bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Benefits of Student-Led Video Production in the Language for Business Classroom
Authors: Gremler Claudia , Wielander Elisabeth
Published: July 2017

The use of video in the language learning classroom has long been seen as a way to enrich the student experience and to increase student engagement. This case study presents a good practice example of student-led video production tasks. The project which is analysed here was conducted with undergraduate students of German at Aston University in Birmingham, UK. It examined student responses and student achievement in relation to a number of different video-based learning activities and explored the potential of student-led digital video production in a language for business context. Results of the study highlighted the various benefits of using video production tasks with language learners. In particular, the data demonstrated how video-based tasks embedded in a Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) approach and supported by adequate scaffolding, such as task-based learning structures, provide collaborative learning opportunities and increase students' confidence.
Integration of Videoconferencing in ESP and EAP Courses
Authors: Katrnakova Hana
Published: July 2017

This chapter is devoted to the use of videoconferencing technology and other social media tools for creating a community of practice communication within which authentic tasks and activities in multicultural ESP and EAP classes can be carried out. It describes theoretical background for effective use of these media based on the results of INVITE project and other research in the area, it mentions the importance of international institutional cooperation and the chapter shares examples of good practice pointing at their advantages. Samples of end-of-course feedback reflecting students´ worries at the beginning of the course, their personal and professional achievements at the end of the course are included as well.
The Strange Life and Presumed Death of Homo Economicus
Authors: Harkin Michael
Published: July 2017

This essay traces the history of economic anthropology as a critique of classical economics, focusing primarily on two issues: reciprocity and the cultural valuation of goods. Both areas provide strong counter-evidence to the model of Homo economicus. Additionally, an analysis of consumer-based subcultures, focusing primarily on craft beer, is carried out. Finally, links between consumer choice, personal identity and group membership, social class, and electoral politics in the Age of Trump, are suggested.
A Framework for Cultural Localization of Websites and for Improving Their Commercial Utilization
Authors: Cermak Radim , Smutny Zdenek
Published: July 2017

Cultural localization of websites is at present a relevant topic that has a potential to increase the commercial use of the websites of companies that operate or want to operate in multiple countries or regions. This chapter presents a basic survey of websites as culturally sensitive media. It is based on an extensive research of available literature on the subject and comprises more than 80 studies. These sources show that the study of the interconnectedness of culture and websites is examined primarily by using Hofstede's and Hall's cultural dimensions. The main part of the chapter is a detailed analysis of 14 seminal studies focusing on cultural localization of websites, and a subsequent aggregation of the individual conclusions arising from them. This is the basis on which a holistic Framework was created, connecting a total of more than 150 cultural features to the respective cultural dimensions. The proposed Framework can be used by web specialists for cultural localization of websites.
Implications of Trade Liberalization for Food Security Under the ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership
Authors: Ghosh Ishita , Ghoshal Ishita
Published: July 2017

The objective of the chapter is to understand India's role in providing food security through trade with the ASEAN under the India-ASEAN Strategic Partnership. A dynamic panel has been employed to assess and estimate the said objective, given that India and most of the ASEAN countries are considered emerging markets. Econometric investigation points out that while almost more than half the variables in the augmented gravity model hold good, food imports from India, agricultural labour force, common maritime border, distance from India, food price index, food production index, GDP (size) of the importing country, per capita GDP of the importing economy, and trade openness have statistically significant effect on the food trade from India to the ASEAN. Improving maritime infrastructure and agri-logistics, investing in climate change and water management while augmenting the agri-labour productivity are of paramount importance in order to improve food trade between India and the ASEAN.
A Walk Through Social Network Analysis
Authors: Srivastava Atul , Pillai Anuradha , Gupta Dimple Juneja
Published: July 2017

Since last more than forty years, social network analysis (SNA) techniques have evolved as one of the successful applications of Internet. Numerous reasons demand better understanding of the structure of social networks, need of their analysis and their impact on future Internet and society. For instance, finding the shared interest and trust could be one of the reasons to study social networks. Moreover, if in future, distributed online social networks are popular and bandwidth intensive, they can have a significant impact on Internet traffic, just as current peer-to-peer content distribution networks do. Regardless of one's stance on these phenomena, a better understanding of the structure of social networks is likely to improve our understanding of the opportunities, limitations and threats associated with these ideas. For instance, gigantic size of online social networks, their dynamic behavior, clustering and privacy policies held by users are some of the major challenges. This chapter presents an engraved review spanning from need of SNA to the implications associated with it.
Link Prediction in Social Networks
Authors: Samanta Sovan , Pal Madhumangal
Published: July 2017

