCH3 group at the A-ring of 13. However, the 9-OCH3 group at B-ring of 13 showed higher hMAO-B inhibitory activity than 8,9-methylenedioxygroup at the B-ring of 12 (pterocarpin). In cytotoxicity study, 8 and 13 showed non-toxicity to the normal (MDCK) and cancer (HL-60) cells and moderate toxicity to neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cell. Molecular docking simulation revealed that the binding affinities of 8 and 13 for hMAO-B (−8.7 and −7.7 kcal/mol, respectively) were higher than those for hMAO-A (−3.4 and −7.1 kcal/mol, respectively). These findings suggest that compounds 8 and 13 be considered potent reversible hMAO-B inhibitors to be used for the treatment of neurological disorders.
Enhanced Adsorption of Bromoform onto Microplastic Polyethylene Terephthalate Exposed to Ozonation and Chlorination
Authors: Zhu Ximiao , Hao Chenhui , Zhang Mengze , Lan Bingyan
Published: December 2022

This paper selected microplastic polyethylene terephthalate (PET), commonly found in water/wastewater plant effluent, to investigate the changes of PET oxidized under ozonation (designated as ozonized PET), followed by sodium hypochlorite oxidation (designated as ozonized-chlorinated PET) and studied their influence on the adsorption of the disinfection by-product bromoform (TBM). Fragmentation and cracks appeared on the oxidized PET surface. As the oxidation degree increased, the contact angle decreased from 137° to 128.90° and 128.50°, suggesting hydrophilicity was enhanced. FTIR and XPS analyses suggested that carbonyl groups increased on the surface of ozonized PET and ozonized-chlorinated PET, while the formation of intermolecular halogen bonds was possible when PET experienced dual oxidation. These physiochemical changes enhanced the adsorption of TBM. The adsorption capacity of TBM followed the order of ozonized-chlorinated PET (2.64 × 10−6 μg/μg) > ozonized PET (2.58 × 10−6 μg/μg) > pristine PET (2.43 × 10−6 μg/μg). The impact of raw water characteristics on the adsorption of TBM onto PETs, such as the pH, and the coexistence of inorganic ions and macromolecules (humic acid, surfactant, and bovine serum albumin) were studied. A different predominant adsorption mechanism between TBM and pristine PET or oxidized PETs was proposed.
Phytochemical Constituents, Folk Medicinal Uses, and Biological Activities of Genus Angelica: A Review
Authors: Batiha Gaber El-Saber , Shaheen Hazem M. , Elhawary Esraa A. , Mostafa Nada M. , Eldahshan Omayma A. , Sabatier Jean-Marc
Published: December 2022

Genus Angelica is one of the widely distributed and well-known genera of family Umbelliferae. It is utilized mainly by Chinese and Korean populations especially in their folk medicine. Angelica comprises a lot of medicinally important phytoconstituents such as coumarins, furanocoumarins, flavonoids, essential oils, verbascosides, polysaccharides, etc. Members of this genus play important roles, namely antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, skin-whitening, cytotoxic, hepatoprotective, and many others. This review draws attention to many species of genus Angelica with much focus on A. dahurica being one of the highly medicinally used species within this genus.
Interfacial Charge Transfer and Ultrafast Photonics Application of 2D Graphene/InSe Heterostructure
Authors: Li Jialin , Wang Lizhen , Chen Yuzhong , Li Yujie , Zhu Haiming , Li Linjun , Tong Limin
Published: December 2022

Interface interactions in 2D vertically stacked heterostructures play an important role in optoelectronic applications, and photodetectors based on graphene/InSe heterostructures show promising performance nowadays. However, nonlinear optical property studies based on the graphene/InSe heterostructure are insufficient. Here, we fabricated a graphene/InSe heterostructure by mechanical exfoliation and investigated the optically induced charge transfer between graphene/InSe heterostructures by taking photoluminescence and pump–probe measurements. The large built-in electric field at the interface was confirmed by Kelvin probe force microscopy. Furthermore, due to the efficient interfacial carrier transfer driven by the built-in electric potential (~286 meV) and broadband nonlinear absorption, the application of the graphene/InSe heterostructure in a mode-locked laser was realized. Our work not only provides a deeper understanding of the dipole orientation-related interface interactions on the photoexcited charge transfer of graphene/InSe heterostructures, but also enriches the saturable absorber family for ultrafast photonics application.
Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes with Red Phosphorus in Lithium-Ion Batteries: Effect of Surface and Encapsulated Phosphorus
Authors: Vorfolomeeva Anna A. , Stolyarova Svetlana G. , Asanov Igor P. , Shlyakhova Elena V. , Plyusnin Pavel E. , Maksimovskiy Evgeny A. , Gerasimov Evgeny Yu. , Chuvilin Andrey L. , Okotrub Alexander V. , Bulusheva Lyubov G.
Published: December 2022

