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Blossoming Fields: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Smart Agritourism
Agriculture is the major source of income for the rural community. When agriculture merges with the tourism sector, a new sphere of activity is created, known as agritourism. The technology involved in artificial intelligence has created a gathering momentum in every field of activity. Artificial intelligence techniques help to improve farming activities and visitors also feel to enhance their tourist experience, thereby leading to behavioural intention. Hence, the primary purpose of this book chapter is to know the concepts of artificial intelligence in agritourism, describe the importance of AI in agritourism, identify the AI benefits to stakeholders, pinpoint the barriers to AI integration in agritourism and describe the case studies related with AI application in tourism industry. Thus, using AI in agritourism not only helps visitors have memorable experiences, but the local community also gets the advantage of rural sustainability in terms of social, economic, and environmental aspects. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Transformation of service sectors through Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
Human interactions with actual and virtual environments are changing as a result of recent advancements in technology like Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR). The sectors like retail, eCommerce, transport, tourism, real estate, healthcare, education, interior design, customer relationship management, etc. uses this innovative and adaptive technology. The aim of this chapter is to highlight the transformation of different service sectors through the use of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) and also to see the recent innovations in this field. It was found that, AR and VR have an impact on various service sectors like retail and eCommerce in the form of virtual testing of products, tourism sector through 360-degree virtual tour, real estate sector through tour of the surrounding without being physically present, healthcare through physicians treating the patient virtually, education in the form of virtual classrooms, etc. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Data-driven triumph: CRM sales insights revolutionize customer retention
Context: The examination of the CRM data is anchored in a comprehensive analysis of sales performance metrics, with a significant role played. It was found a gap in the literature, considering the scarcity of pertinent case studies within the academic literature. Method: The geographical factor is paramount in this analysis, as it unveils divergent results across different regions. Moreover, the venture into predictive analytics for sales forecasting, capitalizing on CRM primary data spanning from 2018 to 2023, facilitating more informed decision-making. The sample comprises around 1500 Business to Business customer clusters for in-depth analysis is considered. Findings: From the Business Intelligence analysis, it was found the presence of long-standing customers with a lower purchase rate, favouring average industrial product models preferred by the customers. Conclusion:The study also explores the link between CRM can shape business strategies, enhance customer relationships, and boost organizational performance and customer retention. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Translating psychoneuroimmunology into community practice
The morbidity and mortality rates in India due to non-communicable diseases have been at their peak since 2015. There is a well-established connection between stress and these chronic illnesses; the physiological and behavioral avenues of stress trigger or exacerbate chronic diseases. The feedback loop between nervous, endocrine, and immune systems is the focus of psychoneuroimmunology. A comprehensive model involving the connection between the neural, immune, and endocrine systems, and social and psychological factors is important for addressing chronic illnesses in a community practice. The psychoneuroimmunology framework is quite successful at the individual level for various chronic diseases. The current paper strategized the psychoneuroimmunology framework in the community using the comprehensive six-level Community Health Impact Pyramid for Health Care model. For implementing this model in the community, the interventions were designed in preventive, promotive, and curative dimensions using an ecological systems perspective and life course approach. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
The psychoneuroimmunological perspective of the coping mechanism
Stress has become a household term today irrespective of age, gender and vocation. The demands of fast paced life, advancement of technology and science have made the world complicated and more sophisticated to live in. In order to effectively manage and wade through uncertainty, challenges and competition, managing stress and coping becomes mandatory. Coping is an effective way to counter and manage the stressful situations. The present study is a review of how the psychological, neural and immunological systems interact together in perception of stress as well as in coping with the stressor. The chapter ideates that interventions would result in more effective coping practices if they were simulated in advance, tailored to individual need and utilizing various digital platforms. It may even be termed as psychological vaccine to stressful situations, as the intervention is similar to how children are vaccinated to develop immunity while they are still young. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Early life adversity: Impact on the neuroimmune network and long-term health outcomes
A life that begins in a healthy environment is a precursor to the evolution of a beautiful narrative. In its course, adversities can manifest in various forms ranging from psychosocial factors to environmental toxins. The current understanding of these adverse events is largely limited to a unidimensional perspective. However, it is to be noted that the nature of the impact is not isolated, but interconnected, also emphasizing the neurobehavioral effects caused by the combination of different types of adversities in varied contexts and time frames. Hence, this chapter investigates the cumulative/interactive effect of early life adversity on the neuroimmune network and its long-term consequences to health. It proposes that by fostering environments where children are more likely to develop in healthy, supportive settings, we can create a foundation for social change, leading to physically, psychologically and socially healthier communities. Such a development would contribute to individual well-being, with a potential to create healthy and resilient societies. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Psycho-neuroendocrine regulation of autoimmune dysfunction in polycystic ovary syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting 8-13% of women of reproductive age, marked by hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, including various metabolic and reproductive issues. Psychological stress plays a crucial role in PCOS, acting as both a trigger and a maintaining factor. This review focused on outlining how psychological stress may disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to dysfunction in endocrine and immunological systems. The review has highlighted how glucocorticoids impair hormonal equilibrium and exacerbate immune dysfunction in PCOS. Additionally, the review examines the association between PCOS and various autoimmune conditions. There exists a complex interaction between psychological stress, neuroendocrine disruption, and immune dysfunction in PCOS. Understanding these relationships is essential for developing more effective management strategies and addressing the broader health implications of the syndrome. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Psychoneuroimmunology and gut microbiota
