Diabetes Complications

The Current Concept for Stem Cell Therapy in Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injury with neurological deficits is devastating to patients and their families. After the immediate treatment that may involve spinal decompression and stabilization surgeries, patients are typically left with long-term disability. Intense research has focused on spinal cord regeneration, tissue repair, and reinnervation to improve function. Stem cell-based therapies are at the center of this effort. This chapter summarizes common spinal cord injury (SCI) patterns, including complete and incomplete SCIs, and their classification-based prognosis and treatments. They review the types of stem cells used in preclinical and clinical trials in the treatment of SCI and the associated ethical concerns and summarize the current state of the art of stem cellbased SCI treatments.

Resiliency of Protein Dictates Human Health

Proteins are functional in their three-dimensional form; any type of modification in the conformation of the protein affects its functions. Thus, the role of the proteins in the body depicts the functional ability and ensures health of an organism. Besides its presence in the body, proteins are consumed by the body in the form of dietary uptake. The free amino group of the protein in the body when interacting with the carbonyl group of the reducing sugar follows the Maillard reaction to produce hazardous by-products which is an advanced glycation end products (AGEs). The process of AGEs formation routes towards the aggregation process. Different studies have shown different aggregation pathways, some restricting the partial unfolding of the protein and the other oligomerization leading to fibril formation depending upon the conditions of the study. It is noteworthy that in in-vivo cases, glycation and aggregation are the two sides of the same coin because it is obvious that we have seen the diseased condition due to AGEs formation that also shows aggregation or vice versa. Hence, the two causative agents depend upon each other.

Personalized Medicine (PM) A Critical Appraisal

Personalized medicine, also referred to as precision medicine, deals with a clinical model that delineates patients into different groups based on their ethnicity, lifestyle, food habits, medical history, drug reaction, comorbidity, the robustness of the immune system, age, gender, and proneness to infection, overall psyche and attitude towards life. Further, emotions, social interactions and life experiences culminating into overall happiness play an important role in the life of a person. Thus, an emotionally strong and happy person is usually healthy. Taking all these above factors into consideration and with accurate diagnosis, a drug may be prescribed more in tune with the uniqueness of the patient’s genome. Since everybody, whether diseased or healthy, has a unique genome, this uniqueness must be utilized in deciding the drug, dose and its long-term effects. Healing and cure should address the root cause of the problem instead of working only on the symptoms to provide short-term relief. In addition, repurposing of the drug which is not an old concept should also be carefully explored because with this approach, a large number of already available drugs may be used for a much wider number of diseases than the medicine originally developed for. This will also help reduce the cost of the development of medicine. Finally, clinicians and doctors should be sensitized to the concept of precision medicine and its less obvious sub-disciplines. This is envisaged to provide better, more accurate diagnosis and may result in better treatment. The medical field, besides being a deep science is also an art starting from how to deal with diverse types of patients of different backgrounds and educate them all the way to instill a sense of confidence and then to prescribe the medicine to cure the disease. Seemingly, within the realm of precision medicine, it is a huge task. However, it is possible to collect and analyze diagnostic data to reach a consensus. This would require the involvement of clinical psychologists and genetic counselors in a hospital setting ensuring that patient care is holistic, taking into account both the physical and psychological aspects of health. This integrated approach can lead to improved patient care and long-term well-being.

Promising Roadmap in the Development and Commercialization of Pharmaceutical Products for Early Career Researchers

Translational research by budding scientists in the pharmaceutical and biotechnological field demands the application of their knowledge to a bedside medical problem. Career opportunities in the pharmaceutical sector range from bench-side research which includes screening, discovery and development, and operational activities to manufacture, quality control, and marketing, including pharmacovigilance. The success of trials leading to commercialization is determined by the quality of research conducted in academia with the ultimate goal of moving the product ahead. Early career researchers should have a deep understanding of pharmaceutical products, particularly advanced drug delivery systems (DDS). Advanced DDS such as niosomes, liposomes, dendrimers, nanoparticles, and others are developed to increase drug distribution and bioavailability. DDS can accomplish localized or systemic drug distribution by careful selection of excipients. DDS could be used to deliver all types of therapeutic molecules, including biological macromolecules, to the site of action with more stability. However, one must be aware of several factors, including the physicochemical properties of the drug, formulation parameters, physiological considerations, intersubject variability, and the choice of an appropriate animal model for in vivo studies. In addition, the in vitro and in-vivo correlation (IVIVC) should be considered, as it confidently converts the bench trial to a market level for bedside applications. Accordingly, this review focuses on factors that influence drug delivery, approaches to drug delivery systems, excipient selection strategies, ways to translate the pilot scale to industrial scale, and the basic requirements of the pharmaceutical sector for product commercialization. Furthermore, this chapter will also discuss some of the possible funding avenues to nurture drug discovery and development to motivate early-career entrepreneurs.

Coumarins and Their Derivatives as Anti-Inflammatory Agents

Coumarins are a diverse class of phytochemicals found in many human diets and have been shown to have various pharmacological actions. The chapter discusses the role of coumarins in disease prevention and treatment and their classification based on structure. It also highlights that the various schemes of coumarin possess antiinflammatory properties, making them a promising scaffold for the synthesis of a new class of anti-inflammatory drugs. Overall, this chapter provides valuable information on the potential use of coumarins as anti-inflammatory agents and their synthetic aspects. This book chapter focuses on the development of various possible potential anti-inflammatory molecules having a coumarin core.

Benefits of Seaweeds in Cardiac Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases encompass a wide range of disorders that can be categorized into several groups depending on different criteria. The prevalence of cardiac disease is rapidly accelerating in the world. Cardiovascular disorders are responsible for roughly 17.9 million annual fatalities, or nearly 32% of the total mortality globally. The etiology of cardiovascular disease is complex, consisting of both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, including metabolic abnormalities, aberrant protein function, genetic mutations, and other contributing elements. Atherosclerosis continues to be the most significant risk factor since it primarily defines the pathogenic processes of cardiovascular diseases. Both pharmacotherapy and surgical interventions are currently in use to alleviate disease symptoms and reduce fatalities. Nevertheless, they have limitations. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a novel treatment for cardiovascular disease. Seaweeds are comprised of bioactive compounds with different biological and chemical properties. These can be classified into two groups: primary metabolites and secondary metabolites. Constituents such as phlorotannins, polysaccharides (ulvan, fucoidan, carrageenan), peptides, sterols, and carotenoids (fucoxanthin and astaxanthin) have depicted beneficial effects in preventing cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, this chapter mainly focuses on the bioactive constituents derived from seaweeds and their composition that may benefit in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases.

Anti-Obesity Potential of Seaweeds

An excessive buildup of body fat is a sign of the metabolic disease known as obesity. The primary etiological factor for obesity is thought to be an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, where genetic factors can also play a significant role. The rise in obesity rates over the past few years has encouraged a focus on adipose tissue biology and the precise processes behind adipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis. Due to the advent of several in vitro cell models and molecular biology tools, adipocyte commitment and differentiation have become complicated processes that may be studied to gain a better knowledge of adipogenesis and adipocyte malfunction related to obesity. As the available anti-obesity drugs and surgical interventions cause adverse effects, it is important to rely on natural-based therapeutics in order to manage obesity and its associated complications. Seaweeds are a rich source of natural bioactive compounds that exhibit human beneficial effects. Fucoxanthin, phlorotannins, fucoidan, and alginate are some of the bioactive compounds present in seaweeds exhibiting anti-obesity potential mainly via the inhibition of digestive enzymes and adipocyte differentiation. Therefore, this chapter mainly focuses on the anti-obesity potential of seaweeds proved by many animal and human cell culture models using in vitro and in vivo mechanisms.

