bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimally Invasive Surgery for the Management of Lung Cancer
Authors: Messina Gaetana , Bove Mary , Opromolla Giorgia , Di Filippo Vincenzo , Pirozzi Mario , Caterino Marianna , Facchini Sergio , Zotta Alessia , Vicidomini Giovanni , Santini Mario , Fiorelli Alfonso , Ciardiello Fortunato , Fasano Morena
Published: November 2023

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death and the most diagnosed cancer. The treatment of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) depends on clinical staging. Surgical radical resection is recommended for patients with stage 1 or 2 of disease and represents the treatment of choice. In the last decades, the surgical approach for lung cancer changed moving from an open approach to a minimally invasive approach, represented by Video Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) and Robot-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (RATS). In this chapter, we illustrate the characteristics of lung cancer, the diagnosis, the classification, the staging and the preoperative evaluation. Then we focus on the surgical treatment of lung cancer and on how it has changed during the years. We explain the open approach represented by the traditional posterolateral thoracotomy and by the muscle-sparing thoracotomy. We illustrate VATS approach and evolution: from the hybrid approach to the pure VATS that can be triportal, biportal or even uniportal. Then, we focus on RATS approach, characterized by the use of multiple ports in the same intercostal space and how it evolved toward the uniportal approach. The objective is to combine the advantage of uniportal VATS (lower postoperative pain, enhanced recovery) and RATS (better visualization, more degrees of movements).
Perspective Chapter: Therapeutic Alliance, Rupture and Repair in Group Therapy
Authors: Lynch Esther , Lynch Jeremy , McClintick Kiana , Pippen Bradford , Womack Kayla , Hinson Kiela
Published: November 2023

This chapter contains an overview of the therapeutic alliance including the purpose and importance of therapeutic alliance as well as recent research that provides knowledge on therapeutic alliance within the group therapy context. This chapter will also take a deep dive into understanding the rupture-repair model, its’ connections with therapeutic alliance, and provide clinical examples of what a rupture and repair may look like in group therapy. Finally, this chapter discusses cultural considerations and includes clinical examples on rupture and repairs where individual and cultural differences are important. In conclusion, therapeutic alliance has been identified as a key contributor to positive outcomes for group therapy clients. While ruptures are expected to occur during therapy, It is important to note that both the rupture and the repair equally effect the therapeutic alliance as well as the outcome of treatment. Outcomes to therapy that align with a strong therapeutic alliance include reduced symptoms, client retention, improved outlook on life, and an improved occupational and interpersonal functioning. Outcomes of therapy associated with a successful repair involve a decrease in anxiety and depressive symptoms, increase in daily living activities, an increase in empathy for their group members, and stronger therapeutic alliance among the group.
Geometric Control of Robotic Systems
Authors: Bousclet Anis
Published: November 2023

In this chapter, we’ll present geometrical methods to control robotic systems, we’ll start by presenting the classical approach and its benefits, as well as its limits, and we will explain how the geometric approach allow us to get rid of these limits.
Observer-Based Disturbance Rejection Control for Switched Nonlinear Networked Systems under Event-Triggered Scheme
Authors: Arunkumar Arumugam , Wu Jenq-Lang
Published: November 2023

This paper employs the disturbance rejection technique for a class of switched nonlinear networked control systems (SNNCSs) with an observer-based event-triggered scheme. To estimate the influence of exogenous disturbances on the proposed system, the equivalent input disturbance (EID) technique is employed to construct an EID estimator. To provide adequate disturbance rejection performance, a new control law is built that includes the EID estimation. Furthermore, to preserve communication resources, an event-based mechanism for control signal transmission is devised and implemented. The primary goal of this work is to provide an observer-based event-triggered disturbance rejection controller that ensures the resulting closed-loop form of the examined systems is exponentially stable. Specifically, by employing a Lyapunov–Krasovskii approach, a new set of sufficient conditions in the form of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) is derived, ensuring the exponential stabilization criteria are met. Eventually, a numerical example is used to demonstrate the efficacy and practicality of the proposed control mechanism.
Overview of Beta-Thalassemia
Authors: Oshiokhayamhe Iyevhobu Kenneth , Lucky E. Omolumen , Joseph Okobi Tobechukwu , Raphael Usoro Edidiong , Airefetalor Ivie A. , A. Ken-Iyevhobu Benedicta , Omokpo Victoria O.
Published: November 2023

