bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute Compartment Syndrome of the Extremities and Paraspinal Muscles
Authors: Zacharia Balaji , Vignesh Selvaraj Raj
Published: August 2021

Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) occurs when the pressure within the closed osteo-fascial compartment raises above perfusion pressure leading to irreversible tissue ischemia and necrosis. Any closed compartment in the body can be affected by ACS. The leg is the commonest site. Trauma is the common cause of compartment syndrome in young patients. In older patients, medical causes can cause it. The diagnosis in a conscious patient can be made based on clinical features. Pain out of proportion to the injury is the most important symptom. Exacerbation of pain on stretching the affected muscles and paresthesia are the common signs. Compartment pressure measurement is important for the diagnosis in unconscious and uncooperative patients. The treatment of established ACS is emergency fasciotomy. Untreated compartment syndrome can lead to neurovascular injuries and muscle contractures. In this chapter, we will see the etiologies, clinical features, investigations, and management of acute compartment syndrome of the extremities and the paraspinal region.
Role of Red Palm Oil in Male Obesity and Infertility Prevention
Authors: A. Olabiyi Folorunso , G. Aboua Yapo , K. Monsees Thomas
Published: August 2021

The African continent has wide, varied, and rich plant diversity due to its climate. Some of these plants and their products have received tremendous attention due to their benefits in treating and managing ailments that plagues humanity. Red palm oil (RPO) is one of such natural products that have immense nutritional value with ability to ameliorate cardiac- and reproductive-related disorders. In this review article, the current knowledge on the potential of RPO as a phytomedicine to lessen or even prevent the negative impact of obesity on general health status and male fertility was evaluated. This study was done using electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Google Scholar and Web of Science. The study revealed some controversies and inconsistent reports on the effect of RPO on obesity and male fertility which needs further research using appropriate experimental models of obesity. Obesity is known to disrupt male fertility by causing changes to the hypothalamic- pituitary-gonadal axis, thus impairing steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis. As spermatozoa are extremely sensitive towards oxidative stress, a carefully balanced daily supplementation of normal diet with antioxidant-rich RPO might be useful to protect spermatozoa and preserving male fertility. RPO was shown to be useful to protect against or ameliorate toxin- or medical condition-induced male infertility. Also, RPO is packed with powerful antioxidants like carotenoids and vitamin E which helps to prevent cell damage. However, its role in obesity prevention remains a debate.
Molecular Approaches for Malaria Therapy
Authors: Mishra Mitali , Kumar Mishra Vikash , Kashaw Varsha , Kumar Kashaw Sushil
Published: August 2021

Malaria is a potentially fatal blood disease spread by mosquitos. Malaria is preventable, but it is more prevalent in developing countries where prevention is difficult and prophylaxis is often inaccessible. Malaria remains one of the world’s most serious public health problems, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). The development of resistance is a current problem that poses a danger to the environment. Resistance is a current problem that could jeopardise the use of well-established and cost-effective antimalarials. The World Health Organisation recommends an artemisinin-based drug combination (ACT) to avoid or postpone the development of resistance. This book’s chapter discusses current medicines as well as potential and rational possibilities for finding new drugs to treat malady. There were also WHO recommendations for both complicated and non-complicated malaria. Other preventive measures such as ITN and IPT are listed in the manuscript in addition to routine care. While a brief overview of the vaccine tested so far has been included, there is currently no vaccine available to treat malaria.
Effect of Roughness Elements on the Evolution of Thermal Stratification in a Cryogenic Propellant Tank
Authors: Vishnu S.B. , T. Kuzhiveli Biju
Published: August 2021

The cryogenic propulsion era started with the use of liquid rockets. These rocket engines use propellants in liquid form with reasonably high density, allowing reduced tank size with a high mass ratio. Cryogenic engines are designed for liquid fuels that have to be held in liquid form at cryogenic temperature and gas at normal temperatures. Since propellants are stored at their boiling temperature or subcooled condition, minimal heat infiltration itself causes thermal stratification and self-pressurization. Due to stratification, the state of propellant inside the tank varies, and it is essential to keep the propellant properties in a predefined state for restarting the cryogenic engine after the coast phase. The propellant’s condition at the inlet of the propellant feed system or turbo pump must fall within a narrow range. If the inlet temperature is above the cavitation value, cavitation will likely to happen to result in the probable destruction of the flight vehicle. The present work aims to find an effective method to reduce the stratification phenomenon in a cryogenic storage tank. From previous studies, it is observed that the shape of the inner wall surface of the storage tank plays an essential role in the development of the stratified layer. A CFD model is established to predict the rate of self-pressurization in a liquid hydrogen container. The Volume of Fluid (VOF) method is used to predict the liquid–vapor interface movement, and the Lee phase change model is adopted for evaporation and condensation calculations. A detailed study has been conducted on a cylindrical storage tank with an iso grid and rib structure. The development of the stratified layer in the presence of iso grid and ribs are entirely different. The buoyancy-driven free convection flow over iso grid structure result in velocity and temperature profile that differs significantly from a smooth wall case. The thermal boundary layer was always more significant for iso grid type obstruction, and these obstructions induces streamline deflection and recirculation zones, which enhances heat transfer to bulk liquid. A larger self-pressurization rate is observed for tanks with an iso grid structure. The presence of ribs results in the reduction of upward buoyancy flow near the tank surface, whereas streamline deflection and recirculation zones were also perceptible. As the number of ribs increases, it nullifies the effect of the formation of recirculation zones. Finally, a maximum reduction of 32.89% in the self-pressurization rate is achieved with the incorporation of the rib structure in the tank wall.
Thermoactivated Recycled Cement
Authors: Alexandre Bogas José , Carriço Ana , Real Sofia
Published: August 2021