Anti-Aging Properties of Seaweeds

Aging is a natural phenomenon that occurs due to diverse changes in cells and tissues over time, and it is impossible to halt or reverse the process. However, extrinsic skin aging, caused by environmental factors, is largely preventable. Natural products have long been used in skin anti-aging treatments. Seaweeds are multicellular, large-sized marine organisms that have a variety of economic values. They are used in cosmetics, cosmeceuticals, and nutricosmetics due to their versatility and richness in valuable bioactive compounds and other nutrients found in different species of seaweed. This category includes phenolic compounds [flavonoids (flavones, flavanols, flavanones, flavonols, anthocyanins, isoflavones); non-flavonoids (tannins, phlorotannins, lignans & stilbenes)], polysaccharides (sulfated galactans, ulvan, sulphuric acid polysaccharides, alginic acid, carrageenans, fucoidan or sulfated fucose, laminarin), peptides and amino acids, fatty acids (docosahexaenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, stearidonic acid and eicosatrienoic acid), vitamins (vitamin B: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 & B8, vitamin C, vitamin E), vitamin precursors (α-tocopherol, βcarotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin), pigments (chlorophylls, xanthophylls, and carotenoids), and minerals. The presence of these important bioactive compounds plays important roles in cosmeceutical applications by mediating antioxidant, photoprotective, anti-wrinkling, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-collagenase, anti-elastase, and anti-metalloproteinase activities through multiple pathways. Furthermore, seaweed nutrients play vital roles in nutricosmetics and are also involved in vital technical features such as moisturizing, thickening, gelling, and emulsifying effects in different skincare products. This chapter specifically describes the skin antiaging properties of seaweeds via different biological activities due to their unique composition.

Antidiabetic Properties of Seaweeds and Future Potentials

Seaweeds are a promising therapeutic target in drug development and nutraceuticals due to the presence of structurally different bioactive constituents in their composition. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major metabolic disorder that causes impaired insulin secretion, insulin action by the pancreas, or both. Despite the currently available synthetic antidiabetic drugs and insulin injections, there is a necessity for an effective natural approach to preventing or managing DM without long-term diabetes complications by eradicating adverse risk factors. Therefore, exploring the anti-diabetic properties of seaweeds has been revealed as an emerging and intact alternative target. Because of the significant contribution of bioactive metabolites in antidiabetic seaweed-based therapeutics, it is important to summarize the determinant factors, including the rich abundance of polyunsaturated fatty acids, minerals, dietary fibers, polyphenolic compounds, and carotenoids. In addition, seaweed extracts and their bioactive elements have anti-diabetic potential as they inhibit carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes in vitro and reduce blood glucose levels in vivo in random and postprandial blood glucose assays. Furthermore, they have been attributed to decreased weight gain in mice and rats, presumably by reducing mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines while raising mRNA expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Their advantageous effect on serum and hepatic lipid profiles, as well as antioxidant enzymes, suggests that seaweeds protect against free radical-mediated oxidative stressinduced hyperglycemia and related hyperlipidemia. Hence, seaweed-based therapeutic efforts for DM have a considerable potential to be used as perspective drugs or dietary supplements.

Seaweed as a Functional Food to Increase Digestive Tract Health

Seaweeds are known as a delicacy and are a well-known source of vital dietary components. Seaweeds make up some of the most important sources of novel medicinal substances for human use. Additionally, as food, they have been proven to possess diverse health benefits. The distinctive characteristics of the marine environment where seaweed grows are thought to be primarily responsible for most of its traits. Compared to terrestrial plants, marine seaweeds contain higher amounts of health-promoting molecules and materials. Clinical trials and mechanistic research on isolated and extracted compounds from seaweeds have shown potential benefits to gastrointestinal health. The present review emphasizes the major seaweed compounds having nutritive value with special reference to the potential to improve gastrointestinal disorders and gut health.

What is Seaweed? General Facts about Seaweeds

Seaweeds are rich sources of various nutrients and bioactive compounds, which offer several health benefits. They contain high levels of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Seaweeds are particularly rich in iodine, an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in thyroid function and overall metabolism. They also contain significant amounts of iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and other trace minerals that are essential for human health. Moreover, seaweeds are known for their bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides, phlorotannins, carotenoids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have been linked to several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Studies have shown that consuming seaweed may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Seaweeds may also improve gut health by acting as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. In the present chapter, the authors focus on briefly summarizing the bioactive properties of secondary metabolites identified from seaweeds and their therapeutic potential as supportive information for the next chapters in this book.

Molecular Mechanisms of Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a complex metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. The disease affects millions worldwide and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus are complex and involve multiple cellular and molecular processes. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the development and progression of diabetes mellitus. Specifically, we focus on the role of pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction, insulin resistance, and abnormalities in glucose metabolism, lipids, and proteins. We also examine the contribution of genetic and environmental factors to developing diabetes mellitus. Additionally, we highlight the importance of targeting these molecular mechanisms for developing new and effective therapies for managing diabetes mellitus. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in diabetes mellitus can lead to more effective treatments and better disease management.

Natural Dentin Biomodifiers

Nowadays, researchers are interested in using extracts from natural sources as medicines or health-promoting agents. Herbs and natural sources with medicinal properties are beneficial for treating oral diseases. Dentistry uses natural products as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and sedative agents. Various physical and chemical factors, including hydrolysis and enzymatic degradation by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) derived from the host, degrade bonding over time. Recent biomodifications to dentin have produced a more stable and resilient adhesive contact. It has been determined that plant-derived natural cross-linkers are effective at enhancing the mechanical properties of dentin and controlling its biodegradation by inhibiting proteases. Dentin biomodification by these naturally derived cross-linking agents has remarkable effects on caries prevention and dentin remineralization, which is even more extraordinary. Natural bio-modifiers are naturally occurring substances whose potential dental applications have garnered increased attention in recent years. Compared to synthetic agents, the most appealing characteristics of biomodifiers and renewable/sustainable resources are their minimal toxicity and renewable/sustainable nature. Natural proanthocyanidins (PACs) taken from different natural sources have a high ability to cross-link with collagen. This makes the organic matrix of dentin more biostable and stronger.

Common Surgical Procedures in Geriatric Patients

Demographic studies show that life expectancy for people in the USA has been trending upwards for the past several decades. As the population ages, the number of geriatric patients who will require surgery has also increased. Information from the National Hospital Discharge Survey reported that in 2006, 35.3% of all inpatient procedures and 32.2% of all outpatient procedures were in patients aged 65 and older. Common elective surgeries in elderly patients include cataract and lens procedures, spinal fusions and laminectomies, and total or partial hip and knee replacements. Common urgent surgeries in this population include thoracic and abdominal cancer resections, breast and prostate cancer resections, and cholecystectomies. Finally, common emergency surgeries in the elderly population include hip fracture repairs and other geriatric traumas.

The Geriatric COVID Patient

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a significant impact on healthcare across the world. The pandemic is caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and is transmitted through respiratory secretions. The geriatric population comprised most morbidities and mortalities related to COVID-19. Common symptoms include fever, cough, dyspnea, myalgia, and culminating in acute hypoxic respiratory failure and acute myocardial injury. Geriatric patients with COVID-19 who require surgery are at a greater risk of postoperative complications. An assessment of the risks and benefits of surgical intervention relies on the degree of COVID-19 pathology and the type of surgery whether emergent or elective. The presence of COVID-19 does not warrant a change in the modality of anesthesia that would be performed for any given surgery in the absence of COVID-19.

