Evaluation of Origanum vulgare Essential Oil as a Natural Antibacterial Agent in Minced Meat | Chapter 5 | Pharmaceutical Science: New Insights and Developments Vol. 10

 

The increasing consumer demand for natural, clean-label food preservation strategies has intensified interest in plant-derived essential oils as alternatives to synthetic preservatives. This study evaluates the antibacterial efficacy and preservative potential of Origanum vulgare essential oil in fresh minced meat under refrigerated storage. The oil was obtained by hydrodistillation and chemically characterised using GC–MS, revealing a carvacrol-rich chemotype with significant amounts of thymol, p-cymene, and γ-terpinene, which collectively contribute to its strong antimicrobial activity. Phenolic derivatives accounted for over 64% of the oil composition, explaining its pronounced efficacy against microorganisms.

 

When incorporated into minced meat at a sensorially acceptable concentration of 0.1%, the essential oil significantly reduced total aerobic mesophilic microflora and Staphylococcus aureus populations over 48 hours at 4 °C, without affecting sensory attributes such as taste and odour. The stronger reduction in S. aureus is attributed to the higher susceptibility of Gram-positive bacteria to phenolic compounds. The antibacterial mechanism involves disruption of bacterial cell membranes, ion leakage, ATP depletion, and collapse of the proton-motive force, while minor compounds like p-cymene and γ-terpinene enhance membrane penetration and synergistically boost antimicrobial activity. The essential oil also exhibits anti-biofilm properties, preventing adhesion and disrupting mature biofilms.

 

From an industrial perspective, challenges such as volatility, instability, and strong aroma can be mitigated using encapsulation technologies (nanoemulsions, liposomes, cyclodextrins, biopolymer-based matrices) and by combining essential oils with other multi-hurdle preservation strategies, including modified atmosphere packaging, edible coatings, organic acids, and mild thermal treatments.

 

In conclusion, Origanum vulgare essential oil is a promising natural preservative capable of enhancing food safety, extending shelf life, and meeting the consumer demand for minimally processed, natural meat products. Further studies are warranted to optimise encapsulation systems, synergistic preservation strategies, and industrial-scale applications.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Sonia Heni
Laboratory of Physical Chemistry and Biology of Materials, Higher Normal School of Technological Education of Skikda, Algeria.

 

Hicham Boughendjioua
Laboratory of Physical Chemistry and Biology of Materials, Higher Normal School of Technological Education of Skikda, Algeria.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/psnid/v10/7083

Development and in vivo Evaluation of Gastroretentive Floating Microballoons of Acetohydroxamic Acid for Enhanced Oral Bioavailability |Chapter 4 | Pharmaceutical Science: New Insights and Developments Vol. 10

 

The oral route remains the most preferred and patient-friendly mode of drug administration. Microballoons, a non-effervescent gastroretentive system, are hollow microspheres (<200 µm) composed of polymers or proteins that exhibit excellent buoyancy due to their internal cavity. As multiple-unit systems, they ensure uniform drug distribution, minimise dose dumping, and allow controlled drug release by optimising polymer composition. Acetohydroxamic acid, a urease inhibitor structurally similar to urea, effectively inhibits Helicobacter pylori by penetrating bacterial cells and blocking urease activity, making it suitable for stomach-specific delivery. This study involved the formulation of acetohydroxamic acid floating microballoons, the evaluation of gastric retention by X-ray imaging in rabbits, and bioavailability assessment through pharmacokinetic studies. DSC and FTIR confirmed drug–polymer compatibility. The percentage yield was in the range of 60-90 % for all the formulations. It was found to be less than 70% yield with ethyl cellulose and HPMC K4M, and for the optimised formulation, the yield was around 80 %. The entrapment efficiency was in the range of 60-90 % for all the formulations and was found to be 89.6%for optimized formulation. The percentage buoyancywas in the range of 60-90 % for all the formulations and was found to be 85.5% for optimized formulation. Drug content of all the prepared formulations was found to be within the acceptable range of 90.0 -110.0%. This manuscript is important to the scientific community as it provides a comprehensive and well-validated approach to gastroretentive drug delivery using floating microballoons as a non-effervescent, multiparticulate system. The work offers a reproducible formulation strategy for stomach-specific delivery of urease inhibitors, addressing a critical challenge in the management of Helicobacter pylori infections. Overall, the findings contribute valuable translational insights for the development of advanced oral drug delivery systems with improved clinical efficacy.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Munija Pancheddula
Vision College of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Research, Boduppal, Hyderabad, India.

 

Nemuri Mounika
Vision College of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Research, Boduppal, Hyderabad, India.

 

Upparaboina Srilatha
Vision College of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Research, Boduppal, Hyderabad, India.

 

Shayeda
Department of Pharmaceutics, University College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kakatiya University, Warangal-506009, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/psnid/v10/7065

 

Chronotherapy and Pulsatile Drug Delivery Systems: Aligning Pharmacotherapy with Circadian Rhythms |Chapter 3 | Pharmaceutical Science: New Insights and Developments Vol. 10

 

Chronotherapy is a therapeutic strategy that synchronises the timing of drug administration with the body’s endogenous circadian rhythms to enhance efficacy and reduce adverse effects. These rhythms regulate physiological processes such as hormone secretion, metabolism, sleep–wake cycles, and cardiovascular function, making timing an essential component of optimised therapy. Pulsatile drug delivery systems complement chronotherapy by releasing drugs in a programmed manner after a predetermined lag time, allowing the drug to reach peak concentrations at the time when symptoms are most severe or when the body is most receptive to treatment. Chronotherapy can be implemented using various approaches, including delayed or advanced sleep phase therapy, rest-phase adjustment, and combination interventions involving light or behavioural therapy. In clinical practice, chronotherapy has shown particular benefit in arthritis management—night-time dosing of NSAIDs or corticosteroids helps reduce early-morning stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis, while morning dosing of COX-2 inhibitors is more effective for osteoarthritis. Overall, aligning drug delivery with circadian patterns offers a promising strategy to enhance therapeutic outcomes in time-dependent diseases.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Y. Ismail
Crescent School of Pharmacy, B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, GST Road, Vandalur, Chennai 600048, Tamil Nadu, India.

 

Vijaya Kumar Voleti
School of Pharmacy, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, OMR Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

 

S. Priya
School of Pharmacy, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, OMR Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/psnid/v10/7019

Evaluation of α-Amylase Inhibitory Activity of Aqueous Extracts of Selected Plants | Chapter 2 | Pharmaceutical Science: New Insights and Developments Vol. 10

 

Background: Diabetes is a chronic, metabolic disease characterised by elevated levels of blood glucose (or blood sugar), leading to serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and nerves. Naturally occurring inhibitors of carbohydrate-digesting enzymes may offer an effective way to limit the absorption of dietary carbohydrates while causing fewer adverse effects than synthetic drugs. α-amylase helps in the digestion and absorption of dietary starch and causes elevated blood glucose levels.

