bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pediatric Castleman Disease Combined with TAFRO Syndrome: Two Case Reports and Literature Review
Authors: Du Junye , Zhang Liping , Ma Honghao , Wei Ang , Wang Dong , Zhao Yunze , Zhang Qing , Zhang Rui , Wang Tianyou
Published: July 2023

Objective
To investigate the clinical characteristics, treatment, and prognosis for TAFRO syndrome in pediatric patients.
Method
A retrospective analysis was performed on two patients with TAFRO Syndrome at Beijing Children’s Hospital, Beijing, China. One case was reported in 2019 as Castleman disease (CD) combined with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH)[1]. The case was examined again from the perspective of TAFRO syndrome, and the follow-up was updated. Clinical features, treatment, and prognosis data of these patients were collected. Also, the published literature on pediatric TAFRO syndrome was reviewed.
Results
Two male patients were enrolled in this study. The ages of onset were 2 years and 9 years, respectively. Both patients presented fever, anemia, thrombocytopenia, lymphadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly, ascites, bilateral pleural effusion, and limb edema and were diagnosed with idiopathic multicentric CD (iMCD) combined with TAFRO syndrome and secondary HLH. One patient responded satisfactorily to BCD (Bortezomib, Cyclophosphamide, and Dexamethasone) chemotherapy and thalidomide therapy, while the other had an adequate response to tocilizumab; their conditions were controlled by the last follow-up.
Conclusion
Due to the complicated clinical manifestations of TAFRO syndrome and the severe consequences, its diagnosis and treatment are challenging in clinical practice. Multiple chemotherapies combined with immunomodulatory or targeted drugs affect the prognosis of TAFRO syndrome. Also, the co-existing HLH should be noted in the course of the disease.
A detailed investigation of a Generalized Hermite cosh-Gaussian beam propagating in uniaxial crystals orthogonal to the optical axis
Authors: Saad Faroq , Belafhal Abdelmajid
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we study the propagation properties of a Generalized Hermite cosh-Gaussian beam (GHCGB) in uniaxial crystals orthogonal to the optical axis. The analytical propagation equation for the GHCGB at the receiver plane is derived based on Huygens-Fresnel integration. Some analyses are investigated to illustrate the influences of variation in crystal refractive indices, source beam parameters and propagation distance on the beam intensity profiles. Results indicate that a GHCGB would better preserve its intensity profile nearly invariant for a short propagation distance and larger source beam parameters, whereas, the anisotropy of the uniaxial crystal has a significant effect on intensity evolution with increasing the propagation distance. In addition, beam width of output beam can be controlled by adjusting the source beam parameters and uniaxial crystals. According to the results that it will be useful for the control of optical particle.
Nanoencapsulation of Oliveria decumbens Vent. and Basil Essential oils to Investigate Their Antibacterial Function in Vitro and Minced Beef Meat
Authors: Gorzodin Mahdis , Nouri Marjan , Javidi Sahar
Published: July 2023

Beef is a nutritious meat, which possesses biological factors such as protein and micronutrients. The purpose of present research is to investigate antioxidant and antibacterial activities for nanocapsules of Oliveria decumbens Vent. (OEO) and basil (BEO) essential oils in vitro and minced beef. OEO and BEO were extracted and their phytochemicals were identified by gas chromatography. These nanocapsules were produced using freeze drying and combination of maltodextrin and also gum arabic (1:1). Particle size, polydispersity index, encapsulation efficiency (EE), scanning electron microscopy, total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) contents, antioxidant and antibacterial activities, pH, thiobarbituric acid and also sensory were evaluated in vitro compared to free forms. The antibacterial functions were assessed against S. aureus, E. coli, L. monocytogenes, S. typhimurium and P. aeruginosa in minced meat during 10 days of cold storage. Thymol (28.12 %), carvacrol (23.97 %), γ-terpinene (19.56 %) and p-cymene (12.64 %) as well as estragole (48.93 %) and linalool (41.45 %) were the main in OEO and BEO, respectively. The TPC (30.43 to 32.41 mg GAE/g DW), TFC (27.72 to 30.10 mg GAE/g DW) and antioxidant capacity (25.97 to 26.42 %) were determined in free and encapsulated OEO and also antibacterial feature was observed, which were further than BEO. No significant effect was detected by nanoencapsulation on bioactive components and also antioxidant of OEO and BEO, however this process considerably improved antibacterial function (p< 0.05). Finally, OEO and BEO-loaded nanocapsules were applied to promote quality in beef, while potential of OEO nanocapsules was higher.
Perturbed reactivity descriptors in the two parabolas model of fractional electron number
Authors: Pantoja-Hernández Maurizio A. , Franco-Pérez Marco , Miranda-Quintana Ramón Alain , Gázquez José L.
Published: July 2023

