bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Ceremonial Offerings of Cerro de la Virgen, Oaxaca
Authors: Brzezinski Jeffrey S. , Monson Vanessa , Joyce Arthur A. , Barber Sarah B.
Published: January 2023

The creation, operation, and reproduction of political authority in ancient Mesoamerica involved negotiating an array of contradictions between people of various social identities and levels of status. To varying degrees, rulers and subjects influence one another. This chapter evaluates the degree of regional integration in the incipient polity that emerged at the end of the Terminal Formative period in the lower R�o Verde Valley of Pacific coastal Oaxaca, Mexico, through a comparative analysis of ritual object caches. It focuses on the site of Cerro de la Virgen to address this question from a hinterland perspective, as political integration often appears differently outside of a polity’s center. Archaeological evidence indicates that leaders at the political center of R�o Viejo drew people away from their local communities to engage in collective labor projects and feasts focused on the Mound 1 acropolis. These leaders may have also controlled the distribution of some types of craft goods like ceramic figurines and possibly imported obsidian. Among the collective practices that were most vital to the construction of social identities throughout the valley was object caching in public buildings, which constitute inalienable possessions and are vital in the construction of community identity.
Introducing Preregistration of Research Design to Archaeology
Authors: Ross Shawn A. , Ballsun-Stanton Brian
Published: January 2023

Archaeology has an issue with "just-in-time" research, where insufficient attention is paid to articulating a research design before fieldwork begins. Data collection, management, and analysis approaches are under-planned and, often, evolved during fieldwork. While reducing the amount of preparation time for busy researchers, these tendencies reduce the reliability of research by exacerbating the effects of cognitive biases and perverse professional incentives. They cost time later through the accrual of technical debt. Worse, these practices hinder research transparency and scalability by undermining the quality, consistency, and compatibility of data. Archaeologists would benefit from embracing the "preregistration revolution" sweeping other disciplines. By publicly committing to research design and methodology ahead of time, researchers can produce more robust research, generate useful and reusable datasets, and reduce the time spent correcting problems with data. Preregistration can accommodate the diversity of archaeological research, including quantitative and qualitative approaches, hypothesis-testing and hypothesis-generating research paradigms, and place-specific and generalizing aims. It is appropriate regardless of the technical approach to data collection and analysis. More broadly, it encourages a more considered, thoughtful approach to research design. Preregistration templates for the social sciences can be adopted for use by archaeologists.
Narrating Transitions and Transformations in Cultural Heritage Digital Workflows Using a JSON-Encoded Dataset of Roman Amphitheaters
Authors: Heath Sebastian
Published: January 2023

Sebastian Heath narrates the process of making both data visualizations and maps from a dataset of Roman amphitheaters. It emphasizes transition and transformation as important concepts in digital workflows. The data used as illustration is encoded using Javascript Object Notation (JSON) and its GeoJSON variant. This enables processing using the Python programming language and the steps by which maps and tables are produced are described. It is also shown that GeoJSON data can be imported into the QGIS open-source Geographic Information System. The ease with which the various steps are accomplished are a practical demonstration of the benefits of open standards.
Technological Challenges to Practicing 3D Ethics in Archaeology
Authors: Richards-Rissetto Heather
Published: January 2023

Digital technologies require that we transform archaeological practice, and 3D technologies bring specific conundrums of data access and representation. Archaeologists can now collect an overwhelming number of x, y, z data points from the scale of objects to vast landscapes. But to what extent are these high resolution 3D data actually accessible, who can actually access them, and who should make decisions about their accessibility? Open data is essential to data sustainability and avoiding digital colonialism; however, there are technological and ethical challenges to sharing 3D archaeological data. While 3D raises many ethical questions related to practicing digital archaeology, the scope of this chapter is 3D ethics that primarily stem from technological affordances. It addresses three key questions: (1) How do we make archaeological 3D data accessible to wide and diverse (including the Global South) audiences; (2) What 3D data and versions of data (i.e., representations) can we ethically make accessible? Who gets to decide, and; (3) How can we represent uncertainty and interpretation in our 3D models/depictions? While technology offers some potential solutions to these challenges, it is essential that we focus on human-centered solutions that foster dialog among diverse communities.
Postcolonial and Indigenous Perspectives in Digital Archaeology
Authors: Gupta Neha , Nicholas Ramona , Blair Susan
Published: January 2023

This chapter examines digital archaeology in the Canadian context through postcolonial and Indigenous perspectives. The chapter demonstrates that diversity practices can serve as both gateways and gatekeeping for Indigenous and racialized scholars in Canadian archaeology. Through the case of archaeology in New Brunswick, it is shown how barriers prevent First Nations peoples from ownership of their heritage and how Indigenous data governance principles can re-center First Nations narratives, and open opportunities for Indigenous and racialized students to gain research experience and advanced training in digital method and practice.
Metadata for the Masses
Authors: Rabinowitz Adam
Published: January 2023