 

Aims: The present work aims to find natural α-amylase inhibitors derived from plants that have gained popularity as safe and cost-effective alternatives.

 

Study Design: This study investigates the α-amylase inhibitory potential of five medicinal plants (Aerva lanata, Emblica officinalis, Momordica charantia, Musa paradisiaca, and Psidium guajava) traditionally used in diabetes management.

 

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Department of Botany, Catholicate College, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India.

 

Methodology: The α-amylase inhibitory activity of five plant extracts (Aerva lanata, Emblica officinalis, Momordica charantia, Musa paradisiaca, and Psidium guajava) was evaluated at concentrations ranging from 10, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 μg/mL. Metformin was used as a standard antidiabetic drug for comparison. The extracts underwent additional phytochemical analysis to determine their total tannin and total phenolic contents.

 

Results: Our findings demonstrate that these plant extracts exhibit varying degrees of α-amylase inhibitory activity, with Momordica charantia showing the highest inhibition (95.00% ± 0.58% at 100 μg/mL). The inhibitory potential of these extracts correlates with their phenolic and tannin content, suggesting a role for these phytochemicals in α-amylase inhibition. Notably, Emblica officinalis and Psidium guajava also displayed significant inhibitory activity comparable to the standard drug metformin.

 

Conclusion: The study provides valuable insights into the development of novel antidiabetic therapies from natural sources. Further studies are warranted to isolate and characterise the bioactive compounds and elucidate their mechanisms of action. The findings of this study have significant implications for the management of diabetes and the development of natural antidiabetic agents.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Nisha Joseph
Post Graduate and Research Department of Botany, Catholicate College Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India.

 

A. S. Deepthi
Post Graduate and Research Department of Botany, Catholicate College Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India.

 

Gokul G. Nair
Post Graduate and Research Department of Botany, Catholicate College Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India.

 

Merin Grace Jiji
Post Graduate and Research Department of Botany, Catholicate College Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/psnid/v10/7036

Spectroscopic Methods for Analysing Herbal Medicine and their Roles in Healthcare |Chapter 1 | Pharmaceutical Science: New Insights and Developments Vol. 10

 

Background: Spectroscopic methods are very fundamental, convenient, cost-effective and available equipment settings in both industry and laboratory to analyse a range of products, including food, medicines, cosmetics and herbal products. Herbal drugs, that is, plant-derived products, have been used in the healthcare system from ancient times. There are different types of spectroscopic methods, among which ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, atomic absorption spectroscopy, Mass spectroscopy, Fluorescence spectroscopy and Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy are widely used for analysing herbal drugs.

 

Materials and Methods: PubMed, Research Gate, Google Scholar and other search engines, including Artificial intelligence tools, have been searched to find suitable literature to find relevant research works. The keywords “Spectroscopy”, “Herbal medicines”, “UV-VIS spectroscopy”, “Analysis”, “Infra-Red spectroscopy”, “Raman spectroscopy”, “Atomic absorption spectroscopy”, “Mass spectroscopy”, “Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy”, “Analysis of herbs and phytoconstituents” etc. have been applied to find expected research articles and collect information on various aspects of spectroscopic methods for analysing herbal medicine and their roles in healthcare.

 

Results: After a thorough study of a lot of published articles, standard textbooks and related literature, we found some spectroscopic methods which are suitable for the analysis of herbal drugs. Some of these methods are - ultraviolet spectroscopy, infrared and Fourier Transform Infra-red spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, atomic absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectroscopy. Several tandem systems integrate spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques. Prominent examples include gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). These methods are highly suitable, specific, sensitive, and readily amenable to validation.

 

Conclusion: Spectroscopic methods provide a reliable and cost-effective approach for evaluating phytochemical potency and ensuring the quality of herbal preparations, making them essential tools in routine laboratory analysis.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Sabiha Ferdowsy Koly
Department of Pharmacy, Southeast University, Tejgaon-1215, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

 

Md. Shah Amran
Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy and Public Health, Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB), Bashudhara, Dhaka-1229, Bangladesh.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/psnid/v10/6660

Advancing Healthcare through Corporate Social Responsibility: A Study of Bangladesh’s Banking Sector| Chapter 4 | Economics, Business and Management: Recent Advances Vol. 1

 

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has shifted from a philanthropic activity to a strategic business practice, especially in Bangladesh’s banking sector, where it plays a crucial role in healthcare improvements. The contribution of CSR by banks in Bangladesh has been influential in addressing critical societal needs and enhancing community well-being. Through their CSR initiatives, banks in Bangladesh are actively involved in promoting education, environmental sustainability, and particularly healthcare, reflecting a strong commitment to societal development. This chapter investigates how Bangladeshi banks have integrated CSR into their operations, aligning efforts with national health goals. Using content analysis of publications from the Bangladesh Central Bank and other sources, the study outlines the transition from basic charitable actions to more impactful CSR interventions. Under the Bangladesh Bank’s regulatory framework, banks are required to allocate a portion of profits to CSR, particularly focusing on healthcare, education, disaster relief, and environmental sustainability. The research highlights key healthcare initiatives such as infrastructure development, funding medical camps, and promoting public health awareness. Fluctuations in healthcare-related CSR spending from 2019 to 2023 are examined, showing a peak in 2021, followed by a decline due to political and economic instability. The study stresses the need for stronger oversight, strategic partnerships, and long-term healthcare investments to ensure sustainable outcomes. Bangladesh Bank has initiated several measures to integrate FI with social welfare activities, reflecting a comprehensive engagement of the banking sector in CSR to combat poverty, empower women, improve educational and healthcare facilities, handle disasters, and enhance cultural richness. The variability in expenditure, influenced by external political and economic factors, underscores the need for stronger regulatory frameworks and strategic partnerships. By aligning CSR activities with national health goals and enhancing transparency, banks can ensure that their contributions to healthcare are both impactful and sustainable. Recommendations include aligning CSR strategies with national health objectives, enhancing transparency, and collaborating with healthcare providers and NGOs. Further research is suggested to evaluate the direct impact of these initiatives on healthcare outcomes to ensure long-term effectiveness.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Shamsul Sarkar
Healthcare and Community Service Professional, Sydney, Australia.

 

Sharmin Islam
Eastern University, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

 

Shafiqur Rahman

Business, Int’l Open University, The Gambia.

 

Md Moniruzzaman
Amazing Dental Signature, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

 

Afruza Haque
DUET, Bangladesh.

 

Faiyaz Rahman
Komatsu, NSW, Australia.