Anesthetic Considerations for Patients with Chronic Neurologic Disorders

Chronic neurological disorders encompass a broad range of challenges for the surgical and anesthesiology team in the perioperative setting. According to the World Population Prospects 2019, by 2050, 1 in 6 people will be over 65, from 1 in 11 in 2019 [1]. As our population continues to age, our understanding and ability to provide medical and surgical services must improve as well. Perioperative strokes are rare, but they can greatly impact a patient's recovery and function when they occur. Dementia strongly predicts postoperative complications, higher hospital costs, and 30- day mortality [2]. Patients with Parkinson’s disease are at a higher risk of perioperative medical and surgical complications not to mention specific medication regimens that need to be adjusted to avoid worsening symptomatology. Although rare, a patient presenting with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), can present with a broad range of neurologic symptoms, and cardiovascular and pulmonary dysfunction that can be daunting for any anesthesia provider. In this chapter, we will explore the comprehensive approach to managing chronic neurologic disorders, including multidisciplinary care, early identification of potential complications, specialized medication management, and intraoperative considerations.

Geriatric Ambulatory Patients

With the advent of enhanced recovery programs, postoperative recovery has become more and more efficient with improved postoperative times to discharge, decreased hospitalizations, and improved patient satisfaction. Employing these same principles to a more vulnerable population in an ambulatory setting has proven effective in making outpatient day surgery possible and successful for the elderly population. This chapter will discuss the advancing age of the surgical population, the advancing numbers of surgeries being performed in an ambulatory setting, and the implications on the elderly population as they undergo ambulatory procedures. Further, the chapter will discuss how to optimize the elderly population to have a successful perioperative course by utilizing a team of professionals preoperatively and enhanced recovery programs peri-operatively. Finally, the chapter will conclude with certain potential complications that may occur with this populous and how to best avoid them.

Geriatric Pain Patient

Chronic pain is a major cause of physical disability, poor mental health, and decreased quality of life [1,2]. The burden of chronic pain is reflected in increased medical care utilization and consequently increased healthcare costs, which are estimated at an astounding $560 billion per year [3]. CDC estimates from 2019 reveal that while 20.4% of adults in the USA live with chronic pain, the prevalence increases with advancing age [4]. 30.8% of people aged 65 years and above had chronic pain while 11.8% of them had high-impact chronic pain, which is defined as pain that causes significant restriction of self-care, social and work-related activities [5]. The impact of chronic pain is more severe in the elderly; older adults report poorer physical health and disability in comparison to younger adults [6-8]. Chronic pain in the elderly is also associated with poorer sleep, cognitive decline, dementia, and death [9-13]. With the projected increase in the elderly population in the US every year, the burden of chronic pain is only expected to increase. This chapter outlines the physiologic and pharmacologic changes that happen with ageing, the major causes of chronic pain in the elderly, as well as the myriad of treatment options available with a focus on pharmacotherapy, behavioral and alternative therapies, and interventional pain therapies. The focus of treatment is not only targeted towards reducing pain but special considerations should be made to minimize the cognitive effects of polypharmacy in light of multiple comorbidities and promote mental well-being and functional independence [14].

Anesthetic Considerations in Patients After Valve Replacements and Cardiac Stents, with Associated Anticoagulation Concerns

Geriatric patients are a significant proportion of the patients seen in the perioperative setting. Oftentimes, these patients are presenting for non-cardiac surgery after undergoing a cardiac procedure previously. Management of these patients starts with understanding the pathophysiology, surgical intervention, and anesthetic considerations. This management starts from risk assessment and perioperative management. In this chapter, risk assessment stemming from a patient’s co-morbid conditions is taken into account to form an overall risk profile. These conditions help the anesthesiologist establish a framework to model an anesthetic plan. Notably, a prior cardiac history, including a history of coronary artery disease (CAD), hypertension (HTN), and a history of valve disease and possible repair, is prudent. Also discussed is the need for appropriate intra-operative monitoring in specific situations as well as anticoagulation guidelines in the pre and post-operative settings.

Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD) in Geriatric Patients

As the world population ages, the number of older patients undergoing surgery will increase significantly. Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) and other perioperative neurocognitive disorders (PND) affecting patients after surgery have long been recognized in older patients and are considered some of the most common postoperative complications. POCD has been correlated with significant morbidity and mortality, and greater healthcare costs. Historically, the lack of standardized nomenclature used to describe cognitive change after surgery and anesthesia has made it challenging to conduct systematic reviews or analyze the results of similar studies to further understand the clinical implications of this disorder. This has led to minimal recognition of this disorder outside of the specialty of anesthesiology. Patient and surgery-related risk factors include old age, preexisting cognitive changes, and emergency surgery amongst others. Proposed etiologies include postsurgical neuroinflammation, impairment of neurotransmitter systems, and cerebral vascular events in the perioperative period. The medical literature offers little guidance to recommend a particular anesthetic to decrease the risk of POCD in the postoperative patient. Most studies found similar risks of POCD after general and regional anesthesia techniques. While there is no standardized test for diagnosing preoperative cognitive impairment, it is critical to identify high-risk patients so that timely interventions can be made to minimize POCD.

Post-Operative Care of Elderly Patients

Geriatric patients have unique postoperative concerns that must be considered to safely guide their care. In this chapter, we discuss the commonly encountered complications in the post-anesthesia care unit with a focus on postoperative delirium, postoperative nausea, and vomiting, as well as issues relating to renal, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems with advancing age. Finally, we discuss opioid and nonopioid analgesic considerations unique to this vulnerable patient population.

Pharmacology in Geriatric Anesthesia

In terms of different pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions, geriatric patients exhibit greater sensitivity to anesthetics. Therefore, understanding the differences in body composition, hepatic and renal function, changes in protein binding, and minimal alveolar concentration are the key to titration of anesthetics in geriatric patients. In addition, polypharmacy, use of non-prescription medications and adverse medications related events warrant special considerations for the geriatric population, more so than in their younger counterparts. Lastly, careful titration of anesthetics may minimize the development of postoperative delirium and postoperative cognitive dysfunction, which are associated with higher morbidity, mortality, length of hospitalization, and overall cost.

Anatomical and Physiological Changes in Aging

The human body is a complex connection of various systems, each affected by the internal and external environment. Each system relies on the other and changes in one can result in variations in all other organ systems. As humans age, their physical appearance changes, but the aging process also occurs below the skin. Each organ system is impacted by time, and an individual’s lifestyle can greatly impact his/her organ system. Various anatomical and physiological alterations that occur to the major organ systems due to aging and are relevant to an anesthesiologist are discussed below.

The Use of Claustrophobic Spaces as a Cinematographic Tool: Panic Room-D. Fincher (2002)

The use of the art of cinematography in conveying the emotions desired to be reflected on the audience in cinema films has an important role, especially in the spatial arrangement and design of cinema spaces. While the spaces discussed in the films are sometimes produced virtually, the spaces that exist/are built in real life are either used directly or designed. These usage possibilities and contingencies allowed by the technology of the period are also a facilitating tool for the emotions that are to be conveyed to the audience within the scope of the film. In addition to different shooting techniques, the arrangement of spatial data such as width, height, and light has been frequently used in this emotion transfer. The space setups of the scenes where positive emotions are to be reflected are often different from the space setups of the scenes where negative emotions are handled. Creating a claustrophobic atmosphere by setting up narrow, dark, closed spaces in some scenarios that are intended to be reflected in emotions such as anxiety and fear is frequently encountered, especially in thriller/horror movies.

Panic Room, one of the important movies in which the feeling of claustrophobia is handled with different dimensions, primarily allows the audience to weigh their feelings towards a closed space with the reflections of its name. It is disturbingly reminiscent of the familiar problems of modern social psychology, with the help of the word “panic”. Panic Room, directed by David Fincher in 2002, is a striking movie that evokes feelings of tension, fear, excitement, and claustrophobia with its cinematic space design and camera movements. In the movie, which is about a mother (Meg) and her daughter (Sarah) struggling with thieves on their first night in their new home, the building that is shown as the house where the events occurred is in New York Manhattan Upper West Side. Exterior and interior shots, based on this building and the street it is located on, were shot in spaces built in the studio environment. This study aims to examine the spaces where the interior and exterior shots of the film are made architecturally. The reflection of claustrophobic emotions, especially emphasized in the interior shots, on cinematic techniques, and the processing of these emotions through space are discussed.