Gastrointestinal tract harbours a very complex and dynamic community of microorganisms known as the 'gut microbiota'. These microbes are involved in various critical physiological processes, including the digestion of complex biomolecules, synthesis of vitamins, modulation of the immune system, and protection against pathogens. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the gut brain axis. The chapter delves into the role of microbial metabolites like short chain fatty acids, tryptophan and bile acids in neuronal and neurotransmitter functioning. Cytokine release and immune system activation can potentially change the gut microbiota composition. The role of psychological stress in reducing beneficial bacteria and increasing pathogenic bacteria composition in the microbiota has been detailed. Psychological stress can lead to these consequences by altering the permeability of the intestinal cells. The effect of compromised permeability on psychological health through altered neurotransmitter activity are discussed. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
The enigmatic gut-brain-immune trio in brain and behavior disorders
The human gut is a bustling colony of micro-inhabitants such as bacteria, archaea, and eukarya. These microbes inhabited the earth trillions of years before humans, evolved along with humans, and have now outnumbered humans. It has now been established without doubt that these microbiota within us play a significant role in the maintenance of our physical health. They exist in a symbiotic and/or commensal relationship within the host body and assist in digestion, metabolism, and regulation of the immune functions. Interestingly, recent reports suggest that these aliens can regulated our brain and behaviour too. The role of the gut-brain axis in the overall well-being is becoming increasingly evident and nurturing this connection might address many of the challenges in targeting illnesses of the brain. Moreover, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more evidences have unfolded suggesting the impact of peripheral inflammation on mental health. Here, the importance of gut microbes, peripheral immune system, and their influence on brain diseases is addressed. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
The role of technology in advancing psychoneuroimmunology research
This chapter explores the transformative impact of technology on Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI), emphasizing advancements in neuroimaging, genomics, and proteomics. Techniques like functional MRI (fMRI) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) have revolutionized our understanding of brain activity and neuroinflammation. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and proteomic profiling have unveiled genetic and protein biomarkers linked to stress and immune responses. Wearable technology and mobile health apps now enable continuous monitoring and personalized stress management. Big data analytics and machine learning enhance pattern identification and outcome prediction. Ethical considerations, including data privacy and equity, are discussed alongside emerging technologies like AI and nanotechnology. Overall, the chapter highlights how these innovations are reshaping PNI research and improving treatment for stress-related disorders. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Future research and emerging trends in mindfulness and immunology
The chapter examines mindfulness and immunology to understand how our immune system works with mindfulness practice. Research in this area calculates that mindfulness affects immune markers, including cytokines and natural killer (NK) cell activity, apart from effects shown with inflammation or immunityrelated diseases. The discussion also includes a look at newer trends, including brain imaging and more specific treatments and options provided by digitizing public health. However, the promising research limited by small sample sizes and intervention times persists. This part also advocates for increased rigorous, longer-term, cross-disciplinary work to clarify how mindfulness might influence immune health. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Psychoneuroimmunology of yoga and meditation
Yoga and meditation were integral to Ayurveda and were prevalent from 1500 BC to 400 AD. The psychoneuroimmunology of yoga and meditation has been of interest in recent times, and much research is focused on the influence of meditation and yoga on cell telomerase activity, neuroendocrine system, cells of the immune system, oxidative stress, cell aging, and cancer recovery. Yoga and meditation reduce stress and depression and improve sleep quality. Stress-immune relationship influences all age groups, especially individuals with clinical diagnoses, and is a factor in lifestyle diseases and cancer. Elevated levels of oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine were associated with bliss and positivity, which contribute to the reduction in inflammation and pain perception among practitioners. The present chapter focuses on the psychoneuroimmunology of the effects of yoga and meditation on improving immunity and fast and efficient recovery. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Psychoneuroimmunology in the context of dementia
Dementia is a neurodegenerative condition that affects a multitude of cognitive functions. This chapter delves into the vulnerabilities and risk factors associated with aging that can lead to dementia. Aging brings a higher risk of depression and anxiety. The chapter uses the framework of psychoneuroimmunology to explain how psychological states during old age and after the diagnosis of dementia result in immune consequences. The consequences of dementia on daily functioning result in disturbances in sleep, appetite, mobility, sociability, and overall activities of daily living. Impairments in these areas cause increased reliance on caregivers to fulfill daily needs. These disturbances are accompanied by an overactivation of the HPA axis, impairments in glial cell functioning, disturbed glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid functioning, a compromised gut-brain axis, and an overall increase in the release of proinflammatory cytokines. These physiological changes consequently increase neuroinflammation accelerating the progression of dementia. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Understanding the link between neural activity and immune function: Insights from neuropsychology and psychoneuroimmunology
