bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Autonomic Cardiac Activity in Athletes
Authors: Costa Júlio , Y. Nakamura Fábio
Published: September 2022

Athletes, coaches, and supporting staff should assume a scientific approach to both designing and monitoring training programs. Proper load monitoring is essential to determine whether an athlete is adapting to a training program and to minimize the risk of increasing non-functional overreaching, illness, or injury. To gain an understanding of training and competition demands and their effects on the athlete, various potential physiological variables are available. Nonetheless, very few of them have robust scientific evidence to support their use. Therefore, this chapter will discuss the use of non-invasive and time-efficient methods to record and/or calculate heart rate variability (HRV) in athletes. HRV variables can provide detailed information about positive and negative adaptions over short and long periods throughout the competitive season. The accumulated knowledge regarding the importance of HRV has led both monitoring variables to become popular strategies among elite athletes, coaches, and supporting staff.
Interleukin-5 and Interleukin-5 Receptor Polymorphism in Asthma
Authors: Maytham Hameed Raghdah , Abdul Amir Najim Abood Haidar , Mohsin Ahmed Mohanad
Published: September 2022

Asthma is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the airways of the lungs, in the world. It’s associated with type 2 cytokines interleukin-4, IL-5, and IL-13, which promote airway eosinophilia, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, mucus overproduction, and immunogloubulin E synthesis. IL-5 is a cytokine known to play major role in the regulation of eosinophil formation, maturation, survival, and recruitment. Hence, an increased production of IL-5 may be contributed to the pathogenesis of asthma. The expression of human IL-5 receptor presented on eosinophils, basophils, and mast cells. Hence, a polymorphism in IL-5 receptor may be implicated in the development of asthma. Many candidate genes that could potentially contribute to the susceptibility to the disease have not been investigated to date, and not all of the polymorphisms of the candidate genes have been tested for a possible association with the disease. Taking this into consideration, IL-5 (together with the IL-5 receptor) polymorphism deserves attention as the subject of further investigations into asthma. In this review, we will address the role of IL-5 and IL-5 receptor polymorphism in asthma, describe the impact of these polymorphisms on the Blood parameters and clinical parameters. Further, give an overview of preclinical and clinical studies targeting the IL-5 and IL-5 receptor pathway.
Post-Harvest Management and Value Addition in Pomegranate
Authors: S. Dhumal Sangram , D. Pawar Ravindra , S. Patil Sandip
Published: September 2022

Pomegranate due to its high nutritive and therapeutic value, high antioxidant capacity, and bioactive compounds is known as superfruit. However, its consumption is scarce due to difficulties in peeling and extraction of arils, hand staining and irritation during extraction due to phenolic metabolites in fruits. Improved varieties have excellent flavour with crisp-juicy-dark red, gem-like arils, indicating potentiality for export and value-added products with the extended shelf life. Advances in post-harvest technology had played a vital role in product diversification by keeping original nutritional value. Extensive research has been carried out in the development of various pomegranate-derived products such as minimally processed arils, frozen seeds, RTS juice, concentrates. These processed products are highly acceptable because of their dessert qualities and palatability. Consumers readily pick well-matured big size fruits with attractive colour but low-grade pomegranate is kept out of market. Additional innovative tools like modified atmosphere packaging offer for the optimal use of such lower-grade fruits. Consumers prefer minimally processed pomegranate arils and frozen arils packed in punnets over whole fruit. Juices can be used in beverages and for various treatment purposes. This new sector of pomegranate processing will allow the use of non-commercial pomegranate fruits and improve pomegranate utilization for human health.
Multiplicative Data Perturbation Using Random Rotation Method
Authors: Jahan Thanveer
Published: September 2022

Today’s applications rely on large volumes of personal data being collected and processed regularly. Many unauthorized users try to access this private data. Data perturbation methods are one among many Privacy Preserving Data Mining (PPDM) techniques. They play a key role in perturbing confidential data. The research work focuses on developing an efficient data perturbation method using multivariate dataset which can preserve privacy in a centralized environment and allow publishing data. To carry out the data perturbation on a multivariate dataset, a Multiplicative Data Perturbation (MDP) using Random Rotation method is proposed. The results revealed an efficient multiplicative data perturbation using multivariate datasets which is resilient to attacks or threats and preserves the privacy in centralized environment.
Overview of the Esca Complex as an Increasing Threat in Vineyards Worldwide: Climate Change, Control Approaches and Impact on Grape and Wine Quality
Authors: Beris Evangelos , Selim Moustafa , Kechagia Despoina , Evangelou Alexandra
Published: September 2022