Social network is a topic of current research. Relations are broken and new relations are increased. This chapter will discuss the scope or predictions of new links in social networks. Here different approaches for link predictions are described. Among them friend recommendation model is latest. There are some other methods like common neighborhood method which is also analyzed here. The comparison among them to predict links in social networks is described. The significance of this research work is to find strong dense networks in future.
Access to Finance
Authors: Khan Shazida Jan Mohd , Anuar Abdul Rahim
Published: July 2017

Over the years, Malaysian government has attributes to a number of supports programs to the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) sector. These includes the involvement of several government agencies, at both the federal and state levels, providing variety of programs to SMEs sector in achieving sustainable levels of growth and development. A well-developed financial infrastructure that is able to meet the diverse financing needs of SMEs is essential to support the competitiveness and continuous growth of SMEs.
Convergence of Technology in the E-Commerce World and Venture Capital Landscape in South East Asia
Authors: Lai P. C. , Scheela William
Published: July 2017

Every time technology changes, it creates threats to established ways of doing business and opportunities for new ways to offer services. This is being shown in the E-payment E-commerce world with the convergence of the technologies. In this chapter, we will discuss the recent economic surge of Southeast Asia and analyze the E-commerce payment systems with the latest development of the convergence of the technologies. We present an empirical study of E-payment systems and implications of our findings on E-payment systems in Southeast Asia. Finally, we present an overview of recent research on business angel investing in Southeast Asia focusing on investor's high-tech investment strategies. We propose that management can tap the opportunities of the electronic payment technologies for E-commerce by providing electronic payment solutions that meet the consumers' intention to use.
Entering a New World
Authors: Carrim Nasima Mohamed Hoosen
Published: July 2017

This chapter focuses on the identity work engaged in by two older Indian male entrepreneurs and their use of technology in their business enterprises. The chapter briefly outlines the concepts of older entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial innovation and gives an overview of the South African context that pertains to Indians. McClelland's theory of motivation, Bandura's theory of self-efficacy and identity theory serve as the theoretical frameworks. The author conducted interviews with two older Indian male entrepreneurs to ascertain their use of digital technology in their respective businesses. The result of the investigation indicates that older Indian males' use of digital technology is minimal and that they engage in entrepreneurial professional identity work to a minimal extent. Some recommendations are made regarding solutions to the problems identified.
Parochial School Teachers Instructional Use of the Interactive Whiteboard
Authors: Powers Jillian R.
Published: July 2017

This chapter presents findings from a study that utilized Davis' (1989) Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to investigate K-8 teachers' instructional usage of the interactive whiteboard (IWB). Through surveying 145 teachers and 40 administrators of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod schools, the researcher used multiple regression and moderator analyses to examine whether the TAM model helped explain teachers' reported teacher-centered and student-centered instructional IWB use. The results of the study indicated two variables adapted from the TAM, teachers' perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) of the IWB, contributed to the prediction of teacher-centered instructional usage, and PU contributed to the prediction of student-centered instructional usage. Moderator analysis indicated the variable for teachers' technological pedagogical content knowledge of the IWB moderated the relationships between PEOU of the IWB and each teacher and student-centered instructional usage, as well as between PU of the IWB and teacher-centered instructional usage.
Technology Shaping Education in Rural Communities
Authors: Powers Jillian R. , Musgrove Ann T. , Lowe Jessica A.
Published: July 2017

This chapter examines how technology has shaped the teaching and learning process for individuals residing in rural areas. Research on the history and unique needs of rural communities and the impact of technology in these areas is discussed. Educational experiences of students across all grade levels, from early childhood though post-secondary education, is examined. Examples of innovative and creative uses educational technologies in distance and face-to-face settings are described from the perspective of rural teachers and students.
Systematic Approach for Improving Accessibility and Usability in Online Courses
Authors: Ozdemir Devrim , Preast Vanessa , Duffy Pamela Ann
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this chapter is to provide a systematic approach for improving accessibility and usability in online courses. Accessibility and usability are of particular importance to provide equal human development opportunities to those who have various disabilities in the digital age. The authors developed a systematic approach as a result of a comprehensive accessibility and usability review process of an actual online course. The review involved a team-based collaborative approach. The team consisted of an accessibility professional, an instructional design coordinator, and a course instructor who collaborated to perform the thorough examination process. The presented model is of particular importance to improve accessibility and usability of online courses, which in turn enhances the quality of human development for disabled learners.
Distributed Work Environments
Authors: Franck Edwiygh
Published: July 2017

