bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyzing Frequency Spectra of Dielectric Loss to Clarify Influence of L,α-alanine Doping on Phase Transition in Triglycine Sulfate
Authors: MAI Bich Dung
Published: August 2021

As reported in the literature, the doping of L,α-alanine (LA) led to increasing the phase transition temperature in triglycine sulfate (TGS) – a bio-ferroelectric material that has been widely applied in industry. The nature of this anomaly is commonly investigated by considerably complicated theoretical and experimental techniques. Unlike previous studies, the present work proposes a simple physical method of analyzing frequency spectra for dielectric loss to clarify the relationship between the movement of phase transition positions and the shift of relaxation frequencies observed in the spectra. The experimental results obtained for LA-doped TGS samples synthesized at different LA contents (0, 5, 10, 20, and 30 wt.%) were used for the analysis. It was indicated that the increase in phase transition temperature was accompanied by the decrease in relaxation frequencies due to the enhanced viscosity created by strong hydrogen bonds formed between amino acids of alanine and TGS structure.
Agroenergy from Residual Biomass: Energy Perspective
Authors: de Faria Ferreira Carraro Cintia , Celestino Martins André , Carolina da Silva Faria Ana , Cristina Almeida Loures Carla
Published: August 2021

The search for energy alternatives from renewable and clean sources has been gaining prominence at the international level, due to the increased demand for energy and the future depletion of fossil fuels, coupled with the concern with environmental issues. The generation of electricity distributed from the use of biomass can contribute to the conservation of the environment, the diversification of the energy matrix, the national economic development, the generation of jobs in the agro-industry and in the distribution of clean energy, as a sustainable alternative. This chapter aims to present information related to the use of different residual biomass as an energy alternative for Brazil, with a focus on electricity generation, based on a bibliographic survey, where it is highlighted as the best sources of biomass for electricity generation in the country, observing the profitability and viability for logistics and national economy.
The Security of Cryptosystems Based on Error-Correcting Codes
Authors: Drissi Ahmed
Published: August 2021

Quantum computers are distinguished by their enormous storage capacity and relatively high computing speed. Among the cryptosystems of the future, the best known and most studied which will resist when using this kind of computer are cryptosystems based on error-correcting codes. The use of problems inspired by the theory of error-correcting codes in the design of cryptographic systems adds an alternative to cryptosystems based on number theory, as well as solutions to their vulnerabilities. Their security is based on the problem of decoding a random code that is NP-complete. In this chapter, we will discuss the cryptographic properties of error-correcting codes, as well as the security of cryptosystems based on code theory.
Location Analysis and Application of GIS in Site Suitability Study for Biogas Plant
Authors: C. Chukwuma Emmanuel , F. Okey-Onyesolu Chinenye , C. Anizoba Daniel , I. Ubah Joseph
Published: August 2021

Proper livestock waste management and development of robust system for the treatment of the bio-waste has been emphasized and investigated by several searchers. Utilization of bio-waste for bio-energy production is advantageous for sustainable environment and socio-economic viewpoints. This study therefore is essential in providing critical strategy needed in situating bio-energy plants, consideration was made in the application of geospatial technology owing to it wide adoption and numerous advantages. Data for site analysis of biogas plant was obtained from GIS organizations and agency, the biomass generation and sites data was obtained from field survey. The biomass potential was based on paunch content generated in the various 43 abattoirs in the study area. The ArcGIS 10 software was used for all GIS operations and subsequent map production. The final suitability index map was obtained by overlaying the land use suitability map with the biomass spatial density layer. The suitable areas were divided into 4 classes: the Most Suitable, Highly Suitable, Moderate Suitable and Not Suitable. The study indicates that suitable sites are predominant in the East and central region of the study area, this study is essential in developing framework for siting biogas plant.
Hybrid Encryption Model Based on Advanced Encryption Standard and Elliptic Curve Pseudo Random
Authors: Hafsa Amal , Gafsi Mohamed , Malek Jihene , Machhout Mohsen
Published: August 2021

Securing multimedia applications becomes a major challenge with the violation of the information increasing currently. In this paper, a novel method for color image encryption is proposed. The procedure of encryption is performed using cooperation between Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) and the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) with CTR (Counter) mode. In the cryptographic system, we have proposed to take advantage of the Elliptic Curve Random Generator to generate a sequence of arbitrary numbers based on the curve. The random generation step is founded on the public key sharing and a changing point G. Then, the AES-CTR is performed to these sequences using arbitrary keys for image encryption. The use of the AES alongside greatly distributed random results an interesting encryption method. Security analysis is successfully performed and our experiments prove that the suggested technique provides the basis of cryptography with more simplicity and correctness.
Proton Therapy in Lower-Middle-Income Countries: From Facts and Reality to Desire, Challenges and Limitations
Authors: Ileana Pérez Álvarez Sandra , Javier Lozano Ruiz Francisco , Maldonado Magos Federico , Mota García Aida
Published: August 2021