Esca is an increasing threat to global viticulture causing significant losses by reducing yields, declining or wilting vines, and shortening the productive life of vineyards. Recent findings indicate that the disease may also affect the quality of grapes and the chemical composition of musts and wines. However, more research in this field is needed. Esca seems to affect the ripening process of grapes resulting in lower sugar content, higher acidity, and increased nitrogen concentrations. Regarding polyphenolic compounds, reduction on the concentrations of (+)-catechin, (−)-epicatechin, anthocyanins, and tannins has been observed due to the alteration of flavonoid metabolism. Esca is a complex-chronic disease, where several fungal pathogens act simultaneously or successively, to cause necrosis to the vascular tissues of grapevines by blocking the xylem vessels and by producing enzymes and phytotoxic metabolites. As genotype affects stress response, specific Vitis vinifera cultivars present higher levels of resistance to the disease than others. There is evidence that varieties such as Merlot, Grenache Rouge, and Roussanne are relatively resistant, compared with more susceptible Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvèdre, Sauvignon Blanc, and Semillon. Another main objective of the current work was to investigate the possible effects of climate change on Esca development and propose appropriate control strategies.
Lipoatrophia Semicircularis
Authors: Urbina Francisco , Isabel Herane María
Published: September 2022

Lipoatrophia semicircularis was first described in 1974. It is a rare, but benign and reversible subcutaneous tissue atrophy that mainly affects women. It consists of unilateral or bilateral transverse, semicircular, and depressed bands that appear on the anterior and lateral region of the thighs, with an approximate height of 72 cm from the ground. Its origin has not been clearly established, and several hypotheses have been raised, including circulatory abnormalities, microtraumas, wearing of tight trousers, electromagnetic fields generated in the work environment, or electrostatic charges generated from computers or printers at office works; this “electric factor” would provoque bioelectric changes in the skin, causing direct damage to adipocytes through activated macrophages that release cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Isolated cases could be reasonably attributed to the wearing of constricting jeans (in fashion) or microtraumas produced by repetitive leaning against sharp desk furniture, among others. However, the description of multiple cases in the same company or office, a fact reported in several countries, points to an environmental origin. It has also been proposed a multifactorial origin, in which repeated trauma, environmental conditions, and individual electrosensitivity may contribute to the origin of the process.
Genetically Modified Crops and Their Impact on New Era of Agriculture
Authors: Dhamotharan Palanisamy , Surya Krishna Sakthivel , Sruthi Sampathkumar , Monica Subburaj
Published: September 2022

Genetically engineered crops are different from genetically modified crops. Changes in genetic make-up of crops by any conventional or any means technology fall under genetically modified crops category. In general, among different traits, herbicide and pest tolerance were more exploited in which herbicide tolerant crops occupy more than 90% of the total cultivated area of genetically engineered crops as the mode of actions of herbicides are well known and tolerant gene sources are readily available in wild weedy forms and various microorganisms. By knowing the pathway of mode of action of herbicides and pest tolerance, herbicide and pest tolerant crops were transformed by altering the structure and functions of rate limiting enzymes without affecting the normal functionalities of plants. Other than these two economically important characters, several characters were engineered in different crop plants such as disease resistant, increased yield and biomass production, male sterility and quality characters like anti-allergy factors, modified composition of fatty acid, protein, increased micronutrients and enzyme contents, reduced contents of anti-nutritional factors and toxic substances. Through genetic engineering, transformed plants are used for establishing pharmaceutical products. In terms of area coverage, soya-bean followed maize, cotton, canola, alfalfa. Apart from genetically engineered crops, genome edited crops are developed for nullifying the negative effects and up-regulating the target traits having positive effects thus ultimately assisting in achieving food and nutritional security.
Betutu: Balinese Traditional Food and Its Prospects for Our Health
Authors: Made Sugitha I. , Wayan Wisaniyasa Ni , Putu Suparthana I.
Published: September 2022

One of the traditional Balinese foods is called betutu, which is unique in its manufacture, appearance, flavor, taste, and religious value. It is made from a whole chicken, which is cleaned in the grease and filled with spices called base genep, then it is sewn up, tied, and wrapped in upih, then buried in rice husks with gradual heat up to 200oC for 12 hours. The combination of base genep, meat, and upih produce a soft meat texture (with a nutritional value in 100g: protein 20.61; fat 7.82; carbohydrates 4.52; and energy 170.98 kcal) are appetizing and easily separated from the bones.
Malignant Mesothelioma In Situ: A Controversial Diagnostic Entity – A Review
Authors: Kradin Richard
Published: September 2022

Malignant mesothelioma is a rare aggressive malignancy of serosal surfaces that is strongly associated with exposure to asbestos. The pathological diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma can be difficult to distinguish from reactive benign hyperplasia. Mutations in BAP-1 and CDKN2a distinguish mesothelioma from reactive hyperplasia. An in situ growth phase of mesothelioma until recently was difficult to ascertain due to limits of histological assessment and because mesothelioma tends to spread diffusely along serosal surfaces making sampling for invasion impossible without extensive resection. The current WHO classification of thoracic tumors recognizes mesothelioma in situ as a distinct entity based on histological, genetic, and clinical features. This chapter reviews the topic and concludes that the diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma in situ should be limited to patients eligible for radical resection to confirm the putative diagnosis.
Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activities of Eight Species of Fabaceae That Are Commonly Used in Traditional Medical Practices in the Republic of Suriname
Authors: R.A. Mans Dennis , Friperson Priscilla , Pawirodihardjo Jennifer , Djotaroeno Meryll
Published: September 2022

