bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary Phytochemicals: As a Natural Source of Antioxidants
Authors: Singh Makhaik Manju , K. Shakya Arvind , Kale Raosaheb
Published: August 2021

Since time immemorial, plants are used as the source of food and medicine. It can be traced back to the start of humanity. Bringing plant-based food, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, rich in phytochemicals, with beneficial nutrients, opens the door for healthy living. The health benefits are partly attributed to the compounds which possess antioxidants. Several epidemiological observations have shown an opposite relationship between consumption of plant-based foods, rich in phytochemicals, and many diseases including cancer. The majority of the ailments are related to oxidative stress induced by free radicals. Free radicals are extremely unstable with a very short half-life, highly reactive molecule which leads to oxidative damage to macromolecules such as proteins, DNA, and lipids. Free radical induced cellular inflammation appears to be a major contributing factor to cause aging, and degenerative diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hepatic diseases, renal ailments, and brain dysfunction. Free radicals have been caught up in the pathogenesis of several diseases. Providentially, free radical formation is controlled naturally by phytochemicals, through their antioxidant potential which plays a key role in preventing many diseases including cancer by suppressing oxidative stress-induced DNA damage. Keeping these facts in mind, an attempt has been made to highlight the oxidative stress, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant, dietary phytochemicals and their role of in disease prevention and cure.
Modern Privacy Threats and Privacy Preservation Techniques in Data Analytics
Authors: Mohan Rao P Ram , Murali Krishna S. , Siva Kumar AP
Published: August 2021

Today we are living in a digital rich and technology driven world where extremely large amounts of data get generated every hour in the public domain, which also includes personal data. Applications like social media, e-commerce, smartphone apps, etc. collect a lot of personal data which can harm individual privacy if leaked, and hence ethical code of conduct is required to ensure data privacy. Some of the privacy threats include Digital profiling, cyberstalking, recommendation systems, etc. leading to the disclosure of sensitive data and sharing of data without the consent of the data owner. Data Privacy has gained significant importance in the recent times and it is evident from the privacy legislation passed in more than 100 countries. Firms dealing with data-sensitive applications need to abide by the privacy legislation of respective territorial regions. To overcome these privacy challenges by incorporating privacy regulations, we have designed guidelines for application development, incorporating key features of privacy regulations along with the implementation strategies which will help in developing data-sensitive applications which can offer strong and coherent privacy protection of personal data.
Intense Pulse Laser Therapy and Dry Eye Disease
Authors: Niazi Sana , Doroodgar Farideh
Published: August 2021

The high and increasing prevalence of Dry Eye Disease (DED) highlights the need for new treatment treatments and more effective management strategies for this chronic disease. After training, lid grooming, and various ocular lubricants, the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society Dry Eye Workshop II (TFOS DEWS II) Management and Therapy Subcommittee recently proposed Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) as the second phase of therapy. Brief flashes of non-coherent light (400–1,200 nm) are delivered to the skin’s surface using IPL technology. Toyos et al. found in 2005 that rosacea sufferers who were treated with IPL in the periocular region had a significant increase in their dry eye symptoms.
Desalination Brine Management: Effect on Outfall Design
Authors: Shrivastava Ishita , Eric Adams Edward
Published: August 2021

Recently proposed options for desalination brine management involve blending of brine with a lighter effluent or concentrating the brine prior to discharge, either of which can significantly alter the discharge concentrations of contaminants. We evaluate the effect of these brine management strategies on the design of submerged outfalls used to discharge brine. Optimization of outfall design is considered such that adequate mixing can be provided with minimum cost. Designs with submerged and surfacing plume are considered for outfalls located in shallow coastal regions with small currents (quiescent receiving water is assumed). Pre-dilution with treated wastewater is shown to reduce the outfall cost, whereas pre-dilution with seawater or pre-concentration are shown to result in higher costs than the discharge of brine alone. The effect of bottom slope is also explored and the results suggest that multiport diffusers are better suited than single jets at locations with a mild bottom slope.
Mechanisms of Action of Metformin
Authors: Abdulla Mahmood Samira
Published: August 2021

Metformin is the first-choice drug for treatment of type 2 diabetes notably those associated with obesity. It does not only reduce hyperglycemia, but also possesses pleiotropic effects opening the pave for numerous potential clinical applications. In this chapter we illustrate the various mechanisms of metformin action in reduction of hepatic glucose output, improvement of insulin action, restoration of fat metabolism and gut microbiome, reduction of inflammation, upregulation of antioxidant enzymes, and attenuation of tumor growth. Understanding of such mechanisms might propose further clinical applications for metformin.
Curcuminoids: The Novel Molecules of Nature
Authors: Mukherjee Sitabja , K. Kar Santosh
Published: August 2021

