Bücher veröffentlicht von IntechOpen

Metamaterials have provided applications in spectral ranges covering radio frequencies and ultraviolet. However, most applications have been extrapolated to the visible or near-infrared after being developed at the GHz level. This is due to technological reasons since fabrication of microwave antennas is not as demanding as THz resonators or plasmonic nanostructures. Accordingly, this book has been divided into three parts. In the first part, fundamentals of metamaterials and metadevices are discussed, while describing recent advances in the field. In the second part, the discussion is extended to the different spectral ranges focusing on the strategies for enabling the reconfigurability of metadevices. Given the increasing interest in THz applications, these can be found in the third part.

Scientifically defined in 1880 by the Curie brothers, piezoelectricity - from the Greek piezein, meaning to press (squeeze), and ilektron, meaning amber, a material with electrostatic properties - is a phenomenon with many applications. The related piezoelectric materials have been undergoing a long-lasting evolution over the years until today. The field of organic and inorganic piezoelectric materials is continuously expanding in terms of new substances used, new structures, and new applications. The seven chapters of this book present modern aspects and technological advances in the field of piezoelectric materials and applications. To present a balanced view of the field, some chapters focus on new piezoelectric materials and structures, while others examine interesting applications of piezoelectric sensors, energy harvesters, and actuators.

Over the last 50 years, remarkable developments in the diagnosis and management of aortic valve disease have occurred. This book, Aortic Valve Disease - Recent Advances, addresses several aspects of diagnosis and management of aortic valve disease. It reviews several topics, namely, pathology of the aortic valve and ascending aorta, transcatheter aortic valve replacement techniques, management of aortic stenosis and aortic insufficiency (congenital and acquired) both by catheter-based and surgical techniques, complications associated with these procedures including the use of cerebral embolic protection devices, management of aortic valve disease in patients who also have atrial fibrillation, surgical therapy of bicuspid aortic valve syndrome, and patient perspective.

The tomato is one of the most important and widespread crops in the world, but its cultivation is often subject to challenges such as diseases, pests, and climate change. This curated collection provides a comprehensive view of this landscape, highlighting various facets and opportunities. A fundamental aspect of the discussion is represented by ingenious solutions proposed in the book. How can farmers tackle challenges with creativity and innovation? We can explore advanced cultivation techniques, the use of cutting-edge technologies, and sustainable agricultural practices that can revolutionize the industry. This curated collection is not just a theoretical analysis but also offers practical tools for farmers and enthusiasts. We can examine how these tools can be successfully implemented in the field, improving crop yields and reducing environmental impact. In conclusion, exploring the dynamic realm of tomato cultivation through this work provides not only a complete overview of the industry but also practical solutions to address current and future challenges. Environmental sustainability, consumer protection, and technological progress are the pillars upon which the green revolution of tomatoes is based. The discussion invites the reader to reflect on how we can contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous agricultural future.

The design and operation of different supply chains and logistics networks is a significant part of today¿s economy. Production and service companies and logistics service providers must improve their systems and processes to strengthen the value chain and support cost efficiency, availability, flexibility, efficiency, sustainability, and transparency. This book offers a selection of chapters that explain the different aspects of the design and operation of supply chain solutions. The book is designed to help students at all levels as well as managers and researchers to understand and appreciate the concept, design, and implementation of supply chain solutions.

Technological advancements in drug discovery for health and nutrition are improving human health but may lead to drug resistance, which might forebode challenges for health and the environment. Hence, it is necessary to explore and use some natural remedies such as probiotics. Advances in Probiotics for Health and Nutrition provides a comprehensive, techno-commercial overview of probiotics and their production, mechanisms of action, applications, and effectiveness in health and nutrition, as well as information on safety regulations in health and nutraceuticals. This book is a useful resource for researchers, academics, scientists, and budding entrepreneurs.