A new procedure based on the two parabolas model of the energy and the electronic density for fractional electron number is used with the assumption that the changes to the isolated values of these two quantities due to the presence of another interacting species can be incorporated through a multiplicative constant in the second order term. The expressions thus obtained for the chemical potential, hardness, Fukui function and dual descriptor reactivity indexes of conceptual density functional theory have the same form of those obtained through a first order perturbation approach within the grand canonical ensemble. The perturbation parameters are then evaluated by imposing the chemical potential and hardness equalization principles for the interaction between species A and B to form AB, and it is applied to show for a group of substituted ethenes that the condensed to atom perturbed local chemical potential and local hardness evaluated at the carbon atom that follows the Markovnikov’s rule lead to better correlation with the activation energy of their reaction with HCl than the unperturbed descriptors. A similar situation is found for the correlation of the condensed to atom local chemical potential evaluated at N in the aniline molecules with the experimental p𝐾a values. The results obtained indicate that through the perturbed descriptors, that introduce information of the electronic structure on each species of the other one with which it interacts allow one to obtain an improved description of their chemical reactivity.
Evaluation of monochromatic excitation X-ray fluorescence spectrometry for rapid thallium detection in biological samples using animal models
Authors: Wu Shihao , Zhao Peng , Wang Aihua , Dong Linpei , Wu Xiaojun , Wang Jifen , Zhang Yunfeng
Published: July 2023

Monochromatic excitation X-ray fluorescence (ME-XRF) spectrometry is a novel technique for trace element analysis, characterized by its simplicity, rapidity, and low cost. The objective of this study was to evaluate the applicability of ME-XRF technique for the measurement of thallium in biological samples. Acute and subacute thallium poisoning experiments were conducted to simulate various scenarios, with blood, urine, and 10 distinct organs collected. Detection was initially performed using ME-XRF technique, followed by validation with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Excellent agreement between ME-XRF and ICP-MS values was demonstrated by means of paired sample t-tests and intraclass correlation coefficients. Subsequently, the practical implementation of the proposed technique was demonstrated through an actual case study. In conclusion, this study validates ME-XRF as a suitable alternative to ICP-MS for the measurement of trace heavy metals in biological samples. These efforts promote the development of simpler and faster techniques for heavy metal detection, thereby presenting novel avenues for the prevention and diagnosis of heavy metal poisoning.
Structure-property relations in Pb-supersaturated metastable Sn-rich Pb-Sn alloys
Authors: Friák Martin , Čípek Pter , Pavlů Jana , Zobač Ondřej , Roupcová Pavla , Miháliková Ivana , Holec David , Msallamová Šárka , Michalcová Alena
Published: July 2023

We have performed a theoretical study of three different allotropes of Pb-supersaturated Sn-rich Pb-Sn alloys with the α-Sn, β-Sn and a simple hexagonal γ-Sn structure employing quantum-mechanical calculations. Structure-property relations were analyzed in the case of the lattice parameters, thermodynamic stability, elastic properties and mechanical stability as well as electronic-structure density of states. Compositional trends in structural, thermodynamic and electronic-structure properties were found nearly linear. Our theoretical study sheds new light on a decades-long controversy related to the γ-phase of supersaturated Sn-rich Pb-Sn alloys. We suggest that the experimental difficulties to synthesized the γ-phase solid solutions are due to the high formation energy of this phase.
Comparative Analysis of Post-editing Techniques for Chinese-to-English Translation Tasks: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors:   British And American Language And Literature Association Of Korea, Chen Xu , Shin Yousun
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to examine the differences in translation time and quality between human translation (HT), machine translation post-editing (MTPE), and ChatGPT post-editing (ChatGPT PE). A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving 30 junior participants majoring in English from a Chinese university. A translation task consisting of 532 words from Chinese to English was assigned to the three groups and the translation speed and quality were assessed using the Multidimensional Quality Metrics (MQM) and Dynamic Quality Framework (DQF). The results demonstrated that the post-editing technique could produce translation quality comparable to human translation while achieving faster translation speed. It was observed that ChatGPT PE outputs exhibited the highest number of terminology errors but had the fewest accuracy errors, while mean differences in two of accuracy dimensions were observed among the three groups. The utilization of post-editing in language teaching would allow for the integration of machine translation strengths and human expertise, resulting in high-quality translations on par with human translations. To optimize post-editing outcomes, it is crucial to develop and teach error-detection techniques and avoid excessive reliance on AI technology.
Homicides as an Immoral Self-Proclamation in James M. Cain’s Crime Fiction
Authors:   British And American Language And Literature Association Of Korea, Kim Min
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this paper is to examine the motives and elements of homicides within a capitalist background in James M. Cain’s hardboiled crime fiction, The Postman Always Rings Twice and Double Indemnity, while exploring their connection to existential issue, identity crisis, and modern melancholia. The reading observes capitalism as a fateful companion aligned with members of society, sharing in the sense of melancholic dreams and emotions within the experiences of passion and depression, rather than investigating or accusing its intrinsic problems. And it focuses on how the human instinct of not wanting to become normal and inferior to other presences is more bluntly spurred in the crisis of permeated identities. In the process, the complex interplay of personal issues within an individual’s private realm work to unfold violent and immoral actions of homicides in the name of safeguarding or asserting personal territories—immoral self-proclamation—amidst gender, class, and wealth conflict. Through Cain’s The Postman Always Rings Twice and Double Indemnity dealing with criminal behaviors, struggles, and deficiencies underlying certain patterns, this paper explores the complex human mind and the criminality of combative human history from psychological and philosophical perspectives. In this manner, the paper prioritizes the exploration of universality over conflict issue and suggests a different approach to consuming crime fiction in humanistic way.
Boundary modes in the Chamon model
Authors: Fontana Weslei Bernardino , Pereira Rodrigo G.
Published: July 2023