Technology is making the traditional workplace obsolete. Companies are taking advantage of the myriads of digital resources available to make their processes leaner, cut costs and have a larger presence in the global market through the concept of distributed work environment. In this chapter, the author provides an overview of the distributed work environment, as well as the impact it has on the human condition in the workplace. Although this technology driven work concept can be beneficial, companies have to ensure that it is the right business model for them and their employees. The author looks at different factors that companies need to consider in deciding to adopt a distributed work environment model. Several companies, over 125 of them, have successfully implemented the concept and the author shares some examples on how they were able to achieve success and employee satisfaction.
Electrical Impedance Tomography
Authors: Meena Ramesh Kumar , Pahuja Sarwan Kumar , Queyam Abdullah Bin , Sengupta Amit
Published: July 2017

Presently, non-invasive techniques are in vogue and preferred standard clinical approach because of its limitless advantages in monitoring real time phenomenon occurring within our human body without much interference. Many techniques such as ultrasound, magnetocardiography, CT scan, MRI etc., are used for real time monitoring but are generally not recommended for continuous monitoring. The limitations created by above used techniques are overcome by a proposed technique called non-invasive bio-impedance technique such as Electrical Impedance Technique (EIT). EIT imaging technique is based on internal electrical conductivity distribution of the body. The reconstruction of cross sectional image of resistivity required sufficient data collection by finite element method using MATLAB software. The EIT technique offers some benefits over other imaging modalities. It is economical, non-invasive, user friendly and emits no radiation thus appears to be one of the best fit technology for mass health care to be used by the basic health worker at a community level.
Recent Advances in Feature Extraction and Description Algorithms
Authors: Salahat Ehab Najeh , Qasaimeh Murad
Published: July 2017

Computer vision is one of the most active research fields in technology today. Giving machines the ability to see and comprehend the world at the speed of sight creates endless applications and opportunities. Feature detection and description algorithms are considered as the retina for machine vision. However, most of these algorithms are typically computationally intensive, which prevents them from achieving real-time performance. As such, embedded vision accelerators (FPGA, ASIC, etc.) can be targeted due to their inherent parallelizability. This chapter provides a comprehensive study on some of the recent feature detection and description algorithms and their hardware solutions. Specifically, it begins with a synopsis on basic concepts followed by a comparative study, from which the maximally stable extremal regions (MSER) and the scale invariant feature transform (SIFT) algorithms are selected for further analysis due to their robust performance. The chapter then reports some of their recent algorithmic derivatives and highlights their recent hardware designs and architectures.
Case Study
Authors: Palahicky Sophia , Andrews-Brown Adrianna
Published: July 2017

Student orientation programs can enhance new student self-esteem, which is in turn a significant positive predictor of personal, social, and academic achievement (Hickman, Bartholomae, & McKenry, 2000). Furthermore, these programs can help students develop the basic technical skills they will need to be active learners. According to Dixson (2010), research into effective online instruction supports the argument that “online instruction can be as effective as traditional instruction, [and] to do so, online courses need cooperative/collaborative (active) learning, and strong instructor presence.” Likewise, online orientation programs for new students must provide opportunities for active engagement and strong facilitator presence to be effective. This chapter presents a case study that describes the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of the online orientation modules for new students at a Canadian postsecondary institution that offers primarily blended and online programs.
Integrating Technology in the Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education in Namibia
Authors: Carter Katherine , Maree Michelle , Shakwa Geoffrey
Published: July 2017

Few studies have examined the use and impact of technology in professional development programs in higher education. The purpose of this chapter is to explore the significance of technology as a tool for professional development in a postgraduate program in higher education in Namibia. Framed in the interpretive paradigm, the study adopted a qualitative approach. Data were collected through an open-ended qualitative questionnaire distributed to participants in the first four weeks of the postgraduate program and a second time six months afterwards. The findings reveal that the use of the flipped classroom approach and the use of the reflective e-portfolio enhance the quality of teaching and learning in the delivery of the postgraduate program as well as in the participants' teaching practice.
Technology and Digital Content
Authors: Short Maureen N.
Published: July 2017

This chapter offers a comprehensive review of the integration of digital content and learning technologies into the curriculum to enhance the educational experiences of culturally and linguistically diverse students and students with disabilities. It addresses the challenge of how teachers can best use digital technologies to create interactive and engaging learning experiences and provides helpful considerations for working collaboratively with other stakeholders to meet the needs of all students.
Big Data Deep Analytics for Geosocial Networks
Authors: Rathore Muhammad Mazhar Ullah , Ahmad Awais , Paul Anand
Published: July 2017