This chapter investigates the intricate connections between neural activity and immune function, drawing on insights from both neuropsychology and psychoneuroimmunology. A better understanding of the role of the brain and mental health in regulating immunological responses and general wellbeing is the overarching goal. In order to determine the role of neuronal circuits and neurotransmitter systems in controlling emotional reactions and stress, we begin by going over basic ideas in neuropsychology. This chapter delves into the ways in which these brain systems influence immune function, incorporating insights from psychoneuroimmunology. It examines the mediating functions of neurotransmitters and hormones in the immune system's response to stress, among other topics. The consequences of mental health issues on immunological function, including persistent stress, anxiety, and depression, are highlighted in particular. We highlight the two way nature of the connections by discussing how changes in immune function might impact brain activity and mental health. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Neuroinflammation and cognitive function in infectious diseases
Inflammation of the central nervous system (CNS), which various infectious diseases can induce and significantly affect cognitive functions. The review enriches the current understanding of neuroinflammation pathology and suggests novel diagnostic/therapeutic strategies for cognitive impairments. Pathogens cause disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which could be due to a repertoire of mechanism viz. the interplay of inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species. The influence of neuroinflammation on cognitive function is immense and multifactorial. Neuroinflammatory responses in the acute phase can result in cognitive impairments, like memory deficits, attention span being reduced, and executive dysfunction. However, in cases of persistent neuroinflammation lead to long-term cognitive decline and neurodegenerative processes. The mechanisms underlying these cognitive changes are diverse, including disruptions in synaptic plasticity, alterations in neurotransmitter systems, and neuronal cell death. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
The role of psychoneuroimmunology in mental health disorders: The intertwined pathways
The chapter provides a comprehensive overview of psychoneuroimmunology (PNI), detailing the interactions between psychological processes, the nervous system, and the immune system in relation to mental health disorders. It discusses how psychological stress can affect immune function, leading to altered neurotransmitter function and contributing to conditions like anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. The chapter also explores the influence of gut microbiota on the immune system and brain function and emphasizes the therapeutic implications of understanding PNI pathways for developing innovative and potentially life-changing treatments for mental health disorders. Overall, the chapter highlights the interconnected pathways of the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems and advocates for a holistic approach to mental health care. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Understanding psychoneuroimmunology in pediatric development: A focus on neurodivergent populations
Psychoneuroimmunology can be defined as the study of interactions between behavior, neural and endocrine function, and immune processes. The research suggests that the mind and body have a bidirectional connection. These interactions bring many chemical changes in the body. Both Positive and negative emotional states, creating different neuroimmune responses in the body, and thus influence health and recovery from illness. The bi-directional influence of psychology and immunology is especially evident in the pediatric population. Children's quality of life is quite important to define their overall health. Children's quality of life includes child's social, physical, emotional functioning and their family support. Quality of physical well-being (self-care, exercise), interpersonal relationships, emotionally balanced state, and mental construction positively influence psychoneuroimmunology. This book chapter explores the most significant factors that enhance children's psychoneuroimmunology to strengthen their quality of Life. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Psychosocial factors and immune function: Phenomena affecting susceptibility to disease in humans
The interplay between psychosocial factors and immune function represents a critical area of research in understanding human susceptibility to disease. This chapter elucidates how psychological and social variables influence immune responses, affecting disease outcomes. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of how stress, sleep, personality traits, social support, family dynamics, and socioeconomic status modulate immune function by integrating psychoneuroimmunology, epidemiology, and clinical psychology insights. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of these phenomena, highlighting the direct and indirect pathways through which psychosocial factors impact health and well-being. Furthermore, the chapter proposes specific psychosocial interventions backed by empirical evidence that aim to improve immune function. It also discusses potential future directions and research implications. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Stress, immunity, and personality: Mechanisms and interactions
The interaction between personality and immunity is a fascinating area of study that addresses how psychological characteristics can influence mental health. Among the many psychological characteristics, personality patterns play a significant role in shaping how individuals respond to stress and, subsequently, how their immune systems function. This chapter proposes to provide a detailed exploration of the complex interplay between stress and the immune system and its implications on behavior with an emphasis on stress prone and stress resistant personalities. It will delve into the physiological pathways through which stress affects immune function, how different personality types influence stress responses and immune function and discuss the broader implications for health and disease. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Applications of brain-computer interfaces in automated financial services
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the possibility that brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) could bring about a revolutionary transformation in the realm of automated financial services. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) hold the promise of revolutionizing the way financial transactions are carried out, increasing security measures, and bodying stoner gestures. This is to be accomplished by providing direct communication between the brain and external bias. Among the subjects that are covered in this study are verification methods, real-time decision-making, and client participation in financial services. The study delves into the intricate workings of BCIs. Through the use of neural data, brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) can supply an unknown position of intelligence into the gestures and preferences of stoners. Because of this, financial institutions can offer services that are more effective and more efficiently adapted to the specific needs of each client. This inquiry emphasizes key breakthroughs in BCI technology. 2025, IGI Global Scientific Publishing.