This chapter seeks to demystify metadata for archaeologists who are responsible for producing and managing digital documentation, but who are not themselves trained in library and information science. It provides a general overview of the role and importance of metadata in contextualizing digital documents and ensuring possibilities for future reuse. Following this overview, common metadata standards such as the Dublin Core are introduced, along with some simple, relatively easy strategies to incorporate metadata into data structures for digital archaeological documentation. After a discussion of Linked Data principles and approaches, the chapter concludes with a brief explanation of ontologies, semantic representations of data, and serialization. Archaeologists producing or using digital data are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these concepts to enhance the discipline’s capacity to produce discoverable, well-described, and reusable digital records.
Teaching Archaeological Mapping and Data Management with KoBoToolbox
Authors: Camp Stacey L. , Carter Benjamin P. , Painter Autumn M. , Rowe Sarah M. , Sampeck Kathryn
Published: January 2023

Mapping constitutes one of the most elemental forms of archaeological practice. Archaeological mapping has evolved from hefty, costly transits to even more expensive computerized total stations, hand-held GPS units, and proprietary mapping software, such as ESRI’s ArcGIS, to visualize and analyze data. Because of the cost and extensive training involved in using this equipment, students have often been left out of the mapping and data visualization process. KoBoToolbox offers a solution to this issue, providing an open source, completely paperless, collaborative workspace for creating and using data collection forms, storing and visualizing data, and sharing those results. This chapter will present the experiences of five archaeologists using KoBoToolbox in diverse settings; case studies include how KoBoToolbox can be used to compile, share, and analyze sixteenth and seventeenth century porcelain; map artifacts, architectural features, and archaeological activity on Michigan State University’s campus; map historic landscape modification in Pennsylvania; and survey and record tombstones to generate a gravemaker inventory of an abandoned public cemetery as a part of a service learning class.
Empowering Undergrads in 3D Digital Imaging
Authors: McKillop Heather
Published: January 2023

The chapter describes a university course taught for undergraduates to learn 3D digital imaging in the DIVA Lab. The NextEngine 3D scanner is used for a series of labs on different archaeological materials, including pottery, chert, bone, and wood. Students scan artifacts and learn about them in readings. The article describes how to use the NextEngine to scan, trim, fuse, and save files in various formats, including stl, wrl, obj that are used in other softwares and for 3D printing. Emphasis is on research quality 3D scans, but scans for teaching and display purposes with less precision are discussed. Learning how to prepare 3D scans for 3D printing is incorporated in each lesson. Students observe 3D printing in the DIVA lab and sometimes 3D printing is incorporated into the course, depending on 3D printing supplies. The open source software Meshlab is used for measuring, decimating, and manipulating 3D scans. Students post 3D scans to Sketchfab and share them on wix web sites that they each create.  Students post blog updates on their individual projects in which they 3D image ancient Maya ocarinas.  Applications of 3D imaging in the Maya area are discussed, including 3D printed replicas of artifacts in exhibits.
“It Was like Putting Diapers on Gnats”
Authors: Ramsey Sonya Y.
Published: January 2023

After graduating from Johnson C. Smith University in 1954, Maxwell celebrated the promise of the Brown decision as she joined the faculty of segregated Alexander Street Elementary School. Mentored by her principal Jayne Hemphill and other Black women administrators, Maxwell formed the volunteer Charlotte Teachers Corps, a free summer enrichment program for children, which became a model for Head Start programs. This chapter discusses Maxwell’s peers, Charlotte Mecklenburg School’s (CMS) Kathleen Crosby and Elizabeth Randolph, as their careers become transformed by the War on Poverty and desegregation. After gaining the attention of CMS officials as the first Black person to receive a master’s degree in educational administration from UNC Greensboro in 1966, Maxwell led Morgan Elementary School as it closed as a part of desegregation plans. After encountering racism from parents and adoration from her students as the first African American principal of predominantly white Albemarle Elementary School, Maxwell left CMS.
Charlotte’s Afro-American Cultural Center and the Rise of the New South, Post-Soul City
Authors: Ramsey Sonya Y.
Published: January 2023

This chapter scrutinizes the evolution of Harper and Maxwell’s vision for the Afro-American Cultural Center as it expanded to become the city’s most influential arts institution by reconfiguring its cultural mission to adapt to growth while simultaneously grappling with stark financial realities beginning in the 1980s. By the 2000s, Charlotte’s political and business leaders’ push to reaffirm the city’s forward-thinking, pro-business New South image coupled with the reverse migration of middle-class African Americans to the city shaped the direction of the Center. The story of its journey from its beginnings as a cultural festival to its current iteration as the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture reflects how Maxwell turned Harper’s original concept of an Afro-American Cultural Center into a reality. On another level, it represents a broader, more complicated, dual-story of community loss and symbolic achievement in the post-soul or post–civil rights era, urban South.
Bertha’s Girls and the Dimensions of a Political Sisterhood
Authors: Ramsey Sonya Y.
Published: January 2023