The cement industry is currently faced by the great challenge of reducing its vast carbon footprint, due to being the second highest industrial greenhouse gases (GHG) emitter. This value is expected to further increase, since cement production is foreseen to rise by about 20% until 2050. Therefore, more eco-efficient alternatives to ordinary Portland cement have been developed towards a sustainable concrete industry. This chapter presents some of the latest advances in low-carbon thermoactivated recycled cements (RC) obtained from old waste concrete, leading to a significant reduction of the GHG emissions, while also encouraging the valorization reuse of waste materials and the reduction of natural resource depletion. The manufacture and general performance of RC, including the main production issues, rehydration behavior and phase and microstructure development, as well as its incorporation in cement-based materials are discussed. Some of the most recent research, main challenges and future perspective of RC are addressed.
Human Papillomavirus and Cervical Cancer
Authors: Sağnıç Saliha
Published: August 2021

Cervical cancer is one of the leading female cancers especially in developing countries and a common cause of death among middle-aged women. The main role of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in both cervical cancer and pre-invasive lesions of the cervix has been proven in studies. Reducing the incidence of the disease can be achieved by the regular cervical screening of women and vaccination of appropriate age groups. The disease can be better controlled by better elucidating the details of HPV carcinogenesis, the interaction between the host and the virus, and determinants of the systemic and cellular immune response to the viral infection. HPV causes oropharyngeal and anogenital diseases in both men and women and is usually sexually transmitted. Most infections are transient and could be cleared spontaneously by the host immune system. After the first encounter with HPV infection, it takes years to progress to cervical cancer, which gives clinicians a long period to follow these patients in terms of precancerous lesions and to investigate the pathogenesis of the disease. HPV plays a major role in the development of cervical cancer, but histological types have different relationships with HPV genotypes. HPV can remain latent for a long time and the most important thing determining the persistence is the type of HPV. HPV vaccination provides a direct benefit to both men and women by providing safe protection against cancers that may result from persistent HPV infection.
Reactive Transport and Its Implications on Heavy Oil HTGC Analysis – A Coupled Thermo-Hydro-Chemical (THC) Multiphysics Modelling Approach
Authors: Margarita Hernandez-Baez Diana , Reid Alastair , Chapoy Antonin , Tohidi Bahman , Bounaceur Roda , Montel François
Published: August 2021

This chapter provides an insight into the reactive transport in a capillary column which heavy-oil hydrocarbons undergo when analysed by high temperature gas chromatography (HTGC), and their implications on characterisation outcomes, namely thermal cracking of the injected sample; and incomplete or non-elution of heavy components from the column, by using a coupled Thermo-Hydro-Chemical (THC) multiphysics modelling approach. For this purpose, a computational coupled THC, multicomponent, multi-physics model is developed, accounting for: multiphase equilibrium using an in-house, extended thermodynamics distribution factors dataset, up to nC98H198; transport and fluid flow in COMSOL and MATLAB; and chemical reactions using kinetics and mechanisms of the thermal cracking, in CHEMKIN. The determination of the former extended dataset is presented using two complementary HTGC modes: i) High-Efficiency mode, with a long column operated at low flow rate; and ii) true SimDist mode, with a short column operated at high flow rate and elution up to nC100H202.
Nano-Cellulosic Fibers from Agricultural Wastes
Authors: Khairuddin Nozieana , Bazlul Mobin Siddique Md. , Sobri Merais Mohammad , Husna Che Hamzah Nurul , Nurshahirah Awang Wahab Dayangku
Published: August 2021