Inflammasomes, Inflammation and Neuropathic Pain

Inflammasomes such as NOD-like receptor protein 1 (NLRP1), NLRP3, NLR family CARD domain-containing protein 4 (NLRC4) and absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) are the primary mediators of inflammation and its associated neuropathic pain. These inflammasomes are activated leading to various autoimmune & metabolic disorders, cancer, and other inflammatory diseases. The activation of inflammasomes occurs due to molecular alterations like mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, lysosomal damage, oxidative stress, sensitization, and disinhibition, which lead to proinflammatory pathways causing inflammasome-related neuropathic pain. Among these inflammasomes, NLRP3 has been widely studied and proven to be the key player in the development of neuropathy. In this chapter, we have summarized the role of inflammasome and how NLRP3 is involved in neuropathic pain. Therefore, based on the facts available, it has been suggested that focusing on inflammasome activity may be a cutting-edge and successful treatment approach for neuropathic pain.

Mechanism of NLRP3 Activation, Associated Cardiovascular Complications and Update on its Inhibitors Acting as Cardioprotective Agents

Cardiovascular disorders (CVDs) are a major healthcare issue worldwide and are accountable for significant mortality and morbidity. Despite advancements in cellular, molecular, physiological and pathological understanding, a comprehensive understanding of CVDs is still lacking. Hence, a better understanding of pathological changes is needed to develop a potential cardioprotective agent. In recent times, NLRP3 inflammasome has been extensively studied in various disease conditions, including CVDs. The activation of NLRP3 inflammasome has been found to be positively correlated with various CVDs, such as hypertension, angina, arrhythmia, cardiac fibrosis, myocardial infarction, heart failure, etc. Moreover, a number of NLRP3 inflammasome activators have been explored for their role in CVDs, and the outcomes of these studies are found to be promising. Therefore, in the present manuscript, we have discussed the structural component of NLRP3 inflammasome, its molecular mechanism of activation, and the outcome of various NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors in CVDs. We found that NLRP3 inflammasome is an indispensable player of pathogenesis in CVDs, and thus, targeting this inflammasome can be an effective approach for managing and treating these diseases.

Preface

Pathogenesis of Atherosclerosis and Coronary Heart Disease: Epidemiology, Diagnostic Biomarkers and Prevention by Nutraceuticals, Functional Foods, and Plant-Derived Therapies

Atherosclerosis is characterized by hardening/narrowing of arteries and reduction of blood flow to vital organs. Animal models and human research show that endothelial dysfunction and plaque development precede the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, and related coronary heart disease, neurological, and renal disorders. Cardiac CT-scans are used to detect atherosclerosis. Early diagnosis of atherosclerosis reduces mortality, morbidity, and healthcare expenditures. Biomarkers like C-reactive protein, IL-6, IL-8, phospholipase A2, cardiac troponin, MicroRNA, miR-21, and other endothelial inflammation biomarkers are novel targets for monitoring atherosclerosisrelated cardiovascular disorders. Anti-platelet and anti-cholesterol drugs are used in the treatment of atherogenesis and blood vessel clots. However, cholesterol-lowering drugs may cause serious adverse effects. Thus, safe and cost-effective non-pharmacological anti-atherogenic and anticoagulant therapies are urgently needed. Nutraceuticals, functional foods, plant-derived therapies, antioxidant/anti-inflammation, foods/fruits/vegetables, and lifestyle changes (e.g., physical activity, less alcohol, smoking cessation) reduce atherogenesis, diabetes mellitus, obesity, hypertension, LDL, and C-reactive protein in all age groups, especially younger people. Overwhelming evidence suggests that regular physical activity (30 min/day), cessation of cigarette smoking, and consumption of antioxidant nutraceuticals rich in flavonoids and retinoids, fresh vegetables and fruits, omega-3 PUFA, culinary spices, probiotics, Mediterranean-type diet, and “DASH DIET” lower the risk of atherogenesis and cardiovascular diseases. This review summarizes current advances in the diagnosis and management of atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular illnesses with plant-based and wholesome diets, including the Mediterranean diet, DASH DIET, and lifestyle changes. New preventative measures and alternative therapies, including dietary interventions and plant-based foods may be the most cost-effective ways to manage atherosclerosis and cardiovascular illnesses.

Food Color, Taste, Smell, Culinary Plate, Flavor, Locale, and their Impact on Nutrition: Present and Future Multisensory Food Augmentation and Noncommunicable Disease Prevention: An Overview

Cognizant that ‘the world is one family’, this overview describes chemosensory characteristics of food and related issues that may enable global inequalities in healthy food consumption to be improved with a reduction in noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), preventatively. Past and modern aspects of food tradition are briefly described followed by titular chemosensory characteristics and their potential application to improving health in nutrition in the sense intended, including the culinary plate. Human-computer interface and food augmentation reality and commensal dining, in association with chemosensory properties, including sound concerning oral food processing, are described. Future research on arresting trends in the prevalence of NCD is suggested based on the literature. Visual cues for in-store food choice are discussed that potentially allow the consumer, through psychological processes and behavior outcomes, to be more discerning. Advertisements and store architecture per se are not discussed. The relatively high prevalence of anosmia caused by COVID-19 infection relative to non-infected subjects may alter taste and flavor perception and lead to changed dietary habits and metabolism. Most global consumers can practice the ‘how’ and ‘when’ to beneficially eat but food insecurity poses a global problem.

Sharing is Caring: Drug Repurposing among Leading Diseases

The process of drug development is time-consuming and resource-intensive, but drug repurposing offers an alternative by using already approved drugs to treat different diseases. Drug repurposing candidates can be identified through computational and experimental approaches, which are often combined. Traditionally, drug repurposing is considered when developing a custom drug is not feasible, but recent findings regarding the cross-talk between cellular mechanisms and pathways that are altered among disease states suggest that multipurpose drugs may be the key to simultaneously treating multiple diseases. This chapter reviews published reports on drug repurposing for five of the most threatening diseases to human health today: Alzheimer's disease, arthritis, diabetes mellitus, cancer, and COVID-19, highlighting promising candidates, challenges, and potential future directions for research.

Human Diseases and Recent Biotechnology Breakthroughs in Curbing Diseases

Medical biotechnology represents a field in continuous progress and today has revolutionized how illnesses are diagnosed and treated. A look at the latest medical biotechnological breakthroughs shows how biotechnology innovations are changing medicine. Recently, we saw how biotechnology affected efforts to combat the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on the world's health. The scientific community has been working assiduously to develop effective treatments for the prevention and management of other diseases, such as cancer, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, along with other dementia variants that stand out among the leading causes of mortality worldwide. This effort has recently resulted in the development of RNA vaccines. Some of the most promising biotechnological developments include gene therapy to alter an individual's genetic makeup through diverse techniques, immunotherapeutic methods that bolster the body's natural immune defense mechanisms, and precision medicine strategies in which treatment is personalized to a patient's genetic profile. This chapter provides an overview of the most prevalent and deadly human diseases with a focus on recent biotechnological breakthroughs.