This chapter discusses Bertha M. Roddey’s experiences within a “political sisterhood” as a national officer of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Discussing the platforms of Delta’s national leaders and how Roddey implemented innovative policies to address internal and external issues facing the sorority and the nation illuminates Black sororities’ crucial roles as leadership cultivators and service providers. After becoming Delta’s 20th National President in 1992, Roddey announced Delta’s new partnership with the nonprofit organization Habitat for Humanity International. By 2000, Deltas constructed 500-plus houses in the U.S. and Ghana, donated over $500,000 to Habitat, and provided financial guidance to families. When campaigning and in office, Roddey formed powerful networks of devoted volunteers. Some of these Deltas became known as “Bertha’s Girls” (BGs). Through the bonds of sisterhood, Roddey and the BGs’ friendships remain constant decades after her presidency ended in 1996.
Safety, Science, and Operational Medicine
Authors: Phillips Mackowski Maura
Published: January 2023

The Challenger tragedy revealed some of the thinking that had gone into early emergency planning, including launch abort procedures, ejection seats, ocean ditching, and the Range Safety Officer’s (RSO) protocols for shuttle stack destruction. The orange shuttle Launch and Entry Suit (LES) and the escape pole system were developed for emergency bailout and rescue. Concurrently, space station designers addressed issues of onboard medical care. A variety of Crew Emergency Rescue Vehicle (CERV) concepts were evaluated, but ultimately NASA opted for the Russian Soyuz-TM, limited to three passengers, as its space lifeboat.
Science and Scientists
Authors: Phillips Mackowski Maura
Published: January 2023

This chapter discusses the relationship between NASA’s internal science community and “extramurals” (non-agency scientists), sparring over issues of peer review, access to space, and even the value of space life sciences research at all, given the tiny sample populations. In the late 1980s and early 1990s NASA’s Extended Duration Orbiter Medical Project (EDOMP) examined medical issues surrounding planned four-week shuttle missions via Detailed Supplementary Objectives (DSOs), studies of astronaut health, safety, and capability for work. By then European Spacelabs had been flown in the shuttle cargo bay, increasing the capability of medical, life sciences, and physical sciences research in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and culminating in the international Neurolab mission (STS-90) in 1998. Less successful were efforts to design, fund, and deploy a space station centrifuge large enough to accommodate monkeys or even humans.
Radiation and the Science of Risk Reduction
Authors: Phillips Mackowski Maura
Published: January 2023

Radiation as the ultimate limiting factor for human space exploration is discussed in this chapter, along with NASA’s success in maximizing its understanding through collaboration with other federal agencies. Radiation monitoring began during the Mercury program and continued with Gemini, Apollo, Skylab, and collaborative Apollo-Soyuz, Shuttle-Mir, and space station research. Plants, animals, humans, and materials were studied in the space environment; early USAF and NASA test monkey populations were monitored; and data was collected from the military, the Department of Energy (DOE), and foreign space agencies. In spite of a few lost opportunities, notably LifeSat in the late 1980s, Johnson Space Center (JSC) was able to initiate the Bioastronautics Roadmap a decade later, accumulating data and planning risk reduction strategies for future space exploration.
More People, Less Science, Less NASA?
Authors: Phillips Mackowski Maura
Published: January 2023

Collaboration with emerging space programs is one topic in this chapter, examples being Israel, Brazil, and Ukraine. Another is NASA’s 1990s efforts to ameliorate damage from the post–Cold War “peace dividend” by sharing the costs of space exploration with industry and academia and re-examining the possibility of space as a manufacturing locus. There was consideration of returning NASA’s status to something like its early-mid-1900s standing as the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), an agency for doing research needed for private industry to move the nation forward. Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status was a strong candidate as late as 2003 but various factors, including George W. Bush’s Vision for Space Exploration (VSE), derailed that plan. This chapter also covers the demise of the space centrifuge, considered to be a chief reason for doing life sciences research in orbit, and with it the accompanying ISS Centrifuge Accommodation Module (CAM).
The Vision for Space Exploration
Authors: Phillips Mackowski Maura
Published: January 2023

George W. Bush’s 2004 Vision for Space Exploration (VSE) announcement caught many by surprise, as this chapter relates. Topics include the presidential policy theories behind the VSE decision, early efforts by administrators Sean O’Keefe and Michael Griffin to plan for and implement it, the backlash within the science community (internal and external), and VSE’s curtailment of most life sciences research by the space agency. The ultimate effect of VSE on the emergent private space industry remains for future analysis and discussion.
Magnetocaloric Properties in Gd3Ni2 and Gd3CoNi Systems
Authors: Hsini Mohamed , Bouzidi Souhir
Published: January 2023