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with their high surface area, electrical conductivity, mechanical strength and elasticity are an ideal component for the development of composite electrode materials for batteries. Red phosphorus has a very high theoretical capacity with respect to lithium, but has poor conductivity and expends considerably as a result of the reaction with lithium ions. In this work, we compare the electrochemical performance of commercial SWCNTs with red phosphorus deposited on the outer surface of nanotubes and/or encapsulated in internal channels of nanotubes in lithium-ion batteries. External phosphorus, condensed from vapors, is easily oxidized upon contact with the environment and only the un-oxidized phosphorus cores participate in electrochemical reactions. The support of the SWCNT network ensures a stable long-term cycling for these phosphorus particles. The tubular space inside the SWCNTs stimulate the formation of chain phosphorus structures. The chains reversibly interact with lithium ions and provide a specific capacity of 1545 mAh·g−1 (calculated on the mass of phosphorus in the sample) at a current density of 0.1 A·g−1. As compared to the sample containing external phosphorus, SWCNTs with encapsulated phosphorus demonstrate higher reaction rates and a slight loss of initial capacity (~7%) on the 1000th cycle at 5 A·g−1.
A Performance Evaluation of In-Memory Databases Operations in Session Initiation Protocol
Authors: Al-Allawee Ali , Lorenz Pascal , Abouaissa Abdelhafid , Abualhaj Mosleh
Published: December 2022

Real-time communication has witnessed a dramatic increase in recent years in user daily usage. In this domain, Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) is a well-known protocol found to provide trusted services (voice or video) to end users along with efficiency, scalability, and interoperability. Just like other Internet technology, SIP stores its related data in databases with a predefined data structure. In recent, SIP technologies have adopted the real advantages of in-memory databases as cache systems to ensure fast database operations during real-time communication. Meanwhile, in industry, there are several names of in-memory databases that have been implemented with different structures (e.g., query types, data structure, persistency, and key/value size). However, there are limited resources and poor recommendations on how to select a proper in-memory database in SIP communications. This paper provides recommended and efficient in-memory databases which are most fitted to SIP servers by evaluating three types of databases including Memcache, Redis, and Local (OpenSIPS built-in). The evaluation has been conducted based on the experimental performance of the impact of in-memory operations (store and fetch) against the SIP server by applying heavy load traffic through different scenarios. To sum up, evaluation results show that the Local database consumed less memory compared to Memcached and Redis for read and write operations. While persistency was considered, Memcache is the preferable database selection due to its 25.20 KB/s for throughput and 0.763 s of call–response time.
Nutrition Patterns of Polish Esports Players
Authors: Szot Monika , Frączek Barbara , Tyrała Florentyna
Published: December 2022

The aim of this study was to quantify the dietary patterns (DPs) of Polish esports players aged 18–26 years. Data were obtained via questionnaires that assessed dietary habits and frequency of food consumption. Dietary patterns were derived using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Factor Analysis (FA). In total, nine distinct DPs were identified. Eight DPs were considered unhealthy; ‘fast food’, ‘High-processed food, meat and confectionery’, ‘Sweet’, ‘Fat-diary products’, ‘Vegetable-fruit’, ‘Spices and additives’, ‘Fats’ and ‘Cereal’; and only one was deemed healthy. E-athletes presented mostly poor dietary habits, which included: irregular eating of meals, frequent snacking, at least three meals a day and composition of snacks, frying of meat dishes and sweetening of hot drinks. Healthy dietary habits included proper hydration during the day and consumption of mainly non-sparkling water. The unbalanced and largely unhealthy dietary habits of esports players raise health concerns for these e-athletes, particularly when combined with a sedentary lifestyle. Future research could assess the nutritional knowledge of this group as it relates to national guidelines, investigate interventions designed to introduce healthier eating options into their lifestyle and examine the relationship between DPs and health or cognitive performance.
Interaction between the PNPLA3 Gene and Nutritional Factors on NAFLD Development: The Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study
Authors: Oh Sooyeon , Lee Jooho , Chun Sukyung , Choi Ja-Eun , Kim Mi Na , Chon Young Eun , Ha Yeonjung , Hwang Seong-Gyu , Choi Sang-Woon , Hong Kyung-Won
Published: December 2022

