bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sandbox as a Service: automatizando a configuracão do Cuckoo Sandbox e a geração de dados para análise de malware
Authors: Figueiredo Guilherme V. , Cattelan Renan G. , Miani Rodrigo S.
Published: September 2022

Este trabalho busca criar uma plataforma unificada de análise dinâmica e estática de malware, na qual diversos pesquisadores possam gerar conjuntos de dados para utilização em suas pesquisas. Propõe-se que a geração de tais conjuntos seja flexível o suficiente para abranger as diversas áreas de pesquisa de malware, permitindo escolher entre os campos obtidos a partir da fase de análise, que poderão ser incluídos ou não no conjunto de dados resultante. Através de extensões nas funcionalidades da plataforma Cuckoo Sandbox, foram implementadas novas funcionalidades, permitindo o download em lote dos relatórios gerados em formato CSV, mais adequado para algoritmos de aprendizado de máquina.
ERENO: An Extensible Tool For Generating Realistic IEC-61850 Intrusion Detection Datasets
Authors: Quincozes Silvio E. , Albuquerque Célio , Passos Diego , Mossé Daniel
Published: September 2022

Os Sistemas de Detecção de Intrusão (IDSs) são componentes essenciais para lidar com ataques às redes baseadas na norma IEC-61850. No entanto, empregar IDSs em tais redes é um desafio. Uma questão importante é a falta de dados representativos e realistas sobre ataques aos protocolos IEC-61850. Neste trabalho, propomos uma ferramenta extensível que simula o tráfego da rede da subestacão de forma realista para produzir atributos representativos. Como prova de conceito, uma linha de transmissão brasileira foi simulada, gerando-se datasets com 4,4 GB, incluindo 7 tipos de ataque. Os resultados com atributos propostos revelam um ganho de desempenho de IDS baseados em aprendizado de máquina que evoluiu de 52,24% para 99,46%.
Authentication of Things: Authentication and Access Control for the Entire IoT Device Life-Cycle
Authors: Neto Antonio Lemos Maia , e Oliveira Leonardo Barbosa , Cunha Ítalo Fernando Scotá
Published: September 2022

As the number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices already grows faster than the population, the need for strong authentication and access control mechanisms is greater than ever. Legacy authentication schemes are usually computationally expensive which makes them unsuitable for resource-constrained IoT devices. On the other hand, solutions that target such devices typically base their access control mechanism solely on authentication. In a complex smart environment, however, IoT devices often offer and consume a range of resources, which demands a fine-grained access control mechanism. Besides, the IoT paradigm also beckons safe interoperability among devices that belong to different smart environments. Last, there is a lack of options for authentication and access control solutions that cover the entire IoT device life-cycle, i.e., from device manufacturing to decommissioning. In this work, we propose Authentication of Things (AoT), a holistic authentication and fine-grained access control solution for the entire IoT device life-cycle. AoT comprises a suite of protocols which relies on Identity-Based Cryptogra phy (IBC) to distribute keys and authenticate devices as well as Attribute-Based Cryptography (ABC) to cryptographically enforce a fine-grained Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC). We evaluate an AoT prototype at different security levels implemented on a variety of platforms, representing a wide range of IoT devices, from smartphones to microcontrollers. Our results indicate that AoT performance ranges from affordable on resource-constrained devices to highly efficient on powerful devices.
TLS 1.3 Handshake Analyzer
Authors: Giron Alexandre Augusto , Schardong Frederico , Custódio Ricardo
Published: September 2022

The Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol is the de facto standard for global Internet security. Despite its performance and security improvements over previous versions, there are still challenges regarding user privacy and security against future quantum attackers. Although there are several initiatives to address these challenges, there is no specialized tool to analyze these new features. This paper presents the TLS 1.3 Handshake Analyzer, a tool for security and performance analysis of TLS connections. Users can obtain security information about their connections, and server administrators can use it to validate the effects of TLS in their network applications, such as handshake timings and the sizes of transferred cryptographic objects.
HashifyPass - Uma Ferramenta para Visualização de Hashes de Senhas
Authors: Carvalho Henrique Araújo de , Ribeiro Jorge Miguel , Batista Daniel Macêdo , Pina José Coelho de
Published: September 2022

Por motivos de segurança, é recomendável criar senhas longas, completamente desestruturadas, aleatórias e diferentes para cada uma das contas pessoais. Como consequência desses requisitos, algumas pessoas podem querer confirmar que digitaram a senha correta antes de submeterem um formulário de login. Para auxiliar nessa confirmação, muitos websites contam com a opção de visualizar a senha, o que torna a autenticação mais vulnerável a ataques de shoulder surfing. Este artigo apresenta a ferramenta HashifyPass, que permite que senhas de websites sejam confirmadas sem exibi-las. Para isso, é usada uma animação para a visualização do hash da senha. A integração do software em um formulário de login atesta sua eficácia.
Logs Transparentes: transparência e auditabilidade usando estruturas de dados verificáveis
Authors: Kimura Leonardo T. , Urashima Stephanie M. , Fumagali Guilherme , Bastos Gustavo C. , Venturini Yeda R. , Simplício Jr. Marcos A.
Published: September 2022