The consumption of diets rich in antioxidants may minimize the chances of developing debilitating diseases such as cardiovascular, diabetic, inflammatory, neoplastic, and cognitive disorders. The Fabaceae or pea family is the third most species-rich plant family on Earth and includes more than 19,000 species in over 700 genera. Many species of Fabaceae are ingredients of staple diets and medicinal substances. This may be attributable to the presumably high content of antioxidants in these plants, particularly phenolic compounds. The Republic of Suriname (South America) harbors over 400 species of Fabaceae in more than 100 genera and has a rich ethnopharmacological tradition that also involves a number of Fabaceae species. In this chapter, we evaluated the literature to determine whether the traditional use of eight of the medicinally most commonly employed Surinamese species of Fabaceae may be associated with their phenolic content and antioxidant activity. Our results suggest that this may hold true for Caesalpinia pulcherrima, Cajanus cajan, Clitoria ternatea, Desmodium adscendens, Lablab purpureus, and Tamarindus indica but not for Copaifera guyanensis and Dipteryx odorata, the bioactivities of which mainly seem to be determined by terpenoids and coumarins, respectively, without an apparent involvement of antioxidant effects.
Enhancing BIM through Mixed Reality for Facility Management
Authors: Vaccarini Massimo , Carbonari Alessandro , Spegni Francesco , Giretti Alberto
Published: September 2022

Implementation of processes in facility management asks for coordination and collaboration among several factors, each implementing its own sub-process. This goal must cope with several challenges caused by the fragmentation of the AEC (architectural, engineering, construction) industry. In the specific case of facility recommissioning, further constraints are determined by limitations posed by the current status of the existing facility whose knowledge is often limited to coarse preliminary surveys. In this chapter, the benefits determined by the integration between BIM and mixed reality will be presented, along with a prototypical platform that realizes an efficient, distributed collaborative workflow enabling asynchronous collaboration among members of the facility management office, the owner, the design team and technical specialists that may be appointed in recommissioning workflows. Technically, this approach provides an immersive mixed-reality environment capable of seamlessly displaying project information, through which specialists can evaluate and refine different recommissioning options. In addition, the platform supports on-site enrichment of BIM models for a facilitated, yet asynchronous, collaboration between remote and on-site users. This technology was validated by means of real-life experiments regarding a hypothetical recommissioning project of the Construction Division of the DICEA Department at Università Politecnica delle Marche (Ancona, Italy).
Seed Biology and Phytochemistry for Sustainable Future
Authors: Farhana Nikhat , M. Singh Ripudaman , Gulzar Ahmed Mohammed , Ansari Thouheed , Rahamanulla Abdul , Sultana Ayesha , P. Varghese Treesa , Somayaji Ashwini , Khan Abdullah
Published: September 2022

The ranking of seeds represents remarkable transition phase for photosynthasis and sexual reproduction, this phase is complex & successful method for sexual reproduction in vascular plants. As we know that seed containe the genetic repository of past & potential for its perpetuation in the future. The dormancy in seeds induced by desciccation & the hormone abscisic acid (ABA) till the condition in growth become favorable. The well developed seeds eliminates requirement of water during sexual reproduction & allows fertilization events to occur over long distances. Germination of seeds in particular situation and season is determines the interaction between dormancy and relating factors like phytochemical development to give healthy bioactives, which strongly influence on the termination of dormancy or initiatin of germination and seedling in many plant species like photo-hormons, light, temperature, water, neutrients and mechanical cuse. Seeds of particular plants needs difreent pretreatment to give vigor seedlings even in production so far. The entiteled chapter represents amulgumation of agriculturists and life scientists. Recent significant progress has been endorsed in seed physiology to solve the practical issues constantly associated with the seeds. The aim & objective of this articale is to enlighten the reader, not only about the different aspects of the seed physiology it also includes the development of bioactive (secondary metabolites) in the healthy seeds. This resorce of pice will help researcher to sencitize about the type of healthy bioactive available in the shalls of seedlings. This could be the reason to isolate the biomolecules from a well evaluate seeds, seed evalution not only the sorce to get healthy crops in agricultural scince it also helps so for a phytochemist to get theuraputicaly active biomolecules, without destroying the nature, which could be the value added thought to combat with the burning issues associated with the existing situation (COVID Omicron, viral infection and all kinds of disorder associated with the immune system). Henceforth, endorsed personage to give real-time attention to plant propagation, particularly for indigenous tree species and seedling multiplication should be regarded as a primary need to make not only a sustainable environment but also become a treasure to fulfill the needs of industry application in the field of agriculture plus R & D.
The Sisyphean Task of Nursing: Muscular Roles and Masculine Responsibilities of Malayalee Male Nurses
Authors: George Cinoj , Bhatti Feyza
Published: September 2022