Around 50% of cancer patients will require radiotherapy (RT) and 10–15% of these patients could be eligible for proton beam radiotherapy (PBT). Dosimetric advantages are undeniable, mainly in pediatric and reirradiation scenarios. Though, PBT facilities are scarce worldwide and the IAEA has reported 116 functional particle facilities, of which 98 are PBT, virtually absent in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). The Latin America and Caribbean region represent a unique opportunity for a PBT center, as there are currently no functional facilities and current RT needs are significant. The challenges can be summarized as high initial investment and maintenance, geographic coverage, required baseline technology and certification, over-optimistic workload, unclear rates and reimbursement, unmet business plan and revenue expectations, and lack of trained human resources. Investment costs for a PBT facility are estimated to be at around 140 million euros; therefore, this seems unsuitable for LMIC. Mexico’s geographical advantage, GDP, baseline technologies and high demand for RT makes it an ideal candidate. Nevertheless, a PBT center would account for a third of Mexico’s annual health expenditure for 2020. Enormous efforts must be made by both the private sector and governmental authorities to provide funding.
Convergence of Wireless and Optical Network in Future Communication Network
Authors: Mahapatra Rajarshi
Published: August 2021

The requirement of data increases many-fold in recent years to support the newest technologies in B5G and 6G. Wireless is the last mile solution as access with an optical network as the backbone in future communication systems. Over the years in every new generation, the distance between the base station and the user is decreasing and the optical node is coming closer to the user. There are several technologies like AR/VR, AI, holographic communication, holographic telepresence, etc. are the main candidates in B5G and 6G, which are required high-speed connection with low latency. To support these services, it is almost mandatory that transmit data across the network should be smooth and seamless to provide successful communication. Providing a successful and appropriate wireless link among the users simultaneously to achieve the requirements is becoming more complex, hence challenging. The optical backbone of all wireless access networks requires supporting these user’s requirements, needs to evolve continuously with wireless network evolution. This chapter will study the evolution of both networks to understand their cooperation, alignment, and support.
Chloroplast and Mitochondria
Authors: Abdulaziz Othman Alkubaisi Noorah , Mohammed Amin Aref Nagwa
Published: August 2021

Photosynthesis is a crucial process for plants on earth that changes light energy to chemical energy. Virus infection can cause dramatic photosynthesis changes: respiration and the translocation of carbohydrates and other substances around the host plant. Chlorosis in virus-infected leaves like Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus (BYDV- PAV).infection can result from damage to chloroplasts resulting from inhibition of photosynthetic activity. Our present study combines TEM and chlorophyll-level content in the presence of Gold nanoparticles (AuNPS) to explore the repair mechanism for the yellowing leaf symptom development caused by infection with BYDV- PAV by illustrating TEM micrographs; showing fragmentized grana, deformation of the myelin like bodies (MLB), many vesicles; osmiophilic lipid granules/plastoglobulus, starch body, and plasmolysis in the chloroplast, distribution of AuNPs & VLPs near and inside the chloroplast. Mitochondria, Double-membrane-bound organelle, Distorted mitochondrion, Amorphous inclusion bodies.
Cytoplasmic Matrix and Viroplasms Inclusions in the Presence of Gold Nanoparticles (AuNPs)
Authors: Abdulaziz Othman Alkubaisi Noorah , Mohammed Amin Aref Nagwa
Published: August 2021

Cellular ultrastructure micrographs revealed striking changes resulting from the Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus (BYDV-PAV) infection in Electron microscopy. In the cytoplasm, the Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) may bind with different cytoplasmic organelles and interfere with the treated site’s metabolic processes. The micrographs of the treated plant leave with AuNPs showing; Endosomes, amorphous bodies, slender filaments fibers, myelin bodies with a high concentration of virus particles, and Gold Nanoparticles distributed in a circulated shape in the cytoplasm with virus particles.
Compassion Versus Care in Healthcare Institutions: What’s the Difference?
Authors: P. Canning Una
Published: August 2021

In February 2013, the Francis Report outlined what it described as ‘systematic failings’ at Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust resulting in the death and suffering of many patients through neglect (in the UK context, hospitals can apply to gain foundation trust status. Foundation trust hospitals are part of the National Health Service (NHS) but are not directed by central government and have greater freedom to decide the way services are delivered. They adhere to core NHS principles of free medical treatment based on need and not the ability to pay.) A lack of compassion, particularly among nursing staff, was identified as one of the contributing factors to poor care. The NHS was founded on the core value of compassion that today is one of six values all NHS staff are expected to demonstrate. Frequently invoked as a means to ensuring good patient care, it is a concept that is contested by a number of writers who argue that such moral emotions are not only unnecessary but dangerous. The purpose of this work is to explore the difference between compassion and care (but not medical treatment) in the context of the NHS. The paper draws on the work of Anca Gheaus, who argues there is a distinction to be made between the two and that while it is possible to be compassionate towards everybody, the ability to care, is limited to fewer people and is a more intense and engaged activity. Regarded as the founding myth of the NHS, the work also draws on the parable of the Good Samaritan to make the distinction between the two concepts more visible, and argues the roles played by the Good Samaritan and the innkeeper, remain relevant to the workings of today’s healthcare system. It also reflects on the need for kindness within the system.
Graphene Functionalization towards Developing Superior Supercapacitors Performance
Authors: Elhamid M. Abd Elhamid Abd , Shawkey Heba , A.I. Khalil Ahmed , M. Azzouz Iftitan
Published: August 2021