Genetic and nutritional factors contribute to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); however, gene–diet interactions in NAFLD development are poorly understood. In this case–control study, a large dataset from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study cohort (n = 72,299) comprising genomic data, medical records, social history, and dietary data was used. We investigated the interactions between the PNPLA3 rs738409 genotype and nutritional factors and their possible effect on the risk of NAFLD development in 2950 patients with NAFLD and 12,907 controls. In the PNPLA3 risk allele group, high protein, fat, sodium, phosphorus, niacin, and vitamin B6 intakes were associated with a decreased risk of NAFLD. In the non-risk allele group, only high fat intake was associated with a decreased risk of NAFLD. Among these nutrients, high sodium intake had a significant protective interaction with the PNPLA3 genotype against NAFLD (p = 0.002). Among salty foods, only kimchi had a significant protective effect against the PNPLA3 genotype (p = 0.012). Thus, the PNPLA3 genotype is differentially associated with nutritional factors. In particular, it interacts with kimchi, a fermented vegetable dish. Therefore, fermented vegetables may serve as a tailored therapeutic food for people with the PNPLA3 risk allele.
Muscle Glycogen Assessment and Relationship with Body Hydration Status: A Narrative Review
Authors: Shiose Keisuke , Takahashi Hideyuki , Yamada Yosuke
Published: December 2022

Muscle glycogen is a crucial energy source for exercise, and assessment of muscle glycogen storage contributes to the adequate manipulation of muscle glycogen levels in athletes before and after training and competition. Muscle biopsy is the traditional and gold standard method for measuring muscle glycogen; alternatively, 13C magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) has been developed as a reliable and non-invasive method. Furthermore, outcomes of ultrasound and bioimpedance methods have been reported to change in association with muscle glycogen conditions. The physiological mechanisms underlying this activity are assumed to involve a change in water content bound to glycogen; however, the relationship between body water and stored muscle glycogen is inconclusive. In this review, we discuss currently available muscle glycogen assessment methods, focusing on 13C MRS. In addition, we consider the involvement of muscle glycogen in changes in body water content and discuss the feasibility of ultrasound and bioimpedance outcomes as indicators of muscle glycogen levels. In relation to changes in body water content associated with muscle glycogen, this review broadens the discussion on changes in body weight and body components other than body water, including fat, during carbohydrate loading. From these discussions, we highlight practical issues regarding muscle glycogen assessment and manipulation in the sports field.
Switching Heavy Chain Constant Domains Denatures the Paratope 3D Architecture of Influenza Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Malisheni Moffat M. , Chong Cheng-Shoong , Murali Tanusya M. , Purushotorman Kiren , Qian Xinlei , Laiman Alfred , Tan Yee-Joo , MacAry Paul A.
Published: December 2022

Several human monoclonal Abs for treating Influenza have been evaluated in clinical trials with limited success despite demonstrating superiority in preclinical animal models including mice. To conduct efficacy studies in mice, human monoclonal Abs are genetically engineered to contain mouse heavy chain constant domain to facilitate the engagement of Fc-receptors on mouse immune effector cells. Although studies have consistently reported discrepancies in Ab effectiveness following genetic engineering, the structural and mechanistic basis for these inconsistencies remain uncharacterized. Here, we use homology modeling to predict variable region (VR) analogous monoclonal Abs possessing human IgG1, mouse IgG1, and mouse IgG2a heavy chain constant domains. We then examine predicted 3D structures for variations in the spatial location and orientation of corresponding paratope amino acid residues. By structurally aligning crystal structures of Fabs in complex with hemagglutinin (HA), we show that corresponding paratope amino acid residues for VR-analogous human IgG1, mouse IgG1, and mouse IgG2a monoclonal Abs interact differentially with HA suggesting that their epitopes might not be identical. To demonstrate that variations in the paratope 3D fine architecture have implications for Ab specificity and effectiveness, we genetically engineered VR-analogous human IgG1, human IgG4, mouse IgG1, and mouse IgG2a monoclonal Abs and explored their specificity and effectiveness in protecting MDCK cells from infection by pandemic H1N1 and H3N2 Influenza viruses. We found that VR-analogous monoclonal Abs placed on mouse heavy chain constant domains were more efficacious at protecting MDCK cells from Influenza virus infection relative to those on human heavy chain constant domains. Interestingly, mouse but not human heavy chain constant domains increased target breadth in some monoclonal Abs. These data suggest that heavy chain constant domain sequences play a role in shaping Ab repertoires that go beyond class or sub-class differences in immune effector recruitment. This represents a facet of Ab biology that can potentially be exploited to improve the scope and utilization of current therapeutic or prophylactic candidates for influenza.
An Efficient, Short Stimulus PANC-1 Cancer Cell Ablation and Electrothermal Therapy Driven by Hydrophobic Interactions
Authors: Meivita Maria P. , Lee Denise , Naikar J Shamita , Go Shao-Xiang , Teoh Wey Chyi , Tan Yaw Sing , Bajalovic Natasa , Loke Desmond K.
Published: December 2022