In recent years, the potential of agricultural wastes has received increasing attention from academia and industry. The aim has been to identify strategies for the conversion of low-value wastes into new materials and other value-added products. Cellulose is a naturally abundant polymer that is readily available in various agricultural wastes. It is a linear polymer consisting of β-D-glucopyranose units (disaccharides) joined by glycosidic β-1,4 bonds. Nanoparticles can be extracted from cellulose fibers using a top-down mechanically or chemically treatment. Cellulose nanomaterials have generated significant interest due to their intrinsic properties such as large surface-to-volume ratios, high tensile strength, stiffness, and flexibility in addition to good dynamic mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties. The use of nanocellulose for reinforcement in matrices improves thermo-mechanical properties, decreases the sensitivity of polymers to water, and preserves biodegradability. The mixing of nanocellulose with polysaccharides improves mechanical properties. Nano-sized cellulose fibers possess unique physical, chemical, and morphological characteristics. Hence, nano-sized cellulose fibers are considered versatile materials for addition to polymers, and application in high gas barriers and packaging materials. Other uses include electronic devices, foods, medicine, cosmetics, and health care. This chapter focuses on the cellulose nanofibers attained from banana, pineapple and corn-based agricultural wastes.
A Constant Gain Kalman Filter for Wireless Sensor Network and Maneuvering Target Tracking
Authors: Awasthi Peeyush , Yadav Ashwin , Naik Naren , Ramaswamy Ananthasayanam Mudambi
Published: August 2021

One of the well-known approaches to target tracking is the Kalman filter. The problem of applying the Kalman Filter in practice is that in the presence of unknown noise statistics, accurate results cannot be obtained. Hence the tuning of the noise covariances is of paramount importance in order to employ the filter. The difficulty involved with the tuning attracts the applicability of the concept of Constant Gain Kalman Filter (CGKF). It has been generally observed that after an initial transient the Kalman Filter gain and the State Error Covariance P settles down to steady state values. This encourages one to consider working directly with steady state or constant Kalman gain, rather than with error covariances in order to obtain efficient tracking. Since there are no covariances in CGKF, only the state equations need to be propagated and updated at a measurement, thus enormously reducing the computational load. The current work first applies the CGKF concept to heterogeneous sensor based wireless sensor network (WSN) target tracking problem. The paper considers the Standard EKF and CGKF for tracking various manoeuvring targets using nonlinear state and measurement models. Based on the numerical studies it is clearly seen that the CGKF out performs the Standard EKF. To the best of our knowledge, such a comprehensive study of the CGKF has not been carried out in its application to diverse target tracking scenarios and data fusion aspects.
Coverage Determination of Incumbent System and Available TV White Space Channels for Secondary Use in Ethiopia
Authors: Mohammed Habib , T. Terefe Tessema , Feisso Sultan
Published: August 2021

Different path loss modelsare used to analyze the behavior of terrestrial television signals. The path loss calculated by one model differs from the other depending on different factors they consider. Frequency is one of the main factors included in each model. The frequency variation in the electromagnetic spectrum causes different response for each model. In terrestrial TV signal representation, since it is operating under VHF and UHF spectrum range, the propagation model used to model the signal must be less invariant when the transmitter is operating in VHF and UHF. If the pathloss model used is very variant it is difficult to define the coverage of the transmitters. This causes interference among transmitters and between the digital terrestrial TV transmitters and TV white space devices. Different propagation models are analyzed by their sensitivity to frequency variation from very-high and ultra-high frequency spectrums. After the best model is selected, we have used this model to find the coverage of the incumbent transmitter, which then is used to analyze free channels for secondary use. First the pathloss at VHF and then for UHF is calculated. This difference is then compared and the result indicates that ITU-R P.1546–5, which incorporate terrain data is best of others. Using this model and further analyze the coverage and free channels, we have found a minimum of 408 MHz free contiguous bandwidth, by considering a worst-case scenario, which is placing a WSD at the incumbent transmitter.
Precision in Agriculture Decision Making Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Bhimanpallewar Ratnmala , Narasinga Rao M.R.
Published: August 2021

Farming is the one of the major occupations in India. Increase in population is increasing the demand of food, whereas soil degradation causing decrease in yield. Technology is contributing in agriculture domain through software and hardware enhancement. One of the software-based contribution is for predicting the suitable crop. Same field can be suitable for one crop and not for another one, so it is better to choose the one which can lead to better yield. There are many predictive algorithms available. Algorithms which can work for suitability analysis need to test and choose the best one. Such predictive algorithms need dataset in appropriate format. Once the quality data is available correct predictions can be made. Data mining, machine learning are the branches comprise of algorithms, which can be trained based on dataset. Here we are introducing algorithms for decision making based on field data.
Knowing Our Rival–Coronaviridae: The Virus Family
Authors: Rajagopalan Maanasa
Published: August 2021

This chapter will describe the biological nature of viruses belonging to the Coronaviridae family. Coronavirus disease or COVID-19 which, with its ever-expanding attack around the globe has become the topic of discussion of the current era. The disease is caused by a SARS-CoV-2 virus which belongs to the Coronaviridae family. This family of the virus has a history of pandemic significance through its attacks of SARS and MERS since the year 2000. They are known to have affinity towards respiratory tract and any disease that erupts out of their group have caused mild and severe respiratory infections globally. Thus, understanding the virus by learning the characteristics of its familial strain will help us to combat their attack even after mutation in the future. This chapter also discusses the pathogenesis of each virus organism in this family, as well as their clinical characteristics and diagnostics, in order to understand their disease-causing pattern and the efficacy of vaccination in mitigating the worst outcomes of the disease.
Anxiety, Uncertainty and Resilience during the Pandemic Period-Anthropological and Psychological Perspectives
Authors: Bhattacharyya Ranjan
Published: August 2021