 

Gazi Farid Hossain
King's Own Institute, Australia.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/ebmra/v1/6991

 

An Empirical Study on Impact Analysis of Macro Economic Indicators on Indian Banking Stocks | Chapter 3 | Economics, Business and Management: Recent Advances Vol. 1

 

The fluctuations in stock prices are due to both company-specific internal factors and many external factors. Among the external factors, the most important are the macroeconomic factors. To create a profitable portfolio, investors must analyse both internal and external influences. This study focuses on the impact of the most important macroeconomic factors, viz., GDP, inflation, industrial production, crude oil prices, foreign institutional investments, currency exchange rate and interest rates, on the prices of the listed banking stocks in India. The sample constitutes the top five listed banks selected from the public and private sectors on the basis of their market capitalisation. The collected secondary data was analysed using suitable statistical tools such as mean, standard deviation, coefficient of correlation and linear multiple regression analysis. Hypotheses are tested based on Pearson’s correlation and regression analysis. It is observed that only two variables, i.e. industrial production and exchange rate, have a significant positive impact on the stock prices. The variable interest rate is showing a significantly negative influence on the stock prices. All the other variables, viz., GDP, inflation, oil prices and FII investments have an insignificant impact.

 

 

Author(s) Details

S. Sundara Ram
C. U. Shah University, Wadhwan, Gujarat, India.

 

Munjal Dave
C. U. Shah University, Wadhwan, Gujarat, India.

 

M. Rajesh
VIT Business School, VIT University, Tamil Nadu, India.

 

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/ebmra/v1/6975

Impact of MGNREGA on Tribal Livelihoods of Santhal Households in Pakur District of Jharkhand, India | Chapter 2 | Economics, Business and Management: Recent Advances Vol. 1

 

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is a pivotal welfare program in India, designed to ensure 100 days of guaranteed wage employment for rural households. The objectives of the act are to provide safety nets for vulnerable groups, provide an engine for the agricultural sustainable development, empower the rural poor and promote new ways of doing businesses by providing work for unskilled workers at the wage rate specified by the Central Government. For tribal communities like the Santhals of Pakur district (Jharkhand), MGNREGA has the potential to function as both a safety net and a catalyst for livelihood security. The study aims to find out the extent of participation of MGNREGA among Santhal households in Pakur. This study assesses the influence of MGNREGA on income, migration, and household consumption within Santhal households in Pakur district. Primary data were gathered utilising a stratified random sampling method to guarantee representation among the socio-economic strata of Santhal households. The survey encompassed 150 households, with 25 households chosen from each of six blocks—Pakuria, Maheshpur, Pakur, Amrapara, Littipara, and Hiranpur—establishing a solid foundation for evaluating the program's impact on the community. The data were examined through descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test methodologies after testing the data for normality. The results indicate a statistically significant upward shift in income categories and a reduction in reported seasonal migration following participation in MGNREGA. MGNREGA participation contributed to improved economic well-being, as evidenced by consumption trends, with most households reporting heightened consumption, signifying better access to food and essential goods. The research concludes that MGNREGA has favourably impacted the socio-economic status of Santhal households. The research highlights the necessity for MGNREGA to focus on the development of productive community assets, including irrigation facilities, land development structures, and water harvesting systems, to improve the livelihood resilience of tribal households. It advocates for enhancing execution to achieve more comprehensive livelihood advancements.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Amar Kumar Chaudhary
Department of Commerce and Business Management, Ranchi University, India.

 

Shashi Shekhar Murmu
Department of Commerce and Business Management, Ranchi University, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/ebmra/v1/6964

The Role of Firms, Markets, and Financial Systems in Driving Sustainability Transitions under Climate and Resource Constraints | Chapter 1 | Economics, Business and Management: Recent Advances Vol. 1

Sustainability transitions under climate change and resource constraints call for systemic transformations of economic structures instead of mere technologically or financially isolated interventions. This chapter offers a narrative review and conceptual synthesis of the changes in the roles of firms, markets, and financial systems during such transitions. Grounded in economics and finance, the chapter examines how firm behaviour, market incentives, innovation dynamics, and investment decisions interact under conditions of environmental uncertainty. The analysis brings out constraints of the market coordination in the presence of externalities, the significance of a regulatory framework that is credible for guiding innovation, and the function of financial systems in reallocating capital and pricing transition risks. It is argued that firms, markets, and finance are not entities that can independently drive the change; rather, they are the interdependent components of wider transition processes influenced by governance and the credibility of policy. The chapter also draws policy-relevant implications by emphasising the need for coordinated innovation policy, regulatory credibility, and financial disclosure frameworks to enable stable and inclusive sustainability transitions. The chapter concludes by emphasising the need for coordinated policy approaches that would be able to harmonise real, economic incentives with the financial systems in order to be a source of stable, inclusive, and economically sustainable transitions of the environment.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Imtipong Longkumer
Department of Management, Nagaland University, Meriema Campus, Kohima, Nagaland, India and Department of Business Administration, St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous), Jakhama, Nagaland, India.

 

Mohd Faishal
St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous), Jakhama, Nagaland, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/ebmra/v1/6968

Multitemporal Monitoring of Surface Water Dynamics in Lake Tota (Colombia) Using Landsat Imagery and NDWI: A Replicable Methodological Framework | Chapter 4 | Current Research on Geography, Earth Science and Environment Vol. 6

 

Remote sensing has become an essential tool for understanding environmental dynamics, particularly the long-term monitoring of surface water bodies. Among spectral indices, the Normalised Difference Water Index (NDWI) has shown strong potential for detecting and quantifying changes in water surfaces using multispectral satellite imagery. This chapter presents a replicable methodological framework for the multitemporal analysis of surface water dynamics based on Landsat imagery and the NDWI index, integrating conceptual explanation with a step-by-step workflow accessible to researchers, professionals, and students.

 

The proposed methodology is applied to Lake Tota, the largest natural freshwater lake in Colombia, using Landsat images from 1985 to 2025. The results indicate a net reduction of 125.24 hectares in surface water area, equivalent to a decrease of 2.29% relative to the baseline year, together with marked interannual variability and a declining trend in recent years. Beyond the case study, the framework offers a transferable approach for monitoring surface water changes in different geographic contexts, contributing to more informed decision-making in environmental management and research.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Alexander Saavedra Pulido
Facultad de Ingeniería Ambiental, Universidad Santo Tomás, Colombia.