Promising results in clinical studies have been demonstrated by the utilization of electrothermal agents (ETAs) in cancer therapy. However, a difficulty arises from the balance between facilitating the degradation of ETAs, and at the same time, increasing the electrothermal performance/stability required for highly efficient treatment. In this study, we controlled the thermal signature of the MoS2 by harnessing MoS2 nanostructures with M13 phage (MNM) via the structural assembling (hydrophobic interaction) phenomena and developed a combined PANC-1 cancer cell–MNM alternating current (AC)-stimulus framework for cancer cell ablation and electrothermal therapy. A percentage decrease in the cell viability of ~23% was achieved, as well as a degradation time of 2 weeks; a stimulus length of 100 μs was also achieved. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations revealed the assembling kinetics in integrated M13 phage–cancer cell protein systems and the structural origin of the hydrophobic interaction-enabled increase in thermal conduction. This study not only introduced an ‘ideal’ agent that avoided the limitations of ETAs but also provided a proof-of-concept application of MoS2-based materials in efficacious cancer therapy.
Genome-Wide Characterization and Analysis of R2R3-MYB Genes Related to Fruit Ripening and Stress Response in Banana (Musa acuminata L. AAA Group, cv. ‘Cavendish’)
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Yao Xiaoming , Jia Caihong , Zheng Yunke , Lin Qiumei , Wang Jingyi , Liu Juhua , Zhu Zhao , Peng Long , Xu Biyu , Cong Xinli , Jin Zhiqiang
Published: December 2022

MYB is an important type of transcription factor in eukaryotes. It is widely involved in a variety of biological processes and plays a role in plant morphogenesis, growth and development, primary and secondary metabolite synthesis, and other life processes. In this study, bioinformatics methods were used to identify the R2R3-MYB transcription factor family members in the whole Musa acuminata (DH-Pahang) genome, one of the wild ancestors of banana. A total of 280 MaMYBs were obtained, and phylogenetic analysis indicated that these MaMYBs could be classified into 33 clades with MYBs from Arabidopsis thaliana. The amino acid sequences of the R2 and R3 Myb-DNA binding in all MaMYB protein sequences were quite conserved, especially Arg-12, Arg-13, Leu-23, and Leu-79. Distribution mapping results showed that 277 MaMYBs were localized on the 11 chromosomes in the Musa acuminata genome. The MaMYBs were distributed unevenly across the 11 chromosomes. More than 40.0% of the MaMYBs were located in collinear fragments, and segmental duplications likely played a key role in the expansion of the MaMYBs. Moreover, the expression profiles of MaMYBs in different fruit development and ripening stages and under various abiotic and biotic stresses were investigated using available RNA-sequencing data to obtain fruit development, ripening-specific, and stress-responsive candidate genes. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to analyze transcriptome data of banana from the above 11 samples. We found MaMYBs participating in important metabolic biosynthesis pathways in banana. Collectively, our results represent a comprehensive genome-wide study of the MaMYB gene family, which should be helpful in further detailed studies on MaMYBs functions related to fruit development, postharvest ripening, and the seedling response to stress in an important banana cultivar.
Mechanochemical Synthesis of Polyanilines and Their Nanocomposites: A Critical Review
Authors: Barbero Cesar A. , Acevedo Diego F.
Published: December 2022

The mechanochemical synthesis of polyanilines (PANIs), made by oxidative polymerization of anilines, is reviewed. First, previous knowledge of the polymerization reaction in solution is discussed to understand the effect of different parameters: oxidant/monomer ratio, added acid, oxidant, temperature and water content on the properties of the conducting polymers (molecular weight, degradation, doping/oxidation level, conductivity, and nanostructure). The work on mechanochemical polymerization (MCP) of anilines is analyzed in view of previous data in solution, and published data are critically reconsidered to clarify the interpretation of experimental results. A key factor is the production of acids during polymerization, which is often overlooked. The production of gaseous HCl during MCP of aniline hydrochloride is experimentally observed. Since some experiments involves the addition of small amounts of water, the kinetics and heat balance of the reaction with concentrated solutions were simulated. A simple experiment shows fast (<2 min) heating of the reaction mixture to the boiling point of water and temperature increments are observed during MCP in a mortar. The form and sizes of PANI nanostructures made by MCP or solution are compared. The extensive work on the production of nanocomposites by MCP of anilines together with different nanomaterials (porous clays, graphene, carbon nanotubes, metal, and oxide nanoparticles) is also described.
Bio-Inspired Aramid Fibers@silica Binary Synergistic Aerogels with High Thermal Insulation and Fire-Retardant Performance
Authors: Zhou Jinman , Liu Xianyuan , He Xiaojiang , Wang Haoxin , Ma Dongli , Lu Xianyong
Published: December 2022