Graphene is known as the miracle material of the 21st century for the wide band of participating applications and epic properties. Unlike the CVD monolayer graphene, Reduced graphene oxide (RGO) is a commercial form with mass production accessibility via numerous numbers of methods in preparation and reduction terms. Such RGO form showed exceptional combability in supercapacitors (SCs) where RGO is participated to promote flexibility, lifetime and performance. The chapter will illustrate 4 critical milestones of using graphene derivatives for achieving SC’s superior performance. The first is using oxidized graphene (GO) blind with polymer for super dielectric spacer. The other three types are dealing with electrolytic SCs based on RGO. Polyaniline (PANI) was grown on GO for exceptionally stable SCs of 100% retention. Silver decoration of RGO was used for all-solid-state printable device. The solid-state gel electrolyte was developed by adding GO to promote current rating. Finally, laser reduced graphene is presented as a one-step and versatile technique for micropatterning processing. The RGO reduction was demonstrated from a laser GO interaction perspective according to two selected key parameters; wavelength and pulse duration.
Rainfed Rice Farming Production Constrains and Prospects, the Kenyan Situation
Authors: Dianga Al-Imran , N. Musila Ruth , W. Joseph Kamau
Published: August 2021

Kenya experiences huge production-consumption deficit in relation to rice. This is due to changing eating habits that has adopted more rice in the menu and rapidly rising population. Rice production has remained low being unable to meet consumption. Rice ecosystems in Kenya include irrigated, rainfed lowland and rainfed upland. Irrigated ecosystem has over the years been given more emphasis despite rainfed rice farming having double the potential over irrigation system. Ecologically rice grows well in abundant water supply, warm to high temperatures and in Clay sandy to loamy soils with slightly acidic to neutral pH. Rice varieties grown in Kenya are mainly traditional, introduced improved, hybrids and landraces. Rainfed rice farming faces constraint’s key among them being; drought and erratic rainfall, weeds, pest and diseases, cheap imports, land ownership and poor infrastructure. Mitigating against drought and erratic rainfall, improving farm inputs and equipment, increasing germplasm production and distribution, credit support and marketing to farmers, improving farmers skills through technological transfers and infrastructural development are prospects that if adopted could increase rainfed rice productivity. More attention towards improvement of rainfed rice farming could greatly contribute to bridging the production-consumption deficit that is bridged through imports. It is with this, that this review updates our understanding of rain fed rice farming in Kenya in terms of ecological conditions, ecological systems, varieties, constraints and prospects.
For a Model of Revision, Assistance and Care of Identities
Authors: D’Angiolillo Federico
Published: August 2021

The global crisis scenario has highlighted the weaknesses of advanced personal assistance and care systems, based on the absolute primacy of technical knowledge. Almost all health organizations have been challenged by the new Coronavirus. The universal system because it is realistically unable to reach everyone efficiently and effectively. The private model, albeit moderated by intentions of global care, because it is onerous and, in fact, not very inclusive. This study, without any pretense of completeness, thanks to an examination of the most well-known documents published by the organizations for the promotion of human health, both EU and international, highlights the essential aspects and purposes of some of the main models of health care, also identifying the critical issues and the remedies prepared. The main purpose of the text is to highlight and reflect on possible alternative solutions to the current strategies to combat the pandemic, implemented by the states. The probable contributing causes that have contributed to the spread of the new coronavirus and its variants globally and that have their roots in now dated issues are then analyzed. The lesson that the Pandemic teaches us is that “no one is saved alone” and that the problems of each family, social, national etc., represent the problems of everyone. The document concludes in the sense that, only through a new approach to individual and collective health care, marked by greater solidarity and respect for individual, specific identities and frailties, starting from those “hidden” in society (adolescents, elderly, of handicaps, immigrants, etc.) it will be possible to promote welfare systems that are more attentive to the needs imposed by the challenges of globalization and therefore really more effective, economical and efficient, and therefore more humane.
Preservative Treatments on Wood and Their Effects on Metal Fasteners
Authors: Bossardi Dias Kelly , Marques Barreiros Ricardo
Published: August 2021