 

Carlos Caro Camargo
Facultad de Ingeniería Civil, Universidad Santo Tomás, Colombia.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/crgese/v6/7147

 

A Study of the Seawater Quality Around Halmahera Islands, North Maluku, Indonesia | Current Research on Geography, Earth Science and Environment Vol. 6

 

Halmahera is one of the largest islands in North Maluku, Indonesia. The island is rich in valuable minerals like gold and nickel, and it also has abundant marine resources. In September 2005 (transition monsoon), a research survey was carried out in the waters around Halmahera, because September is a transitional season, where in this month there is a change of season from the east season to the west season, which affects water conditions. This study aims to monitor seawater quality in relation to fisheries and tourism interests. The study looked at both physical and chemical seawater quality parameters. The physical parameters measured included temperature, salinity, turbidity, total suspended solids (TSS), and light transmission, while the chemical parameters were nutrients (phosphate, nitrate, silicate),  dissolved oxygen (DO), acidity (pH), and heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cu, Zn, and Ni). The results showed that the seawater quality was generally suitable for fisheries and tourism activities and still met the standards set for Indonesia’s seawater quality.

 

 

Author(s) Details

 

Edward Edward
Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency, Serpong, Indonesia.

 

Abd Wahab Radjab
Research Center for Biota Systems, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bogor, Indonesia.

 

Yanrizal Yanrizal
Faculty of Technical Geology , Bandung Technology Institute, Bandung, Indonesia.

 

Safar Dody
Research Center for Biota Systems, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bogor, Indonesia.

 

Sam Wouthuyzen
Research Center for Biota Systems, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bogor, Indonesia.

 

Agus Kusnadi
Research Center for Biota Systems, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bogor, Indonesia.

 

Teddy Triandiza
Research Center for Biota Systems, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bogor, Indonesia.

 

Marsya J Rugebregt
Research Center for Deep Sea, National Research and Innovation Agency, Ancol, Indonesia.

 

Intan Rubiyanti
Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Bogor Agricultural Institute, Bogor, Indonesia.

 

RDA Opier
Research Center for Deep Sea, National Research and Innovation Agency, Ancol, Indonesia.

 

Agus Dendi Rochendi
Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency, Serpong, Indonesia.

 

Sulistiono
Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Bogor Agricultural Institute, Bogor, Indonesia.

 

Frensly D Hukom
Research Center for Biota Systems, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bogor, Indonesia.

 

Teguh Peristiwady
Research Center for Biosystematics and Evolution, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bogor, Indonesia.

 

Yunia Witasari
Reserach Center for Limnology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bogor, Indonesia.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/crgese/v6/7087

Seasonal Variability of Surface Currents in the Kawal Estuary, Bintan Island, Indonesia: A Hydrodynamic Modelling Approach | Chapter 2 | Current Research on Geography, Earth Science and Environment Vol. 6

 

Background: From a social point of view, the water area around the mouth of the Kawal river, Bintan regency, is a tourism area, settlement, fisherman harbour, and seagrass conservation area that affects the sustainability of coastal activities and conditions such as abrasion, sedimentation and changes in coastline. Current patterns and wind speeds around the region are strongly influenced by winds blowing from the dominant monsoon system in Southeast Asian waters.

 

Aims: This study analyses the seasonal hydrodynamic characteristics, particularly surface current patterns, in the Kawal Estuary, eastern Bintan Island, Indonesia, a monsoon-dominated area intensively utilised for tourism, settlements, seagrass conservation, and fisheries activities.

 

Study Design: A numerical hydrodynamic modelling approach was employed to simulate and evaluate seasonal variations in the magnitude and direction of surface currents over a one-year period.

 

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the Kawal estuary, Bintan Island, Indonesia, covering a one-year simulation period from December 2020 to November 2021.

 

Methodology: Hydrodynamic simulations were performed using the MIKE 21/3 Flexible Mesh integrated flow model. Seasonal surface current characteristics were examined across representative tidal conditions, including flood and ebb phases under spring and neap tides. Model validation was conducted using tidal data and in situ current measurements obtained from a Recording Current Meter deployed in March 2021. Surface current magnitude and direction were analysed at four representative locations within and around the estuary.

 

Results: The modelling results show good agreement with observations, achieving validation accuracies of 81.69% for tidal data and 85.04% for field current measurements. Surface current patterns exhibit pronounced spatial and seasonal variability, with predominantly northeastward flow at the northern and southern locations, while the frontal area displays greater directional variability. Two dominant flow patterns were identified, characterised by southwest–south and northeastward directions associated with tidal reversals. Peak surface current velocities consistently occur during the flood tide phase.

 

Conclusion: The Kawal Estuary exhibits complex seasonal surface current dynamics controlled by monsoon forcing, tidal variability, and estuarine geometry. These findings provide essential baseline information for understanding sediment transport pathways, supporting coastal management and navigation planning, and enhancing the sustainability of estuarine ecosystems in monsoon-influenced tropical regions.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Reni Wijayanti
Research Center Oceanology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Jakarta 14430, Indonesia.

 

Dewi Surinati
Research Center Oceanology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Jakarta 14430, Indonesia.

 

Risandi Dwirama Putra
Naval Architecture Department, Faculty of Engineering, Raja Ali Haji Maritime University, Tanjungpinang 29411, Indonesia.

 

Agus Mulyono
Research Center for Environmental and Clean Technology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bandung 40135, Indonesia.

 

Ida Narulita
Research Center for Climate and Atmosphere, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bandung 40135, Indonesia.

 

Muh. Rahman Djuwansah
Research Center for Environmental and Clean Technology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Bandung 40135, Indonesia.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/crgese/v6/7067

The Toxic Chemicals Consumed in Clay Soil and Its Implications for Women’s Health: A Call to Awareness |Chapter 1 | Current Research on Geography, Earth Science and Environment Vol. 6

 

Background: The practise of geophagy is associated with maternal, neonatal and childhood morbidities and mortalities. Pregnancy complications, central nervous system, iron deficiency, shortness of breath, severe constipation, fatigue, appendicitis and cancer were reported as the major public health concerns linked with the practice of geophagy.

 

Aims: The purpose of this chapter is to provide insights into geophagy and to promote awareness of its causes, practices, and implications.

 

Methodology: An exploratory mixed-method sequential design was employed to develop an environmental health and promotion intervention program to mitigate geophagy amongst women of childbearing age in Tshwane District, Gauteng Province. The study was conducted in the Tshwane District, Gauteng Province, South Africa. The study was run between September 2023 and October 2024. Experimental research was conducted at the Biochemistry laboratory at the University of Johannesburg using the ICP Mass Spectrometry to examine the chemical composition of clay soil eaten by geophagic women of childbearing age in the Tshwane District, Gauteng Province. Face-to-face in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with women of childbearing age and Nurses in the antenatal care and family planning units. A purposive sampling technique was followed to select and include study participants. The sample size reached was 99 women of childbearing age, including pregnant women and 20 Nurses, determined by the data saturation, which is the point at which participants are no longer providing new information.