A transparência é um dos requisitos fundamentais da democracia e é um aspecto crítico de processos como eleições e financiamento de campanhas eleitorais. Entretanto, frequentemente esses processos sofrem suspeitas de manipulação e exigem uma auditoria complexa para mitigá-las. Desse modo, esse artigo apresenta Logs Transparentes, um sistema que promove maior transparência e eficiência na auditabilidade através de uma arquitetura baseada em estruturas de dados verificáveis. O artigo aplica a solução especificamente para as eleições brasileiras e apresenta um protótipo com as principais operações necessárias para auditar uma eleição.
Event2Ledger: Container traceability using Docker Swarm and consortium Hyperledger blockchain
Authors: Marques Marco A. , Simplício Jr. Marcos A. , Miers Charles Christian
Published: September 2022

Cloud computing employing container-based virtualization enables dynamic allocation of computational resources, providing scalability and fault tolerance, etc. However, this flexibility could imply a drawback: container environment monitoring is highly challenging due to the large flow of calls and (de)allocations. In this work, we present event2ledger, a blockchain-based solution that implements a distributed log with data sent by authorized and customized collectors to a permissioned consortium blockchain, responsible for ordering and storage in a distributed and auditable manner. A proof-of-concept is implemented with a Hyperledger Fabric consortium blockchain, composed and maintained by the scenario actors (i.e., Providers, Users, and Developers), which stores signed container life cycle events.
DroidAutoML: uma Ferramenta de AutoML para o Domínio de Detecção de Malwares Android
Authors: Assolin Joner , Kreutz Diego , Siqueira Guilherme , Rocha Vanderson , Miers Charles , Mansilha Rodrigo , Feitosa Eduardo
Published: September 2022

Neste trabalho apresentamos a DroidAutoML, uma ferramenta de AutoML especializada para o domínio de detecção de malwares Android. A partir de um dataset de entrada e um pipeline de dados de quatro estágios, a DroidAutoML possibilita a geração automática de modelos preditivos otimizados. Os resultados iniciais indicam que a ferramenta é capaz de gerar modelos muito bons, chegando a 95% de recall.
ADBuilder: uma Ferramenta de Construção de Datasets para Detecção de Malwares Android
Authors: Vilanova Lucas , Kreutz Diego , Assolin Joner , Quincozes Vagner , Miers Charles , Mansilha Rodrigo , Feitosa Eduardo
Published: September 2022

A maioria dos datasets existentes possuem um número limitado ou defasado de amostras, o que compromete o treinamento de modelos para detecção de malwares Android. Na literatura existem alguns trabalhos que propõem a construção de datasets, porém, nenhum deles suficientemente definido e integrado a ponto de entregar de forma automatizada e sistematizada um dataset ao usuário. Neste trabalho, propomos a ferramenta ADBuilder, que permite a construção integrada, automatizada e sistematizada de datasets atualizados para o domínio de detecção de malwares Android. A ADBuilder é constituída de quatro módulos independentes, sendo cada módulo composto por um conjunto de ferramentas ou serviços necessários para a construção de datasets atualizados.
FS3E: uma Ferramenta para Execução e Avaliação de Métodos de Seleção de Características para Detecção de Malwares Android
Authors: Costa Estevão , Kreutz Diego , Rocha Vanderson , Leão Luíza , Sabóia Sávio , Neves Nicolas , Feitosa Eduardo
Published: September 2022

Atualmente, há dezenas de métodos sofisticados para a seleção de características de um dataset. Entretanto, é difícil encontrarmos a implementação para avaliar a qualidade dos métodos em conjuntos diversos de datasets. Como forma de apresentar uma primeira solução para esse problema, implementamos a FS3E, uma ferramenta para catalogar implementações e automatizar a avaliação de métodos sofisticados de seleção de características. Para demostrar a funcionalidade e utilidade da FS3E, implementamos e disponibilizamos também cinco métodos sofisticados de seleção de características para o domínio de detecção de malwares Android.
Food Safety Endangers the Potential Escherichia coli Contamination on Currencies
Authors: Susanna Dewi , Eryando Tris , Hartono Budi , Fitria Lassie
Published: September 2022

Hands have a role in the transmission of pathogen of microbes such as virus, fungi, and bacteria. The transmission is often through the contact between hands and mouth. When money touches with sundries, there is a possibility of transfer of microorganisms from hands to money and vice versa, then the dirty money will be held by someone else. Contamination of money is vital for public health problems because it can be a source of easy transmission of pathogens between handlers. Literacy related to how important is the Escherichia coli transmission through currencies is needed and also the way to measure its contamination. This paper describes the possibilities the existence of E. coli found on the surface of two types of currencies for instance papers and coins, and the steps to measure the contamination are also given in the Methods section.
Management of Vaginal Vault Prolapse after Hysterectomy
Authors: Shabaya Miheso Johnstone
Published: September 2022

