bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water Safety, Security, and Sustainability
Authors: Vaseashta Ashok , Duca Gheorghe , Covaliova Olga , Romanciuc Lidia
Published: May 2022

Access to safe, secure, and sustainable drinking water resources is of paramount importance and an existential challenge worldwide, especially for the scientific community at a time of dynamic global urban and economic development. The issue is shared among both developed and developing nations since all nations require adequate levels of good quality water at a reasonable cost. The authors address a fundamental question of how to make drinking water systems safe, secure, and sustainable to meet current and future needs using emerging trends in contamination monitoring and remediation while keeping such resources secure. From a policy standpoint, the authors discuss effective water treatment and better distribution management systems for sustainable water supplies. Since the issue of water supply is highly diverse, the chapter presents myriad water supply challenges from a holistic viewpoint by reviewing data on global water stress and recommends methods for contamination remediation. The authors present a sustainable landscape of water using risk assessment modalities for water systems.
Water Chemistry and O-H-N Stable Isotopes Pattern for Tracing Contaminant Sources
Authors: Ionete Roxana Elena , Costinel Diana , Botoran Oana Romina
Published: May 2022

Tracing contaminant in surface and groundwater remains an issue of significance. Nitrate is one of the parameters to be monitored identifying the source and biogeochemical transformations of the nitrogen of interest for the management of water resource. Increasing the inorganic nitrogen concentrations in surface waters can be due to upstream discharge or ammonium sewage effluents, leaching from agricultural land, discharge of farm or industrial effluents, and/or seasonal effects. An effective tool to identify the origin of pollutants are the stable isotopes. Environmental isotopes (O-H-N-O) are great tracers for the physical processes affecting water and considered key parameters to assess the origin, path, and history of a water source. Stable water isotopes (δ18O and δ2H) are affected by meteorological processes that provide a specific fingerprint of their origin. The stable isotopes in nitrate (δ15N and δ18O) are fundamental to identifying the sources of nitrate contamination. Theoretical principles of stable isotopes and isotopic effects are discussed.
Commonly Used Methods to Calculate Water Quality Indices
Authors: Kiptum Clement
Published: May 2022

Water supplied to communities should be of acceptable level in terms of quality. Water quality can be assessed by the use of the water quality index (WQI). The use of indices is crucial in this era where water quality issues have raised health as well as legal concerns, both at local, national, and international levels. Water samples have to be collected, tested, and values for water quality index determined. It was initially proposed by Horton in 1965. There are several ways to calculate WQI, and this chapter gives formulae for different methods. Water quality indices differ from country to country. Some indices use three, six parameters, or even more than six parameters. Earlier methods to calculate the water quality indices did not capture microbial parameters, hence the reason for various methods. A recent method of calculating a WQI is based on fuzzy logic. Therefore, this chapter looks at the methods from all continents.
Advanced Oxidation Processes for Mineralization of Amoxicillin in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Gonta Maria Vasile , Mocanu Larisa , Porubin-Schimbator Veronica
Published: May 2022

This chapter presents the study of kinetics and mechanisms of transformation of EC (antibiotics) by advanced oxidation processes (AOPs): Fenton (H2O2/Fe(II)), UV photolysis (UV/H2O2/TiO2), and combined methods. The application of AOPs is based on the formation of reactive species such as hydroxyl radical, superoxide radical, hydroperoxyl radical (HO2•), and peroxyradical (ROO•) and takes place by electron transfer reaction, proton extraction by the production of organic radicals (R•) and electrophilic addition to the double bond or aromatic ring. The main objective of this research includes the optimization of the physico-chemical parameters that influence the oxidation process of amoxicillin (AMX). The effect of EC degradation/mineralization was determined according to the concentrations of hydrogen peroxide and catalyst (Fe(II), TiO2), UV intensity, environmental pH, and others. EC transformation rates and speed constants of HO• bimolecular reactions with different emerging contaminants using AOPs have been determined by homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis.
Sewage Water Treatment in Constructed Wetlands With Vetiver Grass
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Nair Dhanya , Venugopal Vinod Gopal , Sarasamma Jaya Divakaran
Published: May 2022

Untreated sewage is the main reason for soil and water pollution. Constructed wetland technology is an emerging and acceptable wastewater treatment method as it can effectively remove almost all types of pollutants without harming the environment. The aim of this study was to find the effectiveness of constructed wetland technology using the vetiver plants (vetiveria zizanioides l. Nash) in sewage treatment. The vetiver plants were planted in the constructed wetland. After 90 days, the test groups were treated with 250ml of sewage on alternate days and are allowed to grow for further 15 days. After the experiment, the treated sewage from the tank was collected and the changes in physico-chemical characteristics were examined. The results show that more than 65% of the total pollution load including heavy metals in the sewage was eliminated within 15 days of treatment in the constructed wetland. So, the vetiver-constructed wetland can be considered as an effective, low-cost, eco-friendly technology for sewage treatment.
Metagenomic Analysis of Freshwater Bacterial and Viral Biodiversity Using Shotgun Sequencing
Authors: Jayasingh Immanuel Suresh , Lakshimi V Iswareya
Published: May 2022