Keratitis is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. In most cases, corneal diseases are preventable or treatable; thus, a comprehensive knowledge of epidemiology, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of the multiple forms of keratitis is crucial in clinical practice. This provides a comprehensive overview of keratitis, including information on current ocular diagnostic methods and their theoretical basis, practical approach, and usage in clinical practice. It also highlights recent advances in the methods of treating keratitis.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most informative and widely used imaging technologies for the clinical examination of soft tissues. It has been used to evaluate the structural integrity of nearly all tissues and is unparalleled in analyses of the nervous and cardiovascular systems. Since its inception, MRI applications have undergone a broad evolution that has led to such well-established procedures as parallel imaging and functional MRI. Recent years have seen a new generation of applications, which has benefitted from a synergy of these established methods and a parallel evolution occurring in computational analyses. These recent MRI trends tend toward a growing emphasis on functional performance, greater reliance on extended computational analysis, and an expansion in the range of multimodal structural assessments. This book showcases these trends through in-depth analyses of select applications from this new generation of MRI methods. New Advances in Magnetic Resonance Imaging provides an insightful and detailed view into these upcoming developments that will be of interest to MRI professionals and scientists alike.

Cassava is a staple crop in many nations due to its adaptability to a wide range of climates. It has expanded across tropical Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and Latin America. Cassava, noted for its high carbohydrate content, is third in carbohydrate content after rice and maize. Cassava - Recent Updates on Food, Feed, and Industry is the second edition of our previous book, Cassava - Biology, Production, and Use. This new edition has four sections. The first section discusses the perspectives of several countries on cassava, including food security and the circular economy. Due to the importance of cassava in many countries, the second section examines recent biotechnological advances as well as soil management and modifications in the improvement of cassava. The third section discusses disease management and control of cassava plants. Due to its widespread use and industrial importance, cassava has been subjected to biological and technological intervention for processing into food, feed, and other industrial matter, which is covered in the final section. We hope that this book will help readers gain advanced knowledge about cassava and learn from experts in the field with multiple perspectives.

Cardiomyopathies have been defined as those myocardial disorders in which the heart muscle is abnormal structurally and functionally in the absence of coronary artery disease, hypertension, valvular diseases, and/or congenital heart defects that can explain the abnormal myocardium. Several categories are included in the cardiomyopathy spectrum such as dilated, hypertrophic, restrictive, and unclassified. This book shines a light on very specific types of cardiomyopathies, including metabolic disorders and hypertrophic and restrictive cardiomyopathy, as well as some miscellaneous types such as drug-induced cardiomyopathy. It also examines pediatric cardiomyopathy as well as the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the cardiovascular system.

This edited volume investigates young people within their social contexts. The focus is on engaging young people as they transition from youth into young adulthood. Key advantages of this book are its embodiment of interdisciplinarity in gathering research across a range of diverse methods, theories, settings, and countries. The volume begins with reviews of key theories and methods in understanding young people within their social networked contexts of generosity, networks, identity, and ethnic heritage. The second section includes chapters attending to education and work as contexts for transitions to adulthood, counseling, meaning, and aesthetics from high school to college and into workplaces. The third section includes chapters studying community engagement and the well-being of young people, including social support, meaning in life, religiosity, spirituality, stress coping, yoga, and sports. The diverse topics addressed in this edited volume are generosity, philanthropy, voluntary action, social networks, social identity, personhood, ethnic heritage, post-colonialism, intersectionality, personality, lived experiences, informal economy, sustainability, pandemic, family support, educational counselors, motivation, ?Not in Education, Employment, or Training? (NEET), everyday aesthetics, built environment, generativity, community, adult allies, youth engagement, life satisfaction, spiritual identity, religious affiliation, stress, practicing yoga, sexual violence, athletes, sports climate, pressures to perform, resilience, and neurodiversity. Disciplines span economics, business, education, sociology, psychology, medical science, geography, journalism, architecture, engineering, science and technology, and applied sciences. Methods include quantitative surveys, qualitative in-depth interviews, life course biographies, ethnographic case studies, bibliometric analysis, and integrative reviews. Young people are investigated across thirteen countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Yemen, Ghana, Bahrain, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Canada, Romania, and the Netherlands.

Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) are molecules generated naturally during cellular metabolic processes. They act as signaling agents that oversee specific biochemical pathways, playing a vital role in cell function and survival. However, an imbalance in ROS signaling or excessive ROS production can have harmful effects on the pathophysiology of diseases. ROS are crucial to cell signaling and are involved in various physiological processes. They modulate gene expression, regulate cell cycle progression, and influence immune responses. Although ROS are essential for normal cellular functions, an overabundance of these molecules can lead to oxidative stress, causing DNA damage, lipid peroxidation, and protein oxidation, adversely impacting cell function and leading to various diseases. Therefore, it is critical to regulate ROS levels precisely to maintain cellular homeostasis. Reactive Oxygen Species - Advances and Developments is a comprehensive book that delves into the intricacies of ROS. It provides invaluable insights to researchers in the field, equipping them with the essential tools and knowledge to advance their work in this critical area, leading to the development of novel therapeutic interventions to manage various illnesses.

Neuroimaging has developed rapidly, such as ultrasound, CT scanning, MRI, functional MRI, 7T MRI, and digital subtraction angiography, providing high-resolution acquisition and better contrast, making it easier to detect lesions and structural changes in brain diseases. Targeted diseases in neuroimaging include tumors, vascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer¿s disease, Parkinson¿s disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, severe depression, and schizophrenia. The ability of electroencephalography and magnetoencephalography to detect changes in brain function in other dementia suggests that they may also be promising biomarkers for early vascular cognitive impairment. In recent years, machine learning has achieved significant success in providing automated analysis for neuroimaging research, and its role may increase in the future. For clinical doctors, understanding these methods and mastering explanatory skills are crucial.

Medicinal Plants - Chemical, Biochemical, and Pharmacological Approaches presents an in-depth exploration of the multifaceted relationships between medicinal plants and human health. This comprehensive volume delves into the intricate chemical and biochemical aspects of plants, shedding light on their pharmacological properties and applications. Within this book, readers will find a detailed examination of plant-derived compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, essential oils, terpenes, and other bioactive constituents. These compounds are analyzed for their chemical structures and mechanisms of action, providing a foundational understanding of the chemical basis for their therapeutic potential. The book further elucidates the pharmacological actions of medicinal plants, showcasing their role in traditional healing practices as well as their integration into modern health care. It explores the diverse array of health conditions that can be addressed through phytotherapy, emphasizing evidence-based approaches that bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and contemporary scientific knowledge. Readers will gain insights into the latest research and discoveries in the field of phytochemistry, pharmacology, and ethnobotany, obtaining a comprehensive view of the potential applications of medicinal plants for various health-related purposes. The text also highlights the importance of sustainability and ethical practices in the harvesting and utilization of these botanical resources. Medicinal Plants - Chemical, Biochemical, and Pharmacological Approaches serves as an invaluable resource for scientists, healthcare professionals, and herbal enthusiasts alike, equipping them with a deep understanding of the chemical, biochemical, and pharmacological dimensions of these natural remedies. By promoting an evidence-based and sustainable approach to the use of medicinal plants, this book fosters a profound connection between the scientific community and the wealth of nature¿s therapeutic offerings.