Utilizing in silico Methods in New Drug Design

The current chapter offers a highly informative and enlightening overview of the practical implementation of molecular docking in the field of biotechnology, with a specific focus on drug discovery for a variety of ailments. Molecular docking, an incredibly powerful computational methodology, has increasingly been utilized as an essential instrument in the elucidation of drug-receptor interactions, providing invaluable insights into the process of designing drugs. This chapter delves into the fundamentals of molecular docking algorithms, offering a comprehensive understanding of their theoretical underpinnings, methodologies, and typical applications. Furthermore, this chapter elaborates on how this method is used to predict the binding affinity and orientation of potential small-molecule therapeutics to their protein targets, emphasizing the crucial role that molecular docking plays in the quest for new medications to treat various diseases. By presenting case studies across a range of diseases, this chapter effectively demonstrates the remarkable versatility of molecular docking in advancing our knowledge of disease pathogenesis and therapeutic interventions. In addition, specific diseases and their corresponding drugs are carefully examined, along with an in-depth review of molecular docking studies performed on these drugs. This detailed exploration serves as a robust foundation for researchers seeking to understand the utility of molecular docking in the development of more effective, targeted therapeutics. This chapter thus positions molecular docking as an indispensable tool in the field of biotechnology, propelling drug discovery into a new era of precision and efficiency. Overall, this chapter presents a comprehensive and informative overview of the diverse applications of molecular docking in biotechnology, providing an essential resource for researchers in the field.

Role of Gut Microbiota in Neuroinflammation and Neurological Disorders

The prevalence of neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and Multiple sclerosis (MS) are growing in the world, but their pathogenesis is unclear and effective treatment does not exist. Neuroinflammation is associated with many neurodegenerative mechanisms involved in neurodegenerative diseases. The human gut microbiota is an aggregate of microorganisms that live in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) that plays a crucial role in maintaining human health and the pathogenesis disease condition. The microbiota can affect neuronal function through neurotransmitters, vitamins, and neuroactive microbial metabolites like shortchain fatty acids. The change in gut microbiota architecture causes increased permeability of the intestine and immune system activation, contributing to systemic inflammation, neurological injury, and eventually neurodegeneration. Available data suggest that the microbiota send signals to the central nervous system (CNS) by activating afferent neurons of the vagus nerve via neuroendocrine and neuroimmune pathways. The molecular interaction between the gut/microbiome and CNS is complex and bidirectional, ensuring gut homeostasis and proper digestion. Evidence suggests that dysfunction of the gut-brain axis could be a significant factor leading to many disorders of CNS. In this chapter, we explore how the gut microbiome may affect brain function and the development of neurological disorders. In addition, we are also trying to highlight the recent advances in improving neurological disease by supplemental probiotics and faecal microbiota transplantation via the concept of the gut-brain axis to combat brain-related dysfunction.

Recent Drugs Tested in Clinical Trials for Alzheimer´s and Parkinson´s Diseases Treatment: Current Approaches in Tracking New Drugs

Affecting more than 50 million people worldwide and with high global costs annually, neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) are a growing challenge all over the world. Globally, only in 2018, AD costs reached an astonishing $ 1 trillion and, since the annual costs of AD are rapidly increasing, the projections estimate that these numbers will double by 2030. Considering the industrial perspective, the costs related to the development of new drugs are extremely high when compared to the expected financial return. One of the aggravating factors is the exorbitant values for the synthesis of chemical compounds, hindering the process of searching for new drug candidates. In the last 10-year period, an average of 20 to 40 new drugs were approved per year, representing a success rate of less than 6%. However, the number of referrals for new drug orders and/or applications remained at approximately 700 each year, reinforcing the difficulty in the process of identifying and developing novel drugs. Regarding neurodegenerative diseases, the FDA (USA) approved 53 new therapies in 2019, including 48 new molecules and, from these, three are medicines and two are vaccines. The main drugs recommended for the treatment of these disorders are included in the following classes: Dopamine supplement (Levodopa), Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor (Selegiline, Rasagiline), Dopamine agonist (Apomorphine, Pramipexole), and Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (Donepezil, Rivastigmine, Galantamine). Additionally, the current pharmacological treatments are not able to cure these patients and considering the etiological complexity and the prevalence of neurological disorders, scientists have a great challenge in exploring new therapies and new molecules to find an adequate and viable treatment for these diseases. Clinical trials are essential in this process and thus, this chapter describes the most important drugs that were targets of phase III and IV clinical studies in the last five years, associated with the most common neurological disorders worldwide, AD and PD. Information about mechanisms of action, experimental studies in other diseases that support their use, and chemical structure of the drugs are included in this chapter. Additionally, nature as a source of valuable chemical entities for PD and AD therapeutics was also revised, as well as future advances in the field regarding tracking new drugs to get successful results and critical opinions in the research and clinical investigation.

Applying Deep Learning and Computer Vision for Early Diagnosis of Eye Diseases

Medical image processing has a significant role in clinical investigation and recent medical research. An appropriate image-based medical assessment helps to analyze or detect critical diseases early, as it has a high value of medical information. In this study, medical imaging is reviewed for the diagnosis of eye diseases using computational intelligence. However, the identification of these diseases using traditional image processing is quite complicated. Nowadays, various machine learning and deep learning approaches are developed for the detection of different eye diseases which are helpful for the detection of the diseases at an early stage. Research showed that eye disorders are more serious in emerging or underdeveloped nations due to inadequate healthcare facilities and skilled health workers. An estimate of 45 million people around the world are blind and the tragic fact is that only 75% of these cases are curable. Moreover, the doctor-patient ratio around the globe is about 1: 10,000. Therefore, it takes an hour to create a screening system for the identification of these illnesses. Ophthalmology is close to making breakthroughs in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating eye diseases. Additionally, many eye and vision problems show no obvious signs. As a consequence, people are often unaware that problems exist. Early detection of diseases is a primary concern as they could be easily cured before leading to severity. This research paper focuses on detecting eye illnesses, such as Diabetic retinopathy, Diabetic Macular Edema, Glaucoma, Age macular Degeneration, Retinal Vascular Occlusions, and Retinal Detachment. The authors explore various algorithms, imaging modalities, and challenges in this context. The study aims to raise awareness about eye disorders leading to blindness using computer vision, image processing, and deep learning techniques. It also investigates how these machine learning and deep learning approaches can aid in early disease diagnoses for effective treatment before vision loss occurs.

A New Perspective to Evaluate Machine Learning Algorithms for Predicting Employee Performance

Performance prediction is the forecast of future performance conditions based on past and present information. Forecasts can be made about companies, departments, systems, processes, and employees. This study focuses on assessing employee performance in terms of employee behavior, work, and growth potential. Organizations benefit when their employees perform well. Therefore, predicting employee performance plays an important role in a growing organization. To this end, we propose three machine learning algorithms: a support vector machine, a decision tree (j48), and a naive Bayes classifier. These can predict employee behavior in the workplace. Comparing the results, the Naive Bayes algorithm shows better results than the other two algorithms on the basis of metrics such as timeliness, error loss, and accuracy.

Hassawi Rice (Oryza Sativa L.) Nutraceutical Properties, In Vitro Culture and Genomics

An indigenous reddish-brown landrace rice of the indica variety known as Hassawi rice (Oryza Sativa L.) is cultivated in Saudi Arabia. This rice variety has both nutritive and non-nutritive bioactive components that have therapeutic potential and promote favorable metabolic profiles. Hassawi rice has health advantages that should be further investigated, especially for the treatment of diabetes and obesity. There is a direct need for the conservation and improvement of this important germplasm source. Breeding efforts are limited, although a couple of hybrids were developed. Biotechnology approaches offer effective tools for crop genetic improvement. In this direction, in vitro regeneration of this crop has been developed that enabled the evaluation of abiotic stress factors. Furthermore, recent genomic studies revealed that Hassawi rice harbors novel alleles for salinity tolerance. This chapter reviews the research carried out on Hassawi rice in relation to nutritional and health benefits as well as secondary metabolites bioactivity and progress made on in vitro culture and genomics.

