Browse Items (1422 total)
Sort by:
-
Involvement of chalcones and coumarins in environmental stress tolerance
Plants are invariably subjected to various environmental stresses that hinder their normal growth and development, which leads to decreased plant productivity and yield. To combat the detrimental effects of such abiotic and biotic stresses, plants have developed diverse mechanisms and one of the prominent ones includes the production of secondary metabolites like phenolic, alkaloids, terpenes, etc. Secondary metabolites serve as major components of the plant stress responses. Chalcones (1,3-diaryl-2-propen-1-one) and coumarins (1,2-benzopyrone) are precursors of flavonoids, a common secondary metabolite of plants that provide a beneficial role during oxidative and biotic stress. Apart from protection, coumarins have certain roles in promoting or inhibiting plant growth, affecting cell division and differentiation and auxin metabolism. These compounds are also known to possess therapeutic properties such as anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, and cytotoxic effects when isolated from plants. Besides, chalcones and coumarins have allelopathic effects and protect plants against herbivory. Owing to excellent ROS scavenging properties, chalcones, coumarins, and their derivatives are extensively employed as agents to alleviate adversities associated with abiotic stresses like osmotic, heat, and cold stress, and in defense against pathogen invasion. The application of these secondary metabolites to mitigate atrocities of environmental stress in plants is an interesting and concurrent area of investigation. This chapter highlights the structural and functional details of chalcones and coumarins and their implications in ameliorating environmental stress in plants. 2024 Apple Academic Press, Inc. All rights reserved. -
Persistent Luminescence and in Vivo Bioimaging
In vivo bioimaging encompasses the non-invasive visualization of internal cells or organs within the human body, facilitating the real-time monitoring of dynamic biological processes. This form of bioimaging holds paramount significance within clinical domains due to its capacity to facilitate early disease detection, notably in cases of life-threatening conditions such as cancer. Although established imaging modalities like ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, and fluorescence imaging exist, the quest for innovative imaging probes with enhanced visibility to provide high-resolution images remains an active area of research. The introduction of persistent luminescent nanoprobes, characterized by their unique afterglow luminescence property, presents an exciting avenue in the realm of bioimaging. These nanoprobes offer several advantages over traditional fluorescent probes, notably in their ability to surmount light attenuation challenges within biological tissues including issues such as autofluorescence and light scattering. The chapter offers a succinct introduction to two pivotal facets of fluorescence imaging, namely persistent luminescence and upconversion luminescence while elucidating the underlying mechanisms governing their luminescence behavior. Moreover, this chapter provides comprehensive insights into various fluorescence imaging techniques, encompassing near-infrared imaging, upconversion imaging, X-ray-activated luminescence imaging, persistent luminescence imaging, and various multimodal imaging techniques. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2024. -
Optimal Stacked Sparse Autoencoder Based Traffic Flow Prediction in Intelligent Transportation Systems
Recently, intelligent transportations system (ITS) has gained significant internet due to the higher needs for road safety and competence in interconnected road network. As a vital portion of the ITS, traffic flow prediction (TFP) is offer support in several dimensions like routing, traffic congestion, and so on. To accomplish effective TFP outcomes, several predictive approaches have been devised namely statistics, machine learning (ML), and deep learning (DL). This study designs an optimal stacked sparse autoencoder based traffic flow prediction (OSSAE-TFP) model for ITS. The goal of the OSSAE-TFP technique is to determine the level of traffic flow in ITS. In addition, the presented OSSAE-TFP technique involves the traffic and weather data for TFP. Moreover, the SSAE based prediction model is designed for forecasting the traffic flow and the optimal hyperparameters of the SSAE model can be adjusted by the use of water wave optimization (WWO) technique. To showcase the enhanced predictive outcome of the OSSAE-TFP technique, a wide range of simulations was carried out on benchmark datasets and the results portrayed the supremacy of the OSSAE-TFP technique over the recent state of art methods. 2022, The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG. -
Biomass Derived Fluorescent Nanocarbon Sensor for Effective Sensing of Toxic Cadmium Metal Ions
Cadmium ion (Cd2+) is common in our surroundings and may readily bioaccumulate into the organism following passage through the respiratory and digestive systems. Chronic exposure to Cd2+ can lead to considerable bioaccumulation in an organism because of its longer biological high life (1030 years), which permanently harms the health of humans and animals. Considering this hazardous effect of toxic Cd2+ metal ions, there is a need to develop a toxic-free and simple sensor synthesized from easily available and biocompatible biomass or natural precursor. Herein we report the effective synthesis and development of a fluorescence sensor from Indigofera tinctoria (L.), a well-known medicinal plant via one step green, hydrothermal synthesis method. The remarkable fluorescence and larger stokes shift make it ideal for fluorescence sensing strategy. This sensor detects potentially toxic Cd2+ assisting fluorescence sensing strategy in the metal ion concentration range from 1 nM to 1 M. The SternVolmer plot exhibits a remarkable linear detection range exhibiting limit of detection (LOD) as 14.74 nM. 2023, The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. -
The Intersectionality of Social Exclusion and International Comparison: Rethinking the Methodological Nuances