We study the fracton phase described by the Chamon model in a manifold with a boundary. The new processess and excitations emerging at the boundary can be understood by means of a diagrammatic framework. From a continuum perspective, the boundary theory is described by a set of scalar fields in similarity with standard KK-matrix Chern-Simons theory. The continuum theory recovers the gapped boundaries of the lattice model once we include sufficiently strong interactions that break charge conservation. The analysis of the perturbative relevance of the leading interactions reveals a regime in which the Chamon model can have a stable gapless fractonic phase at its boundary.
LinReTraCe: The linear response transport centre
Authors: Pickem Matthias , Maggio Emanuele , Tomczak Jan M.
Published: July 2023

We describe the “Linear Response Transport Centre” (LinReTraCe), a package for the simulation of transport properties of solids. LinReTraCe captures quantum (in)coherence effects beyond semi-classical Boltzmann techniques, while incurring similar numerical costs. The enabling algorithmic innovation is a semi-analytical evaluation of Kubo formulae for resistivities and the coefficients of Hall, Seebeck and Nernst. We detail the program’s architecture, its interface and usage with electronic-structure packages such as WIEN2k, VASP, and Wannier90, as well as versatile tight-binding settings.
Codebase release 1.1 for LinReTraCe
Authors: Pickem Matthias , Maggio Emanuele , Tomczak Jan M.
Published: July 2023

We describe the “Linear Response Transport Centre” (LinReTraCe), a package for the simulation of transport properties of solids. LinReTraCe captures quantum (in)coherence effects beyond semi-classical Boltzmann techniques, while incurring similar numerical costs. The enabling algorithmic innovation is a semi-analytical evaluation of Kubo formulae for resistivities and the coefficients of Hall, Seebeck and Nernst. We detail the program’s architecture, its interface and usage with electronic-structure packages such as WIEN2k, VASP, and Wannier90, as well as versatile tight-binding settings.
Bases conceituais do pensamento sistêmico e do direito sistêmico a partir da obra de Sami Storch
Authors: Guimarães Barbosa Emanuela , Passon Picoretti Francischetto Gilsilene
Published: July 2023

Ao afirmar que “o todo é maior que a soma de suas partes”, Aristóteles expôs, de forma simplificada e direta, o fundamento utilizado atualmente pelos defensores do pensamento sistêmico, que, reconhecendo a complexidade das sociedades e, consequentemente, dos conflitos e experiências sociais, se propõem a defender o surgimento de um novo paradigma científico. O surgimento desse novo modo de pensar surge em resposta ao reconhecimento de que o Direito, enquanto ciência, não tem sido capaz de criar soluções eficazes ao tratamento e solução de vários conflitos por meio da aplicação do método científico tradicional que entende o fenômeno como sendo simples, objetivo e estável. Tal postulação despertou na comunidade acadêmica a necessidade de debater acerca desse novo método de pensar, que, compreendendo o conflito de forma complexa, se propõe a solucionar os litígios a fim de se alcançar o equilíbrio e a paz ao sistema, hoje considerado complexo. É partindo da premissa de que não é possível se ter uma visão clara sem se conhecer o todo e sem levar em conta as suas diversas interações, que firmamos o nosso entendimento no sentido de que a revolução ao método científico cartesiano se mostra como necessária, pois a ciência não comporta mais uma compreensão fundada em padrões ou parâmetros de certo ou errado, verdadeiro ou falso, posto que tais posturas repercutem diretamente na perda de espaço diante das diversas possibilidades advindas da complexidade dos sistemas.
Do possível reconhecimento de status de supralegalidade aos tratados internacionais em matéria ambiental: Análise da ADPF N°708
Authors: Nunes Danilo Henrique , Morgadinho dos Santos Coelho Nuno Manoel
Published: July 2023

O Brasil é signatário de relevantes tratados/pactos ambientais multilaterais, como a Convenção-Quadro sobre Mudança do Clima, a Convenção-Quadro sobre a Biodiversidade da Conferência do Rio de 1992 e o Acordo de Paris de 2015, além de contar com uma Constituição e com uma legislação infraconstitucional alinhada às premissas internacionais sobre a proteção ao meio ambiente. O presente estudo busca realizar uma análise sobre o possível reconhecimento de supralegalidade nos tratados internacionais em matéria ambiental a partir da ADPF nº 708, tendo em vista que a Suprema Corte brasileira já admitiu tal status para julgados de matéria de Direitos Humanos, a exemplo do Recurso Extraordinário nº 466.343. Foram empregados os métodos hipotético-dedutivo e revisão de literatura. Os resultados alcançados confirmam a possibilidade de declaração da supralegalidade dos tratados internacionais a partir do julgamento da ADPF nº 708, reforçando que não há conflito entre a decisão e as disposições constitucionais. Conclui-se, de tal forma, que tratados internacionais, convenções e pactos sobre o meio ambiente possuem status hierárquico (supralegal) inferior à Constituição, mas superior à legislação ordinária.
Effect of mineral fertilizer applications in bread wheat varieties to yellow rust disease
Authors: AYDOĞDU Metin , AKAN Kadir
Published: July 2023

