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.

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.

Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) are advantageous cell sources for disease remodeling and drug screening, particularly for regenerative medicine. State-of-the-art updates have highlighted the feasibility of hPSCs for the large-scale preparation of diverse kinds of stem cells and functional cells, such as mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), neural stem cells (NSCs), natural killer (NK) cells, and chimeric antigen receptor-transduced T cells (CAR-Ts). With the aid of preclinical investigations and clinical practice, hPSCs have been recognized as promising therapeutic cell sources with excellent properties for treating a variety of refractory and recurrent diseases. This book provides a comprehensive overview of advances in pluripotent stem cells.

This book provides an extensive review of the current topics of interest and updated practices of renal replacement therapy for both pediatric and adult populations. The chapters are authored by nephrologists and healthcare and other professionals from around the world. This book brings a multidisciplinary and multidimensional perspective to the current advances in renal replacement therapy. It also provides updated recommendations to assist with clinical decision-making on whether a patient is suitable and indicated for renal replacement therapy across different clinical settings and contexts, and strategies to optimize their holistic care when they are receiving treatment.

Sexual violence is a multifaceted crime and a global health problem. It is a crime that can happen to anyone, including young and old, male and female, rich and poor. Sexual violence persists due to several variables, including abuse history and a society¿s tolerance of the crime. Additionally, belief systems, cultural norms, and legal systems create environments that allow abusers to escape detection. This book addresses sexual violence myths, belief systems, and the mediäs role in perpetuating sexual violence. It also examines the role of social media in facilitating sexual crimes, particularly sex trafficking. Finally, this book examines the work of community stakeholders in addressing and treating individuals who have been sexually victimized and the coping mechanisms of sexually traumatized adult women.

Embark on a journey into the digital realm with Social Media - Opportunities and Risks, an intriguing collection that uncovers the diverse world of social media and its profound impact on our lives. Within these pages we delve into the heart of the Internet where small- and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) utilize social media to revolutionize e-commerce, democratizing entrepreneurship like never before. We explore Sub-Saharan Africa, a region where social media is driving change, fostering innovation, and reshaping society. In the realm of presentation, we examine the intricacies of building authentic yet captivating digital identities. Our exploration also takes us to the forefront of education, where social media is reshaping learning and providing access to knowledge. At the same time, we don¿t shy away from acknowledging the darker aspects of this interconnected world. We navigate through the challenges posed by misinformation and disinformation by examining perspectives on fake news during the COVID-19 pandemic and offering valuable insights into combating falsehoods through media literacy and critical thinking. Social Media - Opportunities and Risks serves as your guiding tool for mastering opportunities while effectively managing the inherent risks in today¿s digital era. Whether you are a business owner looking to tap into the possibilities of the Internet marketplace, an educator aiming to transform education, or an individual trying to navigate through the amount of information available, this collection of writings serves as your indispensable companion for navigating the dynamic world of social media.

Piezoelectric and thermoelectric materials represent emerging cutting-edge technological materials for energy harvesting for high-value-added applications. Although these materials have been exhaustively exploited for decades, researchers around the world continue to find technological and scientific innovations that must be disseminated to the engineers of yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Piezoelectric materials, through mechanical stresses applied to them, are capable of generating electricity, while thermoelectric materials are capable of producing electricity thanks to the heat applied to them. Therefore, the direct application of these materials is in energy harvesting, which, together with the reduction of materials, leads them to portable and wearable functional applications. The purpose of this work is to disseminate some of the latest scientific and technological advances by different researchers around the world in the development of devices and applications based on these materials. The book compiles state-of-the-art fundamentals, current uses, as well as emerging applications of piezoelectric and thermoelectric materials. It is a source of inspiration for continued scientific research on the commercial, industrial, and military applications of these materials. Furthermore, it is a valuable and informative resource for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as experts and researchers in the field.

This book is an important guide to aluminum alloys. It discusses the basics of aluminum alloys, how they are prepared, how their properties can be altered, the relationship between their microstructures and properties, and their advanced applications. This book includes eleven chapters organized into four sections: ¿Introduction to Aluminum Alloys¿, ¿Fabrication of Aluminum Alloys¿, ¿Properties of Aluminum Alloys¿, and ¿Advanced Applications of Aluminum Alloys¿. Chapters address such topics as aluminum alloys and their grain refinement; extrusion, low- and high-pressure casting, and additive manufacturing techniques to prepare different grades of aluminum alloys; how the property of aluminum alloys can be altered by adding dispersing agents; and more.