Hospitals all around the world are failing to keep up with demand due to an aging staff and a rising population. India has a severe shortage of nurses and the number of males entering the nursing profession has increased significantly over the last two decades, which shows that Indian men are eager to seek careers in nursing. Their experiences in the profession, however, has not received significant attention. This chapter aims at exploring the work experiences of male nurses in a profession in which workforce is predominantly female. A total of 45 participants from three major cities in Kerala were recruited for the study using a qualitative phenomenological approach. Semistructured face-to-face interviews were used to collect the data and thematic analysis were used. Four key themes were found. Male nurses had individual motivation to choose the profession, but over time, they have become discouraged and disillusioned with it. Male nurses were reticent to advocate nursing to other males because they saw no future in the profession. The study highlights the difficulties that male nurses encounter, and if these difficulties are not addressed, there may be a significant decline in the number of males choosing to pursue careers in nursing.
False-Positive Serologic Reactions for Syphilis
Authors: Potekaev Nikolay , Zhukova Olga , Khamaganova Irina
Published: September 2022

The epidemiologic situation of syphilitic infection warrants attention to diagnostic methods. Nontreponemal tests (rapid plasma regain, Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) are less reliable, as there are certain situations when false-positive reactions for syphilis antibodies may appear. Variable examinations were performed and proved that it was necessary to assess the titer of antibodies, as well as confirmation of the diagnosis by treponemal tests (fluorescent treponemal antibody, treponema pallidum hemagglutination assay, enzyme immunoassay, Western blot), were obligatory. In recent decades, new methods were elaborated (e.g., BioPlex total screen, tests with β2-GPI-dependent anticardiolipin antibody, the ARCHITECT syphilis treponema pallidum chemiluminescent immunoassay, the Elecsys immunoassay (Roche Diagnostics)). We present the review of publications on syphilis serologic diagnostics and present our own research. We did not find any mention of a false-positive test in atopic dermatitis and present a case of false-positive reactions for syphilis in such patients.
Advances in Mosquito Control: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kumar Sarita , Sahgal Arunima
Published: September 2022

Mosquitoes are the important global vectors transmitting diseases of human concern such as dengue, Chikungunya, Malaria, encephalitis and yellow fever, etc. Management of mosquito-borne diseases largely relies on the vector management because of the lack of effective medication and vaccination. Several strategies have been formulated and applied in the fields to control mosquitoes; yet there is a continued rise in mosquito-borne diseases leading to sufferings and morbidities. Presently, chemical interventions are the most preferred methods which has impacted human health and the environment negatively. These issues have created a demand to devise novel approaches which can be used safely and effectively for mosquito management. Thus, several innovative mosquito control interventions have been devised based on genetic, physical and behavioral modifications in mosquitoes. These strategies span from Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) Release of Insects Carrying a Dominant Lethal (RIDL), creating transgenics with abnormal and lethal genes, gene drive technology, reducing the vectorial capacity by Wolbachia infection and application of attractive toxic sugar baits (ATSB), or by lasers and light detectors to investigate their behavior, and enhance their trap and kill. This Chapter gives a comprehensive overview of the conventional, and novel and innovative techniques devised for the control of mosquito vectors.
The Frequency of Different Liners Usages in Upper and Lower Anterior Teeth at Dentistry Teaching Clinic Patients in Kabul, Afghanistan
Authors: Azim Husniya , Azim Shiba
Published: September 2022

The use of liners to maintain the vitality and health of dental pulp is an effective method in operative dentistry, which involves placing a protective layer of liner on the exposed pulp to maintain the health of pulp and stimulate dentin cells to make reparative dentin. The use of liners for pulp vitality has been used for many years and is considered an essential part of restorative procedures in operative dentistry textbooks. Liners have traditionally been used to protect the pulp from the potentially toxic effects of different irritants. Liners are currently used for their therapeutic effects or for sealing dentinal tubules against the penetration of microorganisms or their by-products. Different types of materials have been introduced as liners to protect pulp tissue from irritants. Liner materials that have been used for many years include calcium hydroxide, glass-ionomer, and modified resin glass-ionomer. Therefore, this study, performed in the Dentistry Teaching Clinic of Kabul, Afghanistan, aims to present the most frequently clinically used liners in anterior teeth, to maintain pulp vitality.
The Differences between Gastroesophageal and Laryngopharyngeal Reflux
Authors: Širić Ljiljana , Rosso Marinela , Včev Aleksandar
Published: September 2022