This research was carried out to determine the effects of mineral fertilizer applications applied in different doses on disease severity according to phenological periods in some bread wheat varieties. In this study, bread wheat varieties (Bayraktar 2000, Demir 2000, Eser and Kenanbey) were used as plant materials. In the study, different doses of Fe (Fe5, Fe10, Fe20) and Zn (Zn7.5, Zn15, Zn30) and their combination Fe+Zn (Fe+Zn (5+7.5), Fe+Zn (10+15)), in the period from tillering to stalking were investigated. When compared to the variety without fertilizer application in general, Eser, one of the bread varieties, caused a decrease in disease severity in all Fe dose applications, while Zn applications caused an increase in the early period and both an increase and a decrease in the late periods. Bayraktar variety caused an increase in disease severity in all Fe dose applications in all phenological periods and in all zinc applications except the Zn7.5 dose. In the Kenanbey cultivar, Fe dose applications caused an increase in disease severity in all periods except the mid-late period, and zinc applications caused a decrease in disease in all periods except the early period. Variable increases and decreases were observed in all phenological periods in Demir 2000 variety. In the future, the effects of Fe and Zn, as well as other plant nutrients, will be studied. Disease development for local varieties can be revealed for different phenological periods and their accuracy can be increased.
Recent Developments in Coumarin Derivatives as Neuroprotective Agents
Authors: Mishra Prakash Shyambabu , Kumar Amit , Kaur Kamalpreet , Jaitak Vikas
Published: July 2023

Background:

Background: Neurodegenerative diseases are among the diseases that cause the
foremost burden on the health system of the world. The diseases are multifaceted and difficult
to treat because of their complex pathophysiology, which includes protein aggregation, neurotransmitter
breakdown, metal dysregulation, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, excitotoxicity,
etc. None of the currently available therapies has been found to be significant in producing
desired responses without any major side effects; besides, they only give symptomatic relief
otherwise indicated off-episode relief. Targeting various pathways, namely choline esterase,
monoamine oxidase B, cannabinoid system, metal chelation, β-secretase, oxidative stress, etc.,
may lead to neurodegeneration. By substituting various functional moieties over the coumarin
nucleus, researchers are trying to produce safer and more effective neuroprotective agents.

Objectives:

This study aimed to review the current literature to produce compounds with lower side effects using coumarin as a pharmacophore.

Methods:

In this review, we have attempted to compile various synthetic strategies that have been used to produce coumarin and various substitutional strategies used to produce neuropro-tective agents from the coumarin pharmacophore. Moreover, structure-activity relationships of substituting coumarin scaffold at various positions, which could be instrumental in designing new compounds, were also discussed.

Results:

The literature review suggested that coumarins and their derivatives can act as neuro-protective agents following various mechanisms.

Conclusion:

Various studies have demonstrated the neuroprotective activity of coumarin due to an oxaheterocyclic loop, which allows binding with a broad array of proteins, thus motivat-ing researchers to explore its potential as a lead against various neurodegenerative diseases.
Recent Advances in the Electrocarboxylation of CO2 with Ketones, Aldehydes, and
Imines
Authors: Chen Bao-Li , Liu Qin-Zhou , Wang Huan , Lu Jia-Xing
Published: July 2023

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is regarded as an ideal C1 building block for the synthesis of
value-added chemicals due to its low price, non-toxic, rich reserves, and recyclability. Organic
electrosynthesis, using electricity as the driving force to avoid the use of toxic or expensive
reducing agents, has become an efficient and environmentally friendly synthetic method and is
widely used in the chemical conversion of CO2. In particular, the electrocarboxylation reaction
of CO2 with a substrate containing a specific group, such as C=O and C=N, can be realized to
synthesize α-hydroxy acids, amino acids, and their derivatives under mild reaction conditions
by accurately adjusting the current or potential. In this review, we focus on the recent advances
in the electrocarboxylation of CO2 with unsaturated substrates (including ketones, aldehydes,
and imines) in the past five years, which we hope could stimulate further research on electrocarboxylation
of CO2 with ketones, aldehydes, and imines and provide a reference for the application of such reactions
in green organic electrosynthesis in the future.
Neuroprotective Strategies for Stroke by Natural Products: Advances and
Perspectives
Authors: Liu Aifen , Hu Jingyan , Yeh Tzu-Shao , Wang Chengniu , Tang Jilong , Huang Xiaohong , Chen Bin , Huangfu Liexiang , Yu Weili , Zhang Lei
Published: July 2023

