bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Origin and Hydrogeochemistry of Fluoride in the Context of the Yemen Regime
Authors: Alamry Abdulmohsen
Published: June 2022

Groundwater is a natural resource that is used in a variety of fields, which has an impact on its quality. In many places of the world, fluoride-enriched water has become a major public health concern. It is necessary to investigate the geochemical mechanism of fluoride enrichment in drinking water. In Yemen, groundwater is the only supply of water, and its quality is critical because it determines the groundwater’s usefulness for drinking and other domestic purposes. The primary goal of this chapter is to gain a better understanding of factors that influence high fluoride levels in groundwater and its impacts from selected parts of Yemen. The elevated ion concentrations in groundwater are most likely due to water-rock interaction, according to the regional hydrogeochemical investigation. The main findings of this review indicate that the children in the area who get their drinking water from wells with high fluoride levels are suffering from dental and skeletal fluorosis. The population in the research area is at high risk due to excessive fluoride intake, particularly in the absence of knowledge about quantity of fluoride consumption.
Effect of Unilateral Neglect with Basal Ganglia Bleed in Stroke Survivor
Authors: Sinha Ashna , Gupta Meena
Published: June 2022

Basal ganglia accounts to most common site of hemorrhagic stroke (50%). Right hemisphere lesions that are restricted to basal ganglia are responsible for perceptual disorders such as unilateral neglect. Unilateral Neglect is a very common perceptual disorder that occurs after stroke. Unilateral neglect when compared to the stroke severity results in poor overall recovery. It may involve longer hospitalization period, functional dependency, long term disability in ADLs as well as increased risk of falls. Postural imbalance is more prevalent with right hemisphere lesions. Stroke survivors with right hemisphere damage have less ability to ambulate. As the stroke patient’s balance is impaired and can lead to serious consequences like falls. So, if we know the questions related to balance and gait in stroke patients then it would be very important for us to understand these two physical capabilities among the hemiparetic subjects. It is therefore believed that it will lead to a better direction regarding the rehabilitation of these stroke patients. The case report presented here describes the clinical presentation of a right basal ganglia bleed patient who had unilateral neglect.
Increase in BMI and Negative Muscular Strength Trends in Adolescents in 1990 and 2020: Results from the Regional Observatory of Motor Development in Southern Italy
Authors: Monacis Domenico , Colella Dario
Published: June 2022

In the last decades, low levels of physical activity and sedentary lifestyles were associated with the progressive decline in physical fitness in children and adolescents. The present cross-sectional study aims to assess the evolution of muscular strength in adolescents in an Apulia province (Italy), comparing motor performance in 1990 and 2020. The sample consists of 107 adolescents attending secondary school in Lecce in 1990, and 118 attending the same school in 2020 (11–12 years old). After dividing the sample according to gender and BMI, muscular strength was assessed with Standing Long Jump (SLJ) and Medicine Ball Throw 2 kg (MBT). Statistical analysis included ANOVA to highlight significant differences in motor performances in 1990 and 2020 according to gender and BMI, and linear regression to investigate the variance explained by BMI on SLJ and MBT. The results showed (a) lower motor performance in 2020 compared to 1990, (b) the increase in the percentage of overweight-obese from 1990 to 2020, and (c) a negative association between BMI and the SLJ in 2020. Findings suggest the need to assess and monitor physical fitness—as a health status indicator—in adolescents, and promote further opportunities to encourage and expand the time spent in physical activity in Apulia.
Coastal Water Quality: Hydrometeorological Impact of River Overflow and High-resolution Mapping from Sentinel-2 Satellite
Authors: Lombardi Annalina , Paola Manzi Maria , Di Giacinto Federica , Colaiuda Valentina , Tomassetti Barbara , Papa Mario , Ippoliti Carla , Giansante Carla , Ferri Nicola , Silvio Marzano Frank
Published: June 2022

The increase of human settlements and activities in coastal areas is causing a significant impact on coastal water quality. Predicting and monitoring the latter is of fundamental importance for assessing sustainable coastal engineering and ecosystem health. This trend is strongly influenced by the presence of rivers’ mouths, acting as critical links between inland and sea. Forecasting river discharges and overflows, using hydrometeorological modelling, can provide a quantitative estimate of the excessive supply of sea nutrients, favouring algal proliferation and eutrophication phenomena. The river overflow contributes to the increase of the coastal bacterial concentration, contaminating marine bioindicators, such as bivalve molluscs. Coastal water status can be monitored by satellite high-resolution optical spectroradiometers, such as Sentinel-2 constellation, capable to retrieve Chlorophyll-a concentration as well as total suspended sediments, at the resolution of about 10 meters. This remote mapping is complementary to in situ samplings, both essential for supporting decisions on the management of coastal mollusc farming and fishing. In this work, we report the recent advancements in hydrological model-based prediction of river surges and remote sensing techniques exploiting Sentinel-2 imagery as well as their implications on coastal water quality management. As a pilot area, we select the central Adriatic Sea in the Mediterranean basin and the Abruzzo region coastline in Italy.
A Brief Study of Unconventional Variants of GMAW Welding: Parameters, Weld Bead, and Microstructures
Authors: A.S. Rodrigues Lino , P.G. Ribeiro Pedro , da S. Costa Ednelson , dos S. Cabral Tárcio , de M. Braga Eduardo
Published: June 2022

The GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding) process is an electric arc welding technique widely used around the world due to its ease of use, low equipment cost and, mainly, due to the high deposition rate, the quality of the metal of solder, which makes it versatile and susceptible to modification. Thus, variants such as CW-GMAW (Cold Wire–Gas Metal Arc Welding), DCW-GMAW (Double Cold Wire–Gas Metal Arc Welding), and HW-GMAW (Hot Wire–Gas Metal Arc Welding) emerged from the conception of small adaptations to the original process that ended up generating better and more adjusted results than GMAW. Thus, variations of some parameters will be shown and their respective effects on the weld bead geometry, dilution, penetration, deposition rate, in addition to the effects on macro and microstructure. This provides the possibility of using the variants in different types of applications in the industry in general. Where the application in narrow 4 mm chamfer has already been observed, reduction of residual stresses, increase in fatigue resistance and coatings with special alloys.
Stress-induced Anger and Hypertension: An Evaluation of the Effects of Homeopathic Treatment
Authors: S. Bagadia Leena , More Arun
Published: June 2022

Excessive pressure or demand on an individual resulting in adverse reaction affecting mentally and physically is termed “stress.” Chronic stress has been assumed as a risk factor for hypertension which constitutes an important public health issue. According to the latest data, it affects 30% of the world population. Hypertension (HTN) rates are not decreasing despite improved detection and treatments. People experiencing increased anger, anxiety, depression brought on by globalization, and stress leading to high-risk behaviors are increasing many folds. There is the possibility that blood pressure (BP) may positively correlate with anger variables leading to essential hypertension (EHT). Homeopathy considers the human being having an integrated mind and body. It works holistically, helping the patient cope with environmental and psychosocial changes. The following research is one such example. It was conducted on 172 patients (108 males and 64 females) randomized and divided into intervention and control groups. The intervention group was administered individualized homeopathic treatment. We found that most EHT patients, especially those with a family history of HTN, suppress their anger and hostile impulses. Most appropriate homoeopathic medicine lessens anger and thereby has a reduction in elevated BP. Also, it relieves associated ailments.
Blood Groups: More than Inheritance of Antigenic Substances - Susceptibility to Some Diseases
Authors: Bitty Azachi Williams , Mathias Dakop Kuschak
Published: June 2022

Blood group antigens represent polymorphic traits inherited among individuals and populations. The objective of this chapter is to review articles that have reported; the association between blood group antigens and susceptibility to some diseases. Findings showed that O blood group had a greater frequency of severe infections such as E coli, cholera and blood group A was associated with incidence of smallpox and some bacterial infections. These are principally based on presence or absence of “H-like” and “A and B-like” antigens markers. Antigens A, B and H are connected to N-glycans of vWF and reduces the half-life of the protein (10 hours) for group O while non-O groups, 25 hours. The loss of A, B, and H antigens as malignancy progresses was linked to potential metastasis. Similarly, some tumors have A or A-like antigens this explains the propensity of group A to develop tumors. Blood type incompatibility between mother and foetus sensitizes the mother to develop alloantibodies that could potentially cause death of the foetus in utero, a condition known hydrops. Reviewed articles have reported close link between blood group antigens and susceptibility diseases. More studies are required to rationalize the mechanism associated to this.
Climate-Resilient Technologies for Enhancing Productivity of Soybean in India
Authors: Asewar Bhagwan , Jagtap Megha , Shinde Gopal , Mehetre Shivaji , Pendke Madan
Published: June 2022

Soybean (Glycine max [L.]) contributes 25% of the global edible oil. Globally, soybean area and production in 2020 were 127.9 million ha and 379.8 million tons, respectively. Soybean has got early acceptance as an important oilseed crop in India in with approximately 10–11 million ha area. Now, it has become a major crop by replacing the traditional and contemporary popular crops in nearly all parts of India. Climate change effects, like change in Monsoon pattern, increase in dry spell frequencies, heavy rainfall event during crop growth period, extended monsoon at harvesting stage, has drastically influenced the productivity of soybean, which needs attention to identify the constraints and accordingly adapt the climate-resilient technologies. The recent research conclusions revealed that the climate-resilient technologies like selecting suitable varieties, sowing within proper sowing window, broad bed furrow (BBF) method of sowing, dry spell management practices to reduce moisture stress, rainwater harvesting, and soil conservation through BBF method of planting, reuse of harvested and stored rainwater during moisture stress conditions, the adaptation of micro-irrigations systems for protective irrigation, intercropping in soybean, resource conservation techniques can mitigate the effects of climate change and enhance the productivity of soybean in a sustainable manner.
Maize (Zea mays L.) as a Model System for Plant Genetic, Genomic, and Applied Research
Authors: N. Kushanov Fakhriddin , S. Turaev Ozod , A. Muhammadiyev Oybek , F. Umarov Ramziddin , M. Rakhimova Nargiza , N. Mamadaliyeva Noilabonu
Published: June 2022