Geosocial network data provides the full information on current trends in human, their behaviors, their living style, the incidents and events, the disasters, current medical infection, and much more with respect to locations. Hence, the current geosocial media can work as a data asset for facilitating the national and the government itself by analyzing the geosocial data at real-time. However, there are millions of geosocial network users, who generates terabytes of heterogeneous data with a variety of information every day with high-speed, termed as Big Data. Analyzing such big amount of data and making real-time decisions is an inspiring task. Therefore, this book chapter discusses the exploration of geosocial networks. A system architecture is discussed and implemented in a real-time environment in order to process the abundant amount of various social network data to monitor the earth events, incidents, medical diseases, user trends and thoughts to make future real-time decisions as well as future planning.
Data Science and Computational Biology
Authors: Jyothi Singaraju , P Bhargavi
Published: July 2017

Data Science and Computational biology is an interdisciplinary program that brings together the domain specific knowledge of science and engineering with relevant areas of computing and bioinformatics. Data science has the potential to revolutionise healthcare, and respond to the increasing volume and complexity in biomedical and bioinformatics data. From genomics to clinical records, from imaging to mobile health and personalised medicine, the data volume in biomedical research presents urgent challenges for computer science. This chapter elevates the researchers in what way data science play important role in Computational Biology such as Bio-molecular Computation, Computational Photonics, Medical Imaging, Scientific Computing, Structural Biology, Bioinformatics and Bio-Computing etc. Big data analytics of biological data bases, high performance computing in large sequence of genome database and Scientific Visualization are also discussed in this chapter.
A Living ‘CCC'ase Study
Authors: Velliaris Donna M. , Pierce Janine M.
Published: July 2017

This chapter describes the Coglin Clothing Company (CCC), the focus of a multidisciplinary Live/Living Case Study (LCS) that was developed and introduced at the Eynesbury Institute of Business and Technology (EIBT) between 2010-2013. The LCS methodology endeavoured to address educational obstacles that had arisen from EIBT's international student population for whom it was first designed, but were typical problems of ‘business education' in general. This work begins by attending to issues such as: generalised problems of the education-experience business-related gap; the benefits of integrating more than one business discipline; the difficulties of handling various and conflicting sources of information; and the indispensability of action learning for deeper comprehension. A LCS was integrated across eight separate courses, including one titled ‘Management Principles'. The relevant literature is presented, followed by a discussion of the value of LCSs for acculturating (international) students to ‘real-life' business scenarios.
Pedagogical Strategies to Develop Business Graduate Competences
Authors: Olivares Silvia Lizett Olivares
Published: July 2017

This chapter provides examples of pedagogical strategies to business schools and business faculty to promote and develop specific competences in business education graduates. In so doing, the chapter recommends understanding the adult learning theory of Knowles, Holton, and Swanson (2011), which emphasizes the role of teachers and adult needs for learning. Teachers should facilitate the learning process and system and must engage students in a process of mutual inquiry. Even though there are different pedagogical strategies available for academic institutions to pursue in order to develop competences of different levels and types in students, it is concluded that in the learning process the learner must take center stage. Academic institutions and faculty should be creative in designing learning and teaching activities as well as diverse and implementable pedagogical strategies.
Showing Business Students How to Contribute to Organizational Cultures Grounded in Moral Character
Authors: Sauser Jr. William I. , Sims Ronald R.
Published: July 2017

The ethical crisis in business is very real. Countering this crisis by creating organizational cultures grounded in moral character is the challenge we face as business leaders if we are to regain the respect and confidence of the public. As educators of future business leaders, how can we prepare our students to understand, appreciate, and contribute to the establishment of cultures of character in the organizations which employ them—and which they may ultimately lead? In this chapter the authors distinguish among four corporate cultures with respect to ethics in business—cultures of defiance, compliance, neglect, and character—and present a blueprint for constructing an organizational culture grounded in moral character. With respect to showing business students how to contribute to such a culture, the authors then (a) describe how to establish an effective learning context for teaching about business ethics, (b) proffer a number of practical suggestions for student assignments and experiences that can empower students to understand, appreciate, and contribute to organizational cultures of character, and (c) explain how to enhance experiential learning by conducting an effective debriefing session. They conclude the chapter by providing two examples from their own experience illustrating how these ideas can be incorporated into programs designed to show business students how to contribute to organizational cultures grounded in moral character.
A Case Study of Online MBA Courses
Authors: Magjuka Richard J. , Liu Xiaojing
Published: July 2017