Flame-retardant, thermal insulation, mechanically robust, and comprehensive protection against extreme environmental threats aerogels are highly desirable for protective equipment. Herein, inspired by the core (organic)-shell (inorganic) structure of lobster antenna, fire-retardant and mechanically robust aramid fibers@silica nanocomposite aerogels with core-shell structures are fabricated via the sol-gel-film transformation and chemical vapor deposition process. The thickness of silica coating can be well-defined and controlled by the CVD time. Aramid fibers@silica nanocomposite aerogels show high heat resistance (530 °C), low thermal conductivity of 0.030 W·m−1·K−1, high tensile strength of 7.5 MPa and good flexibility. More importantly, aramid fibers@silica aerogels have high flame retardancy with limiting oxygen index 36.5. In addition, this material fabricated by the simple preparation process is believed to have potential application value in the field of aerospace or high-temperature thermal protection.
Tensile Strength of Poly(lactic acid)/Bleached Short Hemp Fiber Fully Green Composites as Replacement for Polypropylene/Glass Fiber
Authors: Aguado Roberto J. , Espinach Francesc X. , Julián Fernando , Tarrés Quim , Delgado-Aguilar Marc , Mutjé Pere
Published: December 2022

The compatibility between poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and natural fibers to develop bio-sourced, recyclable, and biodegradable composites remains a commonplace issue. This work highlights that, at least in the case of hemp, pulping and bleaching towards delignified short fibers attained remarkable improvements over untreated hemp strands. This approach differs from usual proposals of chemically modifying hydroxyl groups. Soda-bleached hemp fibers (SBHFs) granted a relatively large bonding surface area and a satisfactory quality of the interphase, even in the absence of any dispersant or compatibilizer. To attain satisfactory dispersion, the matrix and the fibers were subjected to kinetic mixing and to a moderately intensified extrusion process. Then, dog-bone specimens were prepared by injection molding. Up to a fiber content of 30 wt.%, the tensile strength increased linearly with the volume fraction of the dispersed phase. It reached a maximum value of 77.8 MPa, signifying a relative enhancement of about 52%. In comparison, the tensile strength for PLA/hemp strands was 55.7 MPa. Thence, based on the modified rule of mixtures and the Kelly & Tyson modified equation, we analyzed this performance at the level of the constituent materials. The interfacial shear strength (over 28 MPa) and other micromechanical parameters were computed. Overall, this biocomposite was found to outperform a polypropylene/sized glass fiber composite (without coupling agent) in terms of tensile strength, while fulfilling the principles of green chemistry.
Characterization and Prediction of Mechanical and Chemical Properties of Luanta Fir Wood with Vacuum Hydrothermal Treatment
Authors: Hsieh Ming-Chi , Hung Ke-Chang , Xu Jin-Wei , Wu Yi-Hung , Chang Wen-Shao , Wu Jyh-Horng
Published: December 2022

Since the chemical composition of wood is closely related to its mechanical properties, chemical analysis techniques such as near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy provide a reasonable non-destructive method for predicting wood strength. In this study, we used NIR spectra with principal component analysis (PCA) to reveal that vacuum hydrothermal (VH) treatment causes degradation of hemicellulose as well as the amorphous region of cellulose, resulting in lower hydroxyl and acetyl group content. These processes increase the crystallinity of the luanta fir wood (Cunninghamia konishii Hayata), which, in turn, effectively increases its compressive strength (σc,max), hardness, and modulus of elasticity (MOE). The PCA results also revealed that the primary factors affecting these properties are the hemicellulose content, hydroxyl groups in the cellulose amorphous region, the wood moisture content, and the relative lignin content. Moreover, the ratios of performance deviation (RPDs) for the σc,max, shear strength (σs,max), hardness, and modulus of rupture (MOR) models were 1.49, 1.24, 1.13, and 2.39, indicating that these models can be used for wood grading (1.0 < RPD < 2.5). Accordingly, NIR can serve as a useful tool for predicting the mechanical properties of VH-treated wood.
Processing Polymer Blends of Mater-Bi® and Poly-L-(Lactic Acid) for Blown Film Application with Enhanced Mechanical Strength
Authors: Bouzidi Samar , Ben ayed Emna , Tarrés Quim , Delgado-Aguilar Marc , Boufi Sami
Published: December 2022

Mater-Bi® is one of the most commercialized starch-based blends used in biodegradable flexible packaging. However, the high ductility and low stiffness of Mater-Bi® might limit its application and developing a solution to tailor the stiffness and mechanical strength is highly desirable. In the present work, blends based on Mater-Bi® and poly-L-(lactic acid) (PLLA) at a different ratio from 70/30 to 50/50 wt% were prepared via melt-extrusion and the effect of the PLLA content and Joncryl ADR® as a reactive compatibilizing agent, on the mechanical properties, melts rheology, morphology and disintegration aptitude were investigated. The inclusion of PLLA in Mater-Bi® has a marked beneficial effect on the tensile strength and stiffness of the blend while maintaining acceptable ductility. The addition of the reactive compatibilizing agent contributed to improving the strength and elongation at the break of the blend. The melt rheology of the blend was also affected by the ratio of the two components, mostly when the Joncryl ADR® was present. The disintegration by biodegradation of the blend was preserved in the presence of PLLA, and it takes less than 30 days for the films to completely decompose and disintegrate under controlled composting conditions. Interestingly, a thin film from Mater-Bi®/PLLA 60/40 was successfully prepared by blown film extrusion, demonstrating a good balance between stretchability (elongation at break exceeding 100%) and stiffness (1.8 GPa). This work opened to broadening the use of starch-based biodegradable plastic toward more demanding applications such as mulching films.
Current Trends in Toxicity Assessment of Herbal Medicines: A Narrative Review
Authors: Jităreanu Alexandra , Trifan Adriana , Vieriu Mădălina , Caba Ioana-Cezara , Mârțu Ioana , Agoroaei Luminița
Published: December 2022