Pelvic organ prolapse is described as the symptomatic downwards displacement of pelvic organs through the vagina. The incidence of pelvic organ prolapse is difficult to ascertain, but it is said to affect up to 50% of women worldwide over their lifetime. Majority are asymptomatic, but some will complain of a feeling of something coming down their vagina, discomfort, ‘sitting on a ball’, pelvic pressure or back pain. It has a huge impact on the quality of life of individuals and also has an economic impact on the patients and healthcare systems. Risk factors include vaginal births, age. Race menopause, increased intra-abdominal pressure and pelvic surgery including hysterectomy. Assessment of prolapse entails evaluation of bowel, bladder and sexual function. Treatment may take a conservative approach with pelvic floor muscle training before surgery is undertaken. The choice of treatment and route of surgery are individualized to each patient. Post hysterectomy prolapse presents even greater challenges and thorough patient assessment and counselling is essential. The surgeon must have the right skills and choose the right operation to ensure optimal outcome. The surgery itself can be undertaken vaginally or abdominally (open, laparoscopic or robotic), by use of native tissue or mesh and ideally in a multidisciplinary set up.
Microgametophytic Selection as a Way to Improve Drought Tolerance in Cultivated Plants
Authors: Lyakh Viktor , Soroka Anatoliy
Published: September 2022

In the current chapter, using different agricultural crops as an example, the effectiveness of pollen selection techniques for drought and heat resistance are demonstrated, as well as methods to evaluate plant drought tolerance by its male gametophyte. Germination of pollen from F1 sunflower hybrid on the stigmas moistened with an osmotic resulted in drought resistance improvement of F2 sporophytic generation, increasing the number of drought tolerant genotypes. Heating sunflower pollen increased both the plant adaptability to drought in dry field conditions and germination of seeds under osmotic stress. Pollination with heated pollen created opportunities to increase the share of drought resistant genotypes in the progeny of oil flax sporophytes. In interspecific tomato hybrids pollen treatment with high temperature was accompanied by a predominant elimination of unstable to various stresses pollen grains with cultivated species alleles in favor of wild ones. The high-temperature impact on the heterogeneous pollen population increased the proportion of drought-resistant genotypes in the sporophyte population and changed the Mendelian segregation ratios for a number of marker genes in maize. The genes were revealed, which influence drought resistance or are linked to the genes responsible for tolerance of pollen and plants to water stress in some crops.
Perspective Chapter: Factors that Influence Young Women’s Decision-Making in Contraceptive Use in Ashiedu Keteke of Accra, Ghana
Authors: N.K. Abbey Naomi
Published: September 2022

Every young woman has the right to reproductive health care. It is quite important for every woman to make an informed decision when choosing contraception. This is because women of today face a lot of challenges when it comes to the issue of reproductive health care. Young women choose contraception to prevent unwanted pregnancies and other reproductive health-related risks. The increase in abortion and pregnancy complication rates among young women is far too much and needs to be critically addressed to reduce maternal deaths (MD) and infant mortality. The decision made on the use of contraception by many young women has interfered with some factors that prevent them from making the right decisions. This piece is to identify those factors that influence young women’s reluctance of using contraception and how to promote contraceptive usage among Ghanaian women.
Anorexia Nervosa: Opportunities and Challenges in Treatment
Authors: Olariike Oyindasola Kayode , Funke Adedoyin Folake , Adeyemi Adedoyin Adeoye
Published: September 2022

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder condition characterized by an abnormal fear of gaining weight, driving people to starve themselves and become dangerously thin. It involves restricting food intake, which can lead to severe nutritional deficiencies. Anorexia nervosa can affect people of all ages, genders, races and ethnicities. The effects of anorexia nervosa can be life threatening, but counseling and treatment for underlying mental health issues can help people with this condition. Goals of treatment include restoring the person to a healthy weight, treating emotional issues such as low self-esteem, correcting distorted thinking patterns, and developing long-term behavioral changes. Early diagnosis and treatment are more likely to lead to a positive outcome. The physical signs and symptoms of anorexia nervosa are related to starvation. Anorexia also includes emotional and behavioral issues involving an unrealistic perception of body weight and an extremely strong fear of gaining weight or becoming fat. This chapter aimed to understand the opportunities embedded and challenges encountered in the treatment of anorexia nervosa. Information given will assist the patient and team of professionals (primary care physician, mental health professionals, nutritionist, counselors) in the treatment of this disorder to support recovery and prevent relapse.
Nutritional Quality of Wheat
Authors: Javid Iqbal Muhammad , Shams Naureen , Fatima Kalsoom
Published: September 2022