Updates on Cardiac Defibrillation, Cardioversion and AED Development delves deeply into the multifaceted world of arrhythmia treatment. Through various approaches, the chapters show a wide array of electrical and pharmacological methods to restore normal sinus rhythm in tachyarrhythmic cases. From the historical perspective of the first use of direct current electrical cardioversion to the effective deployment of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in public-access defibrillation programs, this book underscores the crucial role of timely intervention. Focusing on atrial arrhythmias, the impact of tachyarrhythmia on heart function is highlighted and potential breakthroughs of cardioversion drugs are introduced. In the context of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, the book uncovers treatment strategies, emphasizing the innovative cardiac myosin modulation. The chapter on the effectors of transthoracic impedance and their significant influence on electrical intervention success rate urges personalized optimization methods for increased efficiency. Collectively, these chapters provide a comprehensive overview of various aspects of arrhythmia treatment, presenting advancements, challenges, and strategies to enhance patient outcomes in the dynamic landscape of acute cardiology care.

Sleep is undoubtedly one of the most intricate and abstruse issues in humans. Disturbances of sleep are widespread and can have a great impact on involved individuals as well as an economic influence on society. The COVID-19 pandemic forced predominant changes in recent years, such as the development of wearable devices and the Internet of Things (IoT) in telehealth. These are helpful for disease evaluation and treatment, however, they may not be adequate for dealing with the complexity of sleep medicine. I believe that specialists in sleep medicine will accelerate increased public awareness of sleep disorders and facilitate the consolidation of sleep health into medical care in a responsible fashion, including innovations in sleep medicine. This book presents updated developments as well as future perspectives in sleep medicine. It is a useful resource for persons involved in sleep medicine, whether they are clinicians, researchers, or patients.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a lifelong neurological condition that has no known cure. This book provides an extensive exploration of current and future directions for understanding immunology, neuroscience, and the development of potent treatment modalities. It presents an in-depth analysis and expert commentary on the role of genetics, lifestyle factors, biomarkers, neuroimaging, cognitive domains, artificial intelligence, and innate immunity in MS pathogenesis. We hope that the book is helpful to readers of all spheres of life, including those who want to understand more about MS, those who are keen to improve their understanding of MS disease pathogenesis, those who are enthusiastic to know more about treatment modalities, and those who want to be informed about state-of-the-art clinical developments in MS.

International Business - New Insights on Changing Scenarios is a collection of reviewed and relevant research chapters offering a comprehensive overview of recent developments in business, management, and economics. The book presents a review of the latest research efforts by international authors in social science and opens new possible research paths for further novel developments. Chapters address such topics as business intelligence, circular systems, corporate governance, work-related safety issues, and much more.

The book presents an in-depth exploration of adrenal anatomy, physiology, and pathology, authored by a multidisciplinary team of international experts, providing an exposition of the current state of knowledge in the field of adrenal diseases and offering insights into the evolution of their management. The addressed pathologies are intricate and diverse, encompassing conditions such as Cushing¿s disease, primary aldosteronism, pheochromocytoma, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Each pathology chapter delves into etiopathogenic aspects, clinical evidence, and therapeutic recommendations. This publication caters equally to endocrinologists and professionals from various medical disciplines, serving as a valuable resource for information on the adrenal gland from both a physiological and pathological perspective.

Boron plays a pivotal role in the development of innovative boron-based materials, endowed with properties of paramount significance in both the manufacturing and performance aspects of numerous products crucial to modern society. Over the past few decades, there has been a burgeoning interest in boron, its compounds, and boron-based materials within the scientific and technological communities. This heightened attention stems from their exceptional potential applications across a wide spectrum of fields, spanning from materials science to biomedical research, owing to their remarkable characteristics. These extraordinary properties make them compelling candidates for a diverse array of applications in industry and everyday life. These applications encompass biotechnology, medicine (drug delivery systems and technologies, bioimaging systems, and radiation therapy), agriculture, radiation-shielding materials, capping agents, and mechanical strength, among others. However, despite extensive research, many aspects of boron¿s properties remain shrouded in mystery, presenting practical challenges. This book delves deep into the realm of boron-based nanomaterials, shedding light on their properties and providing an up-to-date overview of the latest breakthroughs in boron and its compounds. It offers insights into the industrial, medical, and everyday applications of boron-containing materials. The book is a comprehensive resource for seasoned professionals, scientists, and scholars in pursuit of cutting-edge technological advancements. Comprising research articles and reviews, it is an invaluable reference for both students and scholars engaged in the exploration of boron and boron-based materials.