Wood as a building material has characteristics that make it attractive environmentally compared to other materials. It is an economic, historical and sustainable material. Many species of wood are naturally resistant to the action of the organisms that degrade them. However, species with this natural resistance are unable to meet the demand for wood and wood-based products, which have been growing year by year. The scarcity of species resistant to biological degradation forced man to use other less durable species, mainly of rapid growth, from reforestation, such as some species of Eucalyptus and Pinus. These species have moderate or no resistance to attack by biological agents and require preservative treatments. And to increase the life span of these fast-growing woods, protecting them from fungi, insects and other xylophagous organisms, several preservative agents are used, these compounds being highly toxic to these biodeteriorating organisms. It is known that the effectiveness of traditional wood preservation systems is due to the biocidal effect of the products used, however, they pollute the environment. Thus, there is an increasing need to develop effective preservative chemicals, non-toxic to humans and the environment.
Breeding Rice for Sustainable Bioenergy Production
Authors: Dash Manasi , Mishra Abinash , Kumar Mohanty Mahendra
Published: August 2021

Bioenergy including biofuels from lignocellulosic biomass has immense potential to meet growing energy demand of the ever-growing world population. Bioenergy will help to mitigate the environmental problems arising due to burning of fossil fuels. Rice is the staple food for more than half of the world population and is grown in more than 100 countries. Rice straw is rich in lignocellulose and several technologies are available for efficient extraction and conversion of cellulose to ethanol. Thus, the surplus rice straw can be utilised to produce biofuel, so as to replace conventional fossil fuel sources. But it is reported that the present-day rice varieties showing high lignocellulosic straw biomass have low grain yield potential. Hence, it is important to re orient the breeding strategies for developing dual purpose rice varieties that are bioenergy efficient without compromising grain yield.
Application of Water Quality Index for the Assessment of Water from Different Sources in Nigeria
Authors: Olubukola Ajoke Adelagun Ruth , Edet Etim Emmanuel , Emmanuel Godwin Oko
Published: August 2021

Water quality index (WQI) provides a single number that expresses the overall water quality, at a certain location and time, based on several water quality parameters. The objective of WQI is to turn complex water quality data into information that is understandable and usable by the public. A number of indices have been developed to summarize water quality data in an easily expressible and easily understood format. The WQI is basically a mathematical means of calculating a single value from multiple test results. This chapter discusses, in detail, the application of a water quality index for the assessment of water quality to different several water sources in Nigeria.
Biotechnological Strategies for a Resilient Potato Crop
Authors: Rakosy-Tican Elena , Molnar Imola
Published: August 2021

The aim of this chapter is to describe in a synthetic manner the most efficient biotechnological techniques which can be applied in potato breeding with emphasis on multiple resistance traits. To this end, most important results of all biotechnological techniques will be pointed out including new biotechnological tools of genome editing. The somatic hybridization will be the core of the presentation as the only non-GMO strategy with good results in transferring multiple resistances into potato gene pool. The chapter is presenting all data in a synthesized form and made comparisons between the existing techniques and their possible adoption in breeding in different parts of the world, depending on regulations and consumer choice. Moreover, the recently discovered value of potato as a healthy food and its possible applications in cancer treatment will be also discussed with new data on both potato and some of its wild relatives.
Adapting to Climatic Extremes through Climate Resilient Industrial Landscapes: Building Capacities in the Southern Indian States of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Kodandapani Narendran
Published: August 2021

There is now greater confidence and understanding of the consequences of anthropogenic caused climate change. One of the many impacts of climate change, has been the occurrence of extreme climatic events, recent studies indicate that the magnitude, frequency, and intensity of hydro-meteorological events such as heat waves, cyclones, droughts, wildfires, and floods are expected to increase several fold in the coming decades. These climatic extremes are likely to have social, economic, and environmental costs to nations across the globe. There is an urgent need to prepare various stakeholders to these disasters through capacity building and training measures. Here, we present an analysis of the capacity needs assessment of various stakeholders to climate change adaptation in industrial parks in two southern states of India. Adaptation to climate change in industrial areas is an understudied yet highly urgent requirement to build resilience among stakeholders in the Indian subcontinent. The capacity needs assessment was conducted in two stages, participatory rural appraisal (PRA) and focus group discussion (FGD) were conducted among various stakeholders to determine the current capacities for climate change adaptation (CCA) for both, stakeholders and functional groups. Our analysis indicates that in the states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, all stakeholder groups require low to high levels of retraining in infrastructure and engineering, planning, and financial aspects related to CCA. Our study broadly supports the need for capacity building and retraining of functionaries at local and state levels in various climate change adaptation measures; likewise industry managers need support to alleviate the impacts of climate change. Specific knowledge, skills, and abilities, with regard to land zoning, storm water management, developing building codes, green financing for CCA, early warning systems for climatic extremes, to name a few are required to enhance and build resilience to climate change in the industrial landscapes of the two states.
Factors of Cortical Plasticity in Brachial Plexus Injury
Authors: Reinsch Jennifer , Zdunczyk Anna , Alp Sargut Tarik , Denker Maren , Engelhardt Melina , Vajkoczy Peter , Picht Thomas , Dengler Nora
Published: August 2021