Following any natural disaster, tragedy, calamities, there are upsurge of mental health issues found worldwide. COVID 19 is no exception to them. Public health and infection control domains were the first hit at the peak of pandemic. The news and information were bombarded in traditional print and electronic Medias as well as in social Medias. The tsunami of infodemic was a recent topic of discussion. The responsible reporting, media role, role of Government and Non Government organizations are immense. To combat these challenges and ensuring peace and tranquillity are the biggest task of the policymakers ahead.
Alginate Metal Complexes and Their Application
Authors: Alkhayer Ghaidaa
Published: August 2021

Alginate is a natural polymer that can form complexes in the presence of multivalent metal. In this chapter, we summarized the newest alginate metal complexes application in many fields; organic synthesis, environmental and medical application. The main idea was about alginate complexes’ role in the drug delivery system as a chiral excipient to reach the enantioselective release in the case of chiral drugs. We also present a case study about the ketoprofen enantioselective release investigation from alginate mixed beads with two ion metal types.
Predictive 3D Modelling and Virtual Reality of the World Cultural Heritage of Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur, Bangladesh
Authors: Masood Imran Md. , Masud Miner
Published: August 2021

Generating predictive 3D modelling and virtual reality (VR) of the World Cultural Heritage of ruins of the Buddhist vihara at Paharpur, Bangladesh, is the ultimate notion of this research paper. In Bangladesh archaeology, it is a new paradigm to generate the predictive 3D models of the ruined structures in real mood and develop a VR to organise a journey from ruins mood to near to real mood. It will help to forecast the past virtually through the journey of present towards past. Futuristic forecasting is the normalised phenomenon in statistical analysis, despite the archaeologist’s motto, which is to predict the past. Methodologically, philosophising the vihara architecture of the Bangla region by following Vajrayana Buddhism is the first step. Then, information technology and archaeological data enable the 3D model generation of a known structure, producing high-quality outputs of the historic site for digital conservation. Finally, 3D predictive modelling has been achieved by supporting the integrated and interactive consideration of data, established 3D modelling and VR generating tools, and the guidance of the London Charter of 2006 and the Seville Principle of 2011 for the regenerating of the cultural heritage of ruins of the Buddhist vihara at Paharpur, Bangladesh.
Goat Breeding in the Katanga Copper Belt (KCB): Constraints, Opportunities and Prospects
Authors: M. Tshibangu Innocent
Published: August 2021

DR Congo’s copper belt is south of the dismembered former province of Katanga. The population has grown over the past twenty years due to the resumption of industrial and artisanal mining. This situation has led to an increase in demand for agricultural products including meat. The majority of these products are imported due to insufficient local production. Goat meat is the most consumed of the ruminants and most of these animals are imported from Zambia. Thousands of the goats are slaughtered daily and its meat sold in all markets and especially next to thousands of drinking establishments as appetizers. Unfortunately, this opportunity does not benefit local breeders because of several factors including the low productivity of the local goat, a stray breeding system, insufficiency and lack of space for breeding, contamination of pastures by heavy metals, insecurity, supremacy of the mining code over agricultural law, the dispossession of agricultural land belonging to peasants for the benefit of private farmers ... In perspective, the establishment of a collaborative structure between breeders, development agents and technicians, researchers and policy makers in sectors related to goat farming and its environment will provide access to information and improve goat production.
Phytoremediation of Arsenic Contaminated Water Using Aquatic, Semi-Aquatic and Submerged Weeds
Authors: Roy Dibakar , Sreekanth Dasari , Pawar Deepak , Mahawar Himanshu , K. Barman Kamal
Published: August 2021

Arsenic (As) is the one the most toxic element present in earth which poses a serious threat to the environment and human health. Arsenic contamination of drinking water in South and Southeast Asia reported one of the most threatening problems that causes serious health hazard of millions of people of India and Bangladesh. Further, use of arsenic contaminated ground water for irrigation purpose causes entry of arsenic in food crops, especially in Rice and other vegetable crops. Currently various chemical technologies utilized for As removal from contaminated water like adsorption and co-precipitation using salts, activated charcoal, ion exchange, membrane filtration etc. are very costly and cannot be used for large scale for drinking and agriculture use. In contrast, phytoremediation utilizes green plats to remove pollutants from contaminated water using various mechanisms such as rhizofiltration, phytoextraction, phytostabilization, phytodegrartion and phytovolatilization. A large numbers of terrestrial and aquatic weed flora have been identified so far having hyper metal, metalloid and organic pollutant removal capacity. Among the terrestrial weed flora Arundo donax, Typha latifolia, Typha angustifolia, Vetivaria zizinoids etc. are the hyper As accumulator. Similarly Eicchornea crassipes (Water hyacinth), Pistia stratiotes (water lettuce), Lemna minor (duck weed), Hyrdilla verticillata, Ceratophyllum demersum, Spirodella polyrhiza, Azola, Wolfia spp., etc. are also capable to extract higher amount of arsenic from contaminated water. These weed flora having As tolerance mechanism in their system and thus remediate As contaminated water vis-à-vis continue their life cycle. In this chapter we will discuss about As extraction potential of various aquatic and semi aquatic weeds from contaminated water, their tolerance mechanism, future scope and their application in future world mitigating As contamination in water resources.
Management and Control of Eimeria Infection in Goats
Authors: Bawm Saw , Lat Htun Lat
Published: August 2021