Curcuminoids inactivate Nuclear Factor-Kappa B (NF-κB), a key pro-inflammatory transcription factor which is involved in inflammation and immune response in diseases like cancer. NF-κB activation is necessary to determine tumor microenvironment which controls migration and metastatis of cancer cells through chemokines and their receptors and involvement of some cell adhesion molecules. Therefore inhibition of NF-κB by curcuminoids could be a new approach in treatment of cancer by immune modulation. Curcuminoids are not bioavailable and therefore there were problems in efficacy. Now by using bioavailable curcuminoid formulations the problem has been resolved to a great extent. Out of 49 placebo controlled double blind clinical trials using curcuminoids, 17 have been found to be successful. Therefore curcuminoids could be developed as an adjunct therapy for diseases like cancer to save human life.
Roles of Glucose and Sucrose Intakes on the Brain Functions Measured by the Working Ability and Morris Maze
Authors: Takada Akikazu , Shimizu Fumiko , Ishii Yukie , Ogawa M. , Takao Tetsuya
Published: August 2021

Sugars such as glucose or sucrose are considered hazardous foods because their intakes lead to obesity, further causing diabetes mellitus (DM), or cardiovascular diseases. However, glucose is needed for many brain functions such as memory and emotion among others. Glucose induces the secretion of insulin, which is needed for transportation of tryptophan from the blood to the brain. Serotonin, which is converted from tryptophan, is important for mood stability, control of emotion, and feeding is inhibited by serotonin in the hypothalamus. We discuss transportation of glucose from the blood to the glia cells. After glycolysis of glucose in the glia lactic acid is transported to cells such as glutaminergic neurons. After the release from neurons glutamic acid is taken up into glia cells and further to neurons again. Sucrose is degraded into glucose and fructose in the intestine thus intake of sucrose increases plasma levels of glucose. We show that intake of sucrose enhanced memory measured by Morris maze in rats and improved the working ability in humans. Roles of glucose and sucrose intakes are discussed together with the function of serotonin in feeding.
Building Interdisciplinary Teams in Emergency Care to Respond to National Emergencies: Addressing the Opioid Epidemic
Authors: Guerrero Erick , A. Frimpong Jemima , Hearn Angelique , Serret Veronica , K. van Deen Welmoed , Padwa Howard , Trotzky-Sirr Rebecca , Menchine Michael , L. Howard Daniel
Published: August 2021

This study responds to the gap in knowledge in translating team members’ interdisciplinary knowledge to address wicked problems. We use qualitative methodology to understand the team-building process and response to the opioid epidemic in emergency care. We collected data through direct observation of nine health system science researchers and thought leaders as they performed in team-building activities and semi-structured interviews. The cultural exchange framework informed our selection and assessment of team-building activities, and the science of team science (SciTS) framework informed our understanding of promoting interdisciplinary collaborations. We identified six themes representing three areas: (1) Knowledge Building and Strategy Development (need for interdisciplinary understanding of substance abuse and mental health in the emergency department (ED); interdisciplinary approaches to fight the opioid epidemic in the ED); (2) Team Demographics and Collaboration (prescribing and collaboration; the role of interdisciplinary team composition and effectiveness in the ED); and (3) Identity and Relationship Building (role of professional identity in contributing to interdisciplinary research; building effective organizational relationships in the ED). Members’ personal and professional connections are fundamental for developing nuanced interdisciplinary strategies to respond to the opioid epidemic in the ED. We discuss implications for strategies that promote team building and improve treatment practices.
HaruanExtract (Channa striatus) as an Effective Mediator in Promoting Wound Healing
Authors: Farouk Musa Ahmad , Jia Min Cheang
Published: August 2021

Wound healing remains a major issue in surgery. None of the existing treatment modalities in caring for wounds can yet claim to be the holy grail of wound management. Channa striatus, locally known in Malaysia as Haruan, is a freshwater air-breathing carnivorous fish that is proven to influence the different phases of wound healing. As a medicinal fish, not only does Haruan have a high content of amino and fatty acids, which are essential in collagen fibre synthesis during wound recovery, it also abounds in arachidonic acid and polyunsaturated fatty acids that promote prostaglandin synthesis, a vital component of the healing process. Moreover, its antinociceptive effects could potentially reduce wound pain, an important factor in wound healing. Proteomic studies show that a quarter of the total protein detected in freeze- and spray-dried C. striatus extract are actin, myosin and tropomyosin – all molecules that play a role in the wound healing process. Proteomic profiling also reveals that Haruan possesses two types of collagen namely collagen type-I and type-II that confer tensile strength during the healing process. It is proven that collagen along with other components of the extracellular matrix form the granulation tissue which, when contracted, closes the wound and concomitantly aligns the collagen fibres in the extracellular matrix. Hence, it is inferred that Haruan promotes the maturation of granulation tissue, thereby expediting the wound healing process itself. Consequently, it could mediate a faster recovery from surgical wound coupled with a lower incidence of wound infection due to an improved and accelerated wound healing process. Additionally, Haruan has demonstrated its ability in promoting angiogenesis and cell proliferation in wound bed preparation for skin grafting. Furthermore, a Haruan aerosol concentrate can act as a wound dressing at the donor site thereby enhancing the healing process while simultaneously exhibiting some antinociceptive properties. Haruan’s exceptional ability in promoting wound healing together with its potential use in skin grafting would be instrumental in the field of surgery. In essence, the cumulated benefits from all the processes involved would translate into a significant reduction of hospitalisation cost; that would immensely benefit not only the patient, but also the government.
Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Management of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Authors: Yakar Hüseyin
Published: August 2021