Intermetallic Gd3Ni2 and Gd3CoNi undergo second-order ferromagnetic paramagnetic phase transition at the Curie temperature, TC. They exhibit a large magnetocaloric effect (MCE). This MCE is manifested with a high entropic peak of 8 and 8.3 J.Kg−1 K−1, at the vicinity TC under 5 T magnetic applied field for Gd3Ni2 and Gd3CoNi, respectively. With their boosted MCE and large refrigerant capacity, Gd3Ni2 and Gd3CoNi compounds can be a candidate as a magnetocaloric refrigerator which is still one of the current research projects recommended by the low energy consumption and low environmental impact of these devices. Based on the Landau theory, Gibb’s free energy leads to determine temperature-dependent parameters which correspond to the electron condensation energy and magnetoelastic coupling and the magnetic entropy change which is a very crucial parameter to evaluate the MCE of a given magnetic system.
Smart Rainwater Harvesting System for Sustainable Agricultural Irrigation and Drainage System
Authors: Hudzari Haji Razali Mohd , Qudus Puteh Abdul , Haji Sulaiman Alawi , Hakim Mohamad Yatim Mohamad
Published: January 2023

Nowadays the world population increases, so the demand for clean water is rising. Rain is the faster resource that can recharge compared to ground water. Rainwater harvesting system (RWHS) is one of the traditional and easiest ways of rising fresh water supplies. This system already implements by many countries in the world as a viable decentralized water source. Malaysia can be classified as a country with high annual rainfall and high consumption of domestic water. Malaysia is well and strategically positioned to harvest rainwater for both potable and non-potable uses. This research describes the collaborative and development affordable technology for capturing and retaining runoff starting from rooftop gutter until the tank storage using as a valuable source of water and recharge the percolation well and increase ground water level. The developed system consists of soil sensor, integrated water pump, Arduino controller and water tank harvesting with dynamic mechanical flushing technique which improving filtration method. The results show that the system can be efficiently used for small-scale drip irrigation especially in urbanization farming as nowadays scenario of agriculture demand. Hopefully, this can be helpful as a valuable water source in future.
Neurofunctional Intervention Approaches
Authors: Nshimiyimana Joseph , Uwihoreye Potien , Claude Muhigirwa Jean , Niyonsega Theogene
Published: January 2023

Neurofunctional approaches play the paramount functions in management of neurological disorders to improve the functional capability after impairments and activity limitations. These interventional approaches aligned with the neuroplasticity theories and all rely on repetition matters to build up engrams for the change of the brain function and activity performance. Affolter approach guides cognitive perceptual interaction through tactile-kinesthetic inputs. Neuromuscular facilitation relays the periphery information to the central nervous system by joint and muscle stimulus by using different techniques such stretching, irradiation, traction and approximation. Neurodevelopmental therapy manages the abnormal movement and postures through hands on facilitation of normal movement and inhibiting abnormal patterns movement. Roods approaches focus on the primitive reflexes through sensory stimuli to the targeted sensory receptors to initiate the appropriate motor pattern development. Brunnstrom approaches build on the synergies to provoke the engagement of the affected limbs. Task-oriented approaches are based on motor learning and involve repeat training with task-oriented activities. It is effective for improvement of the functional performance. It is a training method for encouraging functional movement with an interesting task. And also it improved the dexterity when applied using mixed interventions in hemiplegic.
Climate Change-Related Natural Hazards and Risk Communication: Incorporating Traditional Indigenous Knowledge
Authors: Arshad K. Khalafzai Muhammad
Published: January 2023

This chapter explores the incorporation of traditional Indigenous knowledge into climate change-related natural hazard risk communication. Ample research has been conducted on climate change-related risk communication, and a significant body of literature exists on the role of traditional Indigenous knowledge in reducing climate change impacts. However, even in the face of mounting climate change-related risks, little effort has been made to incorporate traditional Indigenous knowledge into climate change-related natural hazard risk communication. Scientific knowledge and traditional Indigenous knowledge pertain to different knowledge systems; however, in terms of methods and content, many aspects exist where both systems converge or follow similar patterns. Rather than focusing on points of divergence, researchers, policymakers, and decision-makers, and risk-communication experts should focus on common features of both systems. Points of convergence may provide common ground for knowledge integration and co-production, enabling Indigenous and scientific understandings of climate change to be reconciled. This may help improve risk communication processes between disaster risk management practitioners, agencies, and Indigenous Peoples. However, it is also important to recognize that traditional Indigenous knowledge may not fit with every scientific model; therefore, a more in-depth research is needed to learn which forms of traditional Indigenous knowledge can help scientific researchers improve climate change-related natural hazard risk communication processes.
Numerical Methods: Euler and Runge-Kutta
Authors: Akinsola Victor
Published: January 2023