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) have different pathophysiological mechanisms of occurrence and are characterized by different clinical pictures and symptomatology. In clinical practice, it often happens that LPR remains unrecognized or is defined as atypical gastroesophageal reflux, thus, it is necessary to distinguish between these two clinical entities. Laryngopharyngeal reflux refers to the return of gastric contents from the stomach through the esophagus to the larynx, pharynx, paranasal cavities, middle ear, and lower respiratory tract, and it is part of the wider extraesophageal reflux syndrome (EER). Extraesophageal symptoms are common in GERD, and studies show an increasing prevalence of LPR in patients with GERD, as well as an association of reflux disease with cough and dysphonia symptoms. The aim of the chapter is to describe differences between GER and LPR in order to facilitate the recognition and differentiation of manifest and latent symptoms, diagnosis, and choice of therapeutic approach.
Climate and Environmental Risk Action: A Call for Fresh Commitments to Adaptation and Resilience in West African Sub-Region
Authors: Abdulkadir Usman Bolaji
Published: September 2022

Problem of capacity to adapt and build resilience against climate and environmental risks has become a major source of concern globally. However, poorer regions and countries where substantial proportions of the people depend more on natural capital are generally more at risk. West Africa is a region known to have experienced major environmental changes in the last half century. Therefore, using evidences from the literature, this chapter examines climate and other environmental problems that have created challenges to agriculture and food security, water resources, health, energy and infrastructural development. We highlight the potential for adaptation and building resilience, while also emphasising the need to develop appropriate adaptation and risk management strategies built on proper understanding of dimensions of exposure and vulnerability. Among other recommendations, this chapter accentuates the need for raising climate and environmental risk awareness among the populace, sustainable management and use of natural resources, development of weather information and early warning systems and stronger transnational cooperation to address climate and other environmental risk impacts.
Oleochemical Processing Technology: From Process Engineering and Intensification Techniques to Property Models for the Exploitation of Residual Marine Oils
Authors: Román-Martínez Alicia
Published: September 2022

A review of the efforts done in process engineering aspects, such as process optimization and process intensification of residual oils processing, are described and discussed. It should be emphasized that the important characteristics of marine oils be determined for a good process design practice, especially, the quality attributes of the residual oil as a raw material. Finally, some property prediction models that have been proposed are indicated. All these aspects: 1) novel process engineering tools, 2) quality characterization, and 3) property models, are important for sustainable products and processes implementation in a circular economy.
Evolution of the Rheological Behavior of Palm Oil
Authors: Stanciu Ioana
Published: September 2022

Palm oil is dark yellow to red with a sweet taste and violet scent. Under the action of oxygen in the air, palm oil discolors due to the oxidation of carotene. The sample at different temperatures was recorded at different shear rates. Based on the rheograms (graph of the average shear stress versus shear rate), the studied ones proved to be Newtonian fluid. The shear range used did not significantly affect the absolute viscosities of the palm oil at different temperatures. The absolute viscosities of palm oil have decreased with increasing temperature and can be equipped with an Arrhenius-type relationship.
Chronic Mild Stress and COVID-19 Sequelae
Authors: Komnenov Dragana
Published: September 2022

Although COVID-19 clinical presentation primarily involves the respiratory system causing bilateral pneumonia, it is becoming increasingly recognized that COVID-19 is in fact a systemic disease. Neurological presentations have been reported in patients with both mild and severe COVID-19 symptoms. As such, elderly individuals are at a significantly higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 as well as neurocognitive consequences due to the presence of comorbidities associated with aging and the direct consequences of infection. Several neurological disorders that have been described in the literature include insomnia, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and cognitive insufficiencies. The potential underlying mechanisms are still incompletely understood but are likely multifaceted, involving both direct neurotrophic effect of SARS-CoV-2 and the indirect consequences related to social isolation in long intensive care units, the use of mechanical ventilation and sedation and the resultant brain hypoxia, systemic inflammation and secondary effects of medications used in treatment of COVID-19. Furthermore, neuro-cardiovascular adaptations resulting from the chronic stress and depression milieu of COVID-19 is expected to contribute negatively to the cardiovascular health of the survivors. It is thus imperative to implement a rigorous monitoring program for COVID-19 survivors, particularly among the elderly population, to assess potential neuro-cognitive and cardiovascular deteriorations.
Targeting Endoplasmic Reticulum and Mitochondrial Dynamics to Combat Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Menon Kunnel Priyanka , John Kariyil Bibu
Published: September 2022

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a cancer that is aggressive with short survival rate. In comparison to other breast cancer subtypes, TNBC tumors are bigger, more chemo resistant, highly proliferative, and usually more abundant in stem and immune cells. These modifications are functionally dependent on a high-quality endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial pool. Endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial health are monitored and enhanced on a regular basis via endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial dynamics. The role of endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial dynamics in tumor growth and metastasis has been highlighted by recent advances in understanding the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial dynamics in TNBC. This chapter examines the current knowledge of endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial dynamics in TNBC.
Thermoelectric Nanostructured Perovskite Materials
Authors: Unikoth Megha , Varghese George , Shijina Karakat , Neelamkodan Hind
Published: September 2022