 

Results: More than 50% of pregnant women practised geophagy during their gestation period to supplement their nutrient, vitamins and minerals deficiencies. Nurses perceived that people who practise geophagy are iron-deficient. Thirty-nine samples were assessed to detect the chemical composition and potential health risks associated with the practise of geophagy. 18 Trace elements were detected from the samples containing both essential and non-essential elements. The potential health risks reported to be linked with the practice of geophagy included cancer, appendicitis, severe constipation, dental enamel damage, iron deficiency, iron deficiency anaemia, fatigue, shortness of breath, lead poisoning, pregnancy complications, central nervous system damage, and birth defects.

 

Conclusion: It is thus concluded that practise of geophagy is harmful, containing toxic elements such as trace elements. The practise of geophagy and commercialisation of geophagic must be discouraged to curb health-related risks associated with the practise of geophagy. More research is needed to understand geophagy better. We need to educate people about the risks of geophagy and help those who are affected. Governments should make rules to stop the sale of clay soil for eating. We should spread awareness about the dangers of geophagy through campaigns and community programs.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Mohora Feida Malebatja
Department of Public Health, School of Healthcare Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Molotlegi Street, Ga-Rankuwa, 0208, P.O. Box 60, Medunsa, 0204, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/crgese/v6/6721

AI-Powered Administrative Tools and Secretarial Job Security: A Phenomenological Study in Lesotho Government Ministries | Chapter 7 | New Ideas Concerning Arts and Social Studies Vol. 6

This pilot phenomenological qualitative study explored how five secretaries from a selected Lesotho government ministry perceived job security amid the emerging, though informal, use of AI-powered administrative tools in their daily work. Guided by an interpretivist stance and informed by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and the Technology-Organisation-Environment (TOE) frameworks, the study employed a purposive non-probability sampling and conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews to capture participants’ lived experiences. Data were analysed inductively using thematic analysis. Three dominant themes emerged: (1) fear of role displacement; (2) competency gaps, notably limited digital skills and lack of training; and (3) structural limitations, including inadequate infrastructure, weak communication and unclear policy direction. Participants acknowledged the efficiency improvements associated with AI tools but voiced concerns about future roles; inadequate training, limited organisational support and the absence of clear digital transformation plans. Based on the findings, the study recommended a focused strategy that combines targeted reskilling, structured capacity-building and clear, policy-driven digital integration to enable secure and meaningful adoption of AI tools while preserving the secretaries’ distinct professional roles. As a small pilot, the findings were context-specific, and their transferability to other settings should be assessed rather than assumed; nonetheless, they offer applicable, evidence-based guidance for ministries pursuing inclusive and sustainable digital transformation. The study contributed deep insights into AI tools adoption and job security within African public service environments and identifies priorities for policy, training and change management to inform subsequent large-scale qualitative research.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Marethabile Selloane Florina Hoeane-Makote
Information and Corporate Management, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa.

 

Musawenkosi Ngibe
Information and Corporate Management, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/nicass/v6/6856

Roots and Transformations: Installation Art in Contemporary Sculpture | Chapter 6 | New Ideas Concerning Arts and Social Studies Vol. 6

 

In the 20th and 21st centuries, concepts of durability, control over physical substance, and spatial existence have undergone a remarkable change. In contrast to classical sculpture, which emphasises qualities such as resilience, expert artistry, and symbolism, modern approaches have expanded the definition of sculpture to include immersive and participatory perspectives.

 

By combining media such as sculpture, sound, light, video, and performance to create a place-specific atmosphere, installation art has emerged as a significant force of transformation. In comparison to static, object-centric works, the installation gives stress on spatial dynamics, aspects of temporality and audience interaction, which facilitates the emergence of meaning through personal experience and contextual involvement.

 

The historical evolution of installation art started with early avant-garde efforts, including Marcel Duchamp's readymades, Dadaism, Surrealism, and constructivism, which critically analysed well-known aesthetic norms, material disruption, and participation of the observers. The innovation of many persons, notably Allan Kaprow's Happenings and Yayoi Kusama's immersive installations, laid the foundation of the process with audience engagement and perceptual alteration.

 

Robert Smithson's Spiral Jetty and Joseph Beuys' ecological initiatives first started installation art as a vehicle for social, political, and environmental discussion and ecological discourse. The conceptual richness and cultural implications of installation art utilising both traditional and innovative materials to confront urgent societal and environmental issues received a lot of attention from notable artists Olafur Eliasson, Anish Kapoor, Ai Weiwei, as well as Indian practitioners. The scale, conceptual richness, and cultural implications of installation art.

 

Installation art entails phenomenology, relational aesthetics, and participatory and immersive characteristics. This increases the significance of embodied perception, social interaction, and contextual meaning, eg, Postmodern and deconstructive methodologies further promote a plurality of interpretations, thereby increasing audience involvement.

 

This chapter highlights a case study of an environment-oriented installation using the available roots, woods and natural materials in the vicinity of the university with emphasis on sustainability, protection of cultural heritage, and audience engagement. The study elucidates the several ways in which contemporary installation art has value in aesthetic and ethical aspects, which in turn establishes a link between traditional knowledge and ecological consciousness.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Ratan Kanwar
Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University, Bathinda, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/nicass/v6/6434

Machine Learning for the Real World: Applications and Insights | Book Publisher International

 

The accelerating advancement of machine learning has reoriented the manner in which we interact with data, make decisions, and tackle challenges. What was previously a specialized field of computer science is now a groundbreaking force for change in the markets and sciences. The concept of Machine Learning for the Real World: Applications and Insights originated from the understanding that true progress is not just about creating complex algorithms but also about using them to deliver real-world solutions.

 

This book is a selected set of research contributions that encapsulate the applied spirit of machine learning. Each chapter embodies the imagination, intensity, and innovative spirit of its authors and illustrates how machine learning can be applied in various disciplines. The focus lies in connecting theoretical models with their practical applications so that readers can gain conceptual illumination as well as practical insights.

 

We wish this book to act as both scholarly reference and inspiration for further investigation. It is meant for professionals, scholars, and students interested in learning how machine learning is transforming the current and future.

 

I seize this moment to thank sincerely the authors for their tireless efforts, my institution and colleagues for their encouragement, and the publishing staff for assisting in bringing this vision to reality.

 

It is my conviction that the chapters in this book will not only enhance readers' comprehension of machine learning but also inspire new concepts for its ethical and effective use in the real world.

Editor(s) Details

Prof. Sheela S Maharajpet

Department of MCA, Acharya Institute of Technology, Bangalore – 560107, India.