This book, Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, delivers the latest information on biotransformation and other pharmacokinetic parameters required to assess drug safety in drug discovery and development. Drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics (DMPK) is considered a rational strategy for the design, optimization, and selection of successful drug candidates in the pre-clinical stages of drug discovery. The evaluation of various pharmacokinetic parameters such as aqueous solubility, lipophilicity, cell permeability, bioavailability, protein binding, andmetabolism and elimination half-life, drug¿drug interactions (DDIs), and toxicokinetics is essential for a candidate drug to become a successful therapeutic agent. This book discusses recent advances in in-silico tools and in vitro/in vivo experimental techniques applied inpharmacokinetic, metabolomic, and bioanalytical studies.Key Features:¿ Presents pharmacokinetic and biotransformation parameters used for pre-clinical safetyevaluations¿ Depicts experimental and biophysical techniques used in bioanalytical and metabolomicstudies¿ Summarizes in silico, in vitro, and in vivo methods used in drug¿enzyme interactions, drug¿drug interactions, and toxicokineticsWritten by a global team of experts, this book is a valuable resource for drug discovery scientists,drug developers, medicinal chemists, pharmacologists, biochemists, clinicians, biomedicalscientists, healthcare professionals, researchers, teaching faculty, and students.

Heat Transfer - Advances in Fundamentals and Applications explores new knowledge in the domain of fundamental and applied advances in heat transfer. This book specifically emphasizes advanced topics of heat transfer. Professionals, researchers, and academics working in various areas of heat transfer will find this a useful reference for finding new solutions to heat transfer problems. The book is organized into two sections on the fundamental advances in heat transfer and advances in applications of heat transfer. Chapters address inverse conduction problems, heat transfer enhancement during internal flows, shell-and-tube heat exchangers, heat transfer mechanisms in petroleum and geothermal wellbores, and other topics in the field.

In recent years, great progress has been made in the field of essential oils as scientific research has revealed new insights into the biological benefits, healing properties, and other uses. Interest in their use in various industries, such as medicine, agriculture, food, and cosmetics, has increased. Essential oils have found their place in many applications, thus fueling a wave of scientific research and industrial applications. This book explores these recent developments in detail, revealing new perspectives and applications of essential oils. It combines historical knowledge with the latest research to provide a comprehensive overview of the field. By exploring the ancient legacy of aromatic plants and their traditional medicinal uses, as well as delving into the latest research and industrial applications, this book provides a comprehensive understanding of essential oils and their potential.

Although they are neither technically classified as grasses nor as actual cereal grains, pseudocereals are plants that yield fruits or seeds that are utilized and consumed like grains. Pseudocereals are complete grains that are usually high in protein and free of gluten. Supposedly many of the ¿ancient grains¿ are actually pseudocereals. The Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) has also noted that pseudocereals greatly improve health and nutrition, as well as an individual¿s food supply and standard of living, all of which can contribute to future food security and sustainability. Their protein-derived peptides have been shown in previous investigations to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, anti-cancerous, and hypocholesterolemic qualities. Because pseudocereals have these intriguing qualities, more research is required to determine how best to incorporate them into the diet and what health benefits they may offer, which is exactly what this book is about. It provides essential information to scientific and non-scientific communities alike to keep interest in pseudocereals alive for the overall health and wellness of the planet.

Modern critical infrastructures (CIs) (e.g., electricity, water, transportation, telecommunications, and others) form complex systems with a high degree of interdependencies from one CI to the others. Natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, floods, droughts, landslides, and wildfires), humanmade disasters (e.g., sabotage and terrorism), and system faults (due to structural and equipment failures) will affect not only the directly impacted CI but all interdependent CIs. Risk assessment, therefore, has to be done over the entire system of CIs and should also include the social and personal impacts. According to a 2022 report, 80% of cities have been affected by significant climate change hazards represented by extreme heat (46%), heavy rainfall (36%), drought (35%), and floods (33%). The impacts of climate change, therefore, affect the complex system of the built environment and result in interrelated consequences at different scales ranging from single buildings to urban spaces and territorial infrastructures. Since it is not possible to reduce the severity of natural hazards, the main opportunity for lowering risk lies in reducing vulnerability and exposure. Vulnerability and exposure are related to urban development choices and practices that weaken the system¿s robustness. This volume reviews recent insights from risk identification and reduction to preparedness and financial protection strategies and proposes new approaches for better CIs and built environment protection.