Beta-thalassemias are a group of hereditary blood disorders characterized by anomalies in the synthesis of the beta chains of hemoglobin resulting in variable phenotypes ranging from severe anemia to clinically asymptomatic individuals. Three main forms have been described: thalassemia major, thalassemia intermedia, and thalassemia minor. Individuals with thalassemia major usually present within the first 2 years of life with severe anemia, requiring regular red blood cell (RBC) transfusions. Patients with thalassemia intermedia present later in life with moderate anemia and do not require regular transfusions. Thalassemia minor is clinically asymptomatic, but some subjects may have moderate anemia. Beta-thalassemias are caused by point mutations or, more rarely, deletions in the beta-globin gene on chromosome 11, leading to reduced (beta+) or absent (beta0) synthesis of the beta chains of hemoglobin (Hb). Transmission is autosomal recessive; however, dominant mutations have also been reported. Diagnosis of thalassemia is based on hematologic and molecular genetic testing. Laboratory tests that are conventionally performed to diagnose the β-thalassemia and HbE are classified into two groups, based on the purposes, including the screening tests and confirmatory tests.
Colorimetric Determination of Pyraclostrobin Fungicide Using P-Amino-sulphonic Acid Coupling Reagent in Agricultural Soil/Environmental Samples by Spectrophotometric Analysis
Authors: Bhatt Chhaya , Kumar Rai Manish , Rai Joyce
Published: November 2023

A simple and sensitive method for the determination of pyraclostrobin, a widely used fungicide, is described here, which is based on diazotization and coupling with 4-aminosulfonic acid in alkaline medium. The reaction mechanism is based on the pre-equilibrium formation of amine and diazonium salt followed by a rate-limiting attack of the diazonium ion at an N-atom (N-coupling) to appear the corresponding red-colored azo complex. The λmax, molar absorptivity and Sandell’s sensitivity related to the UV-visible absorption spectrometry were found λmax = 600 nm, 2.7 × 104 L mol−1 cm−1 and 1.01 × 10−5 μg cm−2, respectively. Some of the important parameters like linearity range, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), correlation coefficient (R2) and recovery% were calculated 3 to 12 μgmL−1, 1.01μgmL−1, 3.08 μgmL−1, 0.984 and 93.5–99.3%, respectively, for the determination of organochlorine like pyraclostrobin using coupling reagent. The advantages of the present method are its simplicity, high selectivity and cost-effectiveness. In this article, the method has been validated by applying it to samples from different environmental conditions.
Microbial and Parasitic Infections in Tertiary Care: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention Strategies
Authors: Olowe Adekunle , Otutu Olawumi , Ayanbolade Olowe Rita
Published: November 2023

Microbial and parasitic infections are a significant concern in tertiary care, particularly for patients with compromised immune systems or other underlying medical conditions. In this chapter, we will focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies for microbial and parasitic infections in tertiary care. We will examine the different types of infections that can occur, including bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections, and the challenges associated with their diagnosis and treatment. We will also discuss the role of antimicrobial stewardship in tertiary care and the importance of appropriate use of antibiotics to prevent the development of antimicrobial resistance. Additionally, we will explore the various prevention strategies, such as vaccination, hand hygiene, and environmental disinfection, that can be used to reduce the risk of infections in tertiary care settings. Overall, this chapter highlights the importance of a proactive approach to managing microbial and parasitic infections in tertiary care, including prompt diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and effective prevention strategies.
Advances in Hormone-Free Contraceptive Devices
Authors: A. Shihata Alfred , A. Brody Steven , Linderoth Birgit
Published: November 2023

Up to (99%) of women worldwide may use birth control for at least 30 years. However, most modern female contraceptives containing hormones can have undesirable side effects. Among the limited hormone-free options, the fertility awareness method is the safest and most effective when used correctly. This study explores a time-tested, safe, and effective barrier contraceptive called FemCap. FemCap not only aids in pinpointing the day of ovulation but also integrates electronic period-tracking technology to enhance the efficacy of the fertility awareness method. Stress Urinary Incontinence is a prevalent issue affecting women of all ages, often suffering in silence. Our research aims to address the unmet needs in women’s reproductive health. We have discovered that FemCap can function as a pessary to manage Stress Urinary Incontinence by providing support to the bladder neck and straightening the urethra, thereby restoring the competence of the urethral sphincters. FemCap has emerged as a powerhouse for fertility awareness and stress urinary incontinence. However, due to the limitations of this study, the authors welcome any investigators who can validate our findings as well as provide suggestions to enhance the overall value of this research for the benefit of all women.
Analysis of Transfer Tax Imposition on Properties Exchange in Indonesia
Authors: Djaja Benny , Septiani Indri
Published: November 2023