 

Dr. Manish Kumar Thakur
Department of MCA, Acharya Institute of Technology, Bangalore – 560107, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-81-999106-5-2

Edible Straws as Promising Biodegradable Alternatives to Single-Use Plastics: A Comprehensive Review | Chapter 4 | Food Science and Agriculture: Research Highlights Vol. 6

 

The most standard type of straws commonly found in the food industry is made of plastic. Plastic pollution remains one of the most pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century, with single-use plastic straws contributing significantly to marine litter and microplastic accumulation. In response, edible straws have emerged as a promising biodegradable alternative aligned with global efforts to reduce plastic consumption. Edible straws are being actively researched for their biodegradability, functionality, and consumer acceptability. While their biodegradable nature makes them appealing, their safety, environmental impact, and regulatory compliance are paramount for successful market adoption. This review synthesises insights from 32 Scopus-indexed studies (2020–2025), highlighting advancements in raw materials, processing methods, mechanical strength, environmental sustainability, and consumer perception. Edible straws are primarily manufactured using renewable, food-grade biopolymers such as starch (from cassava, corn, rice), seaweed polysaccharides (agar, alginate, carrageenan), cellulose (agro-waste derived), and proteins (soy, whey, gelatin), with functional additives like plasticizers (glycerol, sorbitol) and hydrophobic coatings (beeswax, shellac) enhancing their performance. Among them, cellulose-based straws show high tensile strength and moisture resistance, while protein- and seaweed-based versions offer favourable sensory profiles and faster biodegradation. Despite these benefits, challenges such as high production costs, short shelf life, variability in material behaviour, and lack of regulatory standardisation limit market penetration. Life cycle assessments confirm the ecological advantages of edible straws over plastic and paper alternatives. Innovative developments such as hybrid biopolymer blends, nanofillers, scalable extrusion techniques, and flavour-infused designs hold promise for enhancing commercial viability and user acceptance. Achieving mainstream adoption will require integrated efforts in material science, food engineering, policy regulation, and public awareness. Despite growing academic and industrial interest in edible straws, several critical knowledge gaps and developmental challenges remain unaddressed. While laboratory-scale development has yielded promising outcomes, large-scale production of edible straws remains largely unexplored. Future research should prioritise scalable manufacturing methods, improved shelf-life formulations, comprehensive life-cycle and techno-economic assessments, expanded consumer acceptance studies, and the development of harmonised regulatory standards to enable the commercial viability of edible straws.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Meegada Akhila
Department of Food Technology, JNTUA College of Engineering, Kalikiri, Andhra Pradesh, India.

 

Santhi Sri K. V
Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Dietetics, ANU College of Sciences, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India.

 

M. V. Keerthi
Department of Food Technology, JNTUA College of Engineering, Kalikiri, Andhra Pradesh, India.

 

M. Mounica
Department of Food Technology, JNTUA College of Engineering, Kalikiri, Andhra Pradesh, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/fsarh/v6/7101

Advancing Blue Food Systems through Seaweed-Based Processing and Diversification | Chapter 3 | Food Science and Agriculture: Research Highlights Vol. 6

 

Traditional alkaline extraction methods for polysaccharides like alginate are often energy-intensive and involve unsustainable acidic and alkaline steps. Seaweed is widely recognised as a multifunctional ingredient that can enhance nutrition, texture, and flavour, and extend shelf life, while enabling the development of novel flavourings and functional foods. Seaweeds are broadly classified into the Brown (Phaeophyceae), Red (Rhodophyta), and Green (Chlorophyta) groups, each associated with distinct flagship products and expanding value chains. Brown and green seaweeds are mainly used for food,  fibre, and minerals, while red seaweeds lead the global hydrocolloid market with products like agar and carrageenan, along with related functional products. Seaweeds supply glutamates and nucleotides that impart strong umami and kokumi notes, and are used in broths, condiments, spice mixes, and reformulated savoury products. Seaweed provides a diverse set of resources, such as natural seasonings (notably umami), clean-label texturizers and preservatives, along with bioactive-rich components, to develop enhanced, truly functional food items. Safety (iodine, heavy metals, impurities) and sensory enhancement continue to be essential factors in product development.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Muhammad Yusuf
Department of Food Technology, Faculty of Science and Agricultural Technology, University of Muhammadiyah Semarang, Jl. Kendungmundu No.18, Kendungmundu, Tembalang District, Semarang City, Central Java, Indonesia.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/fsarh/v6/7040

 

Physicochemical and Nutritional Indicators for Determining Harvest Maturity in Cucumis melo Varieties: A Study of Var. momordica and Var. acidulous | Chapter 2 | Food Science and Agriculture: Research Highlights Vol. 6

 

Cucumis melo is a highly polymorphic taxon belonging to the family Cucurbitaceae, with several varieties based on ovary pubescence. Fruit cracking in melon is a major physiological disorder that adversely affects the production of high-quality fruits, thereby reducing their consumer appeal and commercial value. Consequently, farmers face significant challenges in harvesting fruits at optimal ripeness before cracking occurs. Analysis of the ripening process's physicochemical attributes and nutritional composition is essential to understand and establish proper harvest management for the varieties. Nevertheless, little is known about the changes in physicochemical properties and nutritional composition of C. melo varieties at various stages of fruit maturity. The aim of the current investigation is to understand the fundamentals of dynamic fruit quality patterns and determine optimal harvest maturity stages of C. melo varieties with higher quality and longer marketability before fruit cracking. The current study was conducted in the experimental field of the Department of Botany, University of Kerala, using two different melon varieties, Cucumis melo var. momordica (Roxb.) Duthie & Fuller (Snap melon) and Cucumis melo var. acidulus L. Naudin (culinary melon), from January to October 2021. (S1 to S5) where S1 represent early premature stage (5th DAP), S2 the late premature stage (10th DAP), S3 mature stage of fruits (15th DAP), S4 is post mature stage (20th DAP) and S5 is cracking stage of the fruits (25thDAP) of var. momordica whereas, for var. acidulus S5 is ripening stage and analysed for physical and biochemical characters. Physical parameters such as fruit length, fruit weight, total soluble solids (TSS), and fruit firmness were evaluated. Results were analysed statistically by using one-way ANOVA (P≤0.05). Among the two varieties of Cucumis melo selected for the study, fruits of Cucumis melo var. momordica are highly perishable with a shorter market and shelf life than those of Cucumis melo var. acidulus. Pomological characteristics such as fruit weight and length at different developmental stages showed a tremendous peak from S3 to S5 in both varieties. At the S3, S4, and S5 stages, the fruit weight of C. melo var. momordica increased by 42%, 67%, and 90%, respectively, while fruit weight increased by 42%, 48%, and 54% in the var. acidulus. However, the firmness of the fruits decreased from the S4 to S5 stage in varieties, reducing sugar accumulated sharply from the S2 to S3 stage. Titratable acidity content in Cucumis melo fruits continuously increased from the S1 to S5 stage, rising from 5.5 ± 0.02 to 7.4 ± 0.05. On the other hand, the total carbohydrate, cellulose, protein, and amino acid content increased from S1 to S2 but decreased sharply in S3 and S5. Ascorbic acid, total phenolics, lipid peroxidation, and electrolyte leakage levels declined with fruit ripening in Cucumis melo varieties. As a result of all the quality parameters mentioned above, Cucumis melo fruit harvested at the S4 maturity stage was the ideal harvest maturity for long-distance transportation and had higher consumer acceptability before fruit cracking. These findings showed that the physical-biochemical properties and nutritional composition of Cucumis melo varieties change dynamically during ripening. The study highlighted the significance of maturity stages for fruit quality and provided critical information for optimal harvest management of the fruits of Cucumis melo varieties. The fruit harvested before fruit cracking, the harder the fruit is, the more suitable for long-distance transportation and the longer its shelf life.