Epilepsy During the Lifespan - Beyond the Diagnosis and New Perspectives discusses the most widespread neurological pathology in the world. The book presents interesting contributions to controversial topics in epilepsy. It includes nine chapters organized into three sections: ¿New and Old Perspectives on Epilepsy¿, ¿Epileptic Syndromes¿ and ¿Society and Epilepsy¿.

Elaeis guineensis is the scientific name for oil palm. It is also referred to as African oil palm as well as macaw fat. The industry is undoubtedly one of the most important commercial businesses in the world at present. The high oil yield of oil palms has made it a common cooking ingredient in Southeast Asia and the tropical belt of Africa. There are many new technologies hailed and explored to maintain the sustainability of the palm oil industry. This book provides an overview of these aspects while providing information on managing the gaps and voids of the industry in order to sustain its viability and feasibility. It is hoped that this book will provide valuable information to academics, industry personnel, manufacturers, and other categories of stakeholders of the palm oil industry alike.

In an era profoundly influenced by climate change, Climate Smart Greenhouses - Innovations and Impacts emerges as a pivotal guide, heralding a path toward resilient, efficient, and sustainable food production. By seamlessly blending the essence of traditional farming wisdom with the pulse of modern innovation, this book underscores the vast potential of human ingenuity and determination against daunting environmental adversities. Venturing deep into the realm of contemporary agriculture, it elucidates the nuanced role of farming in greenhouse gas emissions, sheds light on the innovative cooling systems tailored for closed greenhouses, and emphasizes the untapped potential of hydroponics. Additionally, it brings to the forefront the revolutionary strides of Controlled Environment Agriculture in the vibrant landscapes of Africa, inspiring readers with visionary greenhouses that astutely interweave economic prudence with ecological responsibility. Beyond its pages, it serves as a clarion call, reaching out to thinkers, innovators, dreamers, and every individual who cherishes our planet. It passionately advocates for a reimagined and harmonized agricultural future, where food production not only sustains but thrives in tandem with nature¿s rhythms. This is not just a book; it is a journey towards a green tomorrow.

With worsening climate change worldwide, the use of coal energy must be reevaluated. Lessons from highly optimized experiences in developed countries, along with innovative statistical tools, are ready to be employed in the coal energy field. Leveraging these resources can enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and promote sustainable practices in coal utilization. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the coal energy industry in the 21st century. It includes six chapters organized into three sections on the past and future of coal energy, application of statistical tools, and application technologies. Chapters address such topics as the pros and cons of coal energy, current clean coal technologies, the application of statistical tools to improve productivity and effectiveness in the coal energy industry, utilization of waste coal fly ash, and more.

More than 46 million people are currently victims of 21st-century slavery globally, most of whom are women and children. This book, 21st Century Slavery - The Various Forms of Human Enslavement in Today¿s World provides a comprehensive overview of modern-day slavery, also known as contemporary slavery, neo-slavery, institutional slavery, and numerous other terms. It includes eight chapters that highlight human trafficking and explain and explore the act of recruiting, harbouring, transporting, providing, or obtaining a person for compelled labour or commercial sex acts using force, fraud, or coercion. The book discusses the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring, and receipt of persons by improper means (such as force, abduction, fraud, or coercion) for an improper purpose including forced labour or sexual exploitation. It concludes that the world must not accept slavery in the 21st century. This volume is a useful resource on modern slavery for all academics interested in humanitarian and development studies across the globe and to all policymakers and governments of nations who are pushing for the elimination of all forms of slavery in their nationhood.

This book provides comprehensive insights into the biotechnological process of converting organic matter into biogas, which is an essential renewable energy resource for addressing challenges related to fossil fuel depletion and environmental pollution. It includes six chapters that cover a spectrum of topics, including approaches to biogas upgrading, the optimization of biogas production through examination, mathematical modeling, and applied calculations, the application of bacteriophages to enhance anaerobic digestion, and more.