The metagenomic analysis is used to investigate complex microbial communities directly from the environment, without culturing or isolating organisms. It is used to identify taxonomic diversity and functional metagenomics. Shotgun metagenomic sequencing is an environmental sequencing approach that can examine thousands of organisms simultaneously and comprehensively for community function and biodiversity. It also detects the low abundance members of microbial communities. It is advantageous over 16S sequencing as it has the cross-domain coverage, greater taxonomy resolution, and functional profiling. Several studies have been carried out using the shotgun sequencing metagenomic analysis to explore the freshwater diversity especially bacterial and viral diversity in different regions. Freshwater metagenomic analysis shows the presence of unknown single-stranded DNA in arctic freshwater, an abundance of actinobacterial in Japan lakes, Virophage and Mimiviridae community in Canadian freshwater. Metagenomic analysis of Himalayan freshwater lake was conducted using non-chimeric sequence.
Bacterial Pathogens in Acute Gastroenteritis via Contaminated Drinking Water in Developing Countries
Authors: George Jessen , Sarvajayakesavalu Suriyanarayanan , Joshi Dev Raj , Dhanraj Vijayraja , Haridasan Hima , Raghav Aswathi K. , Mohammadzadeh Fatemeh
Published: May 2022

The public health of developing and undeveloped countries is in crisis due to an increased incidence of acute gastroenteritis via contaminated drinking water. Acute gastroenteritis is the third leading cause of mortality in the world. According to the World Health Organization, there were estimates of 4 billion cases of diarrhea and 2.2 million deaths annually in these countries due to consumption of unsafe drinking water. Generally, most acute gastroenteritis pathogens are transmitted via contaminated food, but waterborne transmission has been well documented for recreational and contaminated drinking water. Usually, gastroenteritis which is caused by poor sanitation and by contaminated water is part of those diseases in developing countries. Inadequate and unsafe drinking water supplies are continuing public health problems for most of the world's populations. The objective of this chapter is an attempt to determine the role of bacterial agents in acute gastroenteritis via drinking water in developing countries.
Remote Sensing Methodology to Study Wetlands Under Conditions of Climate Change
Authors: Romanciuc Inna , Yelistratova Lesia , Apostolov Alexandr , Chekhniy Victor
Published: May 2022

Wetlands, marshes, and swamps have great natural importance. They have a number of important environmental functions, supporting the water balance of the area and ensuring its high biodiversity. This is reflected in the wide range of ecosystem services provided within this area. At the same time, they are one of the most vulnerable ecosystems on the planet. The study of the carbon cycle, emissions, and absorption in the current climate change and conditions and anthropogenic pressures are important and urgent tasks in terms of refining the climate models and more accurate determination of climate impacts to the environment and society. This study proposes a methodological approach based on the classification methods of remote sensing data to identify different types of land cover. This chapter is focused on the CO2 adsorption by wetlands with the GOSAT satellite data usage. During the 2010-2020 years, the changes in CO2 concentration were estimated.
Surface Water Chemical Composition Monitoring in Several Villages
Authors: Kupatadze Ketevan
Published: May 2022

The chapter reviews the chemical composition monitoring results of water running from taps installed in yards and from the so-called drilled wells in villages of Gurjaani Region, Kakheti. The study was focused on the purity of water as it is used by the population in everyday life for drinking, as well as for cooking and other household purposes. In the process of examination, a small amount of iodine was observed in drilled waters, which probably could serve as an explanation for the fact that there are fewer cases of goiter problems in this region.
Water and Society in Georgia From Historical Perspectives
Authors: Kupatadze Ketevan , Malazonia Davit
Published: May 2022

This chapter describes the water resources of Georgia, characterizing them from a historical point of view and demonstrating their contemporary role in the country. The discussion further refers to the water monitoring system in Georgia, featuring both modern and old irrigation systems used in the country. Various anti-drought rituals practiced in old times are also listed in the chapter. The drinking water supply system of ancient times together with old and modern water treatment methods are sufficiently detailed. Parallels are drawn between what alchemists and Georgian King, Vakhtang VI, thought of drinking water purity. The chapter investigates whether the same issues are faced by modern science, as noted in the book by the Georgian king, and specifically, what method of water purification was preferred by him. Ancient Georgian baths and materials for water utensil production are also reviewed in the chapter.
Artificial Intelligence as Virtual Inspector for Construction Waste Dumping
Authors: Ng Gary , Cheuk Hugo , Singh Surendra , Sharma Baby
Published: May 2022