Cortical plasticity is the brain’s capability of decoding new information through growth and reorganization over our whole life spam. It is the basis for good outcomes after reinnervation and for rehabilitation of adult and obstetric brachial plexus injury. Knowledge about cortical reorganization is crucial to reconstructive surgeons and physiotherapists that aim to give their patients a reasonable prognosis. This chapter intends to present and summarize the current literature on how to detect and quantify cortical plasticity and how research on factors that influence cortical plasticity, mainly in relation to peripheral nerve and more precise brachial plexus injury progresses. Peculiarities of adult and obstetric brachial plexus injuries and their treatment are given. We present techniques that visualize and quantify cortical plasticity with focus on functional imaging like fMRI and nTMS as well as molecular aspects. Future research is needed to understand mechanisms of how molecular changes on a synaptic level of a neuron influence the macroscopic plasticity, to improve rehabilitative resources, to understand the exact prognostic value of nTMS in brachial plexus injury and to investigate the therapeutic capability of rTMS.
Production of Electrical Porcelain Insulators from Local Raw Materials: A Review
Authors: Ekpunobi Uchenna , Ihueze Christopher , Igbokwe Philomena , Ekpunobi Azubike , Obiora-Ilouno Happiness , Onu Chijioke , Agbo Sunday , Ezennaya Samuel , Onuigbo Uzochukwu , Tabugbo Ifenyinwa , Etukudoh Arit , Onu Caius , Amalu Emma
Published: August 2021

This paper reviewed the production of electric porcelain insulators utilizing from local raw materials from developing countries. The raw materials used were feldspar, quartz/silica and kaolin. The chemical composition, mineralogy, and thermal properties of the raw materials were characterized using AAS, XRD, and TGA respectively. Different weight percentage combinations of the individual raw materials were investigated by the authors. Most of the results showed relatively acceptable porcelain insulators properties such as low water absorption, porosity, high insulation resistance, dielectric strength and bulk density. The paper showed that electric porcelain insulators with good properties can be produced from available local raw materials in some developing countries using appropriate formulations. However, for production of improved porcelain insulators properties, suggestions were made on the areas for future research.
Integrated Culture of Oncorhynchus mykiss (Rainbow Trout) in Pre-Cordilleran Sector under a Recirculation System in Northern Chile
Authors: Pepe-Victoriano Renzo , Aravena-Ambrosetti Héctor , Pepe-Vargas Piera
Published: August 2021

An experience of integral farming of Oncorhynchus mykiss (rainbow trout) is carried out in Copaquilla, 90 kilometers inland from the city of Arica at 3,000 mamsl. The system used was the Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS), which had six ponds of 40 mt3 each, two decanters with a capacity of 3.5 mt3 and a biofilter of 3.5 mt3 with substrate for the fixation of ammonium and nitrite transforming bacteria. The three latter ponds were buried below the lowest level of the fattening ponds. Three pumps, two running and one 1.5 hp. backup, plus a 1 hp. blower, were the water and air equipment utilized in the system. Each pump had a flow capacity of 450 lt min−1. This water was sucked from the biofilter and transferred to the accumulator tank with a capacity of 10 mt3. From there it was distributed by gravity to the fattening ponds. In addition, the juvenile system had a particular SAR with a 0.5 hp. pump, a small 0.2 hp. blower and an 80 watt UV lamp. The grow-out SAR received 6,000 trout with an average weight of 15 grams. The group reached approximately 1,200 grams over a year. Thirty fish were selected for reproduction. Eggs were obtained, followed by fry, juveniles and adults. This initiative demonstrated the effectiveness of producing trout in the foothills of the interior city of Arica, Chile.
Oxytocin and Pregnancy
Authors: Yu Haiwen , Cheng Yuting , Lu Yiwen , Wu Wei , Tang Qiuqin
Published: August 2021

Oxytocin, an important neuropeptide, exerts a wide influence on the central nervous system and the peripheral tissues. In the central nervous system, the oxytocin gene expression is mainly shown to be present in neurons in the hypothalamic paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei. Oxytocin gene also transcribes in the peripheral tissues such as uterus, placenta, and amnion. Oxytocin receptors can be founded in many tissues in humans, like the uterine, ovary, testis, kidney, and so on. And just in the same tissue, due to the variation of physiology factors, the amount of oxytocin changes a lot. Oxytocin secretion is closely linked with pregnancy advancing. During labor, the contractions of uterine smooth muscles and oxytocin secretion are inseparable. Moreover, oxytocin is also responsible for stimulating milk ejection after parturition. Oxytocin is associated with many diseases. Poor regulation of oxytocin may cause postpartum depression and infantile autism. In terms of physiology, fatal heart failure and gestational hypertension are concerned with oxytocin level. In this chapter, we will discuss the oxytocin in pregnancy as well as its clinical applications.
Adsorption-Semiconductor Sensor Based on Nanosized SnO2 for Early Warning of Indoor Fires
Authors: Maksymovych Nelli , Oleksenko Ludmila , Fedorenko George
Published: August 2021