The global need for energy production from renewable resources and the effect of greenhouse gas, especially carbon dioxide is increasing day by day. Statistical survey shows that about 60% of the energy lost in vain worldwide, in the form of waste heat. The conversion of this waste into useful energy form will certainly play a major role in alternative energy technologies. Thermoelectric materials (TE) can harvest waste heat and convert this into electrical energy and vice versa. The development of high-efficiency TE materials for waste-heat-recovery systems is necessary to bring vast economic and environmental benefits. The methods of synthesis,that is, control over particle size play an important role in controlling the properties of thermoelectric materials. The nanostructuring of thermoelectric materials can enhance the efficiency by quantum confinement effect and phonon scattering. Perovskites have a long history of being a potential candidate for thermoelectric applications, due to their fascinating electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties. Compared with other thermoelectric materials perovskites have the advantage of eco-friendliness, less toxicity and are highly elemental abundant. Owing to the high thermal conductivity and low electrical conductivity overall performance of perovskites is relatively poor. The hybrid perovskites overcome this difficulty and started to draw the attention to thermoelectric applications.
Food Allergies: New Challenges of Our Civilization
Authors: Klimov Vladimir , Cherevko Natalia , Koshkarova Natalia , Klimov Andrew
Published: September 2022

People need to eat and digest food, and if they encounter a food allergy it is a real problem. Moreover, some people have a lifelong sensitization to certain products with the threat of anaphylaxis. This chapter considers different aspects of food allergies, allergenicity of dietary allergens, the significance of the gut microbiota and intestinal epithelium integrity, detailed processes of food sensitization, clinical phenotypes and management of food allergies, and, finally, mechanisms of oral tolerance. Fortunately, the gastrointestinal tract possesses robust tolerogenic mechanisms, in particular, the beneficial gut microbiota, as well as the autonomous enteric nervous system, which taken together with the gut immune cells and molecules may be called the enteric neuroimmune system (ENIS). The dual-allergen exposure hypothesis postulates that early oral exposure to food allergens induces tolerance, whereas exposure at non-gastrointestinal sites results in food sensitization and allergy development. In addition, a series of food allergic episodes does not look like a typical atopic disease and is a known exception to the rule conceived by evolution. However, the prevalence of food allergies is continuously growing, including severe cases, and it is a paradoxical problem in the face of evolution. This challenge is inherent to our civilization and will be resolved, thanks to new knowledge and technologies.
Naturally Isolated Pyridine Compounds Having Pharmaceutical Applications
Authors: Naushad Edayadulla , Thangaraj Shankar
Published: September 2022

Heterocyclic moieties form important constituents of biologically active natural products and synthetic compounds of medicinal interest. Nitrogen heterocycles constitute important pharmacophores in drug design, especially pyridine derivatives, which are among the most frequently cited heterocyclic compounds. The isolated as well as synthesized pyridine compounds exhibited various pharmacological properties due to their diverse physiochemical properties like water solubility, weak basicity, chemical stability, hydrogen bond-forming ability, protein-binding capacity, cell permeability, and size of the molecules attracted the attention of medicinal chemists for the past few years. Their interesting molecular architecture seeks attention to isolate derivatives of medicinal interest from natural source. In this chapter, we plan to describe the isolated natural products having pyridine moiety and their pharmacological importance.
Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms Underlying Preimplantation Embryo Development
Authors: C. Lanford Hayes , E. Roudebush William , J. Chosed Renee
Published: September 2022

Preimplantation embryo development refers to the maturation of a fertilized ovum to a blastocyst. This process is highly regulated and required for proper implantation of the blastocyst into the endometrium. During this phase, several tasks must be accomplished. The differentiated zygotic genome must undergo reprogramming back to totipotency in order to generate all of the different types of tissue making up a human. Next, certain cells begin to differentiate to prepare for implantation which occurs at approximately day 7 post-fertilization. This progression is a result of a careful interplay between maternally persistent RNA transcripts and activation of the zygotic genome. After the embryonic genome activation, blastomere differentiation begins to occur. Cellular polarity has been shown to be the signal transduction that initiates this differentiation. Understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms regulating preimplantation embryo development is of fundamental importance for reproductive science and has numerous applications in fields such as assisted reproductive technology and stem cell therapy.
Lymph Node Metastasis in Differentiated Thyroid Cancers
Authors: Chi-Man Chow Tom , Yuk-Wah Liu Shirley
Published: September 2022