Most real life phenomena change with time, hence dynamic. Differential equations are used in mathematical modeling of such scenarios. Linear differential equations can be solved analytically but most real life applications are nonlinear. Numerical solutions of nonlinear differential equations are approximate solutions. Euler and Runge-Kutta method of order four are derived, explained and illustrated as useful numerical methods for solving single and systems of linear and nonlinear differential equations. Accuracy of a numerical method depends on the step size used and degree of nonlinearity of the equations. Stiffness is another challenge with numerical solutions of nonlinear differential equations. Although better accuracy can be obtained with smaller step size, this takes more computational effort and time. Algorithms and codes can be written using available computer programming software to overcome this challenge and to avoid computational error. The Runge-Kutta method is more applicable and accurate for diverse classes of differential equations.
Flavonoids Biosynthesis in Plants as a Defense Mechanism: Role and Function Concerning Pharmacodynamics and Pharmacokinetic Properties
Authors: Nabil-Adam Asmaa , E. Elnosary Mohamed , L. Ashour Mohamed , M. Abd El-Moneam Nehad , A. Shreadah Mohamed
Published: January 2023

Flavonoids are a major class of secondary metabolites that comprises more than 6000 compounds that have been identified. They are biosynthesized via the phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway that involves groups of enzymes such as isomerases, hydroxylases, and reductases that greatly affect the determination of the flavonoid skeleton. For example, transferase enzymes responsible for the modification of sugar result in changes in the physiological activity of the flavonoids and changes in their physical properties, such as solubility, reactivity, and interaction with cellular target molecules, which affect their pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetic properties. In addition, flavonoids have diverse biological activities such as antioxidants, anticancer, and antiviral in managing Alzheimer’s disease. However, most marine flavonoids are still incompletely discovered because marine flavonoid biosynthesis is produced and possesses unique substitutions that are not commonly found in terrestrial bioactive compounds. The current chapter will illustrate the importance of flavonoids’ role in metabolism and the main difference between marine and terrestrial flavonoids.
Combined Effects of Earthworms and Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) on the Phytoremediation Efficiency of Acacia mangium in Polluted Dumpsite Soil in Bonoua, Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Affi Jeanne Bongoua-Devisme , Sainte Adélaïde Ahya Edith Kouakou , Marie Paule Hien , Fatou Ndoye , Thierry Guety , Diégane Diouf
Published: January 2023

The impact of earthworms and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) on the remediation in polluted dumpsite soil was performed in a greenhouse pot culture with Acacia mangium inoculated or not (control: T0) with Pontoscolex corethrurus (T1) and with Bradyrhizobium (T2); and inoculated with Pontoscolex corethrurus and Bradyrhizobium (T3). Our results showed the presence of Bradyrhizobium and/or earthworms significantly increase (P < 0.05) in the height (2-fold), total dry biomass weight (7- to 15-fold) and metal uptake of the plant (2 to 10-fold), as compared with the non-inoculated plant. The presence of both inoculants (Bradyrhizobium and earthworm) enhanced soil Pb/Ni/Cr mobility and bioavailability in metal-contaminated soil, and increased 15-fold the total plant biomass and 10-fold metal accumulation in plant biomass, as compared with plant inoculated with earthworms or Bradyrhizobium. In addition, the presence of earthworms and/or Bradyrhizobium promoted the phytoimmobilization process of Ni, Cr and Pb preferentially in Acacia mangium roots than in shoot tissue. Our experiments highlight the importance of soil organisms on the phytoremediation efficiency. It appears that earthworms and/or Bradyrhizobium have the potential to enhance the phytoextraction efficiency of plants in metal-contaminated soil.
Working toward an Equity-Based Model for Volunteering and Service-Learning Projects in Higher Education
Authors: Bartholomay Daniel
Published: January 2023

Volunteering and service-learning projects (VSLPs) in higher education have gained much praise for the educational benefits they provide students. Less attention has focused on the challenges that may accompany these types of projects, particularly for students and faculty from underrepresented communities. Analyzing previous scholarship and current case studies from both a student and professor who have first-hand experience with VSLPs at a minority-serving institution, this chapter critically examines the educational and professional challenges VSLPs may present for both students and faculty in higher education. Evidence from the case studies suggest that VSLPs may demand unrealistic, unattainable, or problematic expectations from students and faculty. The case studies also suggest that students and faculty from marginalized communities and/or precarious positions are most negatively impacted. Developing a better understanding of how and why these challenges exist may help shift our practices toward an equity-based model of VSLPs in higher education.
An Update on Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Patients with Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Ahmed Al-Anazi Khalid , Alshaibani Ziyad , Kalogianidis Panagiotis
Published: January 2023