Inadequate absorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) at the arachnoid granulation level during circulation results in an increase in CSF in the ventricle and certain neuropsychiatric clinical findings. This syndrome, which often presents with ventricular dilatation, progressive cognitive decline, walking difficulties, and urinary incontinence symptoms in elderly individuals, is called Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). It is projected that as people’s quality of life improves and their life expectancy rises, more old people would develop this condition. Although a clear clinical triad has been defined, the identification of patients with NPH and the application of effective treatment modalities still pose a number of challenges for neurosurgeons today. However, despite all these difficulties, if diagnosed and treated early, the unusual appearance of these symptoms affecting elderly individuals can be prevented and significant improvements in quality of life can be achieved.
Fibroblast-Like Synovial Cell Subsets in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Lomholt Søren , A. Nielsen Morten , P. Aspari Maithri , B. Jørgensen Peter , P. Croft Adam , Buckley Christopher , W. Kragstrup Tue
Published: August 2021

Fibroblasts like synoviocytes (FLS) play several significant roles in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pathophysiology. This chapter will describe known roles of FLS in disease initiation, joint inflammation, disease persistence and joint destruction. It will describe the newly characterized subsets of FLS based on single cell RNA sequencing studies, and their association to specific aspects of the disease. Finally, we will discuss the future of targeting FLS in the treatment of RA. The FLS in the synovial lining layer are identified by surface complement decay-accelerating factor (CD55) along with lubricin and metallopeptidase expression. Pathological activation of this lining layer subset result in bone and cartilage damage in mice. FLS of the sublining layer are often characterized by THY1 expression, but recent studies have highlighted a heterogeneity where several distinct subsets are identified by additional markers. Sublining FLS expressing human leukocyte antigen-DRA (HLA-DRA) produce C-X-C motif chemokine 12 (CXCL12) and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) and seems to constitute a pro-inflammatory subset that is associated with inflammation and tertiary lymphoid structures. Another subset of FLS characterized by CD34 expression may discriminate a common progenitor fibroblast subset. Taken together, studies isolating and characterizing gene expression in synovial FLS report both associations of unknown importance and markers that may impose protective or destructive features. This supports evidence of FLS as active players in RA pathology capable of cellular recruitment, local cellular crosstalk and promotion of joint destruction. These discoveries may serve as an atlas for synovial activation in RA and have identified several potential fibroblast markers for the development of targeted treatment.
Mycorrhizal Fungi and Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Helena Devi Soibam , Bhupenchandra Ingudam , Sinyorita Soibam , Chongtham S.K. , Lamalakshmi Devi E.
Published: August 2021

The 20thcentury witnessed an augmentation in agricultural production, mainly through the progress and use of pesticides, fertilizers containing nitrogen and phosphorus, and developments in plant breeding and genetic skills. In the naturally existing ecology, rhizospheric soils have innumerable biological living beings to favor the plant development, nutrient assimilation, stress tolerance, disease deterrence, carbon seizing and others. These organisms include mycorrhizal fungi, bacteria, actinomycetes, etc. which solubilize nutrients and assist the plants in up taking by roots. Amongst them, arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi have key importance in natural ecosystem, but high rate of chemical fertilizer in agricultural fields is diminishing its importance. The majority of the terrestrial plants form association with Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (VAM) or Arbuscular Mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). This symbiosis confers benefits directly to the host plant’s growth and development through the acquisition of Phosphorus (P) and other mineral nutrients from the soil by the AMF. They may also enhance the protection of plants against pathogens and increases the plant diversity. This is achieved by the growth of AMF mycelium within the host root (intra radical) and out into the soil (extra radical) beyond. Proper management of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal fungi has the potential to improve the profitability and sustainability of agricultural systems. AM fungi are especially important for sustainable farming systems because AM fungi are efficient when nutrient availability is low and when nutrients are bound to organic matter and soil particles.
Housing Challenges in Nigeria
Authors: Ezeanah Uyi
Published: August 2021