The paper is devoted for a solution of indoors fires prevention at early stage by determination of H2 (fire precursor gas) in air using a semiconductor sensor. A material based on Pt-containing nanosized tin dioxide with an average particle size of 10–11 nm obtained via a sol–gel method was created for a gas sensitive layer of the sensor. The developed sensor has high sensitivity to H2 micro concentration, a wide range of its detectable content in air, selectivity of H2 measuring in the presence of СО and СН4, good dynamic properties. The combination of these properties is very important for prevention of inflammations on their early stages before the open fires appearance. Economic benefit of the proposed sensor is due to a lower cost and higher reliability of the fire situation detection.
Pleasant Activities among Young Adults and Their Lack during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Peráčková Janka , Peráček Pavol
Published: August 2021

The pandemic COVID-19 burst in the Slovak Republic in March of the 2020 year. Subsequently, the schools were closed on the 10th of March and the everyday life in the country was for a long uncertain time questionable. The curfew slowed down the outdoor activities and has brought sudden changes also in the lives of young active people. This can be a time of uncertainty, and the stress. To do some pleasant activities can act as a stress reliever, but in the pandemic time not all pleasant activities can be realized. We were interested in lack of doing pleasant activities during the pandemic COVID-19 time. We analyzed 195 different activities in life of young mostly sporting people, whether a given activity is popular and pleasant for individuals, the occurrence and frequency of activity implementation before pandemic, during pandemic and feelings the lack of this activity during pandemic. We found out the most pleasant activity for men – non-organized, spontaneous sporting activity and for women – laughing. We recorded statistically significant decline t(14.856) = 48, p < .001 in frequency of doing pleasant activities in comparison before and during COVID-19. The most missing activity was inviting friends’ visits.
Stress and Resilience among Medical Students during Pandemic
Authors: Shivananda Manohar J. , Raman Rajesh , Annigeri Bindu
Published: August 2021

Medical students who are future physicians are faced with a lot of uncertainties during this pandemic. It includes both academic as well as clinical difficulties. Previous literature has revealed that the stress among medical students is higher when compared to their peers. The stress has even been more during the pandemic as their role during the pandemic is not clear. The purpose of medical training is to produce good doctors but not at the cost of the integrity of the individuals.’Moral inquiry’ is a term used to represent the ethical dilemma faced by doctors during life-death situations. Helplessness faced by students during emergencies leads to moral inqury which in turn leads to more distress. Most of the Medical universities have responded to the pandemic rapidly, by switching to online mode in teaching. This unpatrolled response also has to lead to more stress among medical students. Resilience, by definition, is the capacity to bounce back productively during a stressful situation. Resilience can be viewed as a personality trait or as a fluid process that nurtures according to the situation and the individuals’ reservoir. In this article, we have tried to emphasise the importance of Resilience.
What Brings about the Success of MOOCs in the Perspective of Education Service?
Authors: Kim Sung-Wan
Published: August 2021

MOOCs passed through ‘inflated expectation stage of Garner’s hype cycle in 2012 and has gone ‘through of disillusionment’ stage. For jumping to the slope of enlightenment, MOOCs should be considered as education service focusing on service dominant logic and co-creation of value. This chapter aims to suggest a new perspective, education service science, to cope with the crisis of MOOCs. It focuses mainly on this suggestion: the principles of education service science could be applied in order for learners with MOOCs to take optimal learning experience. Themes of this paper are service science in education and MOOCs, education service innovation in MOOCs, education service system design for educational innovation in MOOCs, and quality management of MOOCs in the perspective of education service.
Effect of Groundwater Flow and Thermal Conductivity on the Ground Source Heat Pump Performance at Bangkok and Hanoi: A Numerical Study
Authors: Widiatmojo Arif , Uchida Youhei , Takashima Isao
Published: August 2021

In recent decades, the fast-growing economies of Southeast Asian countries have increased the regional energy demand per capita. The statistic indicates Southeast Asian electricity consumption grows for almost 6% annually, with space cooling becoming the fastest-growing share of electricity use. The ground source heat pump technology could be one of the solutions to improve energy efficiency. However, currently, there are limited data on how a ground source heat pump could perform in such a climate. The thermal response test is widely used to evaluate the apparent thermal conductivity of the soil surrounding the ground heat exchanger. In common practice, the apparent thermal conductivity can be calculated from the test result using an analytical solution of the infinite line source method. The main limitation of this method is the negligence of the physical effect of convective heat transfer due to groundwater flow. While convection and dispersion of heat are two distinctive phenomena, failure to account for both effects separately could lead to an error, especially in high groundwater flow. This chapter discusses the numerical evaluation of thermal response test results in Bangkok, Thailand, and Hanoi, Vietnam. We applied a moving infinite line source analytical model to evaluate the value of thermal conductivity and groundwater flow velocity. While determining the ground thermal properties in a high accuracy is difficult, the moving infinite line source method fulfills the limitation of the infinite line source method. Further, we evaluated the five-year performance of the ground source heat pump system coupled with two vertical ground heat exchangers in Bangkok and Hanoi. The results suggest the importance of groundwater flow to enhance the thermal performance of the system.
Interactive Effect of Organic and Inorganic Amendments along with Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria on Ameliorating Salinity Stress in Maize
Authors: Rashid Ahmad Sajid , Ashraf Sana , Nawaz Humaira
Published: August 2021