Over the past two decades, treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) has advanced dramatically. However, despite the introduction of several lines of novel therapeutics, autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) followed by maintenance therapy is the current standard of care in transplant eligible patients. Autologous HSCT can be performed with or without cryopreservation with equivalent short-term and long-term outcomes. In patients with MM, performance of autologous HSCT at outpatient setting is safe, feasible and has a number of advantages such as saving hospital beds and reducing treatment costs. Autologous HSCT can be safely performed in patients with MM having renal dysfunction or failure although particular attention should be made to the timing of administering medications and stem cells with respect to hemodialysis and dose reduction of specific medications according to creatinine clearance. Tandem autologous HSCT is of value in younger patients with adverse cytogenetics and extramedullary disease. Allogeneic HSCT is the only potentially curative therapeutic modality in MM, but it can only be performed in a small fraction of highly selected patients due to the relatively high treatment-related morbidity and mortality. Despite its valuable role in the treatment of MM, autologous HSCT has its own short-term as well as long-term complications.
Investigation of the Dynamics of the Seismic Regime in the Kamchatka Region Based on the Combination of Methods of Nonequilibrium Thermodynamics and the Axiomatic Method of Kolmogorov A.N.
Authors: Bogdanov Vadim , Pavlov Aleksey
Published: January 2023

In the presented chapter, the preparation of an earthquake on the example of the Kronotsky event that occurred on 1997-12-05 with a magnitude Mc = 7.7 is considered from the standpoint of nonequilibrium thermodynamics, in which the evolution of systems is due to self-organization processes. With this approach, the lithosphere is an open nonlinear system in which, due to internal dissipation and the coordinated interaction of its elements, a self-organization process can occur, leading the system to a critical state. In this case, the scales of the connection between different parts of the nonlinear structure change, that is, the scales of temporal and spatial correlation change. However, the methods of seismological monitoring of the stress-strain geoenvironment can be expanded if, for its study, the method of calculating the probability distribution of earthquakes for various random events is used, based on the axiomatic approach of Kolmogorov A.N., applied to the catalog of Kamchatka earthquakes. This makes it possible to follow the dynamics of correlated spatial and temporal changes in the probability distribution of random variables for weak earthquakes preceding a strong event using probabilistic methods.
Perspective Chapter: The Vitreous Body Visualization Technique in Diagnosis and the Classification of Idiopathic Macular Holes
Authors: Kislitsyna Natalia , Novikov Sergei
Published: January 2023

Application of the developed technology of vitreous body visualization in patients with macular holes (MH) of different sizes provides a principally new approach to clinical and diagnostic examination based on the development (depending on the stage of the pathological process) of basic classification anatomical and morphological signs (elongation of the vitreous cisterns in anteroposterior direction, violation of the integrity of the vitreous cistern wall and probability of staining composition exit beyond stained cavities, the degree of adhesion of the vitreous body on the internal limiting surface, etc). and characterized by advantages over traditional MH classifications, which in general (based on the outlined recommendations) makes it possible to significantly increase the clinical effectiveness of vitreoretinal surgical intervention in comparison with traditional classifications.
Higher Education: What does the Neurocognitive Evidence Say for Decision-Making and Complex Problem Solving?
Authors: Paz Martinez Oportus Ximena , W. Slater Alex
Published: January 2023

Higher education aims to train suitable professionals for a globalized context and develop transversal skills that allow them to function successfully in society with the current demands. Higher education includes the entry of young people from 18, with professional careers lasting at least 4 to 5 years, graduating at approximately 23 years of age. Cognitive neurosciences show that brain maturation of the prefrontal lobe (associated with executive functions, such as decision-making, planning, and cognitive flexibility) is completed around 25 years of age, continuing with the myelination of the various processing networks. Thereby, raises the question of how to approach the resolution of complex problems that demand a battery of technical, procedural, attitudinal, and ethical implications, among others, in a brain that is still developing, still dealing with the regulation of its characteristic emotional states. At this stage of the life cycle. The chapter will allow us to reflect on the scaling of these competencies based on neuroscience to suggest methodologies that will enable, depending on the entry profile of the students, to address specific methods.
Acute Complication during Hemodialysis
Authors: Singh Hamal Saurav , Khadka Pratima
Published: January 2023

Haemodialysis was first done successfully in humans, in 1945, and since then a lot of technological advancements have been made, there are still common acute complications that are encountered by physicians during their routine practice. The common complications include intradialytic hypotension, hypertension, arrhythmias, muscle cramps, sudden cardiac death, headache, etc., occurring in about 10–70% of patients undergoing haemodialysis. The mechanism of these complications is multifactorial and treatment of these complications is important to prevent mortality of the patients. Prevention is important including multiple disciplinary approaches. Here we discuss some of the common complications that occur in routine haemodialysis sessions.
Virtual Reality and Creativity: Lessons Learned from a Luminaire Design Project
Authors: Vo Hoa , Huesemann-Odom Peter
Published: January 2023

Current research in design education showed that experiencing virtual reality (VR) in learning led to higher creativity in students. However, some studies showed only a partial impact of VR on student creativity. Using video data analysis (VDA), the authors examined a half-an-hour excerpt of the recorded VR learning experience from a previous study on interior design students (n=13). The authors sought an explanation for the partial impacts of VR on students’ creativity via observing and interpreting one participant’s (a) interaction with VR and (b) the context of the virtual environment. VDA analysis results indicated that the implemented VR technology was intuitive for a fundamental learner yet required time and practice to gain advanced skills. Exploration time was also necessary for students to fully demonstrate the novel, resolution, and style aspects of creativity in their works. The implication is that the partial impact of VR on creativity found in the previous study might be due to the constraints of time and expertise of students (i.e., learn and explore), not VR technology per se. Educators and institutions wishing to include VR in their curricula should allow students ample time and access to VR applications and headsets to practice and sharpen their expertise.
Perspective Chapter: Crustaceans Taxonomy
Authors: Ahmed Taha Zardasht
Published: January 2023