The criteria of wheat quality are varied, which is suitable for one product may not have properties for another product. Wheat endosperm contains the proteins, carbohydrates, iron, and B-vitamins such as riboflavin and niacin. It also contains soluble fiber as well as trace minerals. Soluble fiber is considered to have health benefits that are not shared by insoluble part. It is the leading source of vegetal protein in human food, having a protein content of about 13%, relatively high as compared with other major cereals. Natural wheat has a number of medical properties, such as every component of the whole wheat grain contains elements that the person’s body requires. Wheat comprises carbohydrates and gluten protein, which offer massive amounts of energy; inner bran coats, phosphates, and other mineral salts; and dietary fiber, which helps with bowel movements. Wheat protein and vitamins B and E aid to develop and rebuild muscle tissues. The wheat germs that are eliminated during the purification process are also high in important vitamin E, which could also lead to heart disease if not consumed. Constipation and other gastrointestinal disorders and nutritional diseases are common as a consequence of the lack of vitamins and minerals in refined wheat flour.
Interaction and Transport of Liquid Droplets in Atmospheric Pressure Plasmas (APPs)
Authors: M. Iqbal Muhammad , M. Turner Mark
Published: September 2022

The transport of liquid droplets in atmospheric pressure plasma (APP) has been recognized as a two-phase flow. The liquid droplet introduces a perturbation in APP and under several constraints, the behavior of this perturbation is not clear during transport. As soon as the droplets interact with the APP, they become charged, which causes the droplets to evaporate. Using 1D normalized fluid model, we first describe how the liquid droplets charge and interact with helium APP. The impact of this droplet-plasma interaction is then discussed and described using 2D coupled fluid-droplet model. The numerical modeling outcomes suggested that the evaporation of droplets has emerged as a primary mechanism in plasma; however, the mutual interactions, such as grazing and coalescence between the droplets, are dominant at higher precursor flow rates (>100 μl min−1). To demonstrate the importance of different liquid precursors during droplet-plasma interaction, we analyzed the spatiotemporal patterns of discharge plasma while considering the effects of HMDSO, n-hexane, TEOS, and water. Variable gas and liquid precursor flow rates are used to further examine the features of discharge plasma. Comparing penning ionization to other ionization processes, it is found to be the prime activity along the pulse of droplets, demonstrating the significance of small nitrogen impurities. Using a laser diffraction particle size analysis approach as part of an APP jet deposition system, the validation of the numerical simulations is proven by comparison with experimental observations of droplet size distributions.
Microalgae and Fish Nutrition
Authors: Mohi Alddin Abdulrahman Nasreen
Published: September 2022

Fish has long been a source of “rich food for poor people” and has played an important role in increasing food security and nutrition in developing countries. Because various chemicals in algae can have confusing effects, the results of experimental research can be difficult to understand. Algae has been associated with strengthening immune systems, lipid metabolism, antiviral and antibacterial action, improved gut function, stress resistance besides providing a source of protein, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, and other biologically active phytochemicals in cattle and aquaculture feeds, even when used in modest amounts. The addition of algae to the fish diet modified the growth performance of the fish, causing it to improve. Its use resulted in a decrease in feed conversion ratio expenses, which plays an important part in determining aquaculture costs, an increase in feed efficiency ratio, and a decrease in feed conversion ratio. In accordance with the findings of chemical composition, various statements were acquired wherein the high proportion of algae significantly affects the protein and fat ratio. The outcomes demonstrated that algae could be a decent option as an additive for fish feed.
An Islamic Perspective on Ecology and Sustainability
Authors: Kamal Gueye Moustapha , Mohamed Najma
Published: September 2022

Islam, based on the prescriptions of the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah of Prophet Mohammad (Peace be upon him), provides guiding principles on the relationship between humans and the rest of the creation. A fundamental aspect of that relationship is that humans are a part of the creation, including known and unknown living creatures. Islamic teaching emphasises the specific ability of humans to act with understanding, compared to the rest of the creation. Such pre-eminence comes with practical obligations to preserve and use natural resources, be it water, land, or animals sustainably and within limits. The article presents the ecological ethics of Islam and describes how it is being revitalised through education. Finally, it presents principles and means to act responsibly on key global environmental challenges such that society can function in harmony with itself and with nature.
Neurophysiology Involved in Neuroplasticity: Mechanisms of Forgetting
Authors: Rodrigo Carrillo-Marquez Jose , Damian Carrillo-Ruiz Jose
Published: September 2022

Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to adapt to new stimuli, with the objective to overcome and learn how to deal with novel situations. In this chapter, it will be explained the new neurophysiological mechanism that entitles the processes of brains’ plasticity. The intriguing phenomena that surround cognitive mechanisms will be described on a morphological and molecular scale, aiming to understand some of the brains’ functions. The principal objective is to clarify and explain that neuroplasticity can take place in different complex tasks such as adaptative behaviors, memory, learning, and automatic conducts. Also, the evolutionary advantage of forgetting will be deeply discussed. The work will describe the functioning of the brain when adapting to new circumstances that affect the procedures of memory. It will be explained why applying biotechnology and neurobioethics is crucial for merging basic and clinical sciences.
Electrical Transport Modeling of Graphene-Based Interconnects
Authors: Nadir Youssef , Belahrach Hassan , Ghammaz Abdelilah , Naamane Aze-eddine , Radouani Mohammed
Published: September 2022