Cerebral ischemic stroke is a disease with high prevalence and incidence. Its management
focuses on rapid reperfusion with intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular thrombectomy. Both
therapeutic strategies reduce disability, but the therapy time window is short, and the risk of bleeding
is high. Natural products (NPs) have played a key role in drug discovery, especially for cancer and infectious
diseases. However, they have made little progress in clinical translation and pose challenges
to the treatment of stroke. Recently, with the investigation of precise mechanisms in cerebral ischemic
stroke and the technological development of NP-based drug discovery, NPs are addressing these challenges
and opening up new opportunities in cerebral stroke. Thus, in this review, we first summarize
the structure and function of diverse NPs, including flavonoids, phenols, terpenes, lactones, quinones,
alkaloids, and glycosides. Then we propose the comprehensive neuroprotective mechanism of NPs in
cerebral ischemic stroke, which involves complex cascade processes of oxidative stress, mitochondrial
damage, apoptosis or ferroptosis-related cell death, inflammatory response, and disruption of the
blood-brain barrier (BBB). Overall, we stress the neuroprotective effect of NPs and their mechanism
on cerebral ischemic stroke for a better understanding of the advances and perspective in NPs application
that may provide a rationale for the development of innovative therapeutic regimens in ischemic
stroke.
The Role of Biosensors in Detection of SARS-CoV-2: State-of-the-Art and
Future Prospects
Authors: Roy Nimisha , Khadanga Abhipsha , Dhwaj Amar , Prabhakar Amit , Verma Deepti
Published: July 2023

The world is fighting a pandemic so grave that perhaps it has never been witnessed
before; COVID-19 is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV-
2). As of August 31st, 2022, the WHO declared the total number of confirmed cases was
599,825,400, with 6,469,458 confirmed deaths from 223 countries under the scourge of this
deadly virus. The SARS-CoV-2 is a β-coronavirus, which is an enveloped non-segmented positive-
sense RNA virus. It is a close relative of the SARS and MERS viruses and has probably
entered humans through bats. Human-to-human transmission is very rapid. People in contact
with the patient or even the carriers became infected, leading to a widespread chain of contamination.
We are presenting a mini-review on the role of biosensors in detecting SARS-CoV-2.
Biosensors have been used for a very long time for viral detection and can be utilized for the
prompt detection of the novel coronavirus. This article aims to provide a mini-review on the
application of biosensors for the detection of the novel coronavirus with a focus on costeffective
paper-based sensors, nanobiosensors, Field effect transistors (FETs), and lab-on-chip
integrated platforms.

Background:

Biosensors have played a crucial role in viral detection for a long time.

Objective:

To present a comprehensive review of the biosensor application in SARS-Cov-2.

Method:

We have presented state-of-the-art work in the biosensors field for SARS-Cov-2 detection.

Results:

The biosensors presented here provide an innovative approach to detecting SARS-Cov-
2 infections early.

Conclusion:

Biosensors have tremendous potential in accurately detecting viral infections in
pandemics requiring rapid screening.
Lipidomics Techniques and their Application for Food Nutrition and Health
Authors: Huang Shudan , Xu Jiamin , Chen Jiahui , Zhang Ting , Su Jing , Wang Xichang , Zhong Jian
Published: July 2023

Due to the chemical complexity and wide concentration range of lipids in
biological samples, it is necessary to apply different analytical strategies to identify and
quantify lipid species and amounts. In this book chapter, we mainly introduced the
techniques, workflow, and applications of lipidomics in food nutrition and health. First,
we mainly introduced the common lipidomics techniques, such as direct infusion mass
spectrometry-based techniques, chromatographic separation mass spectrometry-based
techniques, mass spectrometry imaging, and nuclear magnetic resonance. Second, we
described the common lipidomics workflow, including sample preparation, MS data
acquisition, and data processing. Third, we mainly discussed the application of
lipidomics in food nutrition and health. Finally, we briefly summarized and discussed
the future perspectives of lipidomics. All these discussions suggested that lipidomics
could ensure food quality, examine dietary lipid nutrition, and prevent and detect
diseases.
Recent Advances in the Analysis of Herbicides and their Transformation Products in Environmental Samples
Authors: Kaur Pervinder , Kaur Harshdeep , Singh Bhullar Makhan
Published: July 2023

Herbicide residues in crop, soil and contamination of groundwater have
become a worldwide concern in recent decades as their presence at low concentrations
entails an unacceptable risk to human health and non-target organism. The magnitude
of exposure and concentration at a particular time may trigger bioaccumulation and bio
magnifications of herbicide residues and their degraded products, causing mutagenic,
carcinogenic and teratogenic effects on humans, flora and fauna and microbiological
living system. These atrocious circumstances have raised concern about their presence
in environmental compartments and necessitate the continuous monitoring of herbicide
residues in various matrices. However, determining the herbicide residues in the soil
and crop is challenging because of the very low concentration of analyte, complicated
sample matrices and low maximum residue limit (MRL) imposed by the regulatory
agencies. The detection limits imposed by environment quality legislation can only be
achieved by using appropriate sample preparation techniques, which comprise isolation
and concentration of the analytes with nominal matrix interference, thus allowing its
facile detection and quantification through instrumental analysis. In recent years, the
requirements for separation and pre-concentration procedures have undergone
numerous changes, and various sample preparation methods have been used. The final
step in the analytical process involves the identification and quantification of the
herbicide residues using suitable instrumentation, and over the years, herbicides have
been determined by spectrophotometric, chromatographic, electrochemical,
electrophoretic, hyphenated and biosensors. This book chapter provides a
comprehensive overview of the novelties and the advantages of different techniques
employed for the detection of herbicides and their transformation products in
environmental samples.
In vivo Synthesis of Metal Nanoparticles Using Plants as Hosts
Authors: Fu Li
Published: July 2023