One of the policy goals of sustainable development is the delivery of adequate housing for Countries in the global south. This is because in many countries of the global south housing is delivered more through private mechanisms, consequently this poses challenges to adequate housing delivery for most countries of the global south and the Nigeria populace. Some of the challenges faced in providing decent and adequate housing for the people include problems of unskilled workmen, unachievable westernized building standards, housing finance, high level of urbanization, poor policy programmes, and contravention of building standards in addition to poor building materials. This chapter explores housing challenges in Nigeria. In this chapter problems of housing in Nigeria will be explored; the trajectory of the history of national housing delivery and housing policies will be presented. Also, various challenges bedeviling adequate housing delivery in Nigeria is explored and explains how the quality and quantity of housing delivered in Nigeria has affected by these challenges.
Retrospective, Perspective and Prospective of B-Complex Vitamins: Encapsulation of Vitamins and Release from Vitamin-Loaded Polymers
Authors: Nur Parin Fatma
Published: August 2021

Vitamins are regarded as vital nutrients because, when combined, they performed hundreds of functions in the body. They strengthen bones, heal wounds, and boost your immune system. In addition, they transform food into energy and heal cellular damage. In this regard, B-complex vitamins, such as thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin are soluble vitamins that serve as coenzymes in energy metabolism enzymatic activities which building blocks of a healthy body. However, B-complex vitamins are sensitive to light, pH conditions, and temperature. Consequently, they must be encapsulated before they may be used in pharmaceuticals. Recently, it is mainly focused on reducing drug degradation or loss, increase drug bioavailability, limit adverse effects, and improve drug accumulation in the targeted location. To maintain optimum bioavailability during a defined term of therapy, the fraction of drug dosage released from a controlled release product must be significant enough to adjust for the quantity of active drug metabolized and/or eliminated from the body over the same period. Drug release systems also aim to increase the effectiveness of the drug and treat the damaged area. In this chapter, it is aimed to study the production of the vitamin-loaded polymer systems in various forms, such as micro/nanoparticles, micelle, hydrogel, liposome, and nanofiber, as well as release studies in pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.
Effects of Irrigation and Bioproducts of Microbial Origin on Nematode Community and Mycorrhizal Root Colonization in Soybean
Authors: Majić Ivana , Sarajlić Ankica , Raspudić Emilija , Josipović Marko , Kanižai Šarić Gabriella
Published: August 2021

Soybean (Glycine max L. Merr) is the most important legume and threaten by diverse pests and diseases. Complex interactions among rhizosphere organisms are found in all agro-ecosystems. Results of these interactions can be positive and/or negative in terms of plant production. Soil nematode community consists of different trophic groups of nematodes. Nematodes are the most abundant soil invertebrates. Several nematode species penetrate soybean roots as parasites, and can cause loss in yields. Arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi are obligate plant symbionts that colonize soybean roots naturally. The aim of the study was to evaluate effects of irrigation and amendments of bioproducts containing beneficial soil microorganisms (ABM) on nematode community and mycorrhizal root colonization in soybean. Field experiments were conducted in soybean in 2013 in Osijek, Croatia. The plots were either rain fed or irrigated to 60-100% field water capacity (FWC). We tested soil amendments and soil + foliar amendments of three commercial products containing beneficial organisms. Average number of nematodes per soil sample varied from 186,67 (soil ABM in non-irrigated plots) to 297,57 (soil+foliar ABM in plots with 60-100% FWC), and there were no significant differences between the treatments. Bacterial feeding nematodes were the most abundant, while plant parasitic genus Pratylenchus was the most abundant among other plant parasitic nematodes. There was no clear influence of any of the treatments on soil nematode community. Amendments of the bioproducts increased mycorrhizal root colonization in rain fed plots, while it decreased the mycorrhizal root colonization when soybeans were irrigated. Irrigation increased mycorrhizal root colonization in plots without amendments of the bioproducts, and mycorrhizal colonization differed significantly between the sampling dates. Further research is needed to determine if irrigation alters the potential of mycorrhiza to colonize the roots.
Lignocellulosic of Oil Palm Biomass to Chemical Product via Fermentation
Authors: M. Said Farhan , Farhana Hamid Nor , Al-Aamin Razali Mohamad , Fathin Shamirah Daud Nur
Published: August 2021

The world’s largest contribution to biomass comes from lignocellulosic material. Oil palm biomass is one of the most important sources of lignocellulosic material in Asia, with biomass produced four times that of palm oil. Oil palm trunk (OPT), oil palm empty fruit bunches (OPEFB), oil palm frond (OPF), and palm oil mill effluent (POME) are examples of biomass lignocellulosic materials produced. Unfortunately, the majority of waste is disposed of in landfills, causing serious environmental issues such as global warming and the greenhouse effect. These wastes are known to contain a high concentration of cellulose and hemicellulose. Because of its high carbohydrate content, it has a promising future as a feedstock for the fermentation process, which can produce a variety of chemical products at a low cost. This chapter will describe the biochemical products produced from various oil palm biomass via various fermentation processes involving various microorganism strains.
Practical Application Using the Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Oh Yoosoo , Min Seonghee
Published: August 2021