This chapter presents a case study that examines the perceptions of online students and instructors regarding their experiences in a reputable online MBA program. The findings indicate that both the instructors and students exhibited a high level of satisfaction with their online experiences in the program and positive attitude toward online learning in general. This study also explores the in-depth views of the online participants on several key components of online business education, including online learning facilitation and interaction, virtual teamwork, and Case-Based Learning (CBL). The issues and challenges identified in the study indicate a need for the instructors and students to receive more guidance and support, technologically and pedagogically, in order to create a more engaging and fruitful online learning environment.
Faculty Memoirs
Authors: Akella Devi
Published: July 2017

The global nature of a contemporary economy emphasizes the need for business graduates to possess a global perspective, cultural sensitivity and the knowledge of language and culture of more than one country. Consequently, faculty driven, short-term, university study abroad programs allow students the opportunity to step outside the classroom and learn about the world in a safe, controlled and faculty regulated environment. ‘Learn by going' (Keese & O'Brien, 2011) happens to be the most effective learning strategy. This chapter describes the experience of the author as an instructor and team member of a study abroad program to China. The author discusses the program, curriculum, pedagogies adopted, and learning outcomes of students. Critical reflections of her own involvement in this educational tour to China are also shared.
The Need for Global Standards in Biomedical Ethics and the Qualitative Methodology
Authors: Topor F. Sigmund
Published: July 2017

The unity of humanity has placed the role of culture in maintaining wellness and coping with illness under examination in biomedical research. The qualitative methodology, which is the method most widely used in healthcare research, been placed under the globalization microscope for its role in intercultural biomedical research. Neither does the etiology of diseases such as, for example, the common cold, the adenovirus and influenza respiratory viruses, among others, nor treatments of such ailments distinguish between the religious, geographic, and linguistic dissimilarities that violate the unity of humanity. The subjectivity that clods investigators of various cultural backgrounds and disciplinary stripes, deems it expedient that stakeholders be provided with the means to ontologically verify research findings. Researchers employing the qualitative methodology can mitigate subjectivity and enhance objectivity by being culturally cognizant. The unity of humanity is manifested in healthcare and transcends national borders, laws, ethics, and customs.
Modeling, Mathematical and Numerical Studies of a New Biventricular Model for Artificial Heart Powered by an Electromagnet Subjected to Sinusoidal and Square Voltages
Authors: Woafo Paul , Lejuste Abobda Theodore
Published: July 2017

This paper describes and investigates the dynamics of a new model of biventricular model for artificial heart which consists of two ferromagnetic masses fixed on springs and subjected to a common electromagnet powered by sinusoidal and square wave voltage sources. The effects of the following control parameters are considered: the external voltage source frequency and amplitude, the ratio between the stiffness coefficients, and the one between the masses. As results in both cases of external excitations, subharmonic oscillations, hysteresis, coexistence of limit cycle and point attractor, permanent bounding are found. The optimal voltage and the ratio between the stiffness coefficients are obtained. Bursting oscillations usable for pulsatile pumping are observed for low frequencies under square wave voltage.
Creativity Development Through Inquiry-Based Learning in Biomedical Sciences
Authors: Rodríguez Gemma , Baños Josep-Eladi , Carrió Mar
Published: July 2017

The increasing complexity of biomedical research has led to new models for collaborative research at large scale. Big science projects require multidisciplinary teams and skills, such as creativity, to foster innovation. Higher education can play an important role in fostering creativity with active-learning strategies, such as the Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) approach. In this chapter, we explain how the Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) in Barcelona, Spain, used IBL to bring medicine and human biology students together to find creative solutions to solve a challenging problem in biomedicine. In this interprofessional experience, students were taught creative techniques in a creativity workshop. The positive results, which were highlighted by external evaluators for their high quality, demonstrate the value of these collaborative projects in encouraging creativity. We propose that integrating the IBL pedagogical methodology with creative techniques and interprofessionalism is a valuable approach for fostering students' creativity and generative and research skills.
Signal-Adaptive Analog-to-Digital Converters for ULP Wearable and Implantable Medical Devices
Authors: Artan Nabi Sertac
Published: July 2017

The mission of this chapter is to introduce the reader the recent developments in the design of ultra-Low Power ADCs for Wearable and Implantable Medical Devices (WIMDs). The focus of this chapter will be on Signal-Adaptive Successive Approximation Register (SAR) ADC architectures and their derivatives, since the majority of the ULP medical devices rely on these architectures. The proposed chapter first provides an overview of the WIMDs, and electrophysiological signals. Then, basic SAR ADCs are introduced followed by the study of adaptive SAR ADCs. The chapter concludes with a brief summary of the other prevalent ADC architecture for WIMDs, namely the Level-Crossing ADCs.
Hybrid Integration Technology for Wearable Sensor Systems
Authors: Xie Li , Zheng Lirong , Yang Geng
Published: July 2017