The Historical Overview of Stem Cells

Stem cells of hierarchical clustering have emerged as alternative and promising sources for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Owing to the unique self-renewal and multi-lineage differentiation attributes, stem cell-based cytotherapy has evoked great expectations in handling numerous refractory and recurrent diseases. Of note, quality control (QC), good manufacturing practice (GMP), and guidelines for stem cells and the derivations are prerequisites for evaluating the safety and efficacy of stem cell-based remedies. In this book, we principally focus on the definition, classification, signatures and functions, safety and efficacy of stem cells, together with the core concerns upon stem cell-based clinical applications and investigational new drug (IND) and new drug application (NDA). Collectively, this book will effectively benefit the novel stem cell-based tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Promising Pharmaceutical Compounds of Marine Fishes: Their Chemistry and Therapeutic Applications

This chapter deals with the bioactive potential of the different groups of marine fishes viz. cartilaginous, bony, and jawless fish species.

Phytoremediation Potential of Medicinal Plants to Relieve Pollutant Stress

With the rise in rampant anthropogenic activities, the contamination of the environment due to heavy metals is increasing at an alarming rate. This poses a serious threat to both the plant and animal world, including poor human health and disturbed crop physiology and yield. Heavy metal pollution commonly leads to oxidative stress in sensitive plants, thereby altering the entire homeostasis within the plant system. Therefore, plants have evolved certain regulatory circuits for combating the resulting stress ensuing from the excess concentration of heavy metals in the soil. Certain plants have the immense potential to accumulate such heavy metals, followed by their detoxification via a range of mechanisms, inherent to the plant system. This process is commonly referred to as phytoremediation, which is an efficient, cost-effective and sustainable approach for the rejuvenation of contaminated soil. In present times, medicinal plants are not only exploited as a source of different traditionally available medicines, but have also displayed the immense capacity of cleaning up heavy metalcontaminated soil and serve as sinks for the toxic effects of heavy metals to clean up the environment. The present chapter, therefore, focuses on medicinal plants as potential phytoremediation agents.

Hormoneal Therapy

Treatments that involve the use of hormones or their antagonists are commonly referred to as hormone therapy or hormonal therapy. Oncologic hormone therapy, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), androgen replacement therapy (ART), oral contraceptive pills and gender-affirming hormone therapy are the major classes of hormonal therapy in addition to a few others. Some hormonal therapies will be discussed in detail under different chapters including oncologic hormone therapy, glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids and insulin under antineoplastic agents, antiinflammatory steroids and antidiabetic agents, respectively. After studying this chapter, students will be able to:

• Define and classify hormonal therapy and differentiate between hormonal therapy and treatment.

• Explain all types of hormone replacement therapy including menopausal, androgens, and oral contraceptives.

• Discuss the use of androgen replacement therapy (ART) in males with low levels of testosterone due to disease or aging.

• Describe gender-affirming hormone therapy such as feminizing hormone therapy and masculinizing hormone therapy. • Identify appropriate growth hormone therapy for growth hormone deficiency.

• Demonstrate understanding of thyroid hormone replacement in hypothyroidism and antithyroid therapy in hyperthyroidism.

• Demonstrate clear guidance to the use of oral contraceptive pills for various purposes including birth control.

Diabetes and Antidiabetic Drugs

This chapter is a comprehensive account of diabetes and the medicinal chemistry of antidiabetic drugs. It provides the mechanism of disease progression and drug action and detailed structure-activity relationships (SAR) of antidiabetic drugs to give the knowledge base for pharmacists. After studying this chapter, students will be able to:

• Discuss the epidemiology and etiology of diabetes.

• Describe the clinical features of diabetes and differentiate between type I and type II diabetes.

• Discuss various risk factors and corresponding mechanisms responsible for the development of diabetes.

• Review biosynthesis of insulin, its metabolic outcomes, regulation of insulin secretion, and insulin signaling.

• Explain in detail the pathophysiologic mechanisms responsible for the clinical features of diabetes.

• Evaluate the clinical role of natural human insulin and commercially available other insulin products and discuss its mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, adverse effects, motor complications, drug interactions, contraindications, and precautions.

• Discuss the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, adverse effects, motor complications, drug interactions, contraindications, and precautions for each class of antidiabetic drugs listed below.

o Sulfonylureas: tolbutamide (Orinase® ), tolazamide (Tolinase® ), chlorpropamide (Diabinese® ), and acetohexamide (Dymelor® ), glyburide (Diabeta® ), glipizide (Glucotrol® ), and glimepiride (Amaryl® ).

o Meglitinides: repaglinide (Prandin® ), nateglinide (Starlix® ).

o Biguanides: metformin (Glucophage® , Glucophage XR).

o Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) agonists/Thiazolidinediones: pioglitazone (Actos® ), rosiglitazone (Avandia® ).

o Alpha glucosidase inhibitors: acarbose (Precose® ).

o Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists: dulaglutide (Trulicity® ), exenatide (Bydureon® , Byetta® ), liraglutide (Victoza® ), lixisenatide (Adlyxin® ), semalgutide (Ozempic® , Rybelsus® ).

o Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors: alogliptin (Nesina® ), linagliptin (Tradjenta® ), saxagliptin (Onglyza® ), sitagliptin (Januvia® ).

o Amylin agonist: pramlintide (Symlin® ).

o Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors: empagliflozin (Jardiance® ), canagliflozin (Invokana® ), dapagliflozin (Farxiga® ), ertugliflozin (Steglatro® ).

o Miscellaneous agents.

Anticoagulants, Antiplatelets and Thrombolytic Agents

This chapter is a comprehensive account of the medicinal chemistry of anticoagulants, antiplatelets and thrombolytic agents and related drugs. It provides the mechanism of drug action and detailed structure-activity relationship (SAR) of the drugs affecting in these clinical areas to give the knowledge base for pharmacists. After studying this chapter, students will be able to:

• Describe the historical background of the anticoagulants, antiplatelets and thrombolytic agents and and related drugs.

• Describe the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics (PK), and adverse drug reaction (ADR) of the anticoagulants, antiplatelets and thrombolytic agents.

• Explain the physiology and pathophysiology of clotting cascades and identify the components of a blood clot. • Classify major anticoagulant drugs and their structures and binding.

• Discuss in detail the chemistry and SAR of these drugs.

• Distinguish among drugs used as antiplatelets, anticoagulants and fibrinolytic agents.

• Delineate the clinical significance and therapeutic evaluations of these classes of drugs by solving case studies.

• Explain the discovery process of a few specific drugs in these classes.

Atherosclerosis in Animals

This chapter on “Animal Models of Atherosclerosis” begins with the description of Atherosclerosis and the use of animal models. When lipids and fibrous tissue accumulate in the arterial wall, a condition known as atherosclerosis develops, which in turn causes the narrowing of the arteries and an increased likelihood of developing cardiovascular problems. Atherosclerosis animal models have been extensively utilized to investigate the disease's pathophysiology and evaluate potential treatments. This study's goal is to provide a brief overview of the analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of the most popular animal models of atherosclerosis, such as mice, rabbits, pigs, nonhuman primates, and dogs. Studies in animals mimicking atherosclerosis often use either high-fat diets or genetic manipulation to learn about the disease. A few of the characteristics of human disease, like lipid accumulation, vascular inflammation, and arterial remodeling, have been successfully reproduced in these models. However, the findings of animal research must be interpreted with caution due to species variations in atherosclerosis onset and progression. In sum, atherosclerosis animal models remain a vital resource for expanding our knowledge of the disease and discovering novel treatment approaches.