Income tax reported by the taxpayer to the Tax Service Office after an inspection and there is evidence of non-reporting of tax such as additional cash of four billion rupiah in this case, the Director General of Taxes has the authority to issue a Tax Assessment Letter for unpaid or unreported taxes and plus administrative sanctions in the form of interest of 2% per month on the actual amount of tax owed as provisions of Article 13 of Law Number 6 of 1983 concerning General Provisions and Tax Procedures. And taxpayers after paying and reporting the Land and Building Rights Acquisition Duty Tax there is a tax calculation error because the e-BPHTB system used to report the Land and Building Rights Acquisition Duty tax for the second shophouse unit in this case, a reduction in the Acquisition Value of Non-Taxable Tax Objects is applied which reduction is not in accordance with the provisions of Article 46 paragraph 5 of Law Number 1 of 2022 concerning Financial Relations Between the Government Central to the Regional Government, taxpayers can make their own corrections for the underpayment tax to the Regional Revenue Office.
Removal of Nitrate and Nitrite by Donnan Dialysis: Optimization According to Doehlert Design
Authors: Marzouk Trifi Ikhlass , Trifi Beyram , Dammak Lasâad
Published: November 2023

The removal of nitrate and nitrite simultaneously was investigated by Donnan dialysis (DD) using a Response Surface Methodology (RSM) approach. DD is a membrane process that consists of cross-ion exchange having the same electric charge through an ion-exchange membrane separating two solutions. In addition to being easy to handle, DD process is continuous, economical, requiring only few chemicals and low pumping energy. Statistical tools were applied to investigate the simultaneous removal of nitrates and nitrites by DD. The RSM is an efficient statistical strategy to design experiments, build models, determine the optimum conditions, and evaluate the significance of factors, even the interaction between them. A preliminary study was performed with three commercial membranes (AFN, AMX, ACS) in order to determine the experimental field based on different parameters. Then, a full-factor design was developed to determine the influence of these parameters and their interactions on the removal of nitrates and nitrites by DD. The RSM was applied according to the Doehlert model to determine the optimum conditions. The use of the RSM can be considered a good solution to determine the optimum condition compared to the traditional “one-at-a-time” method.
Assesment of Sign and Symptoms Stunting Wasting Risk of Newborn in the Perinatal
Authors: Manurung Suryani
Published: November 2023

The scope of this topic is the measurement and assessment of newborns and infants under 2 years of age with the risk of stunting and wasting. This book was compiled in an effort to facilitate the handling of stunting. The topic of stunting is discussed in this book according to trend issues that are widely discussed globally. Apart from being a global issue, we also see the impact of stunting which can hamper children’s intelligence. The information presented in this book is how to detect the risk of stunting and wasting through an assessment of signs and symptoms. Any data obtained from the results of the assessment becomes evidence-based evidence to be used in overcoming the causes of stunting and wasting through interventions that will be given to the baby later. Then monitor the baby’s development in the next year’s life period. This book was prepared by adopting information from previous research and needs to be published as a guideline for health workers to prevent babies from experiencing the risk of stunting and wasting.
Enhancing Brand Awareness for Sustainable Choices
Authors: Mirabella Belloque Maria-Carolina , Serralvo Francisco , de Hoyos Guevara Arnoldo
Published: November 2023

The objective of this research is to propose a brand management model guiding consumer choice toward sustainable options. The model assumes varying consumer awareness levels regarding product and service sustainability. Likewise, products and services are perceived to possess differing degrees of sustainability. Therefore, brands should focus on communicating their sustainability aspects to target consumers at the same awareness level. The model aims to create momentum by progressively conveying more information about product and service sustainability, leading to increased consumer awareness or at least improved consumer knowledge. Independent variables included brand image and price, while the dependent variable was participants’ purchase intentions. To test the model, field research consisting of a quasi-experiment involving 402 consumers has been conducted. Brand-level analysis of the results demonstrated that more sustainable brands gained preference among the participants after receiving information about the sustainability aspects. However, this gained preference was partially diminished when participants became aware of the product’s prices.
Redefining Tertiary Care in India
Authors: Sailaja Kallakuri , Buddha P.V.
Published: November 2023

Tertiary care is the apex of health care pyramid. Usually patients with congenital or unidentified medical conditions present to the tertiary care. Rest are those after an index admission, enter into multiple unpredictable complications. Multidisciplinary approach with ‘fresh’ thought process is vital. Integrated skills and comprehensive knowledge are important. By the time patient presents to tertiary care patient as well as attendees will be in severe depression with added financial constraints. This contributes to compromise of host immunity. Henceforth a psychosocial support system with empathy is necessary. What went wrong is not always the relevant question, how things can be improved is the pertinent point.
Carbon Sequestration as a Land Management Strategy
Authors: Johnson Carianne
Published: November 2023

Carbon sequestration mechanisms were developed as a land management strategy in the AFOLU sector. The principal land management strategies to obtain payment for ecosystem services include afforestation and restoration, soil carbon sequestration and bioenergy. Improvements in land management can then be traded for payments in two mechanisms—the compliance carbon market and voluntary carbon market. While the compliance market focuses on reducing carbon emissions at the national level in accordance with international agreements the voluntary markets have a multi-level focus working not only with governments but also emphasizes direct engagement with private sector to achieve global emission reduction goals. Each mechanism’s structure has benefits and drawbacks with one key shortcoming in both—the access to funding for communities reliant on forest ecosystems which directly impacts the effectiveness of the mechanism to improve land management.
Perspective Chapter: Global Health Security through Psychoeducation and Microfinance with At-Need Groups
Authors: Spowart Sara
Published: November 2023