Construction is an activity that fulfills one of the basic needs of humans (i.e., shelter). However, this industry is also known for its excessive waste generation, which impacts the environment if not disposed of appropriately. Much of the waste consists of harmful material; when dumped in the landfills, this leads to gradual leaching of various undesirable ions into the groundwater, causing water quality deterioration. Such leachate-rich water when used by humans for various purposes causes diseases and deformities. Thus, to improve the ecological civilization and to promote the overall ESG proposition in the construction industry, artificial intelligence (AI) is a suitable solution. This chapter puts forward a case study of an AI-based ConTech startup, called viAct that developed and tested AI modules for monitoring waste generation and disposal at construction sites. The AI modules are trained and tested for their efficacy in various construction sites for illegal dumping detection and classification of different types of waste material before they are discharged in landfill areas.
Am I Crazy?
Authors: Ismail Ashmiza Mahamed , Mukhlis Mukhtar Omar
Published: May 2022

How can academics be responsive and orientated to positive changes towards resilience? This chapter provides insight and understanding into using autoethnography and a reflexive practice approach to learn from a difficult emotional experience in response to the unexpected death of a loved one. The chapter considers how reflexive practices can enable learning from difficult emotions in a higher education context. The presentation of narratives and the discussion of findings manifest two primary issues within reflexive practices associated with difficult emotions. First, it exposes the need to provide empirical evidence of the non-linear nature of reflexive practices. Second, it discloses the overlapping parameters within the four key reflexive practices. This chapter presents the potential areas to develop within these parameters that can guide future research to develop a more detailed and in-depth investigation into reflexive learning in relation to difficult emotional experiences.
To Home Literacy and Beyond
Authors: Ellis Alexa , Westerberg Lauren , King Yemimah A. , Eason Sarah H. , O'Rear Connor D. , Purpura David J.
Published: May 2022

The home is the first environment in which children's earliest learning and development takes place. Researchers have typically focused on the home literacy environment (HLE) to explain activities parents engage in that support children's literacy and language development. More recently, the home mathematics environment (HME) has gained more attention following the HLE. However, with more research emphasizing children's executive function (EF) skills for later academic success and encouraging science education for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) occupations, two more domain-specific home learning environments have emerged: the HEFE (Home EF Environment) and the HSE (Home Science Environment). The focus of this chapter is on delineating the interconnectedness and distinctness of these four domain-specific home learning environments, their relatedness to child outcomes, and identifying important future directions. The chapter ends with future directions and recommendations for the field to continue working to conceptualize the home learning environment.
The Cognitive Foundations of Early Childhood Numeracy
Authors: Mix Kelly S.
Published: May 2022

This chapter provides an overview of the challenges facing young children as they acquire early number concepts, and the power of domain general processes to support this learning. Four specific domain general cognitive processes are reviewed—statistical learning, structure mapping, language acquisition, and spatial cognition. For each one, there is evidence presented for the process itself in the literature on early childhood learning, and evidence presented for its contribution to number learning in the literature on number concept development. These processes alone might explain the origins of numeracy without appealing to inborn enumeration or quantitative representations. In either case, these processes clearly play a major role and may be useful leverage points for teachers, caregivers, and parents seeking to support children's learning.
High-Quality Early Math
Authors: Guss Shannon Stark , Clements Douglas H. , Sarama Julie H.
Published: May 2022

The importance and complexity of young children's mathematical thinking and learning warrants high-quality, research-based resources that help teachers and caregivers understand and support children's development from birth through the primary grades. The authors discuss young children's potential to think mathematically, the criticality of early math, and the need for a learning trajectories approach to early math. Describing existing risks to young children's experience of high-quality math, the chapter offers solutions to these risks in systematic research and development of technology-based resources for early math using learning and teaching with learning trajectories ([LT]2, at LearningTrajectories.org) as an example. Further, the authors advocate for a lens of equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the development of these technologies. Finally, a vision is described for increasing access to high-quality math through adaptive technologies that use the learning trajectories of early math for in-person and online activities.
Review on Artificial Intelligence and Robots in STEAM Education for Early Childhood Development
Authors: M. Mohana , K. Nandhini , P. Subashini
Published: May 2022

For the last two decades, the growth of educational robots has been increasing rapidly in several sectors. The chapter aims to provide a critical assessment of artificial intelligence's (AI) impact and opportunities in early childhood education. The study used a computational kit (robotic kit) for young children from age 3-8 years old to review existing literature in robotics education. This research investigated (1) the impact of artificial intelligent devices and children, (2) computational thinking for early childhood education, (3) programming for young children using tangible blocks, (4) educational robotic in early childhood classroom learning and special education humanoid robots, and (5) existing curriculum framework for primary school children. The research was carried out by sorting through the literature published in international journals and proceedings between 2003 and 2021 (June). This chapter proposes learning of robotics at a young age as a recommendation for future research. It improves various real-life skills and computational thinking, especially at a young age.
For Teachers to Care Well, They Must Be Well
Authors: Baum Angela C. , Schnake Kerrie L. , Moreland Angela
Published: May 2022