Autoimmune Diseases in Animals

Autoimmune diseases, known as immune-mediated diseases, occur when the immune system targets and attacks its own cells. In the field of medicine, there is a wide range of autoimmune conditions, including insulin-dependent Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus T1DM, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus T2DM, Rheumatoid Arthritis RA, and Thyroiditis. These diseases can either be primary, with no clearly defined cause, or secondary, triggered by factors such as medications, infections, or malignancies. Animal models have proven invaluable for gaining insights into the underlying pathologies, causes, and specific signaling pathways associated with human autoimmune diseases. This is because these animal models share physiological similarities with humans and have shorter lifespans, allowing researchers to observe the entire disease progression. To replicate the complexity of autoimmune diseases in experimental models, researchers utilize various animal species, including monkeys, rabbits, rats, and mice. These methods can be broadly categorized into three strategies: immunization with autoantigens, transfer of autoimmunity, and induction through environmental factors. Numerous studies have been conducted using animal models to investigate the immunological pathophysiology of RA and assess the effectiveness of anti-rheumatic medications. There are several mouse models designed to mimic RAlike disease, each focusing on specific aspects of the condition. While animal models come with limitations, such as incomplete disease manifestations and limited genetic similarity to humans due to human genetic diversity, they remain an essential tool for understanding the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Among the various animal models used in research, mice and other rodents like rats and hamsters account for over 90% of the total number of animals employed in these studies.

Decellularised Natural Cancellous Trabecular Bone Scaffold in Tissue Engineering

Delayed fracture healing and non-union fractures are major orthopaedic issues that have become a significant healthcare burden. Among many approaches, bone grafts facilitate the healing of non-union fractures. Native cancellous bones represent a more viable and advantageous source of bone grafts due to structural and biochemical similarity with natural bone. They also provide a large surface-to-volume ratio to host cells and for the formation of the vasculature. Given these advantages, we aimed to review some of the recent innovations in native cancellous bone graft production, such as bone selection, decellularisation, demineralisation, and in vitro and in vivo testing. Some endogenous and processing factors affecting performance are also highlighted. In addition, innovations such as the coadministration of interleukin-4, and impregnation of the scaffold with platelet-rich plasma are introduced to increase scaffold performance. A brief overview of skeletal properties and metabolism, fracture healing, and essential features of bone grafts is provided to appreciate these innovations.

Medical Biotechnology

Medical biotechnology incorporates many of the topics that have already been discussed in this book. Right from developing new drugs to prospects of stem cell use and cloning, the possibilities are enormous.

Newer Technologies in Molecular Biology

Technical advances began with the advent of array comparative genomic hybridization and single nucleotide polymorphism arrays and are enabling researchers to identify disease-associated genetic variants by virtually scanning the entire genome. With the help of these technologies, it is now possible to screen for common genetic variants and even rare small deletions and duplications i.e., microdeletions and microduplications. This has led to a virtual explosion of gene identifications. This chapter aims to provide an overview of new technologies.

Biosynthesis and Function of Glycoconjugates

Investigations to ascertain the physiological roles of carbohydrates in biological systems are being given more importance each day. Basically, carbohydrates are biomolecules with a wide range of biological functions, although they represent the primary energy source for metabolic processes. Carbohydrates are found as structural components in connective tissue in animal organisms. They also act as structural elements in both plant and bacterial cell walls. In the cell, they bind to lipids and proteins to form glycoconjugates called glycolipids, glycopeptides, glycoproteins and peptidoglycans. By binding to lipids and proteins on the cell surface, they perform as molecules that support intercellular adhesion and intercellular communication. Glycobiology is the science that investigates the structure, biosynthesis, and impacts of glycans on biological functions. In biology, glycoconjugates serve a variety of key roles. In mammalian cells, the majority of proteins are glycosylated, and this explains how proteins perform their various functions. In the future, these techniques will be crucial for the identification and treatment of specific diseases. The most major area of progress in glycobiology is the development of carbohydrate-based medicines.
Some diseases, including cancer, can be diagnosed via altered cell surface glycosylation pathways as a biomarker. Therefore, regulating glycosylation mechanisms and understanding the phenotypic characteristics of glycoconjugates are crucial steps in the design of novel strategies.
This chapter discusses the biosynthesis of glycoconjugates, their wide range of biological functions, and their significance for therapy

Macular Perfusional Findings in Venous Obstructive Disease and Its Treatment: An OCT-A Evaluation

The human retina is supplied by an extensive network of capillaries, where healthy blood flow to various parts of the retina, particularly the macula, is vital for visual functions. Any obstruction in blood flow, known as retinal vein occlusion (RVO), can reduce venous blood return. RVO can occur either at a central location (called central retinal vein occlusion [CRVO]) or a peripheral location (branch vein occlusion [BRVO]). Various techniques have been used to investigate blood flow to the retina and analyze different factors that may impact retinal blood flow. Optical coherence tomographic angiography (OCT-A) has emerged as one of the best methods, with several studies demonstrating its use to investigate changes in blood perfusion status, hemorrhage from blood vessels, and the presence of edema. Some studies have demonstrated that OCT-A is superior to other techniques.
Macular edema secondary to RVO is the most common complication that may affect visual acuity and lead to vision loss if left untreated. Several qualitative and quantitative changes caused by RVO can be detected using OCT-A, including vascular blood perfusion and vascular density. Several treatment options have been used to treat macular edema secondary to RVO and other complications. Laser photocoagulation therapy has been used extensively in the past with mixed outcomes. Glucocorticoids, especially dexamethasone (Ozurdex®), have also been used to treat macular edema secondary to RVO. Currently, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents are the gold standard for treating RVO. Ranibizumab and aflibercept are approved for the treatment of macular edema secondary to RVO, with faricimab expected to soon be approved.

References

Applications of AI-enabled Robotics in Healthcare

Robotics began roughly 30 years ago in medical applications, but it is still relatively young for biological applications. Because of the precision, accuracy and reproducibility of robotic technology, robotic interventions in medical fields, such as robotic surgery, can enable doctors to work inside the human body, which is either non-invasive or minimally invasive, with improved surgical results. The importance of medical robots in the medical sector is intended to deliver good outcomes to assist people in doing complex tasks that need a significant amount of time, accuracy, concentration, and other routines that cannot be accomplished solely through human capability. Due to advancements in AI and IoT and their convergence to AIoT, the potential of medical robots has tremendously increased in the healthcare industry. The chapter outlines the various applications of robotics in the healthcare sector, including surgical, rehabilitation, telemedicine, and diagnostic. The advantages of robotics in Healthcare are highlighted, along with the discussion on the current and future challenges in their deployment and adoption. The role of AIoT in enhancing these healthcare robots' cognitive and other capabilities is also discussed. Finally, the future of robotics in Healthcare is explored, including emerging trends and technologies, their impact on the healthcare industry, and the potential for innovation and growth.

Early prediction in AI-enabled IoT environment

IoT is intelligent sensors and actuators which assemble to form an IoT device. The algorithms employed make the system make up a wise decision. These systems can use artificial Intelligence algorithms to make intelligent decisions. The previous work employs devices that compute normal from abnormal heart rates. These devices are intelligent machines that are carried with the individual. They are also used to calculate the ECG of the personnel. This information understands the behavior of the personnel. The knowledge is sensed and passed to the devices using the Bluetooth technique. This data segment into healthy or unwell being sections. The processing amalgamates transformation, conversion w.r.t format, and section labeling. The iforest approach excludes the outliers from the data set. The suggestion improves the previous work by predicting the abnormality before in hand by 17.5%. Many lives can be saved, and will help improve their lives by adopting this method.

Evaluation of Macular Perfusion in Successfully Reattached Macula-off Diabetic Tractional Retinal Detachment

Current imaging techniques based on optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiography are useful for observing different retinal microcirculation patterns. The primary purpose of this chapter was to describe the functional, structural, and serial perfusion postoperative outcomes of successfully reattached macula-off tractional retinal detachment (TRD). Patients who underwent a successful diabetic vitrectomy were analyzed. The mean differences between the preoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), 3-month BCVA, and final postoperative BCVA were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The duration of vision loss before surgery was 11.6 ± 2.3 weeks (mean ± standard deviation (SD)).