Personalized and pervasive healthcare devices help seamlessly integrate healthcare and wellness into the daily life, independent of time and space. Silicon Integrated Circuit (IC) has been used in many advanced healthcare applications due to the compact size and ultra-low power consumption. Meanwhile, printed electronics (PE) is considered as a promising approach enabling cost-effective manufacturing of thin, flexible, and light-weight devices. A hybrid integration of IC and PE provides a new solution for the future wearable healthcare devices. In this chapter, firstly a customized bio-sensing IC is demonstrated, which can detect and process various bio-signals; secondly, the feasibility and performance of using inkjet printing technology as enabling technology has been examined for the fabrication of flexible bio-sensing devices. Finally, a wearable and flexible Bio-Patch is presented by leveraging hybrid integration of PE and bio-sensing IC. In-vivo test results show that the flexible Bio-Patch provides high quality ECG signal comparable with the one gained by bedside ECG machine.
Parameter Estimation of Nonlinear Biomedical Systems Using Extended Kalman Filter Algorithm
Authors: Krishnamurthy Kamalanand
Published: July 2017

Parameter estimation is a central issue in mathematical modelling of biomedical systems and for the development of patient specific models. The technique of estimating parameters helps in obtaining diagnostic information from computational models of biological systems. However, in most of the biomedical systems, the estimation of model parameters is a challenging task due to the nonlinearity of mathematical models. In this chapter, the method of estimation of nonlinear model parameters from measurements of state variables, using the extended Kalman filter, is extensively explained using an example of the three-dimensional model of the HIV/AIDS system.
Extending Lifetime of Biomedical Wireless Sensor Networks using Energy-Aware Routing and Relay Nodes
Authors: Abreu Carlos , Mendes Paulo M.
Published: July 2017

Biomedical wireless sensor networks are a key technology to enable the development of new healthcare services and/or applications, reducing costs and improving the citizen's quality of life. However, since they deal with health data, such networks should implement mechanisms to enforce high levels of quality of service. In most cases, the sensor nodes that form such networks are small and battery powered, and these extra quality of service mechanisms mean significant lifetime reduction due to the extra energy consumption. The network lifetime is thus a relevant feature to ensure the necessary quality of service requirements. In order to maximise the network lifetime, and its ability to offer the required quality of service, new strategies are needed to increase the energy efficiency, and balance in the network. The focus of this work goes to the effective use of the available energy in each node, combined with information about the reliability of the wireless links, as a metric to form reliable and energy-aware routes throughout the network. This paper present and discusses two different deployment strategies using energy-aware routing and relay nodes, assessed for different logical topologies. The authors' conclusion is that the use of energy-aware routing combined with strategic placed relay nodes my increase the network lifetime as high as 45%.
Searching Bioinformatics Information Strategies for Effective Use of Search Engine
Authors: Jumpala Viveka Vardhan
Published: July 2017

The Internet, which is an information super high way, has practically compressed the world into a cyber colony through various networks and other Internets. The development of the Internet and the emergence of the World Wide Web (WWW) as common vehicle for communication and instantaneous access to search engines and databases. Search Engine is designed to facilitate search for information on the WWW. Search Engines are essentially the tools that help in finding required information on the web quickly in an organized manner. Different search engines do the same job in different ways thus giving different results for the same query. Search Strategies are the new trend on the Web.
Nanotechnology-Based Studies in Systems Biology
Authors: Talwar Priti , Manickam Madhumathi , Chaudhari Namrata , Ravanan Palaniyandi
Published: July 2017

In recent years, nanotechnology-based studies have been employed in the area of systems biology. The current chapter aims to give a concise view of this emergent field of research, namely nano systems biology. A large number of such studies are based on understanding surface reactivities of a biological system. Another stream of studies is focused on imaging approaches using nano systems biology. In this chapter, the authors also illustrate state-of-the-art work using these approaches in nanomedicine.
Nanotechnology for the Management of Respiratory Disease
Authors: Subbarayan Praseetha
Published: July 2017

Respiratory infections are among the leading causes of medical presentation in the United States. The most common respiratory viruses that affect humans are influenza virus, parainfluenza, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Among these, RSV is the leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants, young children, elderly, and immune-compromised populations. Hence, there is an urgent need for the development of a safe yet potent alternative to conventional antiviral therapies. Nanotechnology is a multidisciplinary field that covers a vast and diverse array of devices derived from engineering, physics, chemistry, and biology. In nanotechnology, materials and devices that are designed to interact with the body at molecular level with a high degree of specificity are utilized. Hence, specific clinical applications can be designed to achieve maximal therapeutic efficacy with minimal side effects. In this chapter, detection and therapeutic application of nanotechnology in conjunction to RSV are discussed.
Nanomedicine as a Newly Emerging Approach Against Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB)
Authors: Saravanan Muthupandian , Duche Kebret , Asmelash Tsehaye , Gebreyesus Araya , Nanda Anima , Arokiyaraj Selvaraj
Published: July 2017