Due to the downscaling in the design of modern ICs, copper interconnects reach their limitations such as delay, power dissipation, and electromigration. However, a new era of discovered materials, including carbon nanotube, graphene nanoribbon (GNR), and their composite, has been proposed as promising alternatives for interconnect applications. The purpose of this review is to give an overview of the various approaches that are used to model graphene-based interconnects. In this work we focus on why opting for graphene-based interconnect properties as an alternative for copper interconnect replacement; what are the deep theories, which are explaining the electrical transport on those interconnects; and what are the electrical models that are used to model the various kind of graphene-based interconnects.
Measuring Solar Irradiance for Photovoltaics
Authors: A.N. Korevaar Marc
Published: September 2022

In recent years, solar energy technology has emerged as one of the leading renewable energy technologies currently available. Solar energy is enabled by the solar irradiance reaching the earth. Here we describe the characteristics of solar irradiance as well as the sources of variation. The different components of the solar irradiance and the instruments for measurement of these components are presented. In photovoltaics, the measurement of solar irradiance components is essential for research, quality control, feasibility studies, investment decisions, plant monitoring of the performance ratio, site comparison, and as input for short-term irradiance forecasting. Some more details are also provided related to physics of measuring instruments, their calibration, and associated uncertainty.
Scarless Wound Healing
Authors: Sanyal Shalini
Published: September 2022

Wound healing is a complex, multiple-step mechanism and most lead to the development of scars, which may or may not affect the functional capability of the healed tissue. However, with the advanced healing techniques and our improved understanding of the wound-healing process, there has been some development towards limiting the scarification that develops as part of the process. This chapter will explore the major types of scar tissue as well as their development and complications arising from the same. With wound healing being a complex process, there have also been attempts towards modulating the wound environment to increase the rate of healing as well as limit the formation of scars. While there is no definitive procedure that can ascertain rapid, scar-free healing as yet, this chapter aims to explore both, the traditional and alternative techniques that are used (during or after the complete healing of the wound) to mitigate the development of scars.
Properties of Foodborne Pathogens and Their Diseases
Authors: Musa Moi Ibrahim , Ibrahim Zuhairu , Mohammed Abubakar Bashir , Mohammed Katagum Yahaya , Abdullahi Auwal , Ajibji Yiga Gandi , Abdullahi Badamasi , Mustapha Ibrahim , Ali Jallaba , Mahmud Zinat , Maimusa Hamisu , Oge Katagum Halima , Muhammad Malami Aisha , Mustapha Aminu , Ayuba Istifanus
Published: September 2022

Thousands of foodborne pathogens are causing a great number of diseases with significant effects on human health and economy. Foodborne pathogens can contaminate food items not only during production and processing, but also at the time of storage and transport before consuming. During their growth, these microorganisms are capable of secreting different type of toxins into the extracellular environment. Likewise, other harmful substances can be also released and can contaminate food after breakup of food pathogens. Many microbial toxins can withstand inactivation, and can endure harsh treatment during food processing. Many of these molecules are partaken in cellular processes and can display different mechanisms of pathogenesis of foodborne organisms. Thus studying the properties of foodborne pathogens can help in the understanding of their contamination and inactivation. In the present review, we discussed extensively on the properties of foodborne pathogens including bacteria, viruses and parasites. In addition, some of the diseases caused by foodborne pathogens and the mechanism of their pathogenesis were also discussed.
Perceived Insufficient Milk Supply (PIMS) in Lactating Mothers
Authors: Y. Yakovlev Yakov
Published: September 2022

Perceived inadequate milk supply (PIMS) is a factor that hinders successful breastfeeding. The aim of our study was to determine the predictors of PIMS and to evaluate the effect of PIMS on the duration of lactation. More than 5000 mothers with children who had been breastfeeding for some time participated in our study. Analysis was performed using multivariate regression logistic and ROC statistical analyses. Eight predictors increasing the risk of PIMS were identified.
Accelerated Generation of Elite Inbreds in Maize Using Doubled Haploid Technology
Authors: Dutta Suman , Muthusamy Vignesh , U. Zunjare Rajkumar , Hossain Firoz
Published: September 2022

The creation of homozygous parental lines for hybrid development is one of the key components of commercial maize breeding programs. It usually takes up to 6 to 7 generations of selfing to obtain homozygous inbreds from the initial cross using the conventional pedigree method. Using doubled haploid (DH) method, concurrent fixation of all the genes covering entire chromosomes is possible within a single generation. For generation of DH lines, haploids are generated first by several means such as in-vitro method using tissue culture technique and in-vivo method using the haploid inducer (HI) lines. Of which, tissue culture-based methods have shown little promise for large-scale DH production as it needs good infrastructures and technical requirements. In contrast, inducer-based method provides more optimistic solutions for large-scale DH lines production. Due to its rapidity, DH technology is now being adopted in many countries including India for reducing the breeding cycle.
Toxicological Interaction Effects of Herbicides and the Environmental Pollutants on Aquatic Organisms
Authors: Banaee Mahdi
Published: September 2022