This chapter discusses and explores the relevance of microfinance with psychoeducation for the improvement of global health security. It specifically discusses the importance of microfinance interventions for vulnerable populations, with an accompanying emphasis on mental health. Depression is one of the greatest issues worldwide and currently causes the largest number of days of disability. Depression hinders health and development and is currently considered one of the most important health issues by the World Health Organization. Microfinance is a mechanism that can be directed towards low-income, at-need populations and address mental illness through group support and small loans.
Diabetic Macular Edema, Clinicopathologic and Keys for Management
Authors: Darwish Ahmed
Published: November 2023

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. It usually begins several years after the onset of diabetes. In the early stages, there are relatively mild retinal changes, the most important of which, regarding visual acuity (VA) affection, is diabetic macular edema (DME). Recently, the development of optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) greatly changed the treatment strategy of this part of diabetic retinopathy, particularly with the development of more advanced laser technologies as micropulse laser and more effective and longer acting anti-VEGF and steroid intravitreal medications and the advances in pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) techniques. In this chapter, all those points will be highlighted with how to prevent the progression of retinopathy to save as much as could be saved of the visual function.
Cation Exchange Capacity in Grazing Systems and a Case Study for Quantification by Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Rodríguez Monroy Tatiana , Ortega Monsalve Manuela , Fernando Galeano-Vasco Luis , Medina-Sierra Marisol , Fernando Ceron-Munoz Mario
Published: November 2023

This chapter provides an overview of cation exchange capacity (CEC) and its importance as an indicator of soil fertility, particularly in the assessment of grassland quality. The limitations of traditional methods are highlighted, and the need to explore more agile approaches to grassland quality assessment is emphasized. The increasing use of hyperspectral information (HSI) as an accurate tool for measuring soil properties, which promotes more effective and sustainable rangeland management, is further explored. This provides data on soil fertility and forage quality, enabling more accurate decisions. The benefits and challenges of using HSI data to estimate CEC and its potential to improve pasture and forage production will also be examined. HSI technology allows information to be collected and analyzed from reflected light at different wavelengths, providing a clear understanding of soil physical and chemical properties. In addition, a case study illustrating the estimation of CIC using hyperspectral cameras in the department of Antioquia, Colombia, is presented. The chapter emphasizes the relevance of this topic in the rangeland context and concludes with a future outlook that anticipates a change in the management and understanding of grazing systems.
An Open-Data-Based Methodology for the Creation of a Graph of Critical Infrastructure Dependencies at an Urban Scale
Authors: Di Pietro Antonio , Calabrese Alessandro , De Nicola Antonio , Ferneti Daniele , Franchina Luisa , Martì Josè , Ruocco Tommaso
Published: November 2023

This paper presents the MARIS (Modeling infrAstructuRe dependencIes at an urban Scale) methodology, allowing the generalization of one of the possible graphs modeling Critical Infrastructure (CI, hereafter) interdependencies at an urban scale starting from uncertain data. This leverages a set of known interdependencies at the system level, topological open data of local services and Points of Interest collected at an urban scale, and some heuristics. Indeed, interdependencies at an urban scale are usually not known to decision makers (e.g., CI operators, emergency planners) due to, for example, a lack of integration of knowledge held by different critical infrastructure operators and privacy restrictions. Here, these interdependencies are determined through geographic-based strategies. The resulting graph can be a valuable input to simulate emergency scenarios of CIs in the area of interest and, thus, plan proper countermeasures.
Integrating Livestock and Crop Systems for Enhanced Productivity and Grassland Conservation in Developing Countries
Authors: Mohamed Nikzaad Rahmathulla , Nusrathali Noordeen
Published: November 2023

Many conventional farming approaches in developing nations segregate livestock and crop production, ignoring the synergistic advantages and sustainable land management possibilities that may be gained by combining the two. In order to increase agricultural output and foster grassland conservation, this chapter investigates the idea of merging livestock and crop systems. By highlighting the advantages and challenges of the approach, this chapter draws attention to the potential benefits of integration, including enhanced soil fertility, efficient resource use, increased productivity, and better protection of grassland ecosystems. The importance and viability of a variety of integrated agricultural methods, including agro-pastoral, mixed, and silvopastoral systems, in a variety of geographical settings, are explored. The purpose of this chapter is to educate policymakers, academics, and practitioners on the need of integrating livestock and crop production for achieving long-term agricultural sustainability in low-income nations.
Warehouse Operations: An Examination of Traditional and Automated Approaches in Supply Chain Management
Authors: F. Odeyinka Olumide , G. Omoegun Olumide
Published: November 2023