With more than 230 million surgical procedures performed annually worldwide, and 30% or more of people affected by chronic pain globally, pain management is consistently a top priority. Its personal and social burden is enormous and thus much literature and research focuses on pain medicine. Along with the evolution of precision medicine, today¿s typical pain management strategies include a personalized, multimodal, interdisciplinary treatment approach, which might include pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, integrative treatments, and invasive procedures. This book presents the latest advancements in pain management, covering a wide field of topics in pain medicine.

Millets are a group of small-seeded grasses that have been grown as food sources for humans and animals since ancient times. These crops are highly nutritious and have a range of health benefits. They are also highly adaptable to different growing conditions, making them an important crop for farmers in arid and drought-prone regions. Millets have been an integral part of the traditional diets of many cultures around the world and have gained renewed attention in recent years as a sustainable, low-input alternative to other cereal crops. Despite their many benefits, millets have been largely overlooked by modern industrial agriculture, and their cultivation and use have declined in many regions. There is a growing recognition of the need to promote and support the conservation and revival of millet cultivation as a key strategy to enhance food security and resilience in the face of climate change.

Embark on a journey through the dynamic world of the Internet of Things (IoT) with Internet of Things - New Insight. This innovative book offers a concise yet comprehensive exploration of IoT¿s technological evolution, diverse applications, and prospects. From its roots in ubiquitous computing to real-world applications in health care, agriculture, and smart cities, each chapter unveils the transformative impact of IoT on our interconnected world.Key Features:Applications across Domains: Explore real-world examples showcasing how IoT enhances efficiency and quality of life.Challenges and Solutions: Confront the hurdles of rapid IoT proliferation and discover insightful perspectives and solutions.Future Prospects: Peer into the future, exploring potential advancements in AI integration, edge computing, and 6G connectivity.Whether you are a professional seeking deeper insights or an enthusiast eager to understand the complexities of IoT, this book is your gateway to a revolutionary technological landscape that continues to redefine connectivity and innovation.

This book elaborates on organizational culture change supported by technology. More specifically, it goes beyond the core meaning, definitions, and identities of organizational culture. It is a profound effort that explores the key elements and factors that drive internal organizational change through a suggested approach to digitalization. It presents insight into the realistic organizational world, highlighting novel ideas that enrich the understanding of why change is needed. It will empower individuals to examine cultural change through different dimensions as well as nurture new publications in different industries and markets. It will also spur future investigations of organizational culture change and related economic and social aspects. The book unlocks new avenues for various players, including organizations, policymakers, practitioners, and researchers. It is a valuable addition to the literature, presenting an impressive body of knowledge on the technology driving cultural change. The book follows an easily readable format and is professionally written. It includes nine chapters that help readers understand the core need for organizational cultural change and technology and their increasing significance worldwide.

Phosphorus (P) stands second to nitrogen in terms of its essentiality as a plant macronutrient, as well as due to its involvement in almost all plant developmental stages, primary and secondary plant metabolisms, maintenance of membrane structures, and in the structural skeleton of major biomolecules. An optimum P-supply also helps plants combat abiotic stress impacts. Most P in soil remains unavailable for uptake by plants. P-containing fertilizers are being added to agricultural lands to sustain high yields. Only the least amount of the applied P (20%¿30%) is used by most cultivated plants, and the rest remains as legacy P (P surpluses), which eventually causes eutrophication. This book, Phosphorus in Soils and Plants, reviews P in soils and plants, P dynamics in the soil¿water¿sediment environment, the major roles of P in the photosynthetic dark phase-biochemical pathways, major approaches for the sustainable management of P in agriculture, main mechanisms underlying the role of P in the regulation of plant¿microbe interactions in the rhizosphere, literature on the role of microbial phosphate solubilization in management of soil and plant nutrients, and insights into P recovery through waste transformation. This volume is an important resource for plant biologists involved in teaching or research who wish to advance their knowledge of P in soils and plants.