Maize leads the world’s cereals after wheat and rice in terms of cultivated area, because of its economic importance for the production of both food purposes and raw materials for industry. The maize genus Zea L. belonging to the family of cereals (Poaceae or Graminaceae) includes six species. However, all cultivated maize belongs specifically to Zea mays L. subsp. mays (2n = 2× = 20) is the only cultivated species of the genus Zea L., and the remaining species of this genus are mostly wild herbaceous plants. In addition to meeting the nutritional needs of the world’s population, Zea mays L. is one of the classic model objects of genetic and physiological research, as well as in the field of breeding not only cereals but also other important agricultural plants. Especially, this model object has been used in genetic mapping of loci of quantitative traits and genes associated with economically valuable traits, such as yield, resistance to diseases and pests, grain quality, etc. in cereal crops.
Anesthesia for Hip Replacement
Authors: Montomoli Jonathan , Mitri Raffaele , Gamberini Emiliano
Published: June 2022

The improvement of surgical and anesthesia techniques has markedly extended the range of patients undergoing hip replacement both in terms of age and comorbidity. Hence, the risk of perioperative complications has increased ranging from hemorrhages, postoperative delirium, incomplete pain control, hypotension, and others. In this regard, a personalized approach from the preoperative evaluation to the choice of the type of anesthesia and the pain control strategy is preferred in order to minimize the risk of complications and accelerate patient’s recovering time. In this chapter, we aim to describe different options and propose different possible approaches for the possible scenarios in the light of the existing evidence in the field.
Effect of on- and off-Farm Factors on Animal Stress and Meat Quality Characteristics
Authors: Ijaz Muawuz , Mahmood Mubarik , Kashif Yar Muhammad , Bakhsh Muhammad , Ullah Sana
Published: June 2022

Animal handling is a growing issue of concern in many countries around the world. Developed countries in particular show keen interest in the way animals are produced for processing. In such countries, animal welfare is increasingly becoming a primary matter in the process of keeping animals either as pets or for food and at homes or on farms. Not only are they protecting the rights of these animals but compromised handling of animal has negative effects on the carcass and overall meat quality characteristics. Poor quality animal and meat will have poor processing properties, functional quality, eating quality, and more likely to be unaccepted by consumers. Lesser attention has been paid by most developing countries on this issue. By this book chapter, it is expected that developing countries also take interest in proper on-farm and pre-slaughter handling of animals due to their beneficial effect on meat and carcass qualities.
Host-Microbiota Interplay in IBD: The Emerging Role of Extracellular Vesicles, Perinatal Immune Priming, and Gut-Resident Immune Cells
Authors: Mishra Surbhi , Saarnio Juha , Reunanen Justus
Published: June 2022

The human gut is populated by innumerable microorganisms which govern equilibrium and well-being. Fluctuations in the composition and function of intestinal microbiota have been shown to result in persistent ailments such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Yet, conclusive cause-effect studies must be formulated in this context. This chapter features current advancements in the field of host-microbiota interactions and their association with IBD. The role of bacterial extracellular vesicles (BEVs) and modification of intestinal EV proteomes with distinctive host-microbiota interactions in IBD, perinatal immune priming in offspring from maternal IBD and the function of gut-resident immune cells in IBD have been discussed here. These compelling developments would be crucial in expanding our understanding of IBD pathogenesis, detection of novel diagnostic repertoire and therapeutic targets for this disease.
Protein Prenylation and Their Applications
Authors: R. Surana Khemchand , B. Pawar Ritesh , A. Khairnar Ritesh , K. Mahajan Sunil
Published: June 2022

Prenylation is a universal covalent post-translational modification found in all eukaryotic cells, comprising attachment of either a farnesyl or a geranylgeranyl isoprenoid. Prenyl group is important for protein-protein binding through specialized prenyl-binding domains. Farnesylation and geranyl geranylation are very important in C-terminal anchoring of proteins to the cell membrane. These post-translational modification are most often catalyzed by either protein farnesyl transferase (FTase) or protein geranyl geranyl transferase-I (GGTase-I). These enzymes typically recognize a CaaX motif, where “C” is the cysteine to be prenylated and the remainder of the motif leads to recognition by FTase and/or GGTase-I. Prenylation plays vital role in diversification of natural products flavonoids, coumarins, and isoflavonoids. Many prenylated compounds have been identified as active components in medicinal plants with biological activities, such as anti-cancer, anti-spasmodic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-androgen activity. Due to their beneficial effects on diseases, prenylated compounds are of particular interest as lead compounds for producing drugs and functional foods. In this chapter, we concise the prenylation reactions of aromatic compounds such as indole, ketones, and aldehydes that may results to lead molecules discovery. Prenylation reactions are applied on azoles, anilines, thioles, indole, α-carbonyl bromides, and aryl bromide. There are several drugs that are obtained from prenylation, i.e. (-)-17-hydroxy-citrinalin, (+)-stephacidin, prenylated. In this text there is no referencing, it is a chemical name, so keep as it is.
Petroleum Geochemistry
Authors: Mei Mei , Katz Barry
Published: June 2022