This chapter foregrounds the methodological considerations involved in a cross-national comparison of qualitative data on social exclusion and marginalization. Drawing on the possibilities of intersectional multilevel analysis in Indian and Swiss contexts, the chapter further discusses the nuances of juxtaposing these data. It follows attempts by a Swiss-Indian research team to study how marginalization involves multiple intersectionalities that operate simultaneously. It aims to capture the experiences of migrant workers in India and people without legal residency status in Switzerland during the COVID-19 lockdown, placing them against the cultural histories, social structures, and state interventions. Using intersectionality, the study explores how structures of exclusion operate at multiple levels of subjectivity and, through epistemic violence, naturalize social inequalities. The project attempts to identify how they are still being rendered invisible and their miseries normalized, invoking the impression that it is perpetual. Cross-border research becomes significant in the context of internationalization and globalization, and the chapter discusses the issues and the promises of such a comparison. Beyond the cultural boundaries and differences and the conceptual-methodological incongruities, we argue that the comparison can illuminate how power relations operate at multiple levels in different contexts, reproducing and normalizing discriminatory mechanisms. The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024, corrected publication 2024. -
Does fdi intensify economic growth? Evidence from china and India
[No abstract available] -
Textile tourism and the challenges of the indigenous handloom sector in Northern Kerala
This study investigates the functioning of indigenous handloom enterprises and their relationship with textile tourism. It also explores the regional textile industry and the challenges weavers encounter in promoting their goods to visitors and exporters. Data was collected using a purposive sampling method, and a structured questionnaire was administered to 120 weavers from four textile weaving centers in Kozhikode, Kerala. The most significant obstacle for weavers and independent producers is the lack of direct communication with customers and the limited access to information provided by manufacturers, corporations, and gallery owners. Firstly, handcrafted items are becoming more accessible and affordable; secondly, the interest of the younger generation is gradually fading, which reduces the number of skilled professionals. The result of this study provides insight into how Khadi Textiles has the potential to contribute positively to socioeconomic achievements and enhance weaver's and destination image. 2024, IGI Global. All rights reserved. -
Exploring the integration of human resource management and organizational culture in achieving environmental sustainability
This book explores the urgent need for organizational transformation in the face of impending environmental crises, highlighting the intrinsic link between environmental well-being and economic progress. Advocating a shift away from profit-centric models, it champions organizations actively contributing to the ecological system by harnessing the synergy between organizational culture and human resource management (HRM). In a changing world demanding genuine environmental commitment, the book positions sustainability as a strategic imperative. Departing from traditional HRM, the book proposes an integrated approach embedding sustainability in every facet of employee engagement. Concepts like sustainable recruitment, purpose-driven performance, and engagement for change are explored. The book provides insights, tactics, and real-world examples for individuals and organizations to embrace environmental responsibilities through HRM and organizational culture, fostering a sustainable corporate ethos. 2024 by IGI Global. All rights reserved. -
Microwave-assisted extraction of phytochemicals
Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) has emerged as a promising technique for the extraction of phytochemicals and has received substantial scientific attention in recent years. MAE involves the utilization of microwaves to heat the sample, which facilitates the release of bioactive compounds from the plant matrix. MAE offers several advantages over traditional extraction methods, including faster extraction times, higher extraction yields, and reduced solvent consumption. To improve the efficiency of the extraction process, research has concentrated on optimizing various parameters, including the extraction temperature, extraction time, and solvent type. Additional studies have investigated the effect of MAE on the chemistry and bioactivity of the extracted phytochemicals. Several classes of phytochemicals, including phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and alkaloids, have been successfully extracted using MAE. These compounds possess various biological activities, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Essential oils from aromatic plants have also been extracted using MAE, which is widely employed in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. Despite its many advantages, the major challenge in the application of MAE is the potential degradation of the extracted compounds due to the high-temperature and high-pressure conditions during extraction. Additionally, the cost of microwave equipment and the need for specialized expertise may stunt its widespread adoption. In diverse omics disciplines, MAE shows promise, notably for the development of analytical platforms for research in genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and related subdisciplines. Nonetheless, more investigation is required to optimize the extraction conditions and guarantee that the chemical makeup and biological activity of the isolated phytochemicals are preserved. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2023, Corrected Publication 2023. All rights reserved. -
Single activity recognition system: A review