The precursors of nanomaterials can be transformed into nanomaterials in
plants. This chapter introduces plants as hosts for nanomaterial synthesis. Although the
synthesis of nanomaterials by this method cannot be obtained in large quantities, the
existence of nanomaterials in plants will have a certain impact on the growth of plants.
This technique may not be useful in the synthesis of nanomaterials, but it has potential
applications in agriculture. 
Plant Virus Nanoparticles and Their Applications
Authors: Fu Li
Published: July 2023

Plant virions, as nano-sized particles, have the advantages of high
accumulation levels in plant cells, low regeneration cost, simple purification process
and safety for the human body. They are ideal natural nanomaterials. With the
development of bio-nanotechnology, plant virus nanoparticles show more and more
applicable potential in the field of medicine. This chapter reviews the research progress
and application of plant virus nanoparticles in the field of medicine, focusing on
targeted drug delivery, molecular imaging and vaccine preparation.
Oxidants and Antioxidants Interplay in the Modulation of Inflammation and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Matata Bashir , Elahi Maqsood
Published: July 2023

Oxidative stress and inflammation are parallel self-perpetuating
mechanisms that when triggered, appear to be strongly linked with several
complications of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Unchecked production of reactive
oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) are largely the responsible
factors that operate via the activation of several transcriptional messengers and a series
of inflammatory pathways. Such messengers include Nuclear Factor-KappaB, known
to contribute to a plethora of pathological complications such as endothelial
dysfunction, the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis, irreversible ischemic
reperfusion injury, and arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation. Although much is
known about the link between oxidative stress and CVD, the development of direct
therapeutic interventions has remained elusive. In experimental animal models, the use
of antioxidants in the form of dietary supplements has been shown to quench
ROS/RNS or catalyse the break-up of free radical chains and has resulted in some
measure of success. However, these findings have not been able to be replicated in
human clinical trials for several different well-known agents, such as vitamin E and
beta-carotene. Many potent naturally occurring antioxidants have been exploited by
nature such as the oxygenated carotenoids (xanthophylls) and researchers have tested
several of them in their natural form in clinical trials but sadly many of them have not
translated into useful therapeutic tools. Questions, therefore, remain as to whether the
reasons may be solely the inability to find the “right” compound(s) or delivery strategy,
or the exact mechanisms of action of existing compounds have unknown targets or
whether correct dosages are used. This chapter reviews existing evidence on the thesis
that antioxidant/anti-inflammatory compounds may present an opportunity for the
development of future therapeutic agents for both cardiovascular oxidative stress and
inflammation.
Enfoque biocultural en investigación: el caso de la comunidad Muisca de Sesquilé “los hijos del maíz”
Authors: Gutiérrez-Martínez Julián , Triana-Quimbaya Juanita , Nemogá Soto Gabriel , Márquez Vargas Yeison , Chautá Páez Camilo , Garzón Prieto Diana , Bojacá Rojas Michaelle
Published: July 2023

Este artículo analiza las fortalezas y los retos de la investigación participativa y transformadora desde un enfoque biocultural a partir del estudio de caso con la comunidad Muisca de Sesquilé “los hijos del maíz”. Este enfoque implica promover la participación conjunta en todas las etapas de la investigación, cumpliendo con un compromiso ético en su desarrollo. Aunque esta experiencia aplicó principios éticos de la investigación biocultural y propició espacios de coinvestigación y diálogo permanente, también enfrentó retos metodológicos y una serie de barreras institucionales que dificultaron la participación de la comunidad. Estas barreras, que desconocen los derechos bioculturales de los pueblos Indígenas, los derechos territoriales, el enfoque diferencial de derechos, y la Consulta y el Consentimiento Previo, Libre e Informado, sobrepasan las capacidades y recursos de los investigadores y limitan el alcance del proceso participativo y el efecto transformador de la investigación biocultural.
Wychowywać ku wartościom – ale ku jakim? Aksjologiczne dylematy edukacji
Authors: Marszałek Lidia
Published: July 2023

Najprościej ujmując pojęcie wartości, można uznać, że określa ono to, co dla człowieka jest ważne i cenne. Prezentowany tekst zawiera refleksje na temat istoty pojęcia wartości oraz różnego rozumienia tego pojęcia. Wskazano w nim także drogi wychowania do wartości najwyższych, społecznych i pozytywnych wartości utylitarnych. Faktem jednak jest, iż we współczesnym świecie, zwłaszcza wśród młodych ludzi, dominują wartości hedonistyczne i nastawienie na własny dobrostan, korzyści, posiadanie wartościowych rzeczy i wygodę życia.
W treści artykułu podjęto dyskusję na temat tego, z jakich powodów młodzi ludzie preferują właśnie te wartości. Wskazano również dylematy wychowawców i nauczycieli, ku jakim wartościom należy kierować wychowanków, aby w zderzeniu ze współczesną rzeczywistością świata dorosłych nie ponieśli szkody. Czy na pewno kierunkować ich na wartości wyższe – przez co mogą stać się łatwą „ofiarą” dla innych ludzi, pragnących ich wykorzystać dla własnych celów, czy też raczej uczyć bezkompromisowej „walki o swoje”, co zapewni im w przyszłości sukcesy w życiu zawodowym i społecznym? Faktem jednak jest, iż żaden wychowawca nie zrezygnuje z prowadzenia swoich wychowanków ku wartościom najwyższym. Jak więc prowadzić wychowanie moralne i etyczne wychowanków, jednocześnie pomagając im w przygotowaniu się do realiów współczesnego świata? W zamieszczonych w tekście rekomendacjach pedagogicznych podjęto próbę pogodzenia tych dwóch obszarów wychowania.
Lung Transplantation for COVID-19 Related Lung Disease: A Follow-Up Study of Outcomes from a Medium-Size Lung Transplant Programd
Authors: Franco-Palacios Domingo , Allenspach Lisa , Stagner Lisa , Bryce Kelly , Simanovski Jane , Nemeh Hassan
Published: July 2023