 

 

Author(s) Details

M. Lija
Department of Botany, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, 695 581, India.

 

S. Suhara Beevy
Department of Botany, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, 695 581, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/fsarh/v6/7034

 

Food Processing, Health Benefits, and Value-Addition Potential of Pearl Millet and Sorghum: A Nutritional Review | Chapter 1 | Food Science and Agriculture: Research Highlights Vol. 6

 

Millets are the sixth most-produced grain crop worldwide. Millets are superior to rice and wheat in terms of calcium, dietary fibre, and protein in terms of nutrition. Further, they are rich in vital vitamins and phytochemicals that support health and well-being. The beneficial physicochemical, nutritional and flexibility qualities of millets are ideal for widespread use in the food industry. The present review aims to update the present basic knowledge about various phyto-constituents of millet. Next, an in-depth review of the food and health application highlights its nutrition and health-promoting activities. The section on processing and other treatments aims to review the nutrition and mineral bioavailability of millets. Finally, current trends in millet and by-products applications in biomedical, industry and value-based plant-based products are discussed. With a global increase in population and a change in food patterns globally, new health and nutrition-conscious foods are the need of the hour. To this end, the increased use of millets in a wide range of products, such as baby foods, dietary items, value-added food products, and ready-to-eat snacks, is an indication towards their inclusion by food researchers to meet the needs of people of all ages. The rich bioactive profile and diverse culinary uses of millets emerge as promising options for addressing malnutrition. Since millet can be augmented to the diet in several ways, they have the potential to improve nutritional status across the society. The review is hence direct to assess current-knowledge and aid newer aims for research and development and improvement of millets to meet the nutritional needs of society and also contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.

 

 

Author(s) Details

K. K. Shalini
Department of Studies in Food Technology, Davangere University, India.

 

H. S. Ravikumar Patil

Department of Studies in Food Technology, Davangere University, India.

 

H. B. Kiran Kumar
Nrupathuga University, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/fsarh/v6/7015

A Study on the Role of Intraoperative Scrape Cytology in Diagnosing Palpable Breast Lump | Chapter 4 | An Overview of Disease and Health Research Vol. 10

 

Background: Diseases of the breast constitute a significant proportion of surgical cases, and frequently, the need arises to distinguish benign from malignant lesions prior to definitive treatment. So far, Frozen Section (FS) is the standard technique with a high level of validity. FS is routinely used by the surgical pathology laboratories for intraoperative diagnosis. However, intraoperative scrape cytology can be adopted when special facilities of FS are not available.

 

Objectives: The primary objective of the study is to perform scrape cytology of surgically operable breast masses and evaluate its accuracy in relation to histopathological diagnosis. This study was designed with the aim of evaluating the diagnostic accuracy and utility of Intraoperative Scrape Cytology (IOSC) in providing rapid and accurate diagnosis for breast lumps and to compare its diagnostic yield with that of paraffin sections.

 

Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in the Department of Pathology, Chittagong Medical College, in collaboration with the Department of Surgery of this institution from October 2013 to September 2014. The study was conducted on 123 patients with breast lumps who underwent operative treatment. Scrapings were taken from each specimen before formalin fixation and stained by rapid Papanicolaou staining. In each case, their accuracy was compared to the histopathological diagnosis. Statistical analysis was done employing the χ2 test.

 

Results: Out of 123 cases studied, 122 could be correctly differentiated into benign and malignant tumours with an accuracy rate of 99.19%. Among benign cases, 66 (53.7%) were fibroadenoma and among malignant cases, all were duct cell carcinoma.

 

Conclusion: Intraoperative Scrape Cytology (IOSC) is a simple, accurate, rapid and cost-effective diagnostic tool, not requiring specific instruments in contrast to frozen section, can be used intraoperatively for both diagnosis and management of breast lump. In future, comparative studies evaluating IOSC alongside frozen section and fine-needle aspiration cytology in different clinical settings would provide deeper insight into their relative diagnostic effectiveness.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Shahe Systa Mosarrat
Department of Pathology, Chittagong Medical College, Chittagong, Bangladesh.

 

Md. Zillur Rahman
Department of Pathology, Chittagong Medical College, Chittagong, Bangladesh.

 

Shahab Uddin Ahamad
Department of Pathology, Chittagong Medical College, Chittagong, Bangladesh.

 

Pradip Bhattacharjee
Department of Pathology, Chittagong Medical College, Chittagong, Bangladesh.

 

Sayeeda Nasreen
Department of Pathology, Chittagong Medical College, Chittagong, Bangladesh.

 

Ismail Hossain
Department of Pathology, Chittagong Medical College, Chittagong, Bangladesh.

 

Md. Didarul Alam
Department of Radiology & Imaging, USTC, Chittagong, Bangladesh.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/aodhr/v10/7078

Lytic Skull Lesions: A Comparative Review of Pathological Entities | Chapter 3 | An Overview of Disease and Health Research Vol. 10

 

Background: Skull lesions constitute an uncommon yet diagnostically demanding group of conditions that span traumatic, infectious, benign and malignant etiologies. Despite their diverse origins, these lesions commonly manifest with overlapping clinical features, most notably scalp swellings, osteolytic calvarial defects, and non-specific radiological findings. Such similarities often obscure diagnostic clarity, although their underlying pathophysiological mechanism, therapeutic requirements, and prognostic implications differ substantially. Accurate differentiation is therefore essential to ensure timely and appropriate management.

 

Objectives: This chapter aims to present a structured comparative review of three representative skull lesions—tubercular calvarial osteomyelitis, angiomatous meningioma, and metastatic follicular thyroid carcinoma—by integrating individual case presentations with relevant contemporary literature. The goal is to emphasise distinguishing features across epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, imaging characteristics, histopathology, treatment approaches, and outcomes.

 

Methods: A focused literature review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 principles for study identification, screening, and reporting. Three illustrative clinical cases were selected: Calvarial tubercular osteomyelitis in a 14-year-old female; Angiomatous meningioma (WHO Grade I) in a 72-year-old male; Metastatic follicular thyroid carcinoma involving the skull in a 54-year-old female. Each case was analysed in conjunction with published evidence to highlight comparative and contrasting attributes of these pathologies. Key parameters reviewed included epidemiology, disease mechanisms, clinical manifestations, radiological patterns, histopathological hallmarks, treatment strategies, and prognostic outcomes. A diagnostic framework was synthesised to support practical clinical decision-making.