Coccidian parasites of the genus Eimeira cause coccidiosis in farm animals, which develop in both the small and the large intestines. Coccidiosis is a major economic concern in many livestock, especially in young animals, as a result of losses caused by clinical infection (diarrhea) and subclinical (poor weight gain in particular) and the required treatment costs. Herein, we summarize geographical distribution of Eimeria parasites, their life cycle, pathogenesis, clinical signs, economic losses due to coccidiosis, diagnosis, recent information on control and prevention, and anticoccidial drugs for Eimeria infection in goats. With regard to poverty alleviation in most developing agricultural countries, it is important to maintain and develop goat-related industries. Proper management should be used to prevent losses and reduce the productivity from coccidiosis in young animals by: reducing the level of environmental contamination by infectious oocysts; minimizing stress; and avoiding overcrowding.
Serological Monitoring for Leptospira Spp. and Monitoring of Productive and Reproductive Indices on Dairy Farm
Authors: Temer Jamas Leandro , Rhoden Barcellos Rodrigo , Roberto Padovani Carlos , Victória Cassiano , Langoni Helio
Published: August 2021

Leptospirosis is a zoonosis caused by spirochetes of the genus Leptospira. It has a worldwide distribution with greater occurrence in tropical and subtropical countries. It is endemic in Brazil. It affects domestic, wild and production animals. The goal of this study was to assess dairy herd productive and reproductive indexes on a monthly basis by serologically monitoring the infection dynamics on two experimental groups: one with animals with negative results at study onset (G-1) and another with animals tested positive for at least one leptospira serovar (G-2). The serum microscopic agglutination test (MAT) was employed. Animals with titer equal to or greater than 100 IU were considered reactive. Animals were evaluated for productive and reproductive indexes based on data provided by the dairy’s IT system. Blood was collected from all animals in both groups once a month for nine months. Analysis showed interference between animals seroreactive to leptospirosis and both milk production and number of pregnancies for G-2 at collection moments 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 9 whereas for G-1 the same indexes showed decrease only in the 5th and 9th study months. The most prevalent serovars were Hardjoprajitino 59.5%, Pyrogenes 21.04%, Pomona 11.07%, Wollfi 11.07%, Hardjo 8.78%, Guaricura 6.55%, Copenhageni 5.09%, Icterohaemorrhagiae 1.11%, and Ctg 0.83%. Serovar Hardjoprajitino showed a relationship with herd milk production decrease.
Gall Stones in Pediatric Population
Authors: Mirza Shaikh Nida
Published: August 2021

Gall stones is a known entity in adults, but are considered uncommon in pediatric population, however in the recent years, mainly with wide spread use of ultrasonography, cholelithiasis in children is being frequently reported. Etiology of gall stones in children is not similar to adults. Pigment stones are the most frequently seen in children with hemolytic disease as the most common cause, however with the increase in obesity in children there is also rise in cholesterol stones. Many other causes like drugs, congenital hepatobiliary malformation and genetic causes are to be kept during evaluation of gall stones. Management of gall stones need a proper and timely work up for the causes of cholelithiasis is necessary in children. Surgical management with laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the treatment of choice in most of the cases however the timing of surgery should be optimized case to case basis.
Metalens Antennas in Microwave, Terahertz and Optical Domain Applications
Authors: Song Qi , Gong Yan , Xu Nianxi , Gao Ruoqian
Published: August 2021

Metamaterial is the artificial structure under sub-wavelength dimension and could be designed to manipulate the electromagnetic wave radiation across the broad frequency range through microwave to much higher frequency, such as terahertz and optical regime. Lens antenna can generate the focused beam with high gain and shrink the bulky refractive body and feeds into a shape of flat form. This chapter will discuss the general concepts of metalens and the technology of metalens-based antenna at microwave, terahertz and optical frequency. The recent progress in the research and development of metalens antennas is reviewed with designs principle and typical applications. At last part, some innovative techniques such as dynamic focus-tuning of metalen are discussed in details.
A Typology of Peer Support Behaviours in a MOOC
Authors: Appiah-Kubi Kwamena , Cobham David
Published: August 2021