Crustaceans are one of the organisms living on the earth that is important to know forms (e.g., larvae, morphs, adults, sexes) and units. In the current era, crustaceans (crab, shrimp, and lobster) emerge as one of the most demanding seafood than other types of seafood, and therefore, natural implication of worldwide fisheries is more dominated by crustaceans. Because a large number of crustaceans taxa have been identified and described, it is necessary to definite groups. Crustaceans are one of the world’s oldest and most diversified arthropods, as well as one of the most successful invertebrate groups, with an assessed 40,000 living species and more than 150,000 identified. The names “shrimp” and “prawn” do not relate to any specific taxonomic groups. Although “shrimp” is often used to refer to smaller species and “prawn” is more commonly used to refer to larger ones, there is no clear distinction between the two terms, and their usages are sometimes misunderstood or even reversed in various regions. This chapter aims to focus on the taxonomy of the crustacean and their contribution and importance in fisheries.
The Role of NK Cells in Recurrent Miscarriage (Abortion)
Authors: Homayouni Vida , Dehghan Fariba , Sherkat Roya
Published: January 2023

Recurrent miscarriage is an early pregnancy complication that affects about 1–3% of couples. There are specific characteristics of natural killer (NK) cells associated with miscarriage. In patients with recurrent miscarriage, a lack of inhibition of decidua natural killer cells can be observed, which leads to a more activated state and presentation of NK cell dim that is characterized by higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and cytotoxicity effect. In peripheral blood, a dysfunctional cytokine production by natural killer cells has been also reported, with an increase of interferon-γ levels and a decrease of interleukin-4. Accordingly, there are different population of NK cells such as dim and bright. The lack of balance between these populations can lead to miscarriage. Using flow cytometry, we can detect these populations and propose the treatment too.
CFD Applications in Ground Source Heat Pump System
Authors: Liu Yajiao , Dang Junhu , Dai Xiaosen , Luo Hao , Wu Yipeng , Zhao Tiecheng
Published: January 2023

In ground source heat pump (GSHP) system, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is commonly used to conduct simulation analysis of its operating characteristics. Particularly, ground heat exchanger (GHE) is the most core component of GSHP system, and the heat transfer characteristics of which with soil around will directly affect the efficiency of the entire system. Thus, CFD is always applied to predict the process of heat transfer around GHE and its influence on heat exchange process. In this chapter, a 3-D numerical model considering dynamic surface condition and initial soil temperature distribution is developed to investigate the thermal performance of helix ground heat exchanger (HGHE) on basis of CFD, and the main influencing factor (inlet water temperature) is studied with the established model. In addition, the experimental investigation is carried out to verify the accuracy of the model. The results are of great significance for exploring the application of CFD in GSHP system.
Frequency and Distribution of Pulpal Calcifications in Teeth Involved in Jaw Tumors
Authors: Teresa Hernandez-Solis María , Lara-Carrillo Edith , Hugo Toral-Rizo Víctor , Eduardo Bologna-Molina Ronell , Edgar Garduño-Mejía José , Guadalupe Ibáñez-Mancera Norma , Hegazy-Hassan Wael , Miriam Santillán-Reyes Ana
Published: January 2023

Pulp calcifications are idiopathic mineralized masses associated with irritation, age, trauma, and systemic or genetic diseases. The objective of this work was to examine frequency and distribution of pulp calcifications in teeth involved in jaw tumors, analyzing their relationship with age, sex, location, size, and diagnosis of the lesion in a sample of 21 teeth associated with tumors of the jaws. Imaging analysis included CT scans, periapical X-rays, and orthopantomography of the clinical record; histological analysis included pulp tissue fixed in 10% buffered formalin for 24 h, with hematoxylin and eosin staining, and examined under light microscope. A chi-square test was applied to associate calcifications with all variables. The tumor lesions were from patients aged 17–66 years. Calcifications were observed in 38.1% of cases on image and histologically in 76.2%; 56% were nodular and 68.8% were distributed in chamber and root canal. The male sex presented a higher frequency of pulp calcifications, estimating a statistically significant difference with respect to women (p = 0.004); there was no statistical significance with the other variables. In conclusion, the pulp tissue of teeth affected by maxillary tumors presents a percentage of pulp calcifications similar to the tissue where the periradicular tissue is intact.
Caesarean Section on Maternal Request
Authors: Sethi Neha , Kumar Rajaratnam Rajeev , Abdullah Nadiah
Published: January 2023