 

Findings: Tubercular osteomyelitis typically affects younger individuals and presents with granulomatous inflammation and lytic skull lesions; Early identification and initiation of anti-tubercular therapy, with or without surgical debridement, generally yield an excellent prognosis. Radiological findings often demonstrate lytic bone destruction without aggressive periosteal reaction. Angiomatous meningioma, a rare WHO grade 1 subtype, shows prominent vascularity and peritumoral oedema. Despite its striking radiological appearance, it remains histologically benign. Complete surgical excision is curative in the majority of cases, with recurrence being exceptionally uncommon when total removal is achieved. Conversely, Skull metastasis from follicular thyroid carcinoma is an infrequent and clinically aggressive manifestation of differentiated thyroid cancer. Patients typically present with expansile osteolytic lesions and a hypervascular mass. Management requires a multimodal approach including wide surgical excision, radioactive iodine therapy, and thyroid-stimulating hormone suppression. Prognosis remains guarded due to the advanced nature of metastatic disease.

 

Conclusion: These three cases exemplify the wide pathological spectrum encompassed by skull lesions and underscore the necessity for meticulous diagnostic evaluation. Although clinical and radiological presentations may overlap, the biological behaviour, therapeutic interventions, and expected outcomes vary markedly among infectious, benign, and metastatic entities. Accurate early diagnosis—supported by detailed imaging and confirmatory histopathology—is vital to guide optimal treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes. This comparative review reinforces the importance of sustained clinical vigilance and structured diagnostic algorithms in the management of rare calvarial lesions.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Md. Humayun Rashid
Department of Neurosurgery, East-West Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

 

Munaiba Ahmad
Chittagong Medical College, Chittagong, Bangladesh.

 

Md. Rahad-Ul-Islam
Department of Neurosurgery, East West Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh.

 

Mushtaq Mutashid Muhib
East West Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh.

 

Rashed Mahmud
Department of Neurosurgery, East West Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh.

 

Md. Wasiul Alam Taufique
Department of Neurosurgery, East West Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/aodhr/v10/7017

Physical Education and Physical Fitness Across Development: A Neurodevelopmental Perspective on Childhood and Adolescence |Chapter 2 | An Overview of Disease and Health Research Vol. 10

 

Physical education is a fundamental component of childhood and adolescent development, contributing not only to physical fitness but also to cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial maturation. Contemporary evidence from developmental neuroscience highlights adolescence as a sensitive period of heightened neuroplasticity, during which physical activity exerts profound effects on brain structure and function. School-based physical education provides a unique environment that combines movement, novelty, skill acquisition, and peer interaction; key drivers of neural adaptation during this developmental “grey zone.” This chapter examines physical education as a neurodevelopmentally active process, synthesising evidence on its role in enhancing physical fitness alongside executive function, emotional regulation, motivation, and mental well-being. By integrating perspectives from exercise science and adolescent neuroscience, the chapter emphasises the need to design physical education programs that align with brain maturation processes to optimise both physical and mental health outcomes in children and adolescents.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Akanksha Nagar

BFUHS, India and Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences, Guru Kashi University, Bathinda, Punjab, 151302, India.

 

Himanshu Kaushal
Department of Neurology, Guru Gobind Singh Medical College & Hospital, Faridkot, Punjab, 151203, India.

 

Jaspreet Vij
Institute of Physiotherapy, University Regional Centre, Sri Goindwal Sahib, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Punjab, 151203, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/aodhr/v10/7018

Factors Associated with Sexual and Reproductive Health Knowledge, Behaviours and Access to Services among Adolescents in Four Secondary Schools in Mbouda, Cameroon | Chapter 1 | An Overview of Disease and Health Research Vol. 10

 

Background: Adolescence is a critical developmental period marked by increased vulnerability to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) risks, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In Cameroon, adolescents continue to face significant challenges related to early sexual initiation, unintended pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and limited access to youth-friendly SRH services.

 

Objective: To assess the level of sexual and reproductive health knowledge, practices, access to services, and associated factors among secondary school adolescents in Mbouda, Cameroon.

 

Methodology: A cross-sectional study with an analytical component was conducted among 1,087 adolescents from four secondary schools in the city of Mbouda using a structured questionnaire. Bivariate analyses were performed using the chi-square test, and multivariate analyses were conducted using logistic regression models. Data were analysed using R software, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

 

Results: Overall, 74.0% of adolescents demonstrated good knowledge of SRH, while only 25.9% had ever accessed SRH services at a health facility. The primary barrier to accessing SRH services was financial constraints (26.2%). Only 20.9% used a contraceptive method. Sexual activity was significantly associated with male sex (aOR = 3.72; p < 0.001), living with extended family members (aOR = 1.99; p < 0.001) or alone (aOR = 4.09; p = 0.006), and parent–adolescent discussions on sexuality (aOR = 1.62; p = 0.003). Contraceptive use was independently associated with male sex (aOR = 2.04; p = 0.015) and a history of abortion (aOR = 4.79; p = 0.040).

 

Conclusion: Despite relatively good knowledge of SRH, important gaps persist in service utilisation among adolescents in Mbouda. Interventions should prioritise youth-friendly, affordable, and accessible SRH services, alongside strengthened family and school-based education, to reduce risky sexual behaviours and improve adolescent health outcomes.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Djam Chefor Alain
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon and Global Health Innovation and Research Initiative (GHIRI), Cameroon.

 

Earnest Njih Tabah
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon and Research Initiative in Tropical and Community Health (RITCH), Yaounde, Cameroon.

 

Noumedem Kenfack Jaures Arnaud
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Tejiodonkeng Kengmo Carolle
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Stessye Nouaton Tankou Nylor
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Tenonfo Tesse Franky Maxwell
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Signing Teddy Martial
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Lele Deffo Carole
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Bong Wobenso Jessica Grace
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Guthe Kamdem Brice
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Ngue Vinyle Ines Aude
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Momo Anoumbo Urbain Ulrich
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Njih Beri Nkini
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon

Nouni Noula Armand J.
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Douandji Sokeng M
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Nguetse Zambou Lintia Samira
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

I. T. Manfouo Tandah
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Dountio Piatat Xena
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Ngneche Kakeu Pascaline Laure
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Mbotuiah Mbolueh Henr
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Korin Neh Nforbi
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

U. Prowo Dongmo Styve
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Germaine Ndah Alombah
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Kenhale Zebaze Lunelle

Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Ifang Solomon Ndifon
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Gabriel Tchatchouang Mabou
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

Ariane Ange Ghomsi Tadie
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

 

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/aodhr/v10/6967