Human Activity Recognition (HAR) plays an important role in smart home assisted living system which is one among the growing research area in smart computing. In this modern era, Smart home assisted living is highly recommended for elderly people to monitor and assist in taking care of themselves. HAR is applied in various ambiences to recognize single activity and group activity as well. This chapter focuses on single activity recognition system with respect to variety of sensors used in smart homes, activity recognition methods and wide range of communication systems that helps to ease the living style of elderly people in healthy environment which can be linked to the advancement of IoT technology in smart building. This chapter reviews many applications with variety of sensors, real time smart home projects, and smart home assisted living systems including activity recognition methods and communication systems. Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2020. -
Rendering support for the empowerment of rural women to overcome life impediments
The socio-cultural and economic landscape of rural India is not totally conducive for women. Surveys and reports in this regard would suggest the continuous existence of gender-based discrimination and its negative effects on the status and livelihood of rural women. Recognizing this situation, the Centre for Social Action (CSA) has pioneered its efforts to sensitize and involve youth (especially students) in the mitigation of rural issues and has been supporting women in select villages by promoting Self Help Groups (SHGs). These SHGs, in turn, organize capacitybuilding and empowerment programmes for the women to enhance their livelihood and socio-economic well-being. The present study is designed to understand the impact of CSA's intervention on the status and livelihood of women in the select project sites. Towards this end, we collected data from a sample of 150 women beneficiaries of CSA's initiative using a structured interview schedule. The study used a mixedmethod design. The study's outcome indicates a positive correlation between women's participation in CSA initiatives and their status and livelihood improvements. The results are encouraging that they would help one formulate effective models similar to this one for the empowerment of women. 2024 Nova Science Publishers, Inc. -
Assessing the role of trade openness, FDI, and political stability on sustainable development: Evidence from developed and developing economies
The study tries to investigate the long run and short run relationship between trade openness (TO), political stability (PO), and FDI on sustainable development of select developed and developing nations. Time series data from 1995 to 2021 of about 25 economies-10 developed economies and 15 developing economies-was collected and analyzed using Phillips Perron Fisher panel unit root test, panel auto regressive distributed lag (PARDL) model, and panel fully modified least squares/fully modified OLS. From the result, it found that FDI and TO are positively contributing to sustainability development index (SDI) in developing countries rather than the developed countries in the long run. In addition to this, changes in the SDI score is significantly influenced by the present and past import and export activities in developed as well as developing economies in the short run. 2023, IGI Global. All rights reserved. -
Measurement Model of CO-PO Attainment in Higher Education: A Simplified Approach
The educational system in most countries are moving toward Outcome-Based Education (OBE) which is a student-centric teaching and learning methodology. The basic idea behind the adoption of OBE model is that the graduates should possess a sound knowledge in their respective disciplines and also have global mobility and acceptance. The Outcome-Based Education (OBE) should be based on the vision and mission of the institution. The institutions should clearly spell out the learning objectives of the program and course. The Course Outcome (CO), Program Outcome (PO), Program Specific Outcome (PSO) and Program Educational Objectives (PEO) determine clearly what the students are expected to accomplish, post their course or program respectively. This study aims to provide the simplified approach on assessment, evaluation and calculating the attainment levels of students through COs and POs in a management program. To assess the CO attainment for management courses, the authors have identified the subject Entrepreneurship Development offered in the first semester from the 2018-2020 batch of 60 students from the MBA program of an autonomous institute. The Course Outcome (CO) and Program Outcome (PO) are mapped with the Continuous Internal Assessments (CIA) and Semester Exam End (SEE) and thus the attainment levels of each CO are measured. The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2024. -
Attention to Economic Factors and Its Response to Foreign Portfolio Investment: An Evidence from Indian Capital Market
Stock market consists of a variety of investors. Among these, Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) is a key investment influx. These investments can change or fluctuate due to several macroeconomic factors which can cause a shift in the dynamics of the markets in India. This paper examines the factors influencing for foreign portfolio investment in long run as well as short run. The sample comprises of 120 monthly observations on Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPIs) and Macro economic variables such as Oil prices (OP), Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Interest Rate (IR), Exchange rate of Indian Rupee with USD (ER), Inflation (CPI), Nifty Index (NSEI), 10year Bond Prices (BP) and Index of Industrial production (IIP) over a period of 10years, spanning from January 2013 to November 2022. The study employed Autoregressive Distributed Lag model (ARDL) to establish the long run association with error correction models. The result indicates that there is long run association between the Foreign Portfolio Investment and macro-economic variables. Among this, NSEI, IIP and ER played a significant role to determine FPI investments in the long run, whereas in the short run, FPI was impacted by ER and NSEI significantly. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024. -
Driving profitable business growth through economical optimization, energy management, and industrial 5.0 innovations