Petroleum geochemistry has entered its second period of growth. The first period, largely associated with conventional oil and gas, occurred in the 70s and 80s when the classic works on source rock characterization, biomarkers, depositional systems, and petroleum generation, including kinetics and basin modeling were the focus. The second period began slightly after the turn of the century as a consequence of the “unconventional resource” revolution and the interest in distressed resources developed, the focus turned to non-hydrocarbon contaminants, new interest in hydrocarbon expulsion and retention, identification of tight rock pay zones, and the development of organic porosity. This chapter will discuss source rock characterization and formation, petroleum generation, expulsion, and retention, correlation among hydrocarbon accumulations and to their source rock(s), and organic porosity.
Phytophthora capsici on Capsicum Plants: A Destructive Pathogen in Chili and Pepper Crops
Authors: A. Moreira-Morrillo Anthony , Monteros-Altamirano Álvaro , Reis Ailton , R. Garcés-Fiallos Felipe
Published: June 2022

Capsicum from tropical and subtropical America, is an important genus for the nutritional, economic and cultural values of its species. At the same time, the Capsicum species are affected by diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi and pseudofungi, in particular the oomycete Phytophthora capsici. This phytopathogen causes great damage and losses in different Capsicum species, because it infects all plant organs causing root, crown and fruit rot; and, leaf blight. The polycyclic dispersion through zoospores and sporangia, the limited availability of resistant genotypes, and the reduced diversity of effective oomyceticides (fungicides), make P. capsici one of the most complex phytopathogens to be managed worldwide specially in field conditions. However, successful management of P. capsici depends on the knowledge of the pathogen, its interaction with the susceptible host and the methods of control used. Thus, this chapter addressed the etiology, symptomatology, occurrence and management of the disease. Additionally, the cycle of the disease is discussed in a holistic and simple way.
The Ambiguous Role of Macrophages in Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Kovačić Dženan , Softić Adna , Salihović Adna , Jotanović Jovana
Published: June 2022

Tuberculosis persists among the top 10 causes of death globally; causing 1.7 million deaths and 10 million new infections in 2018. Approximately 1/3 of the global population is infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis; 10% of which are expected to develop active TB at some point in their life. The high burden of tuberculosis in the world is owed to lack of adherence to treatment, diminishment in treatment options and post-infection bacterial metabolic dormancy called latent TB (LTB), along with logistic, financial and political obstacles impeding successful TB control programs globally. Infections with M. tuberculosis leave no component of the immune system unengaged, hallmarked with granulomatous pathology as a function of the adaptive immune system. The hallmark of infection is a granulomatous pathological course, with the purpose of containing the difficult-to-kill bacilli, although the nature of the granuloma remains moot. The cells responsible for granuloma formation are professional alveolar macrophages, which seem to have both a beneficial and detrimental role in TB immunopathology. Herein, we discuss relevant immunological intricacies of macrophages in TB, ranging from immunogenetics, receptor-mediated uptake, macrophage-mediated immunopathology and the infamous tuberculosis granuloma.
The Use of Native Flora/Herbal Products in Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Infection: A Global Perspective Study
Authors: Nneka Alaribe Nnadozie Franca , Tankeu Sidonie , Nwaozuzu Daisy
Published: June 2022

Human papilloma virus (HPV) is associated with 99% cause of cervical cancer with 20.2 million women at risk of having it in South Africa. Vaccine is the major way to prevent HPV infection. However, the vaccination program is not within easy reach for all that need it. Plants are an important source of medicines for African people, some herbal medicines are widely used for many ailments such as malaria, respiratory problems, pains, infection, and inflammation. There is limited information regarding the efficacy of medicinal plant use as there lack human studies, and no proper dosing measures are available. This study evaluated the global perspective of people over using medicinal plant products/plant-derived bio-therapeutics in the management of HPV infection. A survey method (Survey Monkey) distributed through social media was used for 3 months. 117 people participated and data realized from the study indicated their approval and readiness to use medicinal plant products.
Left Main Coronary Artery Disease: Current Updates on CABG versus PCI
Authors: Kasturi Sridhar
Published: June 2022

Most patients of LMCA disease are symptomatic and at high risk of cardiovascular (CV) events, since occlusion compromises flow, and it is associated with >20% mortality at 1 year. Coronary artery by-pass graft (CABG) is the main mode of revascularization procedure for significant left-main coronary artery (LMCA) disease unless contraindicated or unsuitable for surgery, and in patients with complex coronary anatomy. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of left-main (LM) is emerging as an alternative to CABG especially in patients with low syntax score with suitable coronary anatomy for PCI, and life-saving emergency situations like acute coronary syndrome (ACS) with hemodynamically unstable, and high risk group patients who are unsuitable coronary anatomy for grafting or due to associated co-morbidities.
Replacement of Diesel Fuel by DME in Compression Ignition Engines: Case for India
Authors: Gautam Anirudh , Singh Ankita
Published: June 2022