This chapter will survey the clustering algorithm that is unsupervised learning among data mining and machine learning techniques. The most popular clustering algorithm is the K-means clustering algorithm; It can represent a cluster of data. The K-means clustering algorithm is an essential factor in finding an appropriate K value for distributing the training dataset. It is common to find this value experimentally. Also, it can use the elbow method, which is a heuristic approach used in determining the number of clusters. One of the present clusterings applied studies is the particulate matter concentration clustering algorithm for particulate matter distribution estimation. This algorithm divides the area of the center that the fine dust distribution using K-means clustering. It then finds the coordinates of the optimal point according to the distribution of the particulate matter values. The training dataset is the latitude, longitude of the observatory, and PM10 value obtained from the AirKorea website provided by the Korea Environment Corporation. This study performed the K-means clustering algorithm to cluster feature datasets. Furthermore, it showed an experiment on the K values to represent the cluster better. It performed clustering by changing K values from 10 to 23. Then it generated 16 labels divided into 16 cities in Korea and compared them to the clustering result. Visualizing them on the actual map confirmed whether the clusters of each city were evenly bound. Moreover, it figures out the cluster center to find the observatory location representing particulate matter distribution.
Molecular and Transcriptional Regulation of Seed Development in Cereals: Present Status and Future Prospects
Authors: Singh Anuradha , Mathan Jyotirmaya , Yadav Amit , K. Goyal Aakash , Chaudhury Ashok
Published: August 2021

Cereals are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats, oils and protein, making them the world’s most important source of nutrition. The influence of rising global population, as well as the emergence and spread of disease, has the major impact on cereal production. To meet the demand, there is a pressing need to increase cereal production. Optimal seed development is a key agronomical trait that contributes to crop yield. The seed development and maturation is a complex process that includes not only embryo and endosperm development, but also accompanied by huge physiological, biochemical, metabolic, molecular and transcriptional changes. This chapter discusses the growth of cereal seed and highlights the novel biological insights, with a focus on transgenic and new molecular breeding, as well as biotechnological intervention strategies that have improved crop yield in two major cereal crops, primarily wheat and rice, over the last 21 years (2000–2021).
Simulation Modeling of Integrated Multi-Carrier Energy Systems
Authors: Voropai Nikolai , Sеrdyukova Ekaterina , Gerasimov Dmitry , Suslov Konstantin
Published: August 2021

Integrated multi-carrier energy systems give good possibilities to have high effectiveness of energy supply to consumers. Transformation of energy systems under the impact of internal and external factors remarkably strengthens the technological integration of those systems and supports development of integrated multi-carrier energy systems. The concept of energy hub is developed for modeling and simulation of integrated multi-carrier energy systems. Based on previous research, a simulation model of the energy hub is being developed. The basic principles of building a simulation model of an energy hub concept are discussed. Realization of simulation model using Matlab/Simulink is proposed. Simulation results for the integrated electricity and heat systems are explained to demonstrate the capabilities of the simulation energy hub model. A case study for application of the simulation model is discussed.
Radiopharmaceuticals in Modern Cancer Therapy
Authors: Elliyanti Aisyah
Published: August 2021

Nuclear medicine plays a role in oncology. It uses tracers (radiopharmaceuticals) to study physiological processes and treat diseases. The radiopharmaceuticals can be formed as radionuclides alone or radionuclides labeled with other molecules as a drug, a protein, or a peptide. The radiopharmaceutical is introduced into the body and accumulates in the target tissue of interest for therapy or imaging purposes. It offers to study cancer biology in vivo to optimize cancer therapy. Another advantage of radiopharmaceutical therapy is a tumor-targeting agent that deposits lethal radiation at tumor sites. This review outlines radiopharmaceuticals agents in current cancer therapy.
Using Augmented Reality in Different BIM Workflows
Authors: Cristina De Hugo Silva Angela , Gaber Metod , Dolenc Matevž
Published: August 2021

Building Information Modeling is an increasingly common process for managing the entire lifecycle of a building - from design and planning, through the construction phase, to operation and maintenance. The result of this process is a building information model with all the generated data and information about the construction process that can be used in a variety of different end-user scenarios. One such use of the model is in a number of different augmented reality applications. Augmented reality technology is being used to bridge the gap between the digital and real worlds and is rapidly becoming an essential part of modern building data modeling design workflows. The chapter provides an overview of building data modeling and the current state of the art in the use of augmented reality in various user scenarios of building data modeling and explores various challenges that need to be addressed for the adoption of augmented reality technology in architecture, engineering, and construction in general.
Physiological and Cellular Functions of Vitamin K on Cardiovascular Function
Authors: A. Aljafary Meneerah , Alshwyeh Hussah , Alahmadi Nada , Shehzad Adeeb , Tombuloglu Huseyin , Gaymalov Zagit , Homieda Abdelqader , Al-Suhaimi Ebtesam
Published: August 2021