In the United States of America, COVID-19 acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and post-COVID pulmonary fibrosis (PCPF) are raising indications for lung transplant (LT). Another indication for LT is underlying fibrosis with SARS-CoV-2 induced interstitial lung disease exacerbation or rapid progressing fibrosis. Only a few centers have reported on their long-term outcomes after LT for COVID-19. Single center retrospective chart review of patients transplanted for COVID-19 related lung disease. The Henry Ford Health System Institutional Board Review Board approved this study as minimal-risk research using data collected for routine clinical practice (#14953). During the study period from January 2021 to June 2023, 12 patients underwent bilateral LT for COVID-19 related lung disease: 6 for COVID-19 ARDS, 4 with worsening of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and 2 for PCPF. Median survival after LT in months are 18.5 (IQR 12.9, 26) for ARDS; 20.5 (IQR 13.1, 26) for IPF; and 12.6 months for PCPF. Hospital discharge survival was 83% for ARDS and 100% for the fibrotic types of lung disease. The 30-day and 3-month survival was 100% and 91%, respectively, for all COVID-19 related lung diseases. At the time of data collection, 3 patients in this cohort died (2 in the ARDS group). Eight patients were alive over 1-year post-transplant (4 ARDS, 3 patients with IPF prior to COVID-19 and 1 patient with PCPF). LT for COVID-19 related lung disease is associated with several challenges from patient selection to perioperative management. Short- and long-term survival is promising but associated with significant morbidity.
An Unstructured Supplementary Service Data System to Verify HIV Self-Testing Among Nigerian Youths: Mixed Methods Analysis of Usability and Feasibility
Authors: Oladele David Ayoola , Iwelunmor Juliet , Gbajabiamila Titilola , Obiezu-Umeh Chisom , Okwuzu Jane Ogoamaka , Nwaozuru Ucheoma , Musa Adesola Zaidat , Tahlil Kadija , Idigbe Ifeoma , Ong Jason , Tang Weiming , Tucker Joseph , Ezechi Oliver
Published: July 2023

Background

Mobile health (mHealth) interventions among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) are increasingly available in African low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). For example, the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) could be used to verify HIV self-testing (HIVST) among AYAs with poor bandwidth.

Objective

The aim of this study is to describe the creation of an USSD platform and determine its feasibility and usability to promote the verification of HIVST results among AYAs in Nigeria.

Methods

We developed and evaluated a USSD platform to verify HIVST results using a user-centered approach. The USSD platform guided AYAs in performing HIVST, interpreting the result, and providing linkage to care after the test. Following the usability assessment, the USSD platform was piloted. We used a mixed methods study to assess the platform’s usability through a process of quantitative heuristic assessment, a qualitative think-aloud method, and an exit interview. Descriptive statistics of quantitative data and inductive thematic analysis of qualitative variables were organized.

Results

A total of 19 AYAs participated in the usability test, with a median age of 19 (IQR 16-23) years. There were 11 females, 8 males, and 0 nonbinary individuals. All individuals were out-of-school AYAs. Seven of the 10 Nielsen usability heuristics assessed yielded positive results. The participants found the USSD platform easy to use, preferred the simplicity of the system, felt no need for a major improvement in the design of the platform, and were happy the system provided linkage to care following the interpretation of the HIVST results. The pilot field test of the platform enrolled 164 out-of-school AYAs, mostly young girls and women (101, 61.6%). The mean age was 17.5 (SD 3.18) years, and 92.1% (151/164) of the participants reported that they were heterosexual, while 7.9% (13/164) reported that they were gay. All the participants in the pilot study were able to conduct HIVST, interpret their results, and use the linkage to care feature of the USSD platform without any challenge. A total of 7.9% (13/164) of the AYAs had positive HIV results (reactive to the OraQuick kit).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the usability and feasibility of using a USSD system as an alternative to mobile phone apps to verify HIVST results among Nigerian youth without smartphone access. Therefore, the use of a USSD platform has implications for the verification of HIVST in areas with low internet bandwidth. Further pragmatic trials are needed to scale up this approach.
A Study on User-Oriented Subjects of Child Abuse on Wikipedia: Temporal Analysis of Wikipedia History Versions and Traffic Data (Preprint)
Authors: Wang Yanyan , Zhang Jin
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Many people turn to online open encyclopedias such as Wikipedia to seek knowledge about child abuse. However, the information available on this website is often disorganized and incomplete.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to analyze Wikipedia’s coverage of child abuse and provide a more accessible way for users to browse child abuse–related content. The study explored the main themes and subjects related to child abuse on Wikipedia and proposed a multilayer user-oriented subject schema from the general users’ perspective.