Emergence of MDR-TB is highly associated with morbidity and mortality and it needs high concerns about the possibility of a future TB epidemic as limited therapeutic options are available. The current treatment against TB needs daily administration for at least 6 months. That in turn leads to the development and spread of drug-resistant TB. Plenty of work has been done in nanomedicine that provides hope to encounter TB effectively. In the developing world the development of nanoparticle-based aerosol vaccines for tuberculosis has potential applications using on a large scale at relatively low cost, and particularly attractive for use. This book review examines the current TB diagnostic assays and treatment by nanotechnologies and highlight recent advances in Anti-TB Drug (ATD) delivery systems and anti-TB drug encapsulation. It also discusses the impact of the nanoparticles as an emerging treatment against MDR-TB and discusses the current knowledge and potential nanomedicine to improve MDR-TB therapy.
A Review on Noninvasive Beat-to-Beat Systemic and Pulmonary Blood Pressure Estimation Through Surrogate Cardiovascular Signals
Authors: Castro Ana , de Carvalho Paulo , Muehlsteff Jens , Mattos Sandra S. , Coimbra Miguel
Published: July 2017

Blood pressure monitoring is essential in hospital and home monitoring scenarios, with applications requiring on-line beat-to-beat blood pressure estimation, such as tele-monitoring of neurally mediated syncope. This chapter presents a comprehensive review of investigated approaches and reported performance, using different noninvasive correlates of the circulatory and cardiovascular system. Papers of interest were located in Scopus, IEEE Xplore and PubMed databases. The resulting pool of papers was then methodologically reviewed using 5 thematic taxonomies developed: 1) pulse arrival time and pulse transit time, 2) vascular transit time, 3) RS2 time, 4) heart sound characteristics, 5) PPG characteristics. The status of evidence in the literature demonstrates that cardiovascular signals such as the electrocardiogram, photoplethysmogram, and phonocardiogram contain important information for the estimation of blood pressure. Still, there are open issues regarding the validity, reliability and stability of these methods.
Intracellular Behavior of Nanoparticles Based on their Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Cruje Charmainne , Yohan Darren , Yang Celina , Chithrani Devika B.
Published: July 2017

This chapter addresses physicochemical properties that affect Nanoparticle (NP) intracellular behavior using Gold NPs (GNPs) as a model system. The main objective is to outline what is known about the effect of GNP size, shape, and surface properties on cellular uptake and intracellular pathway. The authors propose that the entry of GNPs into cells is related to its effectiveness in applications that favor intracellular localization of such GNPs. The authors also discuss how such properties are used to optimize GNP designs for medical applications. Finally, the authors discuss how GNPs may improve disease diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, how they may be incorporated or used as alternatives to current treatment options is defined.
Introduction to Bio-Inspired Hydrogel and Their Application
Authors: Melnyczuk John M. , Palchoudhury Soubantika
Published: July 2017

This chapter discusses the synthesis, characterization, and application of covalently and physically cross-linked polymers for biomedical application. This class of molecule is called hydrogels and is defined by a covalently bonded polymer matrix that can hold at least two times its mass in solvent. Hydrogels are general classes of polymeric systems that have further subgroups: semi-interpenetrating networks (SIPN), interpenetrating networks (IPN), block co-polymers, and grafted. The different methods to synthesize these hydrogels are discussed. Specific characterization techniques to evaluate the properties and functionalities of the hydrogels are also described in the chapter. Next, the practical and industrial applications of the hydrogels are detailed. Throughout this chapter we will highlight the different synthesis methods, characterization techniques, and current uses of hydrogels. The chapter will be a particularly useful overview and introduction for graduate students and researchers aiming to work in the field of hydrogels.
Nanotechnology and Its Use in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Sengupta Poulomi
Published: July 2017

Tissue Engineering is an emerging field with promises for a better future. It is a blend of biology and engineering. Millions of people lose limbs and body parts as the results of tragic accidents. Patients with diabetes, ischemia, suffer from non-functional pancreas, heart. Tissue engineering plays a major role in their lives. Instead of organs donated voluntarily (long waiting is a problem here), tissue engineering has the potential to come up with replacements. The combination of nanotechnology with engineering and biology has made some excellent improvements. In this chapter, the aim is to provide very basic knowledge about the art and science of blending tissue engineering with nanotechnology. At the same time, it highlights related fields like issues of biocompatibility, fate of nanoparticles, side effects, work with stem cells, etc.
Advanced Microstructural Characterizations of Some Biomaterials and Scaffolds for Regenerative Orthopaedics
Authors: Fiori Fabrizio , Girardin Emmanuelle , Komlev Vladimir S. , Manescu Adrian , Rustichelli Franco
Published: July 2017