This paper explores the different approaches to warehouse operations within a supply chain context. It highlights the significance of warehouses in efficiently and effectively meeting customer demands while minimizing costs. The study examines various types of warehouses and analyzes the activities involved in warehouse operations. Furthermore, this paper discusses the challenges and benefits of warehouse operations in developed and developing countries. It emphasizes the need for efficient warehouse management to enhance customer satisfaction, reduce costs, and improve overall productivity. The integration of warehouses into the supply chain process is also emphasized, emphasizing their critical role in facilitating the flow of goods. This paper introduces the Warehouse Management System (WMS) concept as a technological solution for controlling the inflow and outflow of goods. It delves into WMS functions and highlights its importance in inventory control, order management, and system reliability. Additionally, this paper examines the differences between traditional manual warehousing and automated approaches, taking into account factors such as cost, efficiency, and suitability for different types of organizations. In conclusion, the study suggests that automated warehousing is more suitable for larger companies operating in countries with limited manual labor availability. On the other hand, traditional warehousing may be more applicable in developing countries with higher unemployment rates.
Exploring the Potential of Calotropis procera in Pharmacological Approaches
Authors: Bansal Poonam , Choudhary Sunayna , Taneja Tanvi , Sangwan Sonali , Gupta Bhupesh , Goyal Soniya , Kumar Raman , Sharma Pooja
Published: November 2023

Medicinal plants have been a source of treatments for many ailments for thousands of years. The WHO estimates that 80% of worldwide population use traditional medicines to treat common health issues. Plant derived bioactive substances constitute 50% of Western medications. The increase in incidents of emerging medical challenges, including post-COVID syndrome, rising multidrug-resistant (MDR), and many more, has raised annual fatalities. To address these issues, novel medications and strategic approaches are urgently required. Designing novel drugs relies on exploring medicinal plants, which have great scope in combating diseases. Calotropis procera is a medicinal plant belongs to Apocynaceae family and subfamily Asclepiadoideae that have been exploring for developing novel drugs. C. procera consists of numerous phytochemicals including flavonoids, terpenoids, cardenolides, steroids and oxypregnanes. Therefore, its phytoconstituents have been used to treat a variety of conditions including cancer, asthma, epilepsy and snake bite. C. procera is reported to have anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anthelmintic, antibacterial, antinociceptive and antimalarial properties. Roots, leaves and flower of C. procera have been used in wide range of ethnomedicinal and pharmacological actions including leukoderma, malaria and eczema. Recent ongoing techniques including computational tools using the phytoconstituents of C. procera against various diseases will open up avenues for developing novel drugs.
Estrus Physiology and Potential of Extracellular Vesicular miRNA as Biomarkers: A Theoretical Review
Authors: Varra Manasa , Kumar Venkataswamy Girish , Marinaik Chandranaik B. , Topan Sanjeev Kumar Malkanna , Ravi Sundaresan Nagalingam
Published: November 2023

Timely estrus detection is one of the critical factors for increasing reproductive efficiency in animals. Estrus physiology is under the influence of the endocrine signals that include a network of miRNAs. EV miRNAs are more stable than the other cell free miRNAs as they are doubly protected from endogenous RNase activity by means of cellular packing within the membrane-enclosed structures. Review of literature indicated the differential expression of miRNA at the estrus stage and other stages of the estrous cycle in various biological fluids, the role of miRNAs in oviductal function as well as their relation to the dynamics of preovulatory sex-steroid concentration or vice-versa by influencing the genes of miRNA biogenesis pathway. Interestingly, overlapping expression of miRNAs between tissues and EVs released from tissue fluids, as well as unique and differential expression of miRNA between bodily fluids and EV fractions of biological fluids has been identified. Studies focusing on the miRNA secreted in easily accessible urinary extracellular vesicles during the estrus stage in relation to the endocrine profile may pay the way for the identification of biomarkers for detecting estrus.
Antimalarial Drugs with Quinoline Nucleus and Analogs
Authors: Ursul Jean-Paul N’guessan Deto , Coulibaly Songuigama , Eunice Melissa Adouko Apleheni , Ouattara Mahama
Published: November 2023

Quinoline core antimalarials are a major class used for the management of uncomplicated malaria in combination with artemisinin derivatives. Moreover, despite its adverse effects, Quinine remains the reference molecule in the treatment of cerebral malaria due to Plasmodium falciparum. This class also contains molecules such as Mefloquine used in the prevention of malaria. In addition, synthetic derivatives are more manageable with greater therapeutic margins and fewer adverse effects. They have an interest in avoiding the spread of resistance, especially with derivatives possessing gametocytocidal activities. With the presence of a chloroquine-resistant strain of Plasmodium, the use of synthetic derivatives as monotherapy is prohibited to avoid the spread of resistance in this class. In this chapter, we propose to present the class of antimalarials with a quinoline nucleus under its pharmacochemical aspects as well as the prospects for its development to preserve and improve the effectiveness of its representatives in the management of malaria.
Complexity Analysis in Channel Estimation Massive MIMO Compared with LMU and GRU
Authors: Helmy Hany , El Diasty Sherif , Shatila Hazem
Published: November 2023