Teaching is often described as one of the most stressful occupations, contributing to the high rates of turnover and burnout afflicting the field. Early childhood teachers, especially those who teach outside of the public school system at the pre-kindergarten level, are at particular risk for a low sense of well-being. With a focus on teachers of children from birth to age 5, this chapter defines teacher well-being, identifies influences on teacher well-being, and discusses ways in which a teacher's well-being impacts the young children in their classroom. In addition, the authors describe a preschool teacher well-being initiative that is currently being implemented in South Carolina, the Be Well Care Well project. This chapter includes a detailed description of the Be Well Care Well model, shares initial program evaluation and impact data, and provides recommendations based on the implementation of the project thus far. Future directions for policy, practice, and research are discussed.
Research-Based Design and Use of Picture Books to Promote Children's Early Mathematical Learning
Authors: O'Rear Connor D. , Zippert Erica L. , Ehrman Patrick , Ellis Alexa , Purpura David J.
Published: May 2022

Picture book reading can provide rich opportunities for learning across early development. In this chapter, the authors provide a conceptual model for understanding the ways in which children and caregivers typically read mathematical picture books and identify the ways in which books can be designed to promote mathematical learning. The model highlights two main components that influence whether a book will promote children's early mathematical learning: (1) the design of books themselves and (2) how readers use the picture books. From this, it suggests that mathematical picture books can be improved through intentional design to incorporate features that promote mathematics and through the strategic use of well-designed picture books by caregivers. This model can be used to guide the design of books, select among existing books that are most likely to align with evidence of educational effectiveness, and motivate future research on using books to promote children's early mathematics learning.
The Relevance of Open Innovation for the Generic Pharmaceutical Industry in Developing Countries
Authors: Ala Mamun , Kaur Kuldeep , Wadhwa Dilraj
Published: May 2022

COVID-19 has contributed to global public health and economic crises. While most developed countries have successfully adopted mass vaccination programs, in developing countries, the vaccination rates have remained extremely low. The vaccine divide has further aggravated the economic impacts of the pandemic. This chapter argues that since COVID is a global problem, vaccines should be equally accessible to all countries. A wider availability of vaccines is not achievable unless poor countries develop their capability to produce vaccines locally. The production of generic vaccines requires low level of R&D capability, which is achievable by firms in poor countries if they receive technological support. The chapter discusses the relevance of the open innovation model that focuses on firm- and institution-level collaboration in improving the capability of firms in the developing world. The flexibilities in the TRIPS Agreement could also be used to address the existing vaccine divide.
Open Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Authors: Barbieri da Rosa Luciana Aparecida , Rodrigues Maria Carolina Martins , Damke Luana Inês , Godoy Tais Pentiado , Campos Waleska Yone Yamakawa Zavatti , Barbieri Larissa Cristina
Published: May 2022

The study aims to analyze the related publications on open innovation and entrepreneurship on the Web of Science in the period from 2011 to 2020. The study methodology was bibliometrics and researched on the themes open innovation and entrepreneurship analyzing the following aspects: main authors, analysis by year, main institutions, funding agencies, keywords, main newspapers, main countries and languages, areas of knowledge, and the relationship between authors with the most publications and the most cited. In addition, the authors sought to analyze the co-citation of the aspects listed above. The results of the study, through CiteSpace, encompass multiplicity and diversity as to the authors who most published on the topic, and they found the institution that stood out the most in terms of publications.
Regional Cluster Evolution of Aerospace Industry in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Lee Jun Gon , Park Min Jae
Published: May 2022

This study aims to present the evolution mechanism of the aerospace industry cluster in terms of new quadruple helix and open innovation. This study analyzed aerospace clusters located in Gyeongnam province in the Republic of Korea. It emphasizes the importance of active cooperation among industry, government, and university participating in innovation cluster. In addition, this study points out that the cooperation of clusters in other regions is also important. It also emphasizes that a common open innovation culture among participating actors strengthens these collaborative ecosystems. In the past, Korea has been dependent on imports for most of the civilian and military sectors from US as a latecomer in the aerospace industry. At present, however, it produces its own advanced trainer called the T-50. This has a unique development path as a latecomer, and the aerospace innovation cluster played a major role in this development.
Bodies, Illicit Mobilities, and Citizenry
Authors: Pusumane One , Fofie Ivy M.
Published: May 2022