Although herbicides are designed to remove or control weeds, pollution of water ecosystems with herbicides could have adverse effects on aquatic animals such as fish. The effect of herbicides on nontarget organisms may be different than expected, as herbicides may interact with another environmental contaminant. Since there are different contaminants in the water, fish may live in the cocktail of xenobiotics, including herbicides. Therefore, herbicides alone and in combination with other pollutants could affect fish physiology. Thus, the interaction of environmental contaminants with pesticides may create a situation in which a chemical affects the activity of a pesticide; that is, its effects increase or decrease or produce a new effect that neither of them creates on its own. These interactions may occur due to accidental misuse or lack of knowledge about the active ingredients in the relevant materials. This study aimed to review the effects of herbicides alone and in combination with other xenobiotics on various aspects of fish biology. In this study, different biomarkers were reviewed in fish exposed to herbicides.
Applications and Data Analysis Using Bayesian and Conventional Statistics in Biochar Adsorption Studies for Environmental Protection
Authors: Gotore Obey , Phillip Masere Tirivashe , Nakagoe Osamu , Mushayi Vadzanayi , Rameshprabu Ramaraj , Unpaprom Yuwalee , Itayama Tomoaki
Published: September 2022

The use of low-cost agricultural waste-derived biochar in solving water and environmental challenges induced by climate change was investigated and sound conclusions were presented. Water reuse strategies can diminish the impact of climate change in rural and remote areas of developing countries. The novel biochar materials from three agro-waste biomass (Matamba fruit shell, Mushuma, and Mupane tree barks) were investigated and characterized to attest to their capacity to remove iodine from the aqueous solution. Their surface morphologies were assessed using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (FESEM-EDX) which exhibited their structural phenomena to purge environmental pollutants. The Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was conducted to show surface functional groups of the biochar materials and Matamba fruit shell exhibited hydroxyl (-OH), carbonyl groups (C=O), C=C stretches of aromatic rings, and the carboxylate (C–O–O–) groups on its surface with corresponding data from the Isotherm and Kinetic models, statistically analyzed by the conventional and Bayesian methods. These surface mechanisms are said to be induced by weak van der Waals forces and - and -stacking interaction on the biochar surface. These adsorbents promised to be potential materials for environmental-ecosystem-protection and water re-use approach.
The Root Causes of Corruption in Public Procurement: A Global Perspective
Authors: Magakwe Jack
Published: September 2022

Public procurement plays a pivotal role in driving economic activities. Globally and in Africa, one of the key drivers of economic acceleration is vested in the procurement of goods and services. The main objective of the study is to assess the root causes affecting the public procurement functions in key public institutions. The chapter is analytical and explores the root causes of corrupt practices globally and more specifically in the South African environment. This chapter, furthermore, highlights the need for the risk methodology approach to clearly understand why corruption in public procurement is rampant globally and in Africa, and how can measures be implemented to eliminate potential risk factors. This chapter contributes to the body of knowledge on corruption by looking at the sources of corruption through the lens of institutional inefficiency and root analysis. To answer the issue of whether traditional causes of corruption hold up in the face of strong anti-corruption regulations in globally and Sub-Saharan Africa, we complement conventional variables in modern literature with institutionally entrenched ones.
Encapsulation against Extrinsic Degradation Factors and Stability Testing of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Ramírez Edwin , Betancur Rafael , F. Montoya Juan , Velilla Esteban , Ramírez Daniel , Jaramillo Franklin
Published: September 2022

Commercialization of perovskite solar technology depends on reaching a stable functioning of the devices. In this regard, both intrinsic (chemistry phenomena of the different device layers) and extrinsic factors (environmental) need to be considered. In this chapter, we report the state of the art of encapsulation techniques against extrinsic degradation mechanisms. Our analysis includes the most common encapsulation structures, materials employed and their by-products, standard methods to test the stability of the devices (accelerated testing, outdoor and degradation monitoring), and security requirements to prevent the health/environmental hazard of lead leakage.
Decision Fusion for Large-Scale Sensor Networks with Nonideal Channels
Authors: Liao Yiwei , Shen Xiaojing , Wang Junfeng , Zhu Yunmin
Published: September 2022