This chapter reviews the physiological and cellular functions of vitamin K in the cardiovascular system based on the latest pre-clinical and clinical evidence. Vitamin K belongs to a family of structurally similar fat-soluble vitamins, actively required by the body for the synthesis of essential proteins as well as regulate blood clotting, bone metabolism and calcium level. The authors emphasize the quintessential association between dietary vitamin K2 and cardiovascular diseases shown in various studies. The association, through the vitamin K - dependent hormones, plays a primary role in regulating calcification of different cell types, especially their role in calcification of the vascular endothelial cells. The consequences of vitamin K deficiency in the vascular system are unfavorable, shown in various clinical studies on statins - well-known inhibitors of vitamin K production in the body. New clinical insights suggest that vitamin K levels in the body and its dietary supplementation play a crucial role in cardiovascular disease prevention. There is negative influence of these antagonist’s pate in vascular composition and functions. Therefore, there is a need for prospective studies to make more in-depth exploration and increase the current understanding of this critical relationship to confidently apply such knowledge to prevent cardiovascular diseases and improve their outcomes.
Application of Ferrites as Electrodes for Supercapacitor
Authors: Soam Ankur
Published: August 2021

Apart from the magnetic properties, ferrites have been considered as efficient electrodes for next generation energy storage devices. This chapter will include applications of spinel ferrites such as MnFe2O4, CoFe2O4, ZnFe2O4 and NiFe2O4 in supercapacitor. In ferrites, the charge storage arises from the fast-reversible surface redox reactions at the electrode/electrolyte interface. In particular, the electrode material with high specific capacitance, wide range of operating potential, low synthesis cost and its availability on the earth are highly desirable to fabricate a supercapacitor. Ferrites with mixed oxidation states have proved as promising electrodes in supercapacitors. In this chapter, we summarize the different synthesis methods of ferrites based nanocomposites and their electrochemical properties for supercapacitor application.
Prebiotic Dietary Fibers for Weight Management
Authors: Gezer Ceren , Okburan Gözde
Published: August 2021

While all prebiotics are accepted as dietary fibers, not all dietary fibers are accepted as prebiotics. Fructo-oligosaccharides and galacto-oligosaccharides are significant prebiotic dietary fibers related with the regulation of weight management. They, selectively stimulate the growth of bifidobacteria and lactobacillus, thus help to modulate gut microbiota. Since bifiodobacteria population are responsible for energy scavenging they are playing a vital role in the weight management. In addition, prebiotics fermented to short chain fatty acids by gut microbiota, whose presence in the large intestine is responsible for many of the metabolic effects and prevent metabolic diseases such as obesity. Short chain fatty acids via different mechanisms also stimulate satiety hormones such as GLP-1 and PYY, and shift glucose and lipid metabolism. To conclude, prebiotic dietary fibers beneficially impact the gut microbiota thus can be effective on regulation of weight management. There is a need for further clinical trials to explain more comprehensively the effects of dietary prebiotics on weight management.
Roost-Tier Preference in Roost-Trees: A Case Study in the Bats Pteropus giganteus
Authors: Mallick Susanta , Hossain Asif , Kumar Raut Srimanta
Published: August 2021

The Indian flying foxes Pteropus giganteus are habituated to spend the day hours roosting in suitable roost trees. They are seen hanging here and there in a roost tree. It is not known whether they have preferred roost sites rather hanging spots in the concerned roost tree. To testify the said hypothesis we selected two roost trees, Albizia lebbeck and Tamarindus indica locating at distant places (75 km apart) in the arid zone of West Bengal, India during the period of last ten years. It is revealed that P. giganteus preferred branches of the roost tree which are locating in the mid-tier of tree. But depending upon the situations the less preferred sites are not spared as these sites are used by the late comers. Statistical tests following application of one-way ANOVA justified significant effect of the roost branch on the abundance of bat population (P<0.05), abundance of bats in the roost branches is highly correlated in respect to the study years (r=0.96) is also justified from the study of normality distribution plot, and the results of GLMM strongly support the hypothesis irrespective of the variables, that is branches of the roost tree and the year of observations (P = 0.0).
Industrial Re-Use of Composites
Authors: Ten Busschen Albert
Published: August 2021

The amount of obsolete composites is increasing on a global scale, for example yacht hulls from a growing leisure industry and large rotor blades from wind energy production. Until now it has not been possible to recycle or disassemble thermoset composites into their original constituent parts of fibre reinforcement and resins. Subsequently a new method of re-use has been developed. This method involves machining the obsolete composite product into strips or flakes for re-use as reinforcing elements which, when combined with fresh resin and fibre, enable the production of a brand new component. This, in effect, preserves and re-uses the mechanical properties of the original obsolete composite. This method has been proven in manufacturing retaining walls, also guide beams for canals, crane mats and bridge decking, all using the strips or flakes from end of life composite products. For use on an industrial scale, a positive business case is imperative. In order to prove the industrial technology, new products have to contain a sufficiently high percentage of re-used composites in combination with automated processing. This has been achieved with “push-pultrusion” which is in essence a further development of the long established pultrusion process.
Contemporary Medical Education: Revolution versus Evolution
Authors: Maximilian Buja Louis
Published: August 2021