Saline soil is one of the common environmental issues that negatively affects the soil quality of agricultural lands. It reduces the plant growth and productivity worldwide. Soil Salinity and sodicity affecting land about 1128 million hectares globally determined by recent researches. The most important salt-sensitive cereal crops in the world are Maize (Zea mays L.) For food security, its need of hour to securing attainable production of maize crop in the salt affected soils. To reduce negative impacts of saline soil on plant growth, sustainable approaches such as organic amendments like press mud and inorganic amendments like silicon can be applied. For increasing crop productivity, plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) which are salt-tolerant in saline agriculture can also be applied. In this book chapter interactive effect of different organic and inorganic amendments and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria to reduce salinity stress on maize has been discussed.
Focal Increased Radiopharmaceutical Uptake Differentiation Using Quantitative Indices
Authors: Sivasubramaniyan V. , Venkataramaniah K.
Published: August 2021

Focal increased radiopharmaceutical uptake in a lesion results in focal Hot Spots in the scans. This can occur in benign infective or inflammatory disorders and cancerous diseases as well. Comparison between malignant and benign lesions is important. The Hot spots can be classified into benign and malignant lesions by Spatial Scintimetry or Temporal Scintimetry. Spatial Scintimetry compares the uptake in the region of interest with the adjacent tissue or the unaffected contralateral site. The quantitative indices are lesion/non lesion ratio, lesion/background activity and lesion to Bone ratio etc. The Temporal Scintimetry relies on the changes in the counts or uptake in the Hotspot lesion with reference to the dual point time of acquisition. The Hotspot in the bone scan can be classified using the quantitative index of retention ratio by Dr. V. Siva and Israel. In PET studies the focal hot spots can be differentiated into benign and malignant lesion using the dual phase PETCT evaluation using the Rong’s Retention ratio and Dr. V. Siva’s modified RRI values.
Cellulose as a Natural Emulsifier: From Nanocelluloses to Macromolecules
Authors: Costa Carolina , Medronho Bruno , Lindman Björn , Edlund Håkan , Norgren Magnus
Published: August 2021

During the last decade, cellulose structural features have been revisited, with particular focus on its structural anisotropy (amphiphilicity) and interactions determining its recalcitrance to dissolution. Evidences for cellulose amphiphilicity are patent, for instance, in its capacity to adsorb at oil–water interfaces, thus being capable of stabilizing emulsions. This behavior is observable in all its forms, from cellulose nanoparticles to macromolecules. This chapter is divided into two main parts; first, the fundamentals of emulsion formation and stabilization will be introduced, particularly focusing on the role of natural emulsifiers. Secondly, the emerging role of cellulose as a natural emulsifier, where the ability of cellulose to form and stabilize emulsions is revisited, from cellulose nanoparticles (Pickering-like effect) to macromolecules (i.e., cellulose derivatives and native molecular cellulose).
Therapeutic Potential of Dietary Polyphenols
Authors: L. Stockert Amy , Hall Seth
Published: August 2021

The chapter summarizes available research on polyphenols and the potential for polyphenol based therapeutics. Polyphenols have the potential to be used in a multi-target fashion therapeutically. The majority of the polyphenol benefits appear to share positive effects across multiple disease states including inflammatory diseases, diseases of metabolic dysregulation and cancer. The reviewed literature includes human, animal and cell culture based studies. Selected mechanisms within each disease state are highlighted including interleukin inflammatory markers, NF-κB, acetyl-CoA concentration regulation of metabolism, and p-glycoprotein multidrug efflux pump associated with cancer treatment failures. Reviewed studies discuss polyphenols inhibiting transcription factors that control expression on inflammatory factors as well as activating other transcription factors that increase expression of enzymes protective of oxidative damage. Levels of metabolic regulatory enzymes are also affected positively by polyphenol addition through epigenetic modifications. Epigenetic modifications affecting cancer development and progression appear positively affected by polyphenol treatment. Additionally, oxidative damage protection of normal cells can be achieved by polyphenol treatment thus limiting chemotherapeutic damage. Upon review of the available literature, a strong case for the potential use of polyphenols in therapeutic situations stands out. Potential risks included are that the purity and specific concentrations required to achieve therapeutic benefits without potential side effects need to be examined prior to the adoption of therapeutics.
Recent Advancements in Apoptosis-Based Therapeutic Approaches for Cancer Targeting
Authors: Evren Okur Mehmet , I. Siafaka Panoraia , Tutar Merve , Tutar Yusuf
Published: August 2021

Apoptosis, known as programmed cell death, has been considered a potent target for the pharmacy industry. The scientific community has actively participated to research which evaluate active molecules for possible inhibition or induction of apoptosis. Nanocarriers especially for cancer targeting are widely found through literature; they mainly based on inorganic, lipid or polymer nanoparticles which incorporate anticancer drugs. Another important and innovative category of anticancer agents is that of microRNAs. In this chapter, a discussion about the most recent applications of apoptosis-based agents mainly focusing on cancer target is done.
Radiopharmaceuticals: On-Going Research for Better Diagnosis, Therapy, Environmental, and Pharmaceutical Applications
Authors: A. Badria Farid
Published: August 2021