Since there has been an increasing interest in the areas of Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence that often deals with a large number of sensors, this chapter investigates the decision fusion problem for large-scale sensor networks. Due to unavoidable transmission channel interference, we consider sensor networks with nonideal channels that are prone to errors. When the fusion rule is fixed, we present the necessary condition for the optimal sensor rules that minimize the Monte Carlo cost function. For the K-out-of-L fusion rule chosen very often in practice, we analytically derive the optimal sensor rules. For general fusion rules, a Monte Carlo Gauss-Seidel optimization algorithm is developed to search for the optimal sensor rules. The complexity of the new algorithm is of the order of OLN compared with OLNL of the previous algorithm that was based on Riemann sum approximation, where L is the number of sensors and N is the number of samples. Thus, the proposed method allows us to design the decision fusion rule for large-scale sensor networks. Moreover, the algorithm is generalized to simultaneously search for the optimal sensor rules and the optimal fusion rule. Finally, numerical examples show the effectiveness of the new algorithms for large-scale sensor networks with nonideal channels.
New Uses for Old Drugs and Their Application in Helminthology
Authors: Hugo Del Río-Araiza Victor , Hernandéz-Bello Romel , Morales-Montor Jorge
Published: September 2022

Parasitic infection research, performed on both humans and domestic animals, has been mostly focused on vaccines, diagnostic methods, epidemiology, and the evolutionary origins of parasites, thanks to the emergence of genomics and proteomics. However, the basic biology of the host-parasite interactions of several medical or veterinary important parasites has not been fully studied. Limited information has been obtained on the intricate neuroimmunoendocrine effects of host-parasite interplay in particular; therefore, the consequences of these interactions, and their possible therapeutic applications, are in need of thorough research. The current manuscript attempts to review the available literature regarding the host-parasite neuroimmunoendocrine network and to discuss how this basic research can be used to design new treatments using hormones, antihormones, and hormone analogs as a novel therapy against parasitic diseases. In addition, these studies may also contribute in identifying alternative treatments for parasitic diseases in the future. The complex immune-endocrine network may also help in explaining the frequently conflicting results observed in infections with regards to host sex and age and offer helpful insight into other research avenues besides parasite treatment and control strategies. Finally, several natural products isolated from plants, used in traditional medicine, offer an alternative approach for natural products in the preparation of inexpensive and effective antiparasitic drugs.
Isochronous Oscillations of Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Akande Jean , Kêgnidé Damien Adjaï Kolawolé , Nonti Marcellin , Delphin Monsia Marc
Published: September 2022

Real-world systems, such as physical and living systems, are generally subject to vibrations that can affect their long-term integrity and safety. Thus, the determination of the law that governs the evolution of the oscillatory quantity has become a major topic in modern engineering design. The process often leads to solving nonlinear differential equations. However, one can admit that the main objective of the theory of differential equations to obtain explicit solutions is far from being carried out. If we know how to solve linear systems, the case of systems of nonlinear differential equations is not in general solved. Isochronous nonlinear systems have therefore received particular attention. This chapter is devoted to presenting some recent developments and advances in the theory of isochronous oscillations of nonlinear systems. The harmonic oscillator as a prototype of isochronous systems is investigated to state some useful definitions (section 2), and the existence of second-order isochronous nonlinear systems having explicit elementary first integrals with an exact sinusoidal solution and higher-order autonomous nonlinear systems that reproduce the dynamics of the harmonic oscillator is proven (section 3). Finally, higher-order nonautonomous nonlinear systems that can exhibit isochronous oscillations are shown (section 4), and a conclusion for the chapter is presented.
Lifetime Determination Algorithms for Time-Domain Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging: A Review
Authors: Li Yahui , Liu Lixin , Xiao Dong , Li Hang , Sapermsap Natakorn , Tian Jinshou , Chen Yu , Day-Uei Li David
Published: September 2022

Fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) is powerful for monitoring cellular microenvironments, protein conformational changes, and protein interactions. It can facilitate metabolism research, drug screening, DNA sequencing, and cancer diagnosis. Lifetime determination algorithms (LDAs) adopted in FLIM analysis can influence biological interpretations and clinical diagnoses. Herein, we discuss the commonly used and advanced time-domain LDAs classified in fitting and non-fitting categories. The concept and explicit mathematical forms of LDAs are reviewed. The output lifetime parameter types are discussed, including lifetime components, average lifetimes, and graphic representation. We compare their performances, identify trends, and provide suggestions for end users in terms of multi-exponential decay unmixing ability, lifetime estimation precision, and processing speed.
Potency of Netilmicin against Staphylococci Compared to Other Ophthalmic Antibiotics
Authors: Sudano Roccaro Andrea , Giovanna Spoto Carmela , Rosario La Rosa Luca , Civiale Claudine , Santonocito Manuela , Viola Santa , Zappulla Cristina , Cristina Curatolo Maria , Grazia Mazzone Maria
Published: September 2022