This book discusses and addresses anomaly detection in the context of artificial intelligence and machine learning advancements. Building on the existing literature, this thorough and timely work is an invaluable resource. It highlights various problems, offers workable solutions to those problems, and allows academic and professional researchers and practitioners to engage in new technologies linked to anomaly detection. This book demystifies the challenges and presents solutions for detecting and understanding network anomalies. Whether you are a seasoned network professional or an enthusiast keen on cyber security, this volume promises insights that will fortify our connected futures. Join us in navigating the complexities of modern networks and championing a safer, more transparent digital era.

Comparative Literature - Interdisciplinary Considerations is a wide-ranging exploration of various aspects of comparative literature and cultural phenomena from different angles. The authors delve into intriguing topics such as literary tourism, biofiction, colonial/postcolonial literature, suspense in literature, and the interaction between different artistic mediums. For instance, the analysis of Gabriel García Márquez¿s works sheds light on the genres of magic realism and the Latin American boom, as well as how his literature influences literary tourism experiences. Another example is the study of Anna Enquist¿s work, which showcases the genre of biofiction and examines the complex messages conveyed through reconstructed voices and alternative perspectives, including the portrayal of Captain Cook¿s wife. This is compared with historical accounts of the 18th-century Ottoman Empire during Sultan Selim III¿s reign, as studied by Stanford Shaw in Between Old and New. The book also explores the theme of unease and suspense in Patricia Highsmith¿s writing, focusing on her iconic character Tom Ripley, known for his psychological depth and morally ambiguous nature. Additionally, discussions on colonial/postcolonial literature and the representation of women¿s restrictions from a historical perspective contribute to a better understanding of power dynamics, gender representation, and non-Western literature. Henri Fauconnier¿s Malaisie is analyzed in the context of ¿paracoloniality,¿ highlighting the transformative potential of Western texts and emphasizing overlooked aspects in discussions of colonial and postcolonial literature. The volume offers valuable insights into the representation of nations and historical figures through Malay and Persian travel narratives, as well as their influence on cultural identity. Moreover, the chapters explore the evolution of literary genres, the interconnectedness of literature with other art forms, and the impact of technological advancements on artistic expression. Overall, this book provides valuable perspectives on the rich tapestry of literature, art, and culture. It encourages scholars to explore diverse cultural expressions and fosters interdisciplinary dialogue within the field of comparative literature.

Biodiesel, the sustainable fuel of the future, holds the key to a cleaner, greener world. Advanced Biodiesel - Technological Advances, Challenges, and Sustainability Considerations takes you on a compelling journey through cutting-edge advancements in biodiesel technology, offering an unparalleled exploration of its production, refining, and transformative applications. This book unveils the collective wisdom and vision of pioneers in the field who are shaping the future of sustainable energy. Whether you are a seasoned researcher, an aspiring scientist, or simply an eco-conscious individual, this book is an invaluable resource to inspire and guide your efforts to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and pave the way for a more sustainable, environmentally responsible world. Discover the future of energy; embrace Advanced Biodiesel - Technological Advances, Challenges, and Sustainability Considerations today and join the movement towards a brighter, cleaner tomorrow.

A urinalysis is a simple test that can help find urinary tract-related problems such as kidney disease. It can also pinpoint other serious problems not so closely related to kidneys, such as diabetes, liver disease, or even various cancers. Simply put, urine analyses may provide huge amounts of information to monitor a potential patient¿s condition. The history of analysis of urine for diagnostic purposes is quite long. It includes the detection of microbes as etiological agents of infection and the estimation of biochemical parameters such as glucose and protein concentration. Furthermore, the increase in the number of patients suffering from chronic kidney disease or other ¿civilization diseases¿ such as diabetes, hypertension, or obesity manifests the need for effective tools for specific and sensitive diagnosis. This book summarizes the state of the art in diagnosing infectious and non-infectious diseases based on urine analysis. Additionally, it focuses on novel techniques and applications used in everyday laboratory urinalysis. The history of analysis of urine for diagnostic purposes is quite long. It includes the detection of microbes as etiological agents of infection and the estimation of biochemical parameters such as glucose and protein concentration. Furthermore, the increase in the number of patients suffering from chronic kidney disease or other ¿civilization diseases¿ such as diabetes, hypertension, or obesity manifests the need for effective tools for specific and sensitive diagnosis. This book summarizes the state of the art in diagnosing infectious and non-infectious diseases based on urine analysis. Additionally, it focuses on novel techniques and applications used in everyday laboratory urinalysis.