Contemporary and traditional approaches to undergraduate medical education (UME) and graduate medical education (GME) are compared and differences are highlighted. A case is made that the contemporary medical education system is being subject to the downside of disruptive innovation with unintended and potentially detrimental long-term outcomes for academic medicine and clinical practice. The impact on various constituencies is discussed. Proposed solutions are presented. The challenges for education of the best possible physicians are daunting but must be met to honor the social contract between medicine and society.
Uncertainty in Pandemic Times
Authors: Lorettu Liliana , Piu Davide , Bellizzi Saverio
Published: August 2021

The Covid-19 pandemic has burst upon us as a general test for humanity, for which we were woefully unprepared. We all faced the pandemic with little knowledge and no experience. It is the first pandemic of our lives. Over this period, we have seen a range of conflicting statements, positions and behaviours. On occasion, the scientific community and health professionals have failed to speak with a single voice to convey the urgency of the situation, as their views got lost and scattered in rivulets of opposing theories ranging from denying to ringing the alarm. So many elements were in place for the ‘perfect storm’ to get unleashed … and it did. And as the pandemic wreaked its havoc, many health workers have paid a high price for their selfless dedication and professionalism. We have worked in the absence of clear-cut guidelines, in situations where even the cornerstones of medical ethics have faltered. On the other hand, the fruitful aspects of uncertainty also emerged.
Heterogeneity of Fibroblasts in Healthy and Diseased Kidneys
Authors: Yoshikawa Takahisa , Sato Yuki , Yanagita Motoko
Published: August 2021

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a worldwide health problem affecting 9.1% of the world’s population. The treatments to prevent the progression of CKD remain limited, however. Resident fibroblasts in the kidneys play crucial roles in the pathological conditions commonly recognized in CKD, such as renal fibrosis, renal anemia, and peritubular capillary loss. Fibroblasts in the kidney provide structural backbone by producing extracellular matrix proteins and produce erythropoietin for normal hematopoiesis under physiological conditions. In the diseased condition, however, fibroblasts differentiate into myofibroblasts that produce excessive extracellular matrix proteins at the cost of the inherent erythropoietin-producing abilities, resulting in renal fibrosis and renal anemia. Pericytes, which are mesenchymal cells that enwrap peritubular capillaries and highly overlap with resident fibroblasts, detach from peritubular capillary walls in response to kidney injury, resulting in peritubular capillary loss and tissue hypoxia. Several reports have demonstrated the beneficial roles of fibroblasts in the regeneration of renal tubules Renal fibroblasts also have the potential to differentiate into a proinflammatory state, producing various cytokines and chemokines and prolonging inflammation by forming tertiary lymphoid tissues, functional lymphoid aggregates, in some pathological conditions. In this article, we describe the heterogenous functions of renal fibroblasts under healthy and diseased conditions.
Organic Matrix of Enamel and Dentin and Developmental Defects
Authors: Lee Eui-Seok , Wadhwa Puneet , Kim Min-Keun , Bo Jiang Heng , Um In-Woong , Kim Yu-Mi
Published: August 2021

The anatomical crown of the tooth is covered by enamel and root is covered by cementum. The dentin forms the major part of the tooth. The dentin structure is very similar to that of the bone both physically and chemically which is why many scientists have wondered about using its properties for developing a novel bone graft material. In contrast with hard and brittle enamel dentin is viscoelastic. The organic structure of dentin which is about 35% is composed of mainly type I collagen embedded in mucopolysaccharides ground substance. Approximately half of the non-collagenous composition consists of hyperphosphorylated proteins. The acidic glycoproteins, Gla-proteins, serum proteins, proteoglycans etc. composes the remaining part. The dentin matrix consists of many similar proteins as that of bone like dentin phosphoprotein, dentin sialoprotein etc.. The matrix also consists of many growth factors. Any external disturbance like an infection, trauma, calcium or phosphorous metabolic changes can lead to defective amelogenesis. Mutational changes can lead to defect in dentin. An early diagnosis can result in a satisfactory treatment plan contributing to functional and esthetical compensation.
Slope stability analysis due to infrastructure development of Ratu Boko site Yogyakarta Indonesia under earthquakes loading
Authors: Rifa'i Ahmad , Asfino Putra
Published: August 2021