This chapter's central argument is that there is a paradoxical relationship between the collective African identity and the discourses around citizenship and belonging. Drawing from documentary evidence and data from the media, and with a focus on Nigeria-UK state relations, the chapter demonstrates the paradoxes a collective African identity by interrogating how it is deployed, and the extent to which it inscribes meanings to the policing and politicisation of African bodies in discussions related to anti-trafficking work. By interrogating the existing knowledge infrastructures about the continent in conjunction with the imagery of Africa portrayed in Western media (Africa as a problem, corporeal, abject, and immutable), the chapter problematises notions of the citizenry deployed in justifications of policy interventions and state surveillance within and beyond the African continent.
Gender, Nomadism, and Education in Colonial and Socialist Somaliland
Authors: Somers Virginia E.
Published: May 2022

Educational initiatives in Somaliland focus predominantly on school-based learning. This is particularly true for initiatives centred around gender inequality in education. With this focus on gender relations in classroom spaces, little has been done in Somaliland to critically examine who is excluded from the school-based education system itself. To better understand a major impediment to Somaliland achieving gender equality in education today, it is necessary to investigate the extent to which current educational policies are rooted in past approaches and the extent to which these do or do not shape current challenges in achieving gender equality and reaching nomadic populations in the country. Close analysis of the colonial and socialist periods reveals surprising sources of inspiration for nomadic education in contemporary Somaliland and stresses the importance of engaging with and reading gender into educational archives.
The Role of National Archives in the Repatriation of Liberation Archives
Authors: Netshakhuma Nkholedzeni Sidney
Published: May 2022

The liberation archives repatriated from all over the world play a role in redefining African states, especially in South African society. The chapter aims to assess the role of the National Archives of South Africa (NARSSA) in the repatriation of liberation archives for the benefit of the future generation in South Africa. This is because the National Archives of South Africa did not recognize marginalized people. Most of the records of the disadvantaged are not preserved by the NARSSA. Library archives bridge the gap in the national documentary heritage and provide insight into the history and development of the country. During the transition to democracy in 1994 in South Africa, scholars debated the question of filling the gap of undocumented history and access to liberation archives.
The Future of African Agriculture
Authors: Marson Marta
Published: May 2022

Agriculture is critical for Africa's future, as most of the population still relies on rural work and struggles to keep pace with the booming population. The sustained growth of the African agricultural sector is necessary to ensure employment and livelihoods, especially for youth. While urban areas continue to attract young people from the countryside, the manufacturing industry and service sectors do not seem to offer productive employment. Agriculture and agri-based industrialisation are now attracting renewed policy interest, while African youth tend to show increasing disaffection from this sector due to myriad challenges that remain unsolved over years. For the agricultural sector to be inclusive, youth need to ensure land access. There is also a need to address challenges related to uncertain titles, demographic pressure and land grabbing, lack of capital due to the underdeveloped financial sector, and unskilled human capital. This chapter discussed these issues and inter-relationships based on an extensive literature review.
Desorption Isotherms and Thermodynamic Properties of Prickly Pear Seeds
Authors: Mtori Samia , Touil Amira , Zagrouba Fethi
Published: May 2022

Sorption isotherms of prickly pear seeds were determined by static gravimetric method at temperatures 45º, 60º, and 70ºC, over a relative moisture range of 5-95%. Sorption isotherms are important to define dehydration limits of the product, estimate moisture content alterations under environment conditions, and to acquire moisture content values for safe storage. Four mathematical models were applied to analyze the experimental data. Equilibrium moisture contents of prickly pear seeds decreased with temperature increment at a constant value of relative humidity. The GAB model showed the best fitting to the experimental data. Isosteric heat and differential entropy, determined by applying the Clausius-Clapeyron and Gibbs-Helmholtz equations respectively, decreased strongly as the moisture content increased and could be well adjusted by an empirical exponential relationship. Enthalpy-entropy compensation theory is valid for the sorption of prickly pear seeds, in which the water sorption mechanism in seeds can be considered to be enthalpy controlled.
Thermodynamics of Lithium and Separation Processes From Natural Brine
Authors: Essefi Elhoucine , Hajji soumaya , Khlissa Hassan
Published: May 2022

Lithium has worldwide been proven of great energetic interest. One of the origins of lithium is salt lakes brine. Tunisia is marked by the presence of many saline systems containing lithium ranging from 20 mg/L to 50 mg/L. Nonetheless, extracting lithium from natural brine is really finding a needle in a haystack. This difficulty is basically due to the nuclear, electronic, and thermodynamic features of lithium as well as the other ions present in the brine. In this chapter, the authors study the technical and thermodynamic methods leading to the enrichment of lithium in brine, which in turn leads to its easy extraction. For this reason, techniques of extraction and their limitation were reviewed. In addition, the evaporation process of the brine is thermodynamic methods leading to an enrichment of with lithium in the brine due to the extraction of water molecules. Also, the precipitation of minerals including ions representing a noise of the lithium, especially magnesium, paves the way for easy extraction within lithium window.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Medicinal Chemistry and Validation of Emerging Drug Targets
Authors: Quazi Sameer , Jangi Rohit , Gavas Shreelaxmi , Karpinski Tomasz M.
Published: May 2022