Netilmicin is a potent and safe antibiotic with a very low incidence of resistance used as a topical ophthalmic medication in bacterial ocular infections. The aim of this study was to compare netilmicin’s Quotient of Inhibitions (QIs) and killing kinetics vs Staphylococci with other ophthalmic antimicrobials. Conjunctival and corneal QIs of netilmicin formulations, in single and multiple doses of administration, were compared with those of tobramycin, ofloxacin, levofloxacin and azithromycin preparations. The same analysis was performed in human tears, comparing netilmicin eye drops solution with tobramycin ofloxacin and levofloxacin. Furthermore, killing kinetics against Staphylococci (ATCC strains and ocular isolates) of the above-cited antibiotics, as well as chloramphenicol, were compared at different time points. QI results showed that in the conjunctiva, netilmicin, in both single and multiple doses of administration, is highly effective against all staphylococcal strains tested, while in the cornea it was particularly active against methicillin-resistant Staphylococci strains. Moreover, in human tears, netilmicin eye drops solution showed a more favourable QI against Staphylococci than tobramycin, ofloxacin and levofloxacin all in single-dose administration regimen. Killing kinetic results showed that netilmicin has a great bactericidal activity vs all the microbe strains tested as netilmicin showed to be almost the most active antibiotic. Results suggest that netilmicin has one of the most favourable killing kinetic and tissue inhibitory effects against Staphylococci than the principal ophthalmic antibiotics on the market.
Integration BIM and Emerging Technologies in Architectural Academic Programs
Authors: Abdelhai Nada
Published: September 2022

Building information modelling (BIM) provides major potential to improve project performance through its integration with emerging technologies, which are proven benefits in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, such as better data sharing, increased productivity, safety improvement and enhanced visualization. As the evolution of BIM integration with the emerging technologies has progressively increased its influence on the (AEC) sector, an architectural academic programme must introduce BIM through its integration with the new technologies practices into architectural academic programs, in order to fulfil the requirements of this sector. The chapter’s objective is to provide students, academic researchers and practitioners with a comprehensive updated review of the importance of adopting BIM integrated with emerging technologies in the architectural academic programme. The methodology comprises literature review to investigate the current developments in this subject area by reviewing and explaining the use of BIM integration with emerging technologies in construction project phases and presents practical examples of architectural projects that used these technologies. The chapter concluded that architectural education that supports emerging technologies has great impact on AEC. The chapter suggested considerable guidelines to facilitate introducing BIM integration with emerging technologies in the architectural academic programme and to find the possibility of applying the guidelines in architectural academic programs.
Fungi and Oomycetes–Allies in Eliminating Environmental Pathogens
Authors: Luca Iasmina
Published: September 2022

Fungi and oomycetes are the subjects of numerous current research studies. These are natural agents that can control parasitic populations, and arthropod populations with a role in the transmission of various diseases but can also eliminate various pollutants that are found in the external environment. Therefore, their conservation and exploitation are a global necessity, due to the benefits they confer on the quality of life of animals, but also of humans. Science must be aimed at finding a balance between the different constituents of the ecosystem and establishing coexistence relationships that are beneficial to all. Thus, research should be directed at investigating the potential actions of fungi and oomycetes against the various agents with which they coexist naturally in the external environment. This chapter provides information regarding the mechanism of action of these natural constituents and updates information on the species of fungi and oomycetes that have been studied so far. Thus, readers can have a base in this field and can further exploit what they have discovered to continue to improve the welfare of animals, addressing an ecological and healthy vision.
State of the Art of Yam Production
Authors: Wumbei Abukari , Kengni Nerlus Gautier Sopkoutie , Kwowura Kwodaga Joseph , Fovo Joseph Djeugap , Joseph Hubert Galani Yamdeu
Published: September 2022

Yam is a labor-intensive and weed-sensitive food crop. The labor-intensive nature of the yam means that the production process requires the attention of the farmer all year round. However, the dwindling labor situation and the proliferation of weeds have forced farmers to think of modern ways of controlling weeds on their farms, that is, the adoption of chemical (herbicides) weed control. Even though the adoption of these chemicals has no doubt brought relief to the farmers and has resulted in increased yam production over the years, it has also brought in its wake, negative externalities of environmental pollution, human health effects, and food quality issues. The study was thus designed to investigate how yam is produced, the human and environmental health effects of how yam is produced, and food quality effects of how yam is produced. This was done through literature review, and field and laboratory experiments. It was revealed that, in recent years, new innovations have been introduced in yam production, the manner in which farmers handle herbicides in their yam production process exposes them to high doses of pesticides, thereby endangering their lives. The study findings also suggest that the use of herbicides in yam production does not affect the quality of the yam.
Chemistry and Role of Flavonoids in Agriculture: A Recent Update
Authors: K. Jash Shyamal
Published: September 2022

Flavonoids are a remarkable group of plant secondary metabolites, and are of importance and interest to a wide variety of physical and biological scientists. Continuing works on their chemistry, occurrence, natural distribution and biological function have already resulted a lot and have created a stir in the field of chemical and biological sciences due to their immense biological and pharmacological/therapeutic potential. Also flavonoids play an important role in the biological activities of plant system. They can be responsible for the color of flowers and fruits and for the attraction of pollinators. The plant flavonoids are used naturally to improve their adaptation to environmental stress, to improve food quality, and to increase crop yield. The present book chapter deals with chemistry and significance role of reported novel natural flavonoids along with a variety of activities in agriculture.