Decarbonising of transport, industrial and all sectors of economy is a necessity to stop or reverse global warming. Use of batteries, fuel-cells, hybrid topographies with smaller IC engines and use of alternative fuels like methanol, ethanol, DME in the IC engines are some of the ways through which emission of green-house gases can reduced/eliminated. Diesel engines are highly efficient due to higher compression ratios and are used in the heavy-duty transportation vehicles. DME is a single molecule fuel having high cetane number and which can be used as a drop-in fuel on the diesel engines albeit with retro-fitment of these engines with a new pressurized fuel system. DME with a chemical formula CH3-O-CH3 can be produced by different feedstocks such as coal, natural gas, biomass and bio-waste and municipal solid waste. India has a large reserve of high ash coal and generates high quantities of biomass and MSW, all of which can be converted to DME by use of clean production technologies. India’s transport and industrial sectors consume about 100 billion liters of diesel fuel per year produced entirely from imported petroleum. This amount of diesel can be replaced by indigenously produced DME from locally available coal, biomass and MSW.
Including Religion in Rational-Emotive Behavior Counseling
Authors: Opre Adrian , Macavei Bianca
Published: June 2022

Cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT) have been disseminated worldwide. This therapeutic approach is being considered some of the best empirically supported treatments for a large variety of psychological disorders. The core tenet of CBT is to restore mental health and promote psychological well-being by focusing on cognitive dysfunctional patterns that cause emotional distress and maladaptive behaviors. First, a general view of the basic principles and origins of cognitive-behavior therapies constitute the basis on which the chapter is built. Thereafter, a more in-depth discussion on specific forms of CBT, namely cognitive therapy (CT) and rational-emotive behavior therapy (REBT) provides further support for the integration of religion and psychological intervention. Next, a thorough analysis of the theoretical premises of this integration and the ways in which religious beliefs and psychological mechanisms merge in practice is provided. Finally, the REBT conceptualization, techniques, and strategies are illustrated in a practical situation; here, the relationship between religious beliefs and practices on the one hand, and irrational beliefs, dysfunctional emotions, and maladaptive behaviors, on the other hand, is easy to observe. The example provided aptly illustrates the many ways in which REBT can incorporate religious principles, beliefs, and practices; all of them, advocating for the harmonious relationship between Christian values and REBT.
Surface Hardening of Stainless Steel
Authors: Paulo Tschiptschin André , Eduardo Pinedo Carlos
Published: June 2022

The addition of nitrogen to stainless steel improves mechanical and corrosion properties. Nitrogen-bearing stainless steel (HNSS) is a new corrosion-resistant alloy class exhibiting better tribological properties. High-pressure and powder metallurgy techniques were developed for the fabrication of HNSS. Solid-state routes allow nitrogen introduction through thermochemical, implantation, or plasma surface treatments. High-temperature gas nitriding (HTGN), carried out in an N2 atmosphere in the 1000°C range, allows N uptake, obtaining thick, ~0.5–1.0 wt.% N austenitic cases. HTGN is different from conventional nitriding, performed in the 500°C range, where intense CrxNy precipitation occurs, impairing the corrosion resistance. Low-temperature plasma nitriding (LTPN) introduces more N in solution, and colossal supersaturated expanded phases (~45 at.%N) are formed. N supersaturation and compressive stresses increase the hardness of the surface layer to 10–14 GPa. Ferritic, martensitic, duplex, and precipitation-hardened stainless steels can be surface-treated by LTPN, obtaining expanded ferrite and martensite. However, single LTPN stainless steel may prematurely fail when submitted to high loading, as the thin and hard expanded layers collapse due to lack of load-bearing capacity. Duplex-nitriding treatment (HTGN + LTPN) results in a thick nitrogen-rich hardened austenite substrate layer, granting mechanical support and adhesion to the expanded austenite layer.
Vehicle-To-Anything: The Trend of Internet of Vehicles in Future Smart Cities
Authors: Niu Mingbo , Huang Xiaoqiong , Wang Hucheng
Published: June 2022

This chapter includes five parts—the concept of vehicle-to-anything (V2X), introduction of visible light communication (VLC), free-space optical communication (FSO), and terahertz (THz). The first part will present the concept of V2X. V2X is the basis and fundamental technology of future smart cars, autonomous driving, and smart transportation systems. Vehicle-to-network (V2N), vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I), and vehicle-to-people (V2P) are included in V2X. V2X will lead to a high degree of interconnection of vehicles. The concept of VLC is presented in the second part. Intelligent reflecting surface (IRS) for nano-optics and FSO communication is introduced in the third part. At the same time, IRS keeps pace with the phase in communication links. Prospects of THz in glamorous cities are introduced in the fourth part. These new technologies will lead to trends in the future. A comparison of optical communication technology and applications in V2X is described in the fifth part.
Coronary-Coronary Bypass Grafting
Authors: Bazylev Vladlen , Tungusov Dmitry , Mikulyak Artur
Published: June 2022