The Ratu Boko site is a cultural heritage that has a high historical value and located about 30 kilometers to the east of Yogyakarta. Instability of the slope occurred due to the Yogyakarta earthquake in 2006, and it was indicated by the occurrence of cracks in the resto building that built on the top of the hill. The first reinforcement of the columns and foundations of the outside building was used a reinforced concrete that built-in 2012. The similar reinforcement on the inside building column and foundation was finished in 2017. In this research the displacement of the reinforced foundation, and slope stability generally both in safety factor and deformation were evaluated. The deformation and displacement analysis of the foundation were solved using Finite Element Analysis. On the other hand, for the safety factor of the slope, Limit Equilibrium Method was used. The simulation is divided into several stages, starting from the existing condition, after the first and second reinforcement, and also after increasing load due to development plan. Based on the numerical simulation, the horizontal displacement on the foundation of Plaza Andrawina decreases after the first and second reinforcement was installed. The horizontal displacement is significantly decreased in both foundations for 9.44 mm and 8.03 mm. Furthermore, the safety factor of the slope increases after the first and second reinforcement was installed. The slope safety factor using a maximum acceleration of 0.30g is 1.318. These obtained results are relatively safe from slope failures.
An experimental investigation of the effect of natural fiber treatment and marine environment on Cannabis Sativa/epoxy laminates
Authors: Chethan K.N. , Sharun Hegde , Kumar Rajesh , Padmaraj N.H.
Published: August 2021

Materials have helped in evolving technology to a great extent. Composites have replaced conventional metals/ non-metals because of their lightweight. Natural Fibers have been need of the hour owing to environmental concerns and ease of availability. In this work, Cannabis Sativa fibers were treated with 5% Potassium Hydroxide solution. The laminates were prepared by the Compression Moulding technique by reinforcing treated and untreated fibers with an epoxy matrix material. To access the durability of natural fiber composites in the marine environment, prepared laminates were aged in seawater for 150 days. Tensile, flexural and moisture absorption behavior tests have been performed to estimate the durability in seawater. The data obtained have been compared with pristine treated and untreated fiber reinforced samples. From the results, it has been observed that tensile and flexural behavior of untreated fiber reinforced composites were superior to a treated counterpart in both pristine and aged conditions.
Émotions et argumentaires dans les enjeux territoriaux controversés
Authors: Burlone Nathalie , Mévellec Anne
Published: August 2021

À travers trois cas territoriaux canadiens, nous explorons les émotions mobilisées dans l’espace public afin de montrer comment cette mobilisation est indissociable des arguments invoqués par les acteurs en réaction à des décisions controversées. Les cas du déversement des eaux usées dans le fleuve Saint-Laurent (le « Flushgate ») à Montréal, au Québec, en 2015, de l’embouteillage d’eau par l’usine Nestlé en Ontario et de la controverse autour de la station de ski Jumbo en Colombie-Britannique offrent de bons terrains pour explorer la place et la cible des émotions dans les argumentaires des parties prenantes. Un total de 310 articles de quotidiens canadiens-français et anglais publiés entre 2004 et 2017 ont été examinés par le biais d’une analyse textuelle thématique inductive. Quatre émotions émergent parmi les trois cas : la colère, la joie, la peur et la tristesse. L’analyse transversale montre que si ces émotions sont suscitées en réaction aux décisions controversées, c’est à travers leurs cibles et nuances qu’il est possible de mieux comprendre leur pouvoir dans la sphère publique. Cela nous permet de tirer certaines conclusions concernant le pouvoir des émotions dans les argumentaires des parties prenantes, la nécessaire prise en compte de la densité émotionnelle, l’importance de dépasser la fonction rationnelle classiquement rattachée à l’étude des émotions, ainsi que la pertinence de l’espace médiatique comme source de données.
Les émotions au coeur de la transformation sociale : une lecture à partir de John Dewey
Authors: Petit Emmanuel
Published: August 2021

Le philosophe américain John Dewey a élaboré une théorie des émotions spécifique qui permet d’aborder de façon renouvelée la question de la transformation sociale. La théorie de Dewey est précieuse, car elle constitue un outil appréciable d’unification des théories modernes des émotions : foncièrement non dualiste, elle pose que l’émotion est ce qui nous relie à autrui ou à notre environnement. Loin d’être un phénomène purement intérieur, l’émergence d’une émotion dépend de notre humeur, de notre histoire personnelle, du contexte social et culturel dans lequel nous vivons. La théorie propose ainsi une analyse dynamique qui prend en compte l’histoire de la relation. L’émotion a en particulier un pouvoir de transformation sociale qui s’exerce à l’échelle de l’individu, mais aussi sur le plan collectif. Les institutions, les habitudes, les règles de vie ne sont donc pas figées et évoluent elles-mêmes avec les émotions qu’elles génèrent.

Dans cette analyse, l’émotion est ce qui signale et guide le changement d’habitude. Or, il peut arriver aussi qu’une routine ou une habitude émotionnelle nous fige dans une posture qui empêche toute transformation. L’approche de Dewey nous interroge en conséquence sur la façon dont l’articulation entre les habitudes et les émotions individuelles conduit à une transformation sociale durable et pérenne. Cela dépend-il de la « qualité » de l’émotion ? Le pouvoir des émotions est-il celui d’une émotion « ordinaire » ? Ce pouvoir est-il limité ?