Even in modern times, the popularity level of medicinal plants and herbal medicines in therapy is still high. The World Health Organization estimates that 80% of the population in developing countries uses these types of remedies. Even though herbal medicine products are usually perceived as low risk, their potential health risks should be carefully assessed. Several factors can cause the toxicity of herbal medicine products: plant components or metabolites with a toxic potential, adulteration, environmental pollutants (heavy metals, pesticides), or contamination of microorganisms (toxigenic fungi). Their correct evaluation is essential for the patient’s safety. The toxicity assessment of herbal medicine combines in vitro and in vivo methods, but in the past decades, several new techniques emerged besides conventional methods. The use of omics has become a valuable research tool for prediction and toxicity evaluation, while DNA sequencing can be used successfully to detect contaminants and adulteration. The use of invertebrate models (Danio renio or Galleria mellonella) became popular due to the ethical issues associated with vertebrate models. The aim of the present article is to provide an overview of the current trends and methods used to investigate the toxic potential of herbal medicinal products and the challenges in this research field.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Vanadium Oxide Microstructures with Mixed Oxidation States
Authors: Navas Daniel
Published: December 2022

This review is based on hydrothermal synthetic procedures that generate different vanadium oxide microstructures with mixed oxidation states, where different vanadium (V5+) precursors (vanadate, vanadium oxide, vanadium alkoxide, etc.,) are used to obtain various types of morphologies and shapes, such as sea urchins, cogs, stars, squares, etc., depending on the amphiphilic molecules (usually surfactants) exhibiting a structural director role containing an organic functional group such as primary amines and thiols, respectively. The performance of sol–gel methodology, where intercalation processes sometimes take place, is crucial prior to the hydrothermal treatment stage to control the V4+/V5+. In every synthesis, many physical and chemical parameters, such as temperature, pH, reaction time., etc., are responsible for influencing the reactions in order to obtain different products; the final material usually corresponds to a mixed oxidation state structure with different content rates. This feature has been used in many technological applications, and some researchers have enhanced it by functionalizing the products to enhance their electrochemical and magnetic properties. Although some results have been auspicious, there are a number of projects underway to improve the synthesis in many ways, including yield, secondary products, size distribution, oxidation state ratio, etc., to achieve the best benefits from these microstructures in the large number of technological, catalytic, and magnetic devices, among other applications.
Spectral Aerosol Radiative Forcing and Efficiency of the La Palma Volcanic Plume over the Izaña Observatory
Authors: García Rosa Delia , García Omaira Elena , Cuevas-Agulló Emilio , Barreto África , Cachorro Victoria Eugenia , Marrero Carlos , Almansa Fernando , Ramos Ramón , Pó Mario
Published: December 2022

On 19 September 2021, a volcanic eruption began on the island of La Palma (Canary Islands, Spain). The eruption has allowed the assessment of an unprecedented multidisciplinary study on the effects of the volcanic plume. This work presents the estimation of the spectral direct radiative forcing (ΔF) and efficiency (ΔFEff) from solar radiation measurements at the Izaña Observatory (IZO) located on the island of Tenerife (∼140 km from the volcano). During the eruption, the IZO was affected by different types of aerosols: volcanic, Saharan mineral dust, and a mixture of volcanic and dust aerosols. Three case studies were identified using ground-based (lidar) data, satellite-based (Sentinel-5P Tropospheric Monitoring Instrument, TROPOMI) data, reanalysis data (Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications, version 2, MERRA-2), and backward trajectories (Flexible Trajectories, FLEXTRA), and subsequently characterised in terms of optical and micro-physical properties using ground-based sun-photometry measurements. Despite the ΔF of the volcanic aerosols being greater than that of the dust events (associated with the larger aerosol load present), the ΔFEff was found to be lower. The spectral ΔFEff values at 440 nm ranged between −1.9 and −2.6 Wm−2nm−1AOD−1 for the mineral dust and mixed volcanic and dust particles, and between −1.6 and −3.3 Wm−2nm−1AOD−1 for the volcanic aerosols, considering solar zenith angles between 30∘ and 70∘, respectively.
A Multi-View Thermal–Visible Image Dataset for Cross-Spectral Matching
Authors: Liu Yuxiang , Liu Yu , Yan Shen , Chen Chen , Zhong Jikun , Peng Yang , Zhang Maojun
Published: December 2022