This work is devoted to the original method of myocardial revascularization—coronary-coronary bypass grafting. Coronary artery bypass grafting can be considered as an independent method in an exceptional case or as an addition to the standard coronary artery bypass grafting technique. This paper presents the technique for performing CCBG, as well as the early and long-term results of the main studies. Attention is also paid to the advantages and disadvantages of this method from the standpoint of physiology and physics.
Tallest Timber Buildings: Main Architectural and Structural Design Considerations
Authors: Emre Ilgın Hüseyin , Karjalainen Markku
Published: June 2022

Since the end of the twentieth century, the question of how to deal with the increasing scarcity of resources has been at the center and the need for renewable materials has come to the fore, especially in the construction sector. A possible solution to these environmental challenges is represented by the development of engineered timber products, which allowed the realization of tall timber structures. Their main drivers are decarbonization, forest management, and timber life cycle, urbanization, and densification, productivity in the construction industry, and the benefits of using timber indoors. In this context, this chapter will analyze data from the 10 tallest timber building cases to enhance the understanding of contemporary trends. Data are collected through literature surveys and case studies to analyze the main architectural and structural design concerns to contribute to the knowledge about the growing tall timber structures around the world. By revealing up-to-date features of the tallest timber towers, it is thought that this chapter will contribute to aiding and directing key construction professionals such as architects, structural engineers, and contractors, in the design and construction of future tall timber building developments.
Green Extraction Techniques for Phytoconstituents from Natural Products
Authors: Raj Bincy , John Soosamma , Chandrakala Venkatesh , Harini Kumari Gajula
Published: June 2022

The use of green extraction techniques for extracting phytoconstituents from natural sources minimizes the amount of solvents needed and the amount of waste generated during the extraction process. Traditional extraction processes generate a lot of solvent waste, which causes a lot of environmental and health issues. Furthermore, by employing automated modern processes, exposure to solvents and vapor is reduced. Green extraction is based on the analytical procedures that employ less energy, allow the use of different solvents and sustainable natural products, and provide a safe and superior extract/product. According to a life cycle analysis of waste created in Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) manufacturing plants, solvent-related waste accounts for 80% of the waste. In case other pharmaceutical companies generate equal amounts of solvent waste, addressing solvent selection, use, recovery, and disposal will go a long way toward tackling the issue. Solvent considerations will feature regularly in the case histories of the drug development process. Natural extracts comprise phytoconstituents such as proteins, lipids and oils, dietary fibres, carbohydrates, antioxidants, essential oils and fragrances, and colours, and can be found in wide variety of plant materials. In this chapter, we will discuss principles, techniques, and solvents used for green extraction techniques of phytoconstituents.
Exosomes Therapy in Zoonoses
Authors: Ojeda Fernando , Barreto Gabriela , J. Posadas Sinforiano
Published: June 2022

Exosomes are smaller extracellular vesicles (EVs) involved in complex intercellular communication, which were first discovered in sheep reticulocytes. Exosomes include two subpopulations, large (Exo-L, 90–120 nm) and small (Exo-S, 60–80 nm) exosome vesicles. Recently studies of RNA viruses including SARS-CoV-2 have demonstrated that exosomes release regulatory factors from infected cells and deliver other functional host genetic elements to neighbouring cells, and these functions are involved in the infection process and modulate the cellular responses. This review provides an overview of the biogenesis, composition, and some of the most striking functions of exosome secretion in zoonoses and identifies physiological/pathological areas in need of further research as well as potential therapeutic agents in zoonotic disease.
Dual Antiplatelet Therapy
Authors: Orok Edidiong , Adeniyi Funmilayo , Akawa Oluwole
Published: June 2022

Antiplatelet agents have been utilized to enhance outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndrome for decades and are increasingly valued for their antithrombotic as well as anti-inflammatory characteristics. Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is a combination of aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor. Different modes of action are employed by these drugs. Aspirin is an anti-inflammatory medication that also has antioxidant characteristics, while P2Y12 inhibitors act by inhibiting thrombocytes activation/aggregation. There are two types of P2Y12 inhibitors: thienopyridines and nucleoside/nucleotide compounds. Nucleoside/nucleotide derivatives are reversible direct-acting P2Y12 receptor antagonists that do not need hepatic metabolism, whereas thienopyridines are competitive and irreversible P2Y12 inhibitors. In patients with acute coronary syndrome or undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention for stable coronary artery disease, dual antiplatelet therapy, which contains aspirin and a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor, has consistently been shown to reduce recurrent major adverse cardiovascular events compared to aspirin monotherapy, but at the cost of an increased risk of major bleeding. This chapter is meant to elaborate on dual antiplatelet therapy highlighting the current guidelines and recent evidences on the indications, dosing, and duration of treatment using dual antiplatelet therapy.
Fluoride Geochemistry and Health Hazards: A Case Study
Authors: Rao Gudipudi Babu
Published: June 2022