This chapter builds upon a body of previous research that has used content analysis to assess the messages exchanged between participants enrolled on a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC). In particular, it focuses on uncovering the nature of the peer support that the participants provide for each other, and the social environment that they establish through their interactions. The findings of this research have led to the construction of a Typology of Peer Support Behaviours which is presented here. It is proposed that this typology can be applied across a range of contexts to assess the nature of peer support behaviours enacted by participants in those MOOCs. It is proposed that the typology could help identify any unique differences in expression of behaviours among groups of students and it could be used to assess if there is a preference towards a particular approach to, or type of, peer support.
Innovative Tools to Assess a Large Number of Students in the Open Distance and e-Learning MOOCs
Authors: Shila Mphahlele Ramashego
Published: August 2021

The literature on students registered in the Open Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) institutions suggests many obstacles related to their summative-driven assessments, which give insufficient time for study, difficulties in access and use of innovative assessment tools, ineffective feedback, and lack of feedback of study materials. These challenges lead students to learn just enough to get grades without understanding the topics or acquiring knowledge and skills. On the other hand, massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) give students, who have to fulfil multiple roles and are affected by the barriers of distance, cost and time, an opportunity to pursue their studies online. This chapter employed humanistic learning theory (HLT) to present a variety of digital teaching and learning tools that enable assessment suitable for a large number of students in the ODeL MOOCs. Humanistic learning theory emphasises a shift towards considering students, their characteristics, and their influence on learning. In addressing the gap created by assessments that were not focused on the specific human capabilities, including creativity, personal growth, and choice, this chapter first presents principles of HLT linking them with the form of assessments in MOOCs. Secondly, the ways to assess a large number of students in ODeL MOOCs are outlined. Lastly, various digital tools that can assess a large number of students are discussed, considering students as sources of authority.
Issues in the Development of Conversation Dialog for Humanoid Nursing Partner Robots in Long-Term Care
Authors: Tanioka Tetsuya , Betriana Feni , Tanioka Ryuichi , Oobayashi Yuki , Matsumoto Kazuyuki , Kai Yoshihiro , Miyagawa Misao , Locsin Rozzano
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this chapter is to explore the issues of development of conversational dialog of robots for nursing, especially for long-term care, and to forecast humanoid nursing partner robots (HNRs) introduced into clinical practice. In order to satisfy the required performance of HNRs, it is important that anthropomorphic robots act with high-quality conversational dialogic functions. As for its hardware, by allowing independent range of action and degree of freedom, the burden of quality exerted in human-robot communication is reduced, thereby unburdening nurses and professional caregivers. Furthermore, it is critical to develop a friendlier type of robot by equipping it with non-verbal emotive expressions that older people can perceive. If these functions are conjoined, anthropomorphic intelligent robots will serve as possible instructors, particularly for rehabilitation and recreation activities of older people. In this way, more than ever before, the HNRs will play an active role in healthcare and in the welfare fields.
Chemical Recycling of Polyolefins (PE, PP): Modern Technologies and Products
Authors: Frączak Daria
Published: August 2021

Chemical recycling is one of the most intensively developed potential solutions for the global plastic waste issue. This broadly defined term covers several different technologies that lead to many diverse products. Polyolefins (polyethylene and polypropylene) can be chemically recycled by pyrolysis (cracking) or gasification. These polymers’ chemical composition and structure make them a great potential source of valuable hydrocarbons or carbon atoms for syngas production. Thermal and catalytic cracking of polyethylene and polypropylene can be optimised to maximise specific types of hydrocarbons that, after optional additional processing, such as hydrotreatment, steam cracking or distillation, can be used as intermediates in petrochemical plants, fuels or fuel components, monomers for polymerisation of new, virgin polymers or as specialty chemicals (final market products). Gasification of plastic waste transforms polymers into a mixture of hydrogen, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, which can be further used as a source of these gasses, transformed into chemicals and fuels, or used directly to produce energy. This chapter presents all of these process paths with examples of existing technologies and their level of technology readiness and perspectives for scale-up.
Maternal Hepatitis Infections: Determining Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and C Virus Infections and Associated Risk Factors among Healthy Mothers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Biazin Kebede Habtamu , Teshome Seifegebriel
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Viral hepatitis is a global public health problem affecting millions of people every year, causing disability and death. Hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) viruses spread horizontally, mainly through sexual contact and contaminated needles, and vertically. Both cause considerable morbidity and mortality worldwide. Maternal infection is a risk factor for vertical transmission. Objective: To determine the seroprevalence of HBsAg and anti-HCV antibody among non-pregnant, apparently healthy mothers and to identify potential risk factors associated with HBV or HCV infection. Methods: A community based cross sectional study was conducted on 454 apparently healthy women, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from May 2016 to June 2017. A systematic random sampling method was used to recruit participants. Result: A total of 454 mothers were enrolled. Seroprevalence of HBsAg and HCV was found to be 3.7% and 2.0%, respectively. HBc antibody was detected in 36.3% of the mothers. None of the participants was co-infected with both viruses. Previous history of liver disease, history of jaundice, HIV infection, and family history of liver disease were significantly associated with HBV infection. Marital status, caring for hepatitis patients, and a history of liver disease were factors significantly associated with HCV infection. Conclusion: Apparently, healthy mothers in Addis Ababa had intermediate level of endemicity for hepatitis B and C infections Routine screening and vaccination of high-risk reproductive mothers against HBV is advisable. Emphasis should be given to health education and promotion of infection control practices. Population based studies are strongly recommended to help monitor disease transmission patterns and to design evidence-based interventions against the spread of hepatitis infections in Ethiopia.
A Review of Hybrid Electric Architectures in Construction, Handling and Agriculture Machines
Authors: Mocera Francesco , Somà Aurelio
Published: August 2021