Lymph node metastasis is common in differentiated thyroid cancers. Therapeutic neck dissection removes macroscopic nodal metastasis, reduces local recurrence, and facilitates cancer surveillance. On the other hand, microscopic nodal metastasis is also increasingly recognized as a potential cause of persistent disease or early recurrences. Prophylactic neck dissection, by removing microscopic nodal metastasis, has been proposed to reduce recurrence and prevent future reoperation. When cancer recurs, regional nodal recurrence is most common, and the management should be individualized. We hereby present a narrative review on the management of nodal metastasis in differentiated thyroid cancers.
Chiral Ice Crystals in Space
Authors: Kouchi Akira , Shimonishi Takashi , Yamazaki Tomoya , Tsuge Masashi , Nakatani Naoki , Furuya Kenji , Niinomi Hiromasa , Oba Yasuhiro , Hama Tetsuya , Katsuno Hiroyasu , Watanabe Naoki , Kimura Yuki
Published: September 2022

We observed the formation of CO, CH3OH, and H2O ices using a cryogenic transmission electron microscope, to determine if chiral ice crystals could form under the conditions of interstellar molecular clouds and young stellar objects (protoplanetary disks) and to clarify the crystalline structure of these ices. Our results suggest that the following ice crystals are chiral: crystalline CO (α-CO) formed on amorphous H2O (a-H2O) grains in a 10-K molecular cloud, crystalline CH3OH formed by the heating of amorphous CH3OH on a-H2O grains at 40–60 K in young stellar objects, and several polymorphs of hydrogen-ordered cubic ice crystals formed by the heating of a-H2O at 80–100 K and direct condensation at 120–140 K in protoplanetary disks. We also investigated candidates for other chiral ices using published data. We found that NH3 I and NH3·H2O I are chiral at low temperature and pressure conditions. If one-handed circularly polarized light is irradiated during the nucleation of these chiral ice crystals, homochiral crystals can be formed. These results have important implications for the origin of interstellar organic molecule homochirality.
Hypovitaminosis D in Postmenopause
Authors: Loranca-Moreno Patricia , Rios-Espinosa Alan , Moises Ocampo-Godínez Juan
Published: September 2022

Hypovitaminosis D is a common health problem in postmenopausal women that predisposes to the development of various conditions, such as difficult-to-manage osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, autoimmune diseases and cancer. In the last two decades, the extensive role of vitamin D has been characterized, where besides controlling bone mineral metabolism, it also precisely regulates the immune system and metabolism. Early detection of hypovitaminosis D can help provide timely care to improve the health of postmenopausal women. This chapter aims to discuss the most relevant aspects of vitamin D in postmenopausal women and the probable consequences that it has on the development of pathological processes characteristic of this stage.
Prevention and Treatment of Diabetic Nephropathy with Vitamin D
Authors: Petrovic Marijana , Petrovic Stanko , Obrencevic Katarina
Published: September 2022

The number of people suffering from diabetes mellitus, especially Type 2 diabetes mellitus, is increasing every year. Approximately one-third of the patients with diabetes mellitus will develop diabetic nephropathy and chronic kidney disease. Diabetic nephropathy represents the main cause of end-stage renal disease. Vitamin D deficiency is often present in patients with diabetes mellitus and could present a risk factor for a higher incidence of cardiovascular events. Vitamin D supplementation could have a renoprotective effect and the potential to delay occurrence and slow down the progression of diabetic nephropathy. The renoprotective effect is reflected in better glycoregulation, reduction of proteinuria and proinflammatory cytokines, and improved lipid regulation. New research shed the light on the important role of vitamin D in reducing renal fibrosis and stabilization of podocyte function. If we take into consideration the cost of end-stage renal disease treatment and the quality of life of patients on dialysis, any delay in end-stage renal disease is significant.
Perspective Chapter: Actor-Network Theory as an Organising Structure for Blockchain Adoption in Government
Authors: M. Zein Reyan , Twinomurinzi Hossana
Published: September 2022

Blockchain technology (BT) is a promising technology with compelling distributive and security capabilities for digitalising organisations and social systems. It is, however, often approached from a deterministic and technical perspective yet requires social, cultural and institutional changes as part of the process of adopting new technology in the context of the digital government sectors. This study uses actor-network theory (ANT) for its closely related hybrid middle, translation features, token passing through to network stability and interessement, as a lens to shape and understand the complexities surrounding the adoption and use of BT, particularly in the public sector organisations. Using the land registration system in Sudan as a case study, the findings show that ANT provides an adequate lens through which to examine the role of emergent distributive technologies such as BT in shaping social and organisational processes. ANT further contributes to a more holistic adoption of BT in public sector organisations. In the case study, the proposed blockchain guided by ANT simplified the complexity of land processes for registration, selling, buying and ownership, eventually replacing multiple processes with single transactions while at the same time embedding security and transparency.
Pathogenesis-Related Proteins and Their Transgenic Expression for Developing Disease-Resistant Crops: Strategies Progress and Challenges
Authors: Kaur Anroop , Kaur Sukhpreet , Kaur Ajinder , Kaur Sarao Navraj , Sharma Devender
Published: September 2022