This chapter was aimed to identify the relationship between fluoride (F) enrichment and prevalence of endemic fluorosis in a rural area of Nuzendla mandal in Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh, India. The concentration of F varies from 0.5 to 12.4 mg/L in pre-monsoon groundwater and 0.14 to 16.0 mg/L in post-monsoon groundwater in the collected and analyzed fifty water samples. Dental survey conducted in the study area based on Dean Classification Index indicated different degrees of dental fluorosis due to the varying concentrations of F in drinking water. The significant positive correlation is identified between the F content of groundwater and urine fluorosis-affected children. The F level in urine suggests that a high level of endemic fluorosis is prevalent in the Nuzendla mandal due to the consequence of a higher concentration of F in underground aquifers. This study concludes that the high concentration of F in groundwater leads to increased dental deformities among the surveyed people and also urinary F is a good indicator of community exposure F.
Modern Refractive Lenticular Femtosecond Laser Corneal Surgery for Correction of Myopia and Myopic Astigmatism
Authors: Bohač Maja , Jagić Mateja , Gabrić Doria , Zerjav Lucija , Popović Suić Smiljka , Dekaris Iva
Published: June 2022

Small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) is becoming the procedure of choice in treating myopia and myopic astigmatism. With great comparability in terms of visual outcome with the femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (FsLASIK) procedure, the method is characterized by better patient satisfaction and less postoperative dry eye induction. Moreover, it has the advantages of better eye surface stability and biomechanical strength compared to FS-LASIK. The method is now globally accepted among refractive surgeons. Patients suitable for the procedure must meet criteria for keratorefractive procedures generally. Our current clinical experience suggests that the lenticule extraction procedure delivers promising refractive results in terms of predictability, efficacy, and safety.
Could Alterations in the Infant Gut Microbiota Explain the Development of Noncommunicable Diseases from the DOHaD Perspective?
Authors: Esther Mejia-Leon Maria , Argüelles-Lopez Alejandra , Briseño-Sahagun Paulina , V. Aguayo-Patron Sandra , Maria Calderon de la Barca Ana
Published: June 2022

Obesity and its complications are a global public health problem with increasing childhood prevalence. The developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD) theory explain the maintenance of health or disease development throughout life, related to early life exposures. Although it arises from epidemiological observations, its support for epigenetics is strong. In this chapter, we address the importance of maternal diet in prenatal development, as well as the establishment of the infant microbiota and its postnatal regulating factors. According to the DOHaD theory, breastfeeding and other environmental factors are modulators or enhancers of the epigenetic mechanisms, which explain the increased incidence of noncommunicable diseases. We will discuss the molecular mechanisms related to the microbiota products, their effects on gene expression, and the pathophysiology of the disease. Finally, we will raise the areas of opportunity in childhood for preventive purposes, including the potential role of the use of prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics in early life.
Vortex Analysis and Fluid Transport in Time-Dependent Flows
Authors: Espa Stefania , Grazia Badas Maria , Cabanes Simon
Published: June 2022

In this contribution, we present a set of procedures developed to identify fluid flow structures and characterize their space-time evolution in time-dependent flows. In particular, we consider two different contests of importance in applied fluid mechanics: 1) large-scale almost 2D atmospheric and oceanic flows and 2) flow inside the left ventricle in the human blood circulation. For both cases, we designed an ad hoc experimental model to reproduce and deeply investigate the considered phenomena. We will focus on the post-processing of high-resolution velocity data sets obtained via laboratory experiments by measuring the flow field using a technique based on image analysis. We show how the proposed methodologies represent a valid tool suitable for extracting the main patterns and quantify fluid transport in complex flows from both Eulerian and Lagrangian perspectives.
Perovskites in Next Generation Memory Devices
Authors: Thien Soon How Gregory , Arif Mohd Sarjidan Mohd , Tong Goh Boon , Kar Yap Boon , Mahmoud Eyas
Published: June 2022

Although perovskites are widely employed in other industries such as photovoltaics and light-emitting diodes (LEDs), digital technology is rapidly gaining pace in today’s market and shows no signs of abating. As a result, the progress of system memory and memory storage has accelerated into new inventions. The invention of dynamic Random-Access Memory (RAM) in the 1960s laid the groundwork for today’s multibillion-dollar memory technology sector. Resistive switching (RS) capabilities of perovskite-based materials such as perovskite oxides and metal halides have been extensively studied. Chemical stability, high endurance, quick writing speed, and strong electronic interaction correlation are some of the benefits of employing perovskites in RS devices. This chapter will investigate the progress of system memory and memory storage employing perovskites, the advantageous properties of perovskites utilized in memory devices, the various types of RS employing perovskites, as well as the research challenges that perovskite-based memory systems face in future commercial development.
Immunopathology of the Sarcoidosis
Authors: Mehrabi Nasab Entezar , Shamsadin Athari Seyyed
Published: June 2022