The chapter emphasizes the significance of economic optimization, energy efficiency, and Industrial 5.0 innovations in driving sustainable growth and profitability in today's business landscape. It highlights the strategic allocation of resources to maximize efficiency and minimize costs, using lean management principles, automation, and data analytics. Energy management is crucial for reducing operational costs and mitigating environmental impact, using renewable energy sources and smart technologies. Industrial 5.0, a new era of industrial transformation, combines automation, connectivity, and data exchange, with technologies like artificial intelligence, IoT, and blockchain. 2024, IGI Global. -
Transformations to and implications for the human rights concept in the internet age
The critical shifts in the utility, implementation, and enforcement of human rights have been achieved as a result of the rise of cutting-edge technological innovation. As a result, there has been a plethora of research on the expansion of beneficiaries of the human rights and the subject matter of such rights. The authors of this chapter contend that in this era of technology, we need to reevaluate our approach to human rights, broaden the scope of those to whom obligations relating to human rights apply by including corporations and other organizations, and be ready to consider the possibility that artificial intelligence will become a topic of discussion in public relations and fundamental rights. In this chapter, a three-pronged approach to thinking about digital rights is presented. This method takes into consideration the subtle structural impact that considering human rights in the digital age has on the job that the courts do. 2024 by IGI Global. All rights reserved. -
Navigating the digital transformation landscape: Implications for accounting
Digitalization brings significant changes to the world, particularly in industries where information technology is essential. Accounting is one profession that has benefited from digital developments. The goal of this chapter is to synthesize recent academic studies on accounting digitalization and provide some suggestions for future research. Because of the short- and long-term effects of environmental factors on both the corporate and financial sectors, it is clear that business leaders and investors must measure and manage environmental risks to address the impact on business and society. This chapter aims to contribute to these critical discussions by providing new insights of digitalization, tax avoidance, reporting, accounting, and green finance. 2024, IGI Global. All rights reserved. -
Lipase and lactic acid bacteria for biodegradation and bioremediation
Bioremediation is a biotechnological process in which environmental pollutants and solid wastes can be degraded using microbial action to provide a clean free environment without hazards. The process employs microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi for the degradation of wastes. The microbial activity in the bioremediation process degrades the environmental pollutants that are harmful to human health and converts them into less toxic or nontoxic forms. The process mainly focuses on the removal of many types of hazardous materials present in the soil, water, and atmosphere. Microorganisms, especially bacteria, receive great attention in bioremediation as they can mineralize the toxic wastes into other products, such as biomass and water, and make them nonhazardous at times. The activity is not limited only to the degradation of organic wastes, it also degrades crude oil spills in oceans, pesticides, and other industrial wastes. Lactic acid bacteria, Lactobacillus species are Gram-positive and occur mostly in milk and other such products that are highly useful for the human health. They also provide valuable products in the form of foodstuffs for human. Recent findings have shown that the lactic acid bacteria have a better capability to degrade most of the organic wastes and also other industrial contaminations such as dyes. Bioremediation process itself has different methods, such as biosparging and bioventing, grouped as ex situ methods, in which the degradation of wastes can be possible in bioreactors, while on the other hand, in situ methods take place at the site of the pollution or contamination by the microbial growth. 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. -
Microalgae: a promising tool for plastic degradation
The use of plastics in the present-day routine is an unavoidable part of human life. It is posing a global environmental threat due to its never-ending accumulation. Complete disposal of plastics is a major problem, and for their complete degradation an effective solution or method has not been discovered yet. However, in order to turn to a biological approach for coping with the ever-increasing fear of plastic aggregation and decay, the development of a methodology would be useful for posterity. To eliminate plastic wastes, two scenarios exist: produce biodegradable plastics from renewable materials or fossil fuels as building blocks, such as hydrobiodegradable/oxo-biodegradable; or find appropriate microalgae and their toxins for the development of a protocol to effectively biodegrade the plastics. Just as biodegradation of plastics is a constructive option, as they are eco-friendly with not much harm done to the environment, the development of biodegradable plastic is also equally effective. Some of the algae that are isolated from the plastic wastes are green-algae, blue-green algae, diatoms, etc. Polyethylene is basically carbon and hydrogen polymer, which is exceptionally resistant to biodegradation (less than 0.5% over 100 years), whose degradation is dependent mainly on moisture, light, and temperature. The most used types of plastics like polyethylene terephthalate and polypropylene are a major threat as they are used in the manufacture of bottles, fibers, packing materials, etc. The degradation or disposal of these plastics is leading to their conversion into microsized particles which is further leading to harm to the environment, mainly when these microplastics interact with microalgae like Spirulina. However, landfill, incineration, and chemical methods are some of the conventional methods for polyethylene disposal that are fatal to the environment as they cause hazardous effects on flora and fauna. 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.