Various pathogenic microorganisms (such as fungi, bacteria, viruses and nematodes) affect plant viability and productivity. However, plants combat these pathogens by inducing their defense mechanism to sustain their fitness. The aggregation of pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins in response to invading pathogens is a crucial component of a plant’s self-defense mechanism. PR proteins induce innate resistance in plants through fungal cell wall disintegration, membrane permeabilization, transcriptional suppression, and ribosome inactivation. Earlier studies have demonstrated their crucial role in determining resistance against phytopathogens, making them a promising candidate for developing disease-resistant crop varieties. Plant genetic engineering is a potential approach for developing disease-resistant transgenic crops by employing several PR genes (thaumatin, osmotin-like proteins, chitinases, glucanases, defensins, thionins, oxalate oxidase, oxalate oxidases like proteins/germin-like proteins and LTPs). Furthermore, the overexpression of PR proteins enhances the resistance against phytopathogens. As a result, this chapter gives an overview of PR proteins, including their classification, functional characterization, signaling pathways, mode of action and role in defense against various phytopathogens. It also highlights genetic engineering advances in utilizing these genes singly or synergistically against various phytopathogens to impart disease resistance. Various challenges faced with the products of transgenic technology and synergistic expression of different groups of PR proteins were also discussed.
Perspective Chapter: What about Embryo’s Rights?
Authors: Uslu Bahar
Published: September 2022

The scientific associations of human reproduction experienced fundamental change in the twentieth century, with the development of in vitro fertilization for the treatment of infertility. The separation of sex and hi-tech reproduction treatments led to a revolution of gender and similarity relations, while embryo diagnostics led to a shift from scheduling families to planning a child. Furthermore, the presence of fertilized eggs outside the womb is a new form of human life which can be conserved and manipulated and the embryo in the petri dish in laboratory has become the entity of reproductive market, driven by clients and their claim to a right to reproductive choice. These improvements encounter deep-set moral sensitivities of human self-respect and the relation of human beings to their own nature. The conclusion is that the prospect of a posthuman future sounds for an ethic of care and responsibility. This chapter firstly presents these moral approaches briefly, especially regarding interventions in preimplantation-stage embryos in the laboratory, suggesting environmentally suitable laboratory conditions for this entity. Additionally, new suggestions for legitimately suitable regulations takes care precisely embryo’s right, but also embryology laboratory personnel, clinics and parents.
Genetically Modified Food for Ensuring Food Security Issues
Authors: Kumar Bhajan Sujay , Mahmood Hasan Mohammad , Anwarul Haque Md. , Nurul Islam Mohammad
Published: September 2022

Genetic modification is a technology that allows incorporating beneficial genes from other organisms. One of the major challenges of current era is feeding the consisting growing population of the world. Reduced cultivatable land and climate change have made it even more challenging. Through genetic engineering technology it is possible to develop high yielding, disease resistance and climate resilient crop varieties within shorter period of time than the conventional ways. Current global status of GM crop cultivation and production has already proved that GM crops have the potential to achieve food security for the future world. However, in most of the countries, public has misperception of its risks on human health and environment. Due to such misconception most of the countries have not adopted GM crops yet which could make it difficult to utilize GM crops to achieve food security. Therefore, in this book chapter we discussed on how genetically modified crops are developed, what beneficial traits are usually incorporated, how they are assessed for human health risks and regulations for selling genetically modified foods in the market. Such discussion would help common people to understand how this technology can help us ensuring food security of the world.
The Potential Role of Exercise-Induced Neurotrophic Factors for Mental Health
Authors: Zühtü Birinci Yakup
Published: September 2022

Today, there is a great scientific interest in understanding the mechanisms of mental disorders. Three lifestyle factors may play an essential role in protecting brain health: a socially integrated network, cognitive leisure activity, and regular exercise. It is widely accepted that exercise is a non-pharmacological, low-cost, easily accessible, and non-adverse promising method to delay brain deterioration in aging, and it was also suggested that exercise improves brain health across the lifespan. Despite the clear relationship between exercise and mental health, our knowledge of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that trigger such benefits is still limited. Pioneering studies showed that various peripheral factors (brain-derived neurotrophic factors, insulin-like growth factor-1, irisin, etc.) are released into the bloodstream via exercise. Moreover, there is much evidence that enhancement of neurogenesis, angiogenesis, and synaptogenesis caused by exercise-induced neurotrophins and growth factors, such as the BDNF, IGF-1, irisin, and VEGF, etc., has an essential role in the positive changes of mental health. Nevertheless, there is currently insufficient evidence to draw firm conclusions regarding the relationship between optimum exercise regime and maximize mental health via modulation of neurotrophic factors.