Sarcoidosis as a multisystemic inflammatory granulomatous disorder is characterized by local immune hyperactivation, inflammation, and granuloma formation. Many organs may be involved by sarcoidosis. The pathogenesis of sarcoidosis may be autoimmune response to an antigenic exposure. The lung is affected in the vast majority of patients, and common symptoms in lung sarcoidosis are nonproductive cough and dyspnea. The death cause is typically severe pulmonary complications, involvement of myocardia, and central nervous system. Sarcoid granuloma is comprised of epithelioid, mononuclear, and CD4+ T cells with a few CD8+ T cells. It was confirmed that there is association between HLA Class I and II genes as risk factors with sarcoidosis. Some alleles have protective effect against immunopathology of sarcoidosis, and some others are risk factor. The immune mechanisms of sarcoidosis are not completely understood. The inflammasome signal transductions pathway plays a critical role in sarcoidosis pathogenesis. Sarcoidosis treatment could potentially benefit from simultaneous modulation and fine-tuning of M2/Th2 and M1/Th1 pathways rather than targeting one pathway or the other. Future experimental investigations and clinical studies into sarcoidosis and all types of sarcoid reaction may increase our understanding.
Management of Renal Failure in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Derudas Daniele , Concu Claudia
Published: June 2022

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a monoclonal plasma cell neoplasia that commonly involves the kidney. Renal impairment is a serious complication during the course of the disease, and it is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The most frequent mechanism of injury is represented by the precipitation of monoclonal free light chains (FLCs) in the distal tubule of nephron, defining a dramatic condition known as light chain cast nephropathy (LCCN). A prompt and early identification of the cause of renal disease, particularly in case of acute kidney injury (AKI), is mandatory for its effective management, avoiding the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). In case of LCCN, in order to achieve renal recovery, it is needed, besides preventive measures, urgent intervention based on vigorous rehydration, correction of precipitating factors and effective anti-plasma cell chemotherapy. Currently, the association of the Proteasome Inhibitor Bortezomib with high-dose of Dexamethasone represents the standard association in newly diagnosed patients. The addition of another drug such as Cyclophosphamide or an Immunomodulatory Drugs may improve FLCs reduction but could be toxic. Interesting is the role of the newest therapeutic agents, particularly anti-CD38 Monoclonal Antibodies, whose efficacy and tolerance have been documented in patients without renal impairment. Despite controversial results from randomized studies, recent data suggest that in patients with LCCN and AKI requiring dialysis the association of systemic therapy with an extra-corporeal approach of FLCs removal, may increase renal response recovery rates. In this chapter, it is summarized physio-pathological basis of MM renal impairment, clinical manifestations, diagnostic procedures, and therapeutic management, included autologous stem cell transplantation.
Vitamin D3 Deficiency: The Missing Component in the Physical Activity and Lifelong Health of Children and Adolescents in Sub-Sahara Africa?
Authors: Theuri Gitahi , Wachira Lucy-Joy
Published: June 2022

Urbanization in Africa has led to lifestyles changes that undermine physical activity. These behavioral changes are also linked to spending less time in the Sun. Vitamin D is primarily synthesized dermally when sun rays directly strikes exposed skin. Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency is now recognized as a global issue impairing the health of more than 1 billion people Worldwide. Serum Vitamin D levels in children in Sub-Sahara Africa (SSA) has been linked to inadequate exposure to sunlight, despite it straddling the equator that affords almost yearlong overhead sunshine. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with several health challenges, which in turn undermines normal growth, development, and potential physical and mental function likely to compromise performance of physical activity and sports. This chapter highlights the role of Vitamin D, its deficiency and implications on physical activity and sports performance with particular focus on children and adolescents, who are at a prime age for foundational development of motor function, skills and performance. While parents, healthcare professionals, coaches and caregivers of children in SSA need to promote sun exposure as the primary source of vitamin D, this perhaps also calls for further attention on Vitamin D supplementation, to support health and sports performance.
Medical Weight Management: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Elhag Wahiba , El Ansari Walid
Published: June 2022

A wide and interacting range of individual, environmental and socioeconomic factors contribute to obesity. As a consequence, weight management strategies almost always comprise a mixture of several parallel approaches, each with its challenges and unique goals. Broadly, weight management strategies comprise of two main strands. The non-pharmacotherapy approach includes various lifestyle modifications in terms of dietary therapy, exercise, and behavioral modifications, including the prevention of possible relapses. Pharmacotherapy, on the other hand, involves several anti-obesity medications, employed as single or combination therapy. Generally, the goals of weight management should be realistic and individualized to patient’s experiences, abilities, and risks in order to maximize the likelihood of success. This chapter tackles these weight management strategies in turn, explaining each, as well as highlighting their distinctive features and challenges, effectiveness and safety, requisites, and where appropriate, indications and contraindications.