MIMO: Multiple-input multiple-output technology uses multiple antennas to use reflected signals to provide channel robustness and throughput gains. It is advantageous in several applications like cellular systems, users are distributed over a wide coverage area in various applications such as mobile systems, improving channel state information (CSI) processing efficiency in massive MIMO systems. This chapter proposes two channel-based deep learning methods gated recurrent unit and a Legendre memory unit to enhance the performance in a massive MIMO system and compares the complexity analysis to the previous methods, The complexity analysis is based on the channel state information network combined with gated recurrent units and Legendre memory units compared to indicator parameters which show the difference between literature-based techniques.
Mercury Emission from Prescribed Open Grassland Burning in the Aso Region, Japan
Authors: Irei Satoshi , Kameyama Satoshi , Shimazaki Hiroto , Sakuma Asahi , Yonemura Seiichiro
Published: November 2023

In every Spring, prescribed grassland burning, so-called Noyaki in Japanese, has been conducted for over a 1000 years by local residents in the Aso region, Japan, for the purpose of grassland conservation because Noyaki prevents invasion of woody plants in the grassland and helps the growth of grasses, which were an important resource of primary industry for roofing materials of houses and livestock feed. Meanwhile, biomass burning is known to be one of the most significant sources of airborne substances including mercury. Taking advantage of the characteristics and resources of the place we live in, we here describe our on-going study for the emission of gaseous mercury from the traditional Noyaki in the Aso region and other grasslands of western Japan. During Noyaki, we sampled and measured gaseous mercury from the Noyaki plumes to better understand mercury emissions and cycles in the local environment. Results showed, on average, 3.8 times higher atmospheric mercury concentrations, demonstrating the emission of gaseous mercury from the Noyaki. The possible origins, novel information the results inferred, and future research direction are discussed in this chapter.
Training in Paranasal Sinus Surgery: A Review of Current Modalities and What the Future May Hold
Authors: Narang Karamveer , Jolly Karan
Published: November 2023

Pathology affecting the paranasal sinuses can have a myriad of negative effects on patients who suffer from chronic symptoms which may significantly impact their quality of life. In most patients who fail medical treatment, surgical options can be explored. Endoscopic sinus surgery has become a mainstay of managing paranasal sinus disease ranging from chronic rhinositis, nasal polyposis, and sinonasal tumours. Surgery in this anatomical area can be challenging due to the proximity to important structures and adequate training is needed. Trainees especially in the UK have less exposure to relevant cases due to time constraints, service provision and a shift towards consultant led care. Traditional methods of training such as cadaveric dissection and 2D simulators are still relevant but may not be the most effective in the modern day. Other alternative methods of learning and teaching using technology such as VR, AR/MR and telemedicine may provide a shift in the way paranasal surgical education is delivered. Future work is needed to develop these tools further and to validate them as effective tools for surgical trainees.
Supporting and Promoting Breastfeeding: The 10 Steps to Successful Breastfeeding
Authors: Economou Mary , Middleton Nicos
Published: November 2023

Since the launch of the BFHI (Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative), the “Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding” have been the cornerstone of national and international strategies that protect and promote breastfeeding. The aim of the BFHI has been the optimization of maternity care services by focusing on the adherence of maternity care facilities to good practices to support and protect breastfeeding. Numerous studies have evaluated the impact of the “10 Steps,” employing both observational or intervention study designs, and established higher breastfeeding initiation and longer breastfeeding duration. Nevertheless, suboptimal implementation of the “10 Steps” has been reported in many countries worldwide.
Dimensions of Organizational Commitment and Its Impact on Organizational Learning and Innovation in Agribusiness
Authors: Del Carmen Martínez Serna María , Eduardo Vega Martínez Javier
Published: November 2023

The proposal of this study is to analyze a model in which the effect of each of the dimensions of organizational commitment (OC) on organizational learning (OL) and its influence on innovation (INN) is examined. A questionnaire was applied to managers of 347 agribusiness small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from the three states of the Bajío zone of the Mexican Republic. A quantitative study was carried out, for which a model that presents the different relationships proposed as hypotheses was validated, and with the use of structural equations the results were known. The findings show that affective commitment and continuance commitment have a positive and significant effect on OL, however, normative commitment was found to be non-significant on OL. The last hypothesis of the influence of OL on INN was positive and significant. The findings show that in the agribusiness SMEs examined, the feeling of belonging of employees in the organization should be promoted to a greater extent, as well as the desire to remain in the organization due to the benefits and guarantees that the company offers them to promote learning and the INN in them.
Catheter-Based Therapies: Current Practices and Considerations
Authors: R. Shah Sidra , Golzarian Hafez , M. Patel Sandeep
Published: November 2023