Artificial learning and machine learning are playing pivotal roles in the society, especially in the field of medicinal chemistry and drug discovery. Particularly its algorithms, neural networks, or other recurrent networks drive this area. In this review, the authors have taken into account the diverse use of AI in a number of pharmaceutical industries including discovery of drugs, repurposing, development of pharmaceutical drugs, and clinical trials. In addition, the efficiency of these artificial or machine learning programs in achieving the target drugs in short time period along with accurate dosage and cost of the drug have also been discussed. Numerous applications of AI in property prediction such as ADMET have been used for prediction of strength of this technology in QSAR. In case of de-novo synthesis, it results in generation of novel drug molecules with unique design making this a promising field for drug design. Moreover, its involvement in synthetic planning, ease of synthesis, and much more contribute to automated drug discovery in the near future.
Recent Advancement to Improve Intestinal Absorption of Macromolecular Drugs
Authors: Sahu Anil Kumar , Jain Vishal , Sahu Gyanil Kumar , Mishra Saraswati Prasad , Mishra Koushlesh , Tripathi Vaibhav , Dutta Shweta , Kashyap Pankaj
Published: May 2022

Therapy of many ailments such as malignancy hepatitis, AIDS, cardiovascular diseases are carried out by using biological macromolecular drugs such as fusion protein drugs and antibodies. The majority of macromolecular drugs are either proteins or peptides, which are made into solution or suspension and are administered through intravenous or subcutaneous route that are invasive and painful. A significant level of attention has been given to oral macromolecular drug delivery over the last 30 years. The major obstruction faced by macromolecular drugs administered through oral route is the physical and biochemical properties of the epithelial layer of the gastrointestinal tract, which acts as a boundary. The chapter focuses on the physiological hindrance faced by protein and peptide during their conveyance through the GIT. Moreover, discussion about techniques that are used for dodging the boundaries and for enhancing the penetration of drug through GIT have been done. These methodologies can be of great value for absorption of drugs like bio macromolecules through the intestines.
The Outcomes of Online Browsing in Consumers
Authors: Sandes Fabio Shimabukuro
Published: May 2022

This chapter discusses the outcomes of online browsing for consumers, a behavior that is on the rise as social media and online content increased exponentially in the last year. An extensive literature review about browsing and its outcomes to consumer behavior, together with empirical data collected from 10 in-depth interviews with Generation Z consumers from Portugal, showcased that online browsing mainly produces positive outcomes, such as discovering new brands and products, increasing product knowledge and therefore improving consumer confidence in their purchase decision. Gen Z consumers from Portugal behave as expected, except that because they live in a more conservative and traditional context, they still have some barriers to online shopping and experience more traditional retail in their daily lives. However, the positive outcomes for online browsing remain the same, as consumers from this generation are digital natives.
Digitalization and Small Retailers
Authors: Xara-Brasil Duarte , Vacas de Carvalho Leonor
Published: May 2022

In this chapter, the authors discuss the impact that the uses of digital marketing tools had on the performance of small food retailers in a municipal market in Portugal as a result of the challenges imposed by the pandemic situation of COVID-19. They developed a case study with the use of quantitative and qualitative methodologies seeking a more holistic view of the situation given the scarcity of research on this type of retail format. It is concluded that the experience and resilience of these retailers allowed them to quickly adapt to the requirements of the most basic digital marketing tools, namely social networks, and that these had some impact on their business in terms of sales and reputation. However, the small size of these retailers and their limited academic training has in many cases reduced the possibility of a systemic view of their marketing management and digital social networks.
Consumption of Artistic and Cultural Products in the Pandemic and the Influence of Technology
Authors: Andrade Josmar , Ramos Julia Aparecida Bibiano , Boava Giovanna Bezerra
Published: May 2022

This study investigates the changes that took place in the consumption patterns of art and artistic products during the coronavirus pandemic events in 2020 in Brazil. Data from a sample of 615 respondents indicated that, isolated in their homes, people reported an increase in the consumption of this type of offer, motivated by the need for entertainment and of “spending time.” The audiovisual content mediated by technology (music, movies, series and television programs) showed a significant growth in consumption, with a decrease of modalities normally associated with live experiences, such as dance, theatrical performances, and exhibitions of visual arts and photographs. Evidence was also found that certain sociodemographic profiles (women and younger people) present greater intensity level of consumption of artistic and cultural products, as well as that some dimensions of involvement with art and culture, “assuredness in choice” and ” relevance,” may also be associated with changes in the consumption behavior.
ICT Process Optimization Framework
Authors: Marchão Joaquina , Reis Leonilde , Martins Paula Ventura
Published: May 2022