In the last decades, very significant advances have been made for what concerns bone and joint substitution and in the repair and regeneration of bone defects. Though some strong requirements are still to be met, biomaterials for these purposes have known an impressive evolution, for what concerns their mechanical behaviour, their bioresorbability and finally their capability to generate new bone tissue in a stable way in long periods. The validation of such materials necessarily depends on a suitable characterization of their properties. In this article a brief review of some works in this field, carried out by the authors’ research group, is presented. It was shown in particular how advanced experimental methods, such as synchrotron radiation µCT and synchrotron radiation diffraction can offer very important information, can be not only complementary methods to more standard techniques (electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction), but can also offer the possibility to measure parameters that cannot be obtained otherwise.
Results of In Vivo Biological Tests Performed on a Mg-0.8Ca Alloy
Authors: Adam Razvan , Orban Horia , Plopeanu Elisa , Voinescu Dan , Barbilian Adrian
Published: July 2017

Biodegradable magnesium-based alloys shows good prospects in their use as biodegradable orthopedic materials. The aim of this study is to demonstrate good biocompatibility and lack of local and systemic toxicity of some experimental implants made by magnesium alloy type Mg-Ca 0,8 [%wt]. The study was conducted by implanting some experimental pins made by magnesium alloy type Mg-Ca 0,8 [%wt] in bone, proximal femur and intramedullary tibia, and in thigh muscle of the rabbits. Also, we follow the evolution of blood levels of Mg, Ca, blood counts, liver and kidney function. The evolution of the experience animals was followed for 6 weeks by radiologic imaging, and taking blood samples. After 6 weeks, we obtain after euthanasia of animal experience the harvest blood samples, and musculoskeletal tissue samples for histopathological examination. The histopathology results have not demonstrated peri-implant cytotoxicity, bone and muscle cells being viable. Fibrosis at tissue implant border was minimal showing a good integration. There were no pathological increases in blood levels of Mg and Ca, or changes in blood counts, as well as no change in renal or hepatic function. All this experimental results demonstrates that the magnesium alloy type Mg-Ca 0,8 [%wt] represent a promising solution in orthopedic surgery, proving to be safe, with a high degree of biocompatibility, and without toxic effects.
Imatinib and Nilotinib Off-Target Effects on Human NK Cells, Monocytes, and M2 Macrophages
Authors: Bellora Francesca , Dondero Alessandra , Corrias Maria Valeria , Casu Beatrice , Regis Stefano , Caliendo Fabio , Moretta Alessandro , Cazzola Mario , Elena Chiara , Vinti Luciana , Locatelli Franco , Bottino Cristina , Castriconi Roberta
Published: July 2017

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are used in the clinical management of hematological neoplasms. Moreover, in solid tumors such as stage 4 neuroblastomas (NB), imatinib showed benefits that might depend on both on-target and immunological off-target effects. We investigated the effects of imatinib and nilotinib on human NK cells, monocytes, and macrophages. High numbers of monocytes died upon exposure to TKI concentrations similar to those achieved in patients. Conversely, NK cells were highly resistant to the TKI cytotoxic effect, were properly activated by immunostimulatory cytokines, and degranulated in the presence of NB cells. In NB, neither drug reduced the expression of ligands for activating NK receptors or upregulated that of HLA class I, B7-H3, PD-L1, and PD-L2, molecules that might limit NK cell function. Interestingly, TKIs modulated the chemokine receptor repertoire of immune cells. Acting at the transcriptional level, they increased the surface expression of CXCR4, an effect observed also in NK cells and monocytes of patients receiving imatinib for chronic myeloid leukemia. Moreover, TKIs reduced the expression of CXCR3 (in NK cells) and CCR1 (in monocytes). Monocytes also decreased the expression of M-CSFR, and low numbers of cells underwent differentiation toward macrophages. M0 and M2 macrophages were highly resistant to TKIs and maintained their phenotypic and functional characteristics. Importantly, also in the presence of TKIs, the M2 immunosuppressive polarization was reverted by TLR engagement, and M1-oriented macrophages fully activated autologous NK cells. Our results contribute to better interpreting the off-target efficacy of TKIs in tumors and to envisaging strategies aimed at facilitating antitumor immune responses.