In just over a decade, there have been paradigm shifts globally in the catheter-based therapies available for the management of patients with severe aortic stenosis. The use of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has been a crucial turning point in the field of cardiology as it granted an option for a minimally invasive method to replace a valve for patients who may or may not be suitable for cardiac surgery. In this chapter, we discuss the current practices and considerations as well as the ongoing evolution of catheter-based approaches for TAVR. The predominant focus of the chapter will be on aortic valve device modifications, prototypes of valves, device delivery systems, and the various techniques. However, discussions on indications/contraindications, proper work-up, preparation, equipment and personnel, complications, and post-procedural management & surveillance will also be reviewed.
Boron Nutrition in Horticultural Crops: Constraint Diagnosis and Their Management
Authors: Alila Pauline
Published: November 2023

Out of 30 elements, 16 horticulture crops require them to thrive. All horticultural crops require boron, one of the necessary elements, to function. Extremely trace amounts of boron are present in soils. The majority of the boron that is readily available in humid areas is primarily contained in organic debris, which is broken down by microorganisms for the benefit of plants. In the tropics this element is leached down in soil due to heavy rainfall. As trace element B plays an important role in the growth and development of plants. Various crops exhibit symptoms of deficiency as well as of toxicity when there is even a slight aberration of available boron in soil. Therefore, it is imperative to study and understand the optimum requirement of B by specific crops. Boron also interacts with other elements and manifests in crop plants in various ways. This chapter attempts to understand some of the roles of boron in horticultural crops (fruits and vegetables) and its management for optimum growth and development in crop plants.
Vulnerability and Sea Level Rise in the Coastal Tourism City of Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Authors: Denisse Ruiz-Ramírez Jennifer
Published: November 2023

The coastal tourism city of Playa del Carmen is located in the heart of the Mexican Caribbean’s Riviera Maya. This attractive sun and beach destination has the largest number of hotel rooms in the country (i.e. 10,000 more than Cancún), which has made it Mexico’s main magnet for tourists from the United States (US), Canada and Europe. Playa del Carmen is the second biggest city in the state of Quintana Roo and the fastest-growing metropolis in Mexico and Latin America. Rapid urbanisation and tourism development have altered the city’s natural ecosystems, among them mangroves and wetlands. These changes have disturbed the sedimentary dynamics of the coastal dunes and put more pressure on the barrier reef system. The area’s vulnerability was analysed based on flood scenarios of a 1 metre (m), 2 m and 3 m sea level rise to estimate the total property damage in US dollars.
Fluoridated Water, Effects and Green Removal Techniques
Authors: A. Okello Veronica , N. Ndunda Elizabeth , Esitsakha Abisaki , Jeptoo Mercy
Published: November 2023

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral released by rocks into water, soil and air. It elicits dual effects to organisms. Its beneficial effects are effected through water fluoridation to adjust fluoride content in drinking water to acceptable levels that are deemed to prevent tooth decay. Moreover, fluoride itself may be dangerous at high levels. Excessive fluoride causes dental fluorosis and skeletal fluorosis or even severe form of fluorosis known as “crippling skeletal fluorosis,” characterized by muscle wasting, immobility and neurological problems. Studies on fluoride levels are important so as to protect organisms from the adverse effect of high fluoride exposure. Various conventional and sensor-based technologies have been applied, leading to the detection of fluoride in water systems across the globe, with some regions reporting levels above the World Health Organization (WHO) limits. This necessitates interventions to reduce the levels of fluoride in drinking water. Green technologies are emerging as viable options for fluoride remediation since they are associated with minimal environmental contamination. Knowledge on fluoride in the environment is a key and therefore, this chapter provides an overview of fluorides, their monitoring in the environment, benefits as well as health effects and removal technologies that range from conventional to green technologies.
Heart Transplantation and Mechanical Circulatory Support in Japan – Past, Current and Future Aspects
Authors: Fukushima Norihide
Published: November 2023

The first heart transplantation (HTx) done by Dr. Wada in 1968 misled the general public not to allow to do brain-dead organ transplantation in Japan. It took almost 30 years to issue the Organ Transplantation Act to allow us to perform HTx in Japan. However, this Act required living written consent for brain death and organ donation. Therefore, children younger than 15 years could not donate their organs under brain-dead condition. After 6 years of struggle to revise this Act, the revised Act was issued in 2010 and brain-dead organ donation as well as HTx increased then. But the number in a year has been still extremely less than other developed countries in Japan. Then, we established a special donor management and assessment system to maximize donor organ availability as well as to improve post-transplant outcomes. During these periods, many types of mechanical circulatory supporting (MCS) have been introduced in Japan. Moreover, there have been many developments in immunosuppressive regimens and monitoring to improve outcomes after LVAD implantation and HTx. The chapter will summarize the past, current status, and future aspects of HTx as well as MCS in Japan.
Teachers’ Practices for Supporting Students with Learning Difficulties in Linguistically Diverse Primary Classes
Authors: Funke Omidire Margaret
Published: November 2023