Cross-spectral local feature matching between visual and thermal images benefits many vision tasks in low-light environments, including image-to-image fusion and camera re-localization. An essential prerequisite for unleashing the potential of supervised deep learning algorithms in the area of visible–thermal matching is the availability of large-scale and high-quality annotated datasets. However, publicly available datasets are either in relative small quantity scales or have limited pose annotations due to the expensive cost of data acquisition and annotation, which severely hinders the development of this field. In this paper, we proposed a multi-view thermal–visible image dataset for large-scale cross-spectral matching. We first recovered a 3D reference model from a group of collected RGB images, in which a certain image (bridge) shares almost the same pose as the thermal query. We then effectively registered the thermal image to the model based on manually annotating a 2D-2D tie point between the bridge and the thermal. In this way, through simply annotating one same viewpoint image pair, numerous overlapping image pairs between thermal and visible could be available. We also proposed a semi-automatic approach for generating accurate supervision for training multi-view cross-spectral matching. Specifically, our dataset consists of 40,644 cross-modal pairs with well supervision, covering multiple complex scenes. In addition, we also provided the camera metadata, 3D reference model, depth map of the visible images and 6-DoF pose of all images. We extensively evaluated the performance of state-of-the-art algorithms on our dataset and provided a comprehensive analysis of the results. We will publish our dataset and pre-processing code.
Coordinate Frames and Transformations in GNSS Ray-Tracing for Autonomous Driving in Urban Areas
Authors: Baasch Kai-Niklas , Icking Lucy , Ruwisch Fabian , Schön Steffen
Published: December 2022

3D Mapping-Aided (3DMA) Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) is a widely used method to mitigate multipath errors. Various research has been presented which utilizes 3D building model data in conjunction with ray-tracing algorithms to compute and predict satellites’ visibility conditions and compute delays caused by signal reflection. To simulate, model and potentially correct multipath errors in highly dynamic applications, such as, e.g., autonomous driving, the satellite–receiver–reflector geometry has to be known precisely in a common reference frame. Three-dimensional building models are often provided by regional public or private services and the coordinate information is usually given in a coordinate system of a map projection. Inconsistencies in the coordinate frames used to express the satellite and user coordinates, as well as the reflector surfaces, lead to falsely determined multipath errors and, thus, reduce the performance of 3DMA GNSS. This paper aims to provide the needed transformation steps to consider when integrating 3D building model data, user position, and GNSS orbit information. The impact of frame inconsistencies on the computed extra path delay is quantified based on a simulation study in a local 3D building model; they can easily amount to several meters. Differences between the extra path-delay computations in a metric system and a map projection are evaluated and corrections are proposed to both variants depending on the accuracy needs and the intended use.
Validity of Spatio-Temporal Gait Parameters in Healthy Young Adults Using a Motion-Sensor-Based Gait Analysis System (ORPHE ANALYTICS) during Walking and Running
Authors: Uno Yuki , Ogasawara Issei , Konda Shoji , Yoshida Natsuki , Otsuka Naoki , Kikukawa Yuya , Tsujii Akira , Nakata Ken
Published: December 2022

Motion sensors are widely used for gait analysis. The validity of commercial gait analysis systems is of great interest because calculating position/angle-level gait parameters potentially produces an error in the integration process of the motion sensor data; moreover, the validity of ORPHE ANALYTICS, a motion-sensor-based gait analysis system, has not yet been examined. We examined the validity of the gait parameters calculated using ORPHE ANALYTICS relative to those calculated using conventional optical motion capture. Nine young adults performed gait tasks on a treadmill at speeds of 2–12 km/h. The three-dimensional position data and acceleration and angular velocity data of the feet were collected. The gait parameters were calculated from motion sensor data using ORPHE ANALYTICS, and optical motion capture data. Intraclass correlation coefficients [ICC(2,1)] were calculated for relative validities. Eight items, namely, stride duration, stride length, stride frequency, stride speed, vertical height, stance phase duration, swing phase duration, and sagittal angleIC exhibited excellent relative validities [ICC(2,1) > 0.9]. In contrast, sagittal angleTO and frontal angleIC demonstrated good [ICC(2,1) = 0.892–0.833] and moderate relative validity [ICC(2,1) = 0.566–0.627], respectively. ORPHE ANALYTICS was found to exhibit excellent relative validities for most gait parameters. These results suggest its feasibility for gait analysis outside the laboratory setting.
ADABase: A Multimodal Dataset for Cognitive Load Estimation
Authors: Oppelt Maximilian P. , Foltyn Andreas , Deuschel Jessica , Lang Nadine R. , Holzer Nina , Eskofier Bjoern M. , Yang Seung Hee
Published: December 2022