Organizations need to provide more efficient services with increasingly optimized costs. Organizations may have an area of management control with transversal responsibilities in information and communication technology (ICT) support function, operating information technology front office, monitoring information technology (IT) service catalog and performance, reporting the service level agreements with stakeholders, controlling software and equipment installed or under maintenance, department budget control, management of suppliers' contracts, and financial analysis. The chapter presents a systematic literature review related to relationship management, optimization, and alignment of business processes between ICT areas and other organizational business units in a multidisciplinary way. The proposed framework pretends to contribute to creating strategies and indicators that allow optimized risk management, resources management, cost control, and streamlining of the defined processes in a continual improvement cycle.
An Update on the Effect of Natural Products on Oncogenic Transcription Factors in Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Vijayalekha Ashwathi , Sivaprakasam Prathibha , Anandasadagopan Suresh Kumar , Pandurangan Ashok Kumar Kumar , Alagumuthu Tamilselvi
Published: May 2022

Breast cancer is the most aggressive and rapidly growing cancer worldwide. It is classified into several subtypes among which triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive. Oncogene regulation leads to increased signal activity in the cells and contributes to the tumorigenic phenotype. Such signals generate a large number of proteins that provoke cell growth and inhibit cell death. Transcription factors, such as miR-27a, NF-κB, and FOXM1, are proteins that are conserved across species, abundantly found in the nucleus, bind to DNA, and enforce specific target genes. Oncogenic transcription factors arising from mutation accompanying aberrant gene expression transfer signals to the nucleus and interrupts transcription patterns and stimulation of oncogenic transcription factors consistent with cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, proliferation, and cell differentiation. This review gives a detailed framework about the treatment opportunities and highlights the importance of few transcription factors which may act as an important biomarker specifically for TNBC.
The Molecular Mechanisms Involved in Suppressing Triple Negative Breast Cancer Using Natural Agents
Authors: Sadik Saabira Banu Sahubar , Sivaprakasam Prathibha , Ramasami Nishanthi , Pandurangan Ashok Kumar
Published: May 2022

Breast cancer is an aggressive and primary cause of death among women globally. Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the sub types of breast cancer. TNBC lacks the expression of progesterone receptor (PR), estrogen receptor (ER), and human epidermal factor 2 (HER2), which leads to poor diagnosis resulting in lack of targeted therapies. On the other hand, natural products are also cost efficient, non-toxic, and abundantly available in nature. Natural products have also been reported to exert various pharmacological activities including cardioprotective, anti-diabetic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, etc. In this chapter, summarization of 12 well known natural products such as chebulinic acid, maslinic acid, apigenin, piperlongumine, Liquiritigenin, berberine, icariin, bufalin, which are targeted against TNBC through regulation of different pathways, and their mechanism are briefly explained. These natural products are already used to treat various diseases at the preclinical level and also have shown to have effective anti-tumor effect and can act as potent anti-TNBC agents.
Natural Products Application and Combination Therapy in Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Authors: Oteyola Ayodeji Ojo , Pilla Raffaele , Ola-Oladimeji Folasade Adesola , Fagbuaro Omotayo
Published: May 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the common types of cancer affecting humans. The treatment of CRC involves surgery and chemotherapy. CRC treatment using the conventional chemotherapeutics has a negative burden on the patient's health as a result of high toxicity, occurrence of side effects, and drug resistance. Therefore, there is a pressing need to discover more effective and efficient approaches and drugs for treating CRC. This chapter will shed more light on the conventional treatment of colorectal cancer. This chapter discusses the natural products that have anti-CRC effects such as the polyphenols (curcumin, resveratrol), irinotecan, Ganoderma lucidum, cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes. Furthermore, this chapter also highlights the importance of combination chemotherapy (conventional therapy and natural products) in treating CRC. It is believed that this area of research could be a promising approach to minimize side effects and drug resistance linked to the conventional chemotherapy.
Natural Products for Treating Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Vijendra Poornima D. , K. Pratap G. , Vadlapudi Kumar , S. Manjula
Published: May 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the causes of cancer-related mortalities across the globe. Epidemiological studies reveal the risk factors for CRC are genetic and environmental factors. The current therapeutic methods for CRC are associated with side effects and drug resistance. Gut microbiome therapy is one of the recent approaches for the prevention of CRC, reducing its progression and improving the effectiveness of colorectal cancer treatment by modulating the gut microbiome. The use of phytoconstituents is another approach. These compounds increase the gene expression of the cell cycle inhibitors and protein levels. This chapter summarizes the role of the gut microbiome and modification of the gut microbiota to improve treatment efficacy and minimize adverse effects of CRC therapies. Natural candidates like gut microbes and plant-derived bioactive components demonstrate their efficacy in appropriate in vivo models and clinical studies, which may lead to the discovery of alternative therapies for colorectal cancer.
Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Khaliq Rubeena , Iqbal Pervaiz , Wani Asif Yousuf
Published: May 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is intently connected to the malignancies and mortalities worldwide. Surgery and chemotherapy are the current clinical treatments for CRC. However, new and productive drugs are instantly required to overcome the occurrence of side effects and emergence of drug resistance. Natural products possess apoptogenic activities and anti-cancer effects against CRC as many natural compounds are well tolerated by the patients and do not cause toxic effects even at high doses. The current research aims to display anti-CRC effects of natural products based on chemical structure such as alkaloids, terpenoids, polysaccharides, polyphenols, and unsaturated fatty acids. Furthermore, drugs derived from natural products used clinically for the treatment of CRC are discussed. This work also highlights natural products with marine origin as a candidate drugs for CRC. This work highlights the importance of natural products as promising sources of lead anti-colorectal medicine.
Natural Products Possess Bioactive Agents Investigated for Their Anticancer Potential
Authors: Padma Kanchi Ravi , Don Kanchi Ravi
Published: May 2022