METHODS

The knowledge of child abuse on Wikipedia is presented in the child abuse–related articles on it. The study analyzed child abuse–related articles on Wikipedia, examining their history versions and yearly page views data to reveal the evolution of content and popularity. The themes and subjects were identified from the articles’ text using the open coding, self-organizing map, and n-gram approaches. The subjects in different periods were compared to reveal changes in content.

RESULTS

This study collected and investigated 241 associated Wikipedia articles and their history versions and traffic data. Four facets were identified: (1) maltreatment behavior (n=118, 48.9%); (2) people and environment (n=28, 11.6%); (3) problems and risks (n=33, 13.7%); and (4) protection and support (n=62, 25.7%). A total of 8 themes and 51 subjects were generated from the text, and a user-oriented subject schema linking the facets, themes, subjects, and articles was created. Maltreatment behavior (number of total views = 1.15 × 108) was the most popular facet viewed by users, while people and environment (number of total views = 2.42 × 107) was the least popular. The popularity of child abuse increased from 2010 to 2014 but decreased after that.

CONCLUSIONS

The user-oriented subject schema provides an easier way for users to seek information and learn about child abuse. The knowledge of child abuse on Wikipedia covers the harms done to children, the problems caused by child abuse, the protection of children, and the people involved in child abuse. However, there was an inconsistency between the interests of general users and Wikipedia editors, and the child abuse knowledge on Wikipedia was found to be deficient, lacking content about typical child abuse types. To meet users’ needs, health information creators need to generate more information to fill the knowledge gap.
mHealth App Usability Questionnaire for Stand-Alone mHealth Apps Used by Health Care Providers: Canadian French Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation, and Validation (Part 1) (Preprint)
Authors: Gagnon Julie , Probst Sebastian , Chartrand Julie , Lalonde Michelle
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

An increasing number of health care professionals are using mobile apps. The mHealth App Usability Questionnaire (MAUQ) was designed to evaluate the usability of mobile health apps by patients and providers. However, this questionnaire is not available in French.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to translate (from English to Canadian French), cross-culturally adapt, and initiate the validation of the original version of MAUQ for stand-alone mobile health apps used by French-speaking health care providers.

METHODS

A cross-cultural research study using a well-established method was conducted to translate MAUQ to Canadian French by certified translators and subsequently review it with a translation committee. It was then back translated to English. The back translations were compared with the original by the members of the committee to reach consensus regarding the prefinal version. A pilot test of the prefinal version was conducted with a sample of 49 potential users and 10 experts for content validation.

RESULTS

The statements are considered clear, with interrater agreement of 99.14% among potential users and 90% among experts. Of 21 statements, 5 (24%) did not exceed the 80% interrater agreement of the experts regarding clarity. Following the revisions, interrater agreement exceeded 80%. The content validity index of the items varied from 0.90 to 1, and the overall content validity index was 0.981. Individual Fleiss multirater κ of each item was between 0.89 and 1, showing excellent agreement and increasing confidence in the questionnaire’s content validity.

CONCLUSIONS

This process of translation and cultural adaptation produced a new version of MAUQ that was validated for later use among the Canadian French–speaking population. An upcoming separate study will investigate the psychometric properties of the adapted questionnaire.
Understanding Patient Perspectives on the Use of Gamification and Incentives in mHealth Apps to Improve Medication Adherence: Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Tran Steven , Smith Lorraine , Carter Stephen
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Medication nonadherence remains a significant health and economic burden in many high-income countries. Emerging smartphone interventions have started to use features such as gamification and financial incentives with varying degrees of effectiveness on medication adherence and health outcomes. A more consistent approach to applying these features, informed by patient perspectives, may result in more predictable and beneficial results from this type of intervention.

OBJECTIVE

This qualitative study aims to identify patient perspectives on the use of gamification and financial incentives in mobile health (mHealth) apps for medication adherence in Australian patients taking medication for chronic conditions.

METHODS

A total of 19 participants were included in iterative semistructured web-based focus groups conducted between May and December 2022. The facilitator used exploratory prompts relating to mHealth apps, gamification, and financial incentives, along with concepts raised from previous focus groups. Transcriptions were independently coded to develop a set of themes.

RESULTS

Three themes were identified: purpose-driven design, trust-based standards, and personal choice. All participants acknowledged gamification and financial incentives as potentially effective features in mHealth apps for medication adherence. However, they also indicated that the effectiveness heavily depended on implementation and execution. Major concerns relating to gamification and financial incentives were perceived trivialization and potential for medication abuse, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The study’s findings provide a foundation for developers seeking to apply these novel features in an app intervention for a general cohort of patients. However, the study highlights the need for standards for mHealth apps for medication adherence, with particular attention to the use of gamification and financial incentives. Future research with patients and stakeholders across the mHealth app ecosystem should be explored to formalize and validate a set of standards or framework.