Cultural and linguistic diversity is a common feature across sub-Saharan Africa and South Africa is not an exception. With high levels of linguistic diversity in this context and language constituting a barrier to learning, it important to understand the instructional communicative strategies used by teachers to support students with specific learning disabilities in mainstream classrooms. The study was conducted using a survey design and semi-structured interviews to collect data on the teachers’ awareness, preparation and strategies used with diverse students. The participants were 47 primary school teachers in Pretoria, South Africa. The data was analysed to identify the effective strategies used by the teachers. The findings revealed that the teachers employed cooperative learning, grouping and explicit vocabulary instruction as strategies with the students. Although the majority of the teachers indicated that they felt competent to support the students’ needs in terms of curriculum and standards, cultural differences and socio-emotional development, they still believe that more focused teacher professional development programmes, support from other professional and additional resources were required for better student achievement.
I’ve Found Friends’: Experiences of Persistence and Shared Academic Identities in Friendship Formation for Working-Class University Students
Authors: Shields Sam
Published: November 2023

Friends are critical for students’ academic and social integration at university. However, socio-economic disparities in the likelihood of successful friendship formation have been highlighted with a number of barriers to ‘making friends’ for working-class students identified, with attendant concerns about the impact of this on their retention and progression. Yet, the ways in which working-class students may successfully make friends at university through circumventing barriers is under-researched. This chapter offers a contribution to this gap through semi-structured interviews with 14 second and third year working-class students from three UK institutions. The participants reflected upon what had helped and hindered friendship formation. Eleven of the 14 participants had at least one friend and nine of these participants had been open to making friends when they started university. The thematic analysis highlighted: persistence, proximity to the university and shared academic identities supported forming friendships. The participants believed participating in social activities was a key mechanism for making friends but that was largely perceived to be inaccessible. Future studies should explore how degree programme design can aid in making friends for students unable to access wider university experiences.
Perspective Chapter: Cost-Effectiveness of Caries Preventive Programs
Authors: Davidson Thomas
Published: November 2023

This chapter presents the methodology of health economic evaluations within the field of oral health and more specifically discusses the need for cost-effectiveness analyses of various caries preventive programs. It also deals with prioritized questions of limited resources and effective implementation of caries preventive technologies. As the societal cost of caries preventive interventions may not equal the direct cost of the intervention, the cost-effectiveness results depend also on the perspective and time-horizon of the analysis, and several such key issues are presented. The chapter also presents some basics about simulation modeling techniques and how to deal with uncertainty in health economic evaluations. An example of a cost-effectiveness analysis of a caries preventive program and aspects to consider is furthermore provided, to guide in the economic evaluation. Some evidences of the cost-effectiveness of various caries preventive programs are presented. However, there are some methodological weaknesses in many of the studies, and more research is needed to determine the value of such programs.
Trends in the Accreditation of Medical Laboratories by ISO 15189
Authors: Pereira Paulo
Published: November 2023

In areas such as transfusion, transplantation, and sports medicine, laboratory results are critical to the diagnosis of pathologies. In order to minimize intra- and interlaboratory variability of results, it is equally important to harmonize quality management and technical practices in the medical laboratory. To ensure the competence of medical laboratories, ISO 15189, 3rd edition, establishes international standards. A set of critical principles for effective management and control of technical specifications has been outlined in this document. December 2022 marked the publication of the fourth edition of this standard. An in-depth analysis of the ISO 15189 standard is presented in this chapter.
Cervical Length and Perinatal Outcome
Authors: Tsikouras Panagiotis , Charmanidou Triada , Filiou Stefani , Iatrakis Georgios , Bothou Anastasia , Oikonomou Efthimios , Kyriakou Dimitrios , Chatzi Ismail Mouchterem Aise , Alexiou Alexios , Nikolettos Konstantinos , Kritsotaki Nektaria , Nalbanti Theopi , Nikolettos Nikolaos
Published: November 2023

Prematurity nowadays has taken on significant dimensions. It is a complex medical issue with socio-economic consequences. The estimation of cervical length, assessed during the second trimester of pregnancy, using transvaginal ultrasound, may help to reduce rates of prematurity. By predicting the risk of preterm birth and identifying women who are at high risk of preterm birth, certain practices could be implemented, such as the use of progesterone or cerclage placement. Nonetheless, it remains unsolved the question of certain strategies, such as the use of progesterone in pregnant women with shortened cervical lengths. This work examines the relationship of cervical length during pregnancy to the perinatal outcome.