Cancer is regarded as a deadly disease and characterized as one of largest problems among the universal population. Worldwide, the population insists on a positive approach for curing the disease. However, plant resources are found to possess multiple phytochemicals which revealed promising effects for various cancer maladies. Over 60% of drugs are obtained from natural source only. Therapy for common cancer involves radiotherapy or chemotherapy, which alters the physical condition of the individual with diverse side effects and ultimately drains the immunity of the individual. Several available drugs are also unable to cure cancer completely, but recent advancement in utilization of plant-based compounds revealed greater beneficial efficacy in management of cancerous cell growth. Therefore, this chapter portrays the bioactive compounds obtained from natural sources and how these traditional medicines act as drug candidates against cancer.
A Natural Bioactive Compound Lycopene and Its Role on Cancer Related to Oxidative Stress
Authors: Özcan Araç Fatma Özsel , Aldemir Ozan , Ateş Duru Özlem
Published: May 2022

The inequality between the production of free radicals and reactive oxygen species, and their elimination by protective mechanisms, is defined as oxidative stress, which destroys cell components by creating various forms of free radicals that influence the pathogenesis of many diseases, such as cancer. Natural preservatives such as phytochemicals inhibit the production of free radicals and maintain oxidative balance. Lycopene, which has the high antioxidant ability, is one of these phytochemicals that reduces oxidative stress markers. Studies show a connection between a lycopene-rich diet in the prevention of oxidative stress harm. Lycopene is believed to minimize the risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, metabolic syndrome, and obesity. In this chapter, the biochemical, structural, chemical, biological, and oxidative stress mechanisms of lycopene are evaluated, and the role of lycopene on cancer is discussed.
Application of Bioinformatics Techniques to Screen and Characterize the Plant-Based Anti-Cancer Compounds
Authors: Satpathy Raghunath
Published: May 2022

Plant-based natural products provide a strong background to evaluate, predict the novel class of compounds having anti-cancer properties, as well as to explore their potential mechanism mechanisms of action. Due to the huge cost and time utilization in the traditional drug development approaches, bioinformatics plays a major role to facilitate drug discovery with less cost and time strategies. Several bioinformatics-based approaches being used recently to screen as well as to characterize the potential plant-based compounds can be used to treat several types of cancer. Some of the computational approaches are target identification, screening of compounds molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, QSAR analysis, pharmacophore modeling, and ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity). This chapter describes specific computational methods being used currently to screen and characterize different plant-based anti-cancer molecules by taking examples from the recent literature and discussing their advantages and limitations.
Framing eHealth Design on Critical Race Theory to Mitigate Barriers in Access to Healthcare
Authors: Gunther Christina B. , Cross-Denny Bronwyn , Reyes Melanie M. , Provenzano Danielle
Published: May 2022

The importance of telehealth applications reached a critical nature during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020. Telehealth allowed for a continuum of care while maintaining patient satisfaction during times of complete lockdown, quarantine, or isolation. The likelihood of a full audio-video telehealth visit for Black patients or those on Medicaid, however, was reduced. In fact, the Black patient population experienced two-times the rate of incomplete visits or telephone only visits compared to non-Hispanic White patients. Rivera et al. identified several significant barriers. Platform and portal designers must consider these barriers when creating telehealth tools. Framing the design on critical race theory can work towards equity in access to telehealth services.