Caesarean section on maternal request (CSMR) is performed in the absence of a standard medical/obstetrical indication in order to avoid vaginal delivery. Globally, there has been an upsurge in CS delivery, which necessitates the urgency to address maternal and foetal health implications, and long-term repercussions. Conceptually, the chapter aims to explore the determinants of increased CSMR, highlight its potential risks and benefits, and discuss the ethical, medico-legal concerns. Findings indicate that medical, psychological, psychosocial, economical, social and cultural determinants might serve as some of the potential influencing factors owing to this serious healthcare concern. Although CSMR has been linked to certain beneficial outcomes (e.g. reduced urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, reduced rate of PTSD and depression, and lesser intrapartum complications), it still imposes serious maternal (e.g. post-partum haemorrhage and infection, visceral damage, placenta accrete, placental abruption and complications in future pregnancy) and foetal adverse outcomes (stillbirth, asphyxia, respiratory distress and other pulmonary infections). Hence, future approaches and interventions should be directed towards mitigating clinically unrequired CS procedures due to medical malpractices, lack of awareness in women and the underlying determinants of elective CS.
Natural Products as Therapeutic Option for Echinococcossis
Authors: Duah Boakye Yaw , Kwankyewaa Adjei Doreen , Oduro Yeboah Kofi , Obeng Mensah Daniel , Osafo Newman , Appiah Agana Theresah , Etsiapa Boamah Vivian , Agyare Christian
Published: January 2023

Until the 1980s surgery remained the only treatment option for cystic echinococcosis, a neglected tropical disease caused by infection with tapeworms of the genus Echinocococcus. Following the development of the benzmidazoles, there has been an increase in the use of chemotherapy over the years, especially as an adjunct to surgery or in the management of inoperable cysts. In spite of their usefulness, both surgery and chemotherapy are associated with significant limitations that warrants the search for or consideration of alternative treatment options such natural products. This chapter aims to discuss the scolicidal activity of different species of medicinal plants and their active metabolites in the treatment of echinococcosis. Excerpta Medica Database, Google Scholar, PubMed Central and Scopus were electronic databases used to retrieve the relevant literature. Medicinal plants used commonly and effectively against protoscoleces were Zataria multiflora, Nigella sativa, Berberis vulgaris, Zingiber officinale, and Allium sativum. Only Z. multiflora and A. sativum were shown to effective against Echinococcus granulosus protoscoleces in vivo. In addition, these natural products have not been associated with any significant adverse effect. In animal models Thus, natural products with demonstrated activity against E. granulosus may serve as alternative therapy in the management of echinococcosis.
Application of New Nanostructured Materials in Furcation Defects Therapy
Authors: Popović Bajić Marijana , Petrović Violeta , Opačić Galić Vanja , Paraš Smiljana , Jokanović Vukoman , Živković Slavoljub
Published: January 2023

The potential use of calcium phosphate cements in endodontic therapy is an active area of research. Hydroxyapatite is one of the most commonly used calcium phosphate materials in medicine and dentistry. Biocompatibility of hydroxyapatite is closely related to its chemical composition, similar to dental and bony tissues. Recent studies have focused on new and modified formulations of calcium-phosphate-based biomaterials with improved mechanical and maintained favorable biological properties. Recently, two non-commercial new nanomaterials based on calcium silicates and hydroxyapatite have been synthesized. One is a calcium silicate system of tricalcium and dicalcium silicates (CS), and the other one is a mixture of the calcium silicate system and hydroxyapatite (HA-CS). Both CS and HA-CS are nanostructural materials. Particle size affects cement hydration and consequently setting time and final quality of the cement. Fast setting is a clear clinical advantage while cement composition and internal nanostructure are expected to provide biological behavior in vital tissues. The problem with furcation perforation repair is still not agreed upon as no currently available materials meet all the requirements of an ideal repair material as defined in the literature. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the tissue reaction of two new repair materials for furcation perforations.
Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitory Peptides Derived from Goat Milk
Authors: Aslam Iqra , Hoor Amsha , Meraj Munazzah , Javed Sadia
Published: January 2023

Today hypertension has become a threat to the human lives. Different factors like sensitivity to sodium, obesity, alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle and smoking are responsible for the development of hypertension. Hypertension can be of major risk factor to cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Because of their small molecular mass, bioactive peptides have an important role in the digestion and absorption of proteins. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitory (ACE-I) peptides are one of the most widely used bioactive peptide in the field of medicine and food processing. Thus, these inhibitors are applied to regulate the blood pressure and prevent hypertension. Synthetic ACE inhibitors have various side effects and that is why scientists nowadays, are focusing on the natural alternate of ACE inhibitors with promising health properties. Two types of proteins found in milk are casein and whey proteins which are a good source of the bioactive peptides having a positive impact on body functions. ACE inhibitory peptides derived from the goat milk proteins are considered to be used in nutraceuticals and pharmaceutical products to reduce the hypertension ultimately reducing the risk of CVD and other related diseases.