Radiopharmaceutical material is a pharmaceutical product or drug that may exert spontaneous degradation of unstable nuclei with nuclear particles or photons emission. Radiopharmaceuticals may be used in research, diagnosis, therapy, and environmental purposes. Moreover, radiopharmaceuticals act as radioactive tracers among patients via gamma-ray emissions. Therefore, the uses of radiopharmaceuticals as diagnostic agents may be given to patients to examine any biochemical, molecular biology, physiological, or anatomical abnormalities. Therapeutic radiopharmaceutical may be administered internally for therapeutic purposes via selective effect on certain abnormal cells or organs. The best known example for therapeutic radiopharmaceuticala is iodide131 for thyroid ablation in among patients with hyperthyroid. A third class of radiopharmaceutical is drug labeling which mainly used in research by using small amount of radioactive substances not for diagnostic purposes, but to investigate the metabolism, bio-distribution, pharmakodynamic, and pharmakokinetic of certain drugs in a nonradioactive form. This chapter focuses mainly on basic fundamentals of radiopharmaceutical chemistry, preparation, environmental, pharmaceutical, diagnostic, therapeutic, and research applications.
Transposition of Great Arteries
Authors: Prasad Verma Rita
Published: August 2021

TGA is the commonest complex congenital cyanotic cardiac anomaly occurring during the first week of life. It is characterized by the unusual anomaly of ventriculoarterial discordance, with the aorta (A) originating from the right ventricle (RV) and the pulmonary artery (PA) from the left ventricle (LV). In the common Dextro form (DTGA), A is abnormally located to the right, anterior, and inferior of PA. The anatomic configuration results in the lethal hemodynamic pattern of 2 independent and parallel running circulatory circuits, which mandates creating a conduit to ensure the mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood for survival. In the rare Levo form (LTGA), the aorta is placed anterior and to the left of PA with ventricular inversion. TGA is well tolerated in the fetus and is challenging to diagnose by fetal echocardiography unless the outflow tracts are specifically visualized. Postnatally the typical findings of murmur and cyanosis vary according to the associated cardiac defects and the degree of intercirculatory mixing. The arterial switch operation (ASO), which involves establishing ventriculoarterial concordance, is the standard surgical repair of D-TGA and has replaced the atrial switch procedures due to its superior long-term outcomes. The Rastelli procedure is used for complex DTGA cases. DTGA has a 90% mortality rate in the first year of life if untreated, while over 95% survive for 5 to 25 years after surgery. Post-surgical course may be complicated and require surgical revisions. The long-term outcome is associated with normal or mild to moderate neurodevelopmental disabilities, depending upon the type, complexity, and course of the disease. Expert follow-up of the patients into adulthood is an integral part of the management of TGA for best outcomes.
Expedited Biodegradation of Organic Pollutants and Refractory Compounds Using Bio-Electrochemical Systems
Authors: Fernando Eustace , Kyazze Godfrey , Ahsan Ahmed , Fernando Pavithra
Published: August 2021

Biodegradation of xenobiotics is often considered to be a slow process. This is especially true if the xenobiotic in question is polymeric in nature, contains many chemical substituent groups or generally exhibits high level of toxicity to environmental microbiota. Due to this observed slow kinetics of degradation, removal of many xenobiotics from contaminated environments using conventional bioremediation technologies is a difficult problem. To alleviate this, alternative technologies showing improved kinetics of biodegradation are sought by the scientific community. One such promising approach is the usage of the novel technology of bio-electrochemical systems for improved degradation of xenobiotics. Due to the newness of this technology and affiliated methods, not much information about its usage for biodegradation of xenobiotics is available in literature. Therefore, this chapter aims to address that gap and bring about a comprehensive analysis on the usage of bio-electrochemical systems for rapid removal of xenobiotic contaminants from the environment.
Traditional Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Chandra Sahoo Krushna
Published: August 2021

The most prevalent musculoskeletal disorder is rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The main concern with RA is extreme fatigue, pain, and weakness. Patients having severe pain are compelled to take medications containing a variety of indigenous substances. These indigenous substances, on the other hand, exacerbated illnesses and delay in seeking appropriate healthcare. Treatment is delayed due to a number of reasons, including patients’ lack of access to trained healthcare professionals, delays in referral to a rheumatologist, and patients’ belief on traditional healing practices. The choice of inappropriate healthcare providers often causes a delay in referral to a rheumatologist. Self-medication and seeking treatment from traditional healers are often compelled the patient to engage in a variety of traditional practices. Cultural values have a significant influence on care-seeking behavior. Since healthcare promotion is dictated by community demands, the healthcare system should understand the contextual phenomena behind common practices for better health education. This chapter will address the beliefs and values that underpin traditional treatment, the sources of traditional learning pathways and ethical aspects of traditional practice.