Recent regulations on pollutant emissions have pushed working machines manufacturers towards research and development efforts to meet the strict limits imposed. For a long time, the use of gas aftertreatment systems have been the most widely accepted solution to reduce the amount of pollutants produced per unit of work done. However, lower emissions limits lead to larger systems and consequently higher difficulties in vehicle integration. Thus, alternative solutions have been studied in the last years to solve the emissions problem using wisely the on-board space. Hybrid electric technologies represent a valuable alternative in this direction. In this work, a review of the current state of the art in the adoption of hybrid and electric technologies on working vehicles is proposed. Due to the high amount of application fields and concepts for special applications, the analysis focused on the three major fields which however includes most of the working machines: Construction, Handling and Agriculture. This work highlights how the requirements of each specific field, strongly affects the design of an optimal hybrid electric architectures.
Integrated Pest Management of Lobesia botrana with Microorganism in Vineyards: An Alternative for Clean Grapes Production
Authors: Altimira Fabiola , Vitta Nancy , Tapia Eduardo
Published: August 2021

The moth Lobesia botrana (Denis and Schiffermüller) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is one of the principal pests of the grapevines (Vitis vinifera L.). His larvae feeds from grape, reducing production and increasing susceptibility to fungal infections. This makes it one of the most economically important pest insects in wine and table grape exporting countries. This chapter will describe the distribution, biology, and behavior of L. botrana regarding its host, the grapevine, along with its control via the use of natural enemies, entomopathogenic microorganisms, MD (mating disruption) and chemical control. Finally, we will describe an integrated management strategy based on monitoring, MD, and biological control using entomopathogenic microorganisms. This strategy could be useful as a basis for integrated pest control plans in various regions worldwide.
Pre-Surgical and Surgical Planning in Neurosurgical Oncology - A Case-Based Approach to Maximal Safe Surgical Resection in Neurosurgery
Authors: Algethami Hanan , C. Lam Fred , Rojas Rafael , M. Kasper Ekkehard
Published: August 2021

Use of functional neuroimaging capabilities such as fMRI, DTI, MRP, MRS, AS-PET-CT, SPECT, and TMS as noninvasive tools to visualize intrinsic brain and spine morphology in relation to function have developed over the past 30 years. Amongst these imaging modalities, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is of particular interest since it follows the physiological coupling between neuronal electrical activity and metabolic structural (cellular) activity as it relates to tissue vascularity and perfusion states. This structure–function synesis (from the Greek noun, σύνεσις = being together), leads to three effects that contribute to the fMRI signal: an increase in the blood flow velocity, a change in the mean blood volume, and most importantly, alterations in the blood oxygenation level. The latter effect has lent to the development of blood-oxygenation-level-dependent or BOLD fMRI, which has been used in establishing the topographic relationship between eloquent cortex and neurosurgical planning. As an adjunct to this modality, MRI-based diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) allows further detailed radiographic assessment of fiber tracts in the brain in relationship to the surgical lesion of interest. Herein we review the roles of fMRI and DTI for presurgical mapping to allow for maximal safe resection procedures in neurosurgery with case-based illustrations.
The Use of Computational Fluid Dynamics in the Analysis of Gas-Liquid-Liquid Reactors
Authors: Kabungo Gakingo Godfrey , Muller Louw Tobias
Published: August 2021

Gas–liquid–liquid reactors are typically found in bioprocess setups such as those used in alkane biocatalysis and biological gas stripping. The departure of such reactors from traditional gas–liquid setups is by the introduction of a secondary (dispersed) liquid phase. The introduction of the latter results in complicated hydrodynamics as observed through measurements of velocity fields, turbulence levels and mixing times. Similarly, changes in mass transfer occur as observed through measurements of gas hold up, bubble diameters and the volumetric mass transfer coefficients. The design and analysis of such reactors thus requires the adoption of an approach that can comprehensively account for the various observed changes. This chapter proposes Computational Fluid Dynamics as an approach fit for this purpose. Key considerations, successes and challenges of this approach are highlighted and discussed based on a review of previously published case studies.
Application of Noble Metals in the Advances in Animal Disease Diagnostics
Authors: Alexis S.P. Tubalinal Gabriel , Paulo G. Lucero Leonard , Andreus V. Mangahas Jim , A. Villanueva Marvin , N. Mingala Claro
Published: August 2021