Driver monitoring systems play an important role in lower to mid-level autonomous vehicles. Our work focuses on the detection of cognitive load as a component of driver-state estimation to improve traffic safety. By inducing single and dual-task workloads of increasing intensity on 51 subjects, while continuously measuring signals from multiple modalities, based on physiological measurements such as ECG, EDA, EMG, PPG, respiration rate, skin temperature and eye tracker data, as well as behavioral measurements such as action units extracted from facial videos, performance metrics like reaction time and subjective feedback using questionnaires, we create ADABase (Autonomous Driving Cognitive Load Assessment Database) As a reference method to induce cognitive load onto subjects, we use the well-established n-back test, in addition to our novel simulator-based k-drive test, motivated by real-world semi-autonomously vehicles. We extract expert features of all measurements and find significant changes in multiple modalities. Ultimately we train and evaluate machine learning algorithms using single and multimodal inputs to distinguish cognitive load levels. We carefully evaluate model behavior and study feature importance. In summary, we introduce a novel cognitive load test, create a cognitive load database, validate changes using statistical tests, introduce novel classification and regression tasks for machine learning and train and evaluate machine learning models.
Rotary 3D Magnetic Field Scanner for the Research and Minimization of the Magnetic Field of UUV
Authors: Listewnik Karol Jakub , Aftewicz Kacper
Published: December 2022

Research on the value and nature of physical quantities allows for a detailed understanding of the conditions in the studied area, and the quality and precision of the final conclusions depend on the accuracy of the measurements. In order to increase the accuracy of measurements, the measurement infrastructure and unmanned vehicles used during the observation should introduce the lowest possible disturbance–they should be minimized in terms of the magnetic field. This article presents a solution based on the infrastructure model and the development of a method using polynomial regression to study the magnetic field in three dimensions (3D-longitudinal X, transverse Y, and vertical Z components). The test stand consists of an Arduino Mega microcontroller, a rotary table driven and controlled by a stepper motor, a touch display whose task is to control the magnetic field measurement parameters and display 3D data, and proprietary software made in the Python programming language. The structural elements of the stand model were produced by an additive method using a 3D printer. The presented solution belongs to the group of modern technological solutions known as the technology of low object detection (stealth technology or low observable technology).
Informal Disaster Diplomacy
Authors: Duda Patrizia I. , Kelman Ilan
Published: December 2022

This paper develops a baseline and definition for informal disaster diplomacy in order to fill in an identified gap in the existing research. The process adopted is a review of the concept of informality, the application of informality to diplomacy, and the application of informality to disasters and disaster science. The two applications of informality are then combined to outline an informal disaster diplomacy as a conceptual contribution to studies where processes of conflict, peace, and disasters interact. Adding informality into disaster diplomacy provides originality and significance as it has not hitherto been fully examined in this context. This exploration results in insights into disaster, peace, and conflict research through two main contributions. First, the paper recognises that informal disaster diplomacy has frequently been present in disaster diplomacy analyses, but has rarely been explicitly presented, accepted, described, theorised, or analysed. Second, by explaining the presence of and contributions from informality, the discussion assists in re-balancing much of disaster diplomacy research with depth from conflict research, peace research, international relations, and political science.
Relationship between Physical Performance, Anthropometric Measurements and Stroke Velocity in Youth Tennis Players
Authors: Parpa Koulla , Michaelides Marcos , Petrov Dennis , Kyrillou Christos , Paludo Ana C.
Published: December 2022

Given that serve velocity has been identified as one of the most important components influencing performance in tennis, identifying the factors associated with serve velocity is crucial for coaches and athletes. The aim of this study was to describe the relationship between physical performance, anthropometric characteristics and stroke velocity in youth tennis players. Twenty-seven youth players (male = 16, age = 15.69 ± 1.70 years; female = 11, age = 15.82 ± 1.40 years) underwent an anthropometric and physical performance assessment. On a tennis court, players were assessed for forehand, backhand and serve velocities. Pearson’s correlation coefficient revealed that forehand velocity was significantly correlated with height (r = 0.58) and handgrip strength (right hand: r = 0.68; left hand: r = 0.57), whereas backhand velocity was significantly correlated with running time (r = 0.52) and handgrip strength (right hand: r = 0.67; left hand: r = 0.55) in males. Similarly, in males, serve velocity was significantly correlated with height (r = 0.60), running time (r = 0.62) and handgrip strength (right: r = 0.77, left hand: r = 0.71). In females, a significant correlation was only demonstrated between serve velocity and body weight (r = 0.69). These findings highlight that handgrip strength, running time and body height variables are positively associated with stroke velocities in male youth tennis players.