The advent of molecular biology and biotechnology has given ease and comfort for the screening and detection of different animal diseases caused by bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens. Furthermore, detection of antibiotics and its residues has advanced in recent years. However, most of the process of animal disease diagnostics is still confined in the laboratory. The next step to conduct surveillance and prevent the spread of animal infectious diseases is to detect these diseases in the field. Through the discovery and continuous development in the field of nanobiotechnology, it was found that incorporation of noble metal nanoparticles to biotechnology tools such as the loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), lateral flow assays (LFAs) and dipsticks provided a promising start to conduct point-of-care diagnostics. Moreover, the modification and application of nanoparticle noble metals has increased the stability, effectiveness, sensitivity and overall efficacy of these diagnostic tools. Thus, recent advances in disease diagnostics used these noble metals such as gold, silver and platinum.
Optical Heterodyne Measurement of Terahertz Wave
Authors: Hayashi Shin’ichiro , Sekine Norihiko
Published: August 2021

One of the most notable frequency regions in terms of research currently lies in the ‘frequency gap’ region between microwaves and infrared: terahertz wave. Although new methods for generating and detecting terahertz wave have been developed, few detectors operating at room temperature are able to capture low-energy terahertz beams. Here we introduce the optical heterodyne measurement (nonlinear frequency up-conversion detection) of terahertz wave using parametric wavelength conversion in a nonlinear crystal; this has better sensitivity than many commonly used thermal detectors such as pyroelectric detectors. Additionally, optical heterodyne techniques allow the beams of terahertz wave to be visualized and their frequency and intensity determined directly as visible light. These are very promising for extending applied researches into the terahertz region, and we expect that these will open new research fields such as wireless information communications or non-destructive inspection in the terahertz region.
Silver Nanoparticles: Properties, Synthesis, Characterization, Applications and Future Trends
Authors: T. Galatage Sunil , S. Hebalkar Aditya , V. Dhobale Shradhey , R. Mali Omkar , S. Kumbhar Pranav , V. Nikade Supriya , G. Killedar Suresh
Published: August 2021

Nanotechnology is an expanding area of research where we use to deal with the materials in Nano-dimension. The conventional procedures for synthesizing metal nanoparticles need to sophisticated and costly instruments or high-priced chemicals. Moreover, the techniques may not be environmentally safe. Therefore “green” technologies for synthesis of nanoparticles are always preferred which is simple, convenient, eco-friendly and cost effective. Green synthesis of nanoparticle is a novel way to synthesis nanoparticles by using biological sources. It is gaining attention due to its cost effective, ecofriendly and large scale production possibilities. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are one of the most vital and fascinating nanomaterials among several metallic nanoparticles that are involved in biomedical applications. It has vital importance in nanoscience and naomedicines to treat and prevent vital disease in human beings especially in cancer treatment. In current work we discussed different methods for synthesis of AgNPs like biological, chemical and physical along with its characterization. We have also discussed vital importance of AgNPs to cure life threatnign diseases like cancer along with antidiabetic, antifungal, antiviral and antimicrobial alog with its molecular mode of action etc. Finally we conclude by discussing future prospects and possible applications of silver nano particles.
Synchrotron Based Techniques in Soil Analysis: A Modern Approach
Authors: Hota Surabhi
Published: August 2021

Soil is a highly heterogenous system where a number of physical, chemical and biological processes are taking place. The study of these processes requires analytical techniques. The electromagnetic radiations in the form spectroscopy, X-Ray diffraction, magnetic resonance etc. have been used in the field of soil analysis since decades. The study of soil nutrients, mineralogy, organic matter and complex compounds in soils use these techniques and are successful tools till date. But these come with a limitation of lesser spatial and spectral resolution, time consuming sample preparation and destructive methods of study which are mostly ex-situ. In contrast to the conventional spectroscopic techniques, the synchrotron facility is of high precision and enables non-destructive study of the samples to a nano scale. The technique uses the high intensity synchrotron radiation which is produced in a special facility, where the electrons are ejected using very high voltage and accelerated in changing magnetic field, at a speed of light resulting in a very bright radiation that enables a very précised study of the subject. For example, in studying the dynamics of P and N in soils, SR aided XAS are used to study the K-edge spectra of these nutrients, without any matrix interference, which used to be a problem in conventional SEM, IR or NMR spectroscopy. These radiations provide high energy in GeV, which imparts high sensitivity and nanoscale detection. Basically, the SR facility improves the precision of the existing spectroscopic techniques. This chapter discusses how the Synchrotron radiations aid to improve precision in various field of soil analysis such as, carbon chemistry, nutrient dynamics, heavy metal and contaminant speciation and rhizosphere study. However, the technique also come with major limitations of requirement of very high skill for preparation of samples, inadequate availability of references for studies related to absorption spectrum and control of radiation damage. Applications and limitations of the technique thoroughly reviewed in this chapter with an aim to provide a brief idea of this new dimension of soil analysis.