The mean duration (± SD) of the resolution of macular detachment was 3.6 ± 1.7 weeks in the pure macular TRD group and 1.8 ± 0.8 weeks in the combined tractional and rhegmatogenous macular detachment (p < 0.05) group. The mean follow-up duration of all patients was 11.4 ± 5.7 months (mean ± SD). Longitudinal multimodal imaging tests revealed abnormal superficial and deep microcirculation patterns with multiple microabnormalities in the foveal avascular zone and different but distinct areas of the non-perfused macula in different OCT angiography slabs. Additionally, disorganization of the retinal inner layers and chronic ischemic macular edema were observed in 82% of eyes examined using the spectral domain (SD) OCT. Therefore, these data suggest that despite the successful anatomical reattachment of the macula, long-term postoperative microcirculatory abnormalities were detected in both groups; however, these abnormalities were predominantly accompanied by severe persistent ischemia in the recurrent TRD group due to the presence of multiple microcirculatory defects.

Macular Perfusion in Clinically Significant Diabetic Macular Edema and in Different Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic macular edema uses structural features as biomarkers and predictors of treatment response. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) metrics found a correlation between many structural biomarkers and reduced vessel density. We present recent references of vessel length density, vessel area density, and foveal avascular zone metrics in eyes with diabetic macular edema and comment on the associations found between them and structural biomarkers. Diabetic macular edema can change the level at which the capillary plexuses are located, with retinal cysts altering the strength signal. Though image evaluation requires adjustment, intra-subject comparison before and after treatment can be a useful tool to note changes in vessel perfusion, combined with structural changes, to assess treatment outcomes. Macular ischemia is a variable that can be identified reliably with OCTA and can be detected in different capillary plexuses. For eyes with retinal thickening, OCTA evaluation requires consistency to avoid inter-device variability. It is recommended to use the same device, the same scanning protocol, and preferably the same software, to obtain more reproducible measurements.

Nano Elicitors and Bioactive Plant Metabolites

Nature has given plants the ability to produce a wide variety of secondary

metabolites including alkaloids, phenolics, terpenoids and saponins. These metabolites

provide them a defense mechanism against biological and non-biological stress factors.

On the other hand, the same metabolites have proved to be effective against different

dreadful human diseases. The efficacy of such metabolites ranges from antimicrobial to

anticancerous effects. Bioactivity-guided characterization is one of the useful strategies

that have been employed to identify, purify and characterize active components. These

bioactive components have proved useful in future drug discovery. Elicitors are defined

as signaling metabolites with the ability to induce biochemical and physiological

processes in plants resulting in the activation of plants defense mechanisms. Elicitation

is a useful tool as it leads to the generation of stress conditions and hence the

accumulation of bioactive secondary metabolites in plants. Various strategies have

been adopted to enhance the production of bioactive secondary metabolites including

plant cell and tissue culture and use of signaling metabolites. Nowadays, nano-elicitors

have emerged as an effective tool to enhance the production of pharmacologically

important compounds. Various classes of nanoparticles (NPs) have been reported to be

utilized as nano-elicitors like metallic NPs, metallic oxide NPs and carbon nanotubes

with positive effects on phytochemical profile. The possible mechanism of

nanomaterials as elicitors is the interaction with plant genomes by increasing the

expression level of genes involved in the biosynthesis of active metabolites. Despite

triggering biosynthetic potential of plants, certain negative effects have been observed

in plants’ primary metabolism like lower chlorophyll content, a decrease in cell

viability, a decline in sugar content and suppressed seed germination. Thus, there is a

need to develop biocompatible nanoparticles for use as nanoelicitors in plants to avoid

the negative impacts of the used entities.

Genome Editing in Medicinal Plants for Abiotic Stress Tolerance

In the changing climate scenarios, living organisms have been facing several

biotic and abiotic stresses. Abiotic stresses are the major factors posing huge threats to

plants. Drought, heat, and salinity are bigger problems emerging in the world due to

climate change. For adapting various climatic conditions, plants trigger several

biochemical and molecular mechanisms. At the biochemical level, secondary

metabolites play an important role in the survival of plants in uneven situations.

Modulation of expression of genes and stress response elements is observed under

stress. To cope with abiotic stresses in medicinal plants, the understanding of the

biochemical and molecular mechanisms is very important. The use of modern

biotechnological approaches along with conventional breeding may be helpful in

developing tolerance against abiotic stresses in medicinal plants. This chapter

highlights various abiotic stresses, their mechanisms and strategies to develop tolerance

against these stresses.

Nanoscience for Nucleotide Delivery in Diabetes

The convergence of nanoscience and nucleotide delivery holds tremendous promise in revolutionizing diabetes treatment. Nucleotide delivery emerged as a promising tool to modulate gene expression and cellular function in diabetes. Integration of nanoscience and nucleotide delivery in diabetes treatment opens avenues for efficient therapies. This approach has the potential to significantly improve glucose regulation and mitigate long-term complications associated with the disease. This chapter discussed DNA and RNA delivery approaches in diabetes treatment and the future and challenges of nucleotide delivery in diabetes.

Nanoscience for Drug Delivery in Diabetes

Current conventional diabetes mellitus (DM) therapies are inadequate and have poor patient compliance. Subsequently, it is necessary to explore nanomedicine in managing diabetes. In recent years, several nanocarrier systems have been proven effective in various aspects of diabetes treatment, increasing drug stability, overcoming different biological barriers, and in enhancing bioavailability. Nanomedicine can potentially improve the therapeutic effect of drug substances to gain the patient’s belief and impart a greater level of acceptability. In the present scientific spectrum, nanomedicines promise to provide sustained and targeted delivery with potential physical stability for a prolonged period, rendering a safe and effective therapy for diabetes. This chapter comprehensively elaborates on trends in the drug delivery system in treating diabetes for improved delivery of different classes of antidiabetic agents compared to contemporary therapies.

Treatment Approaches and Challenges

Diabetes drugs are given in monotherapy or in combination. The significant challenges in effective diabetes management are optimizing current treatments to ensure optimal and stable glucose control with minimal side effects and reducing long-term complications of diabetes. This chapter reviews these conventional drugs with their mechanism of action, side effects, and efficacy and safety profile.

The Story of Diabetes and its Causes

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a complex metabolic disorder whose rising prevalence is terrible. A deeper knowledge of the pathophysiology of diabetes could assist in discovering possible therapeutic targets for treating diabetes and its associated problems. The common feature of diabetes, regardless of the specific pathology involved, is hyperglycemia brought on by the death or dysfunction of β-cell. As insulin deficiency gets worse over time, dysglycemia progresses in a continuum. This chapter has provided a brief review of the pathophysiology of diabetes. Also, the roles of genetics and environmental factors have been emphasized.

Anticancer Activity of Medicinal Plants Extract and Molecular Docking Studies

Molecular docking involves the interaction of a molecule with another place, usually in the protein structure, and simulating the placement of the molecule in the protein structure with certain score algorithms, taking into account many quantities, such as the electro-negativity of atoms, their positions to each other, and the conformation of the molecule to be inserted into the protein structure. Finally, the activity of the molecule with the highest percentage by mass against various cancer proteins was investigated according to the GC-MS results made on some medicinal and aromatic plants in order to set an example of molecular docking calculations.

Applications of Nanotechnology in Dentistry and Cosmetic Industry

The application of nanoparticles and nanoelectronic devices is a vast area of research in the medical field. This is with respect to the efficiency of nanoparticles to competently aim and pervade specific tissues within the body. Whereas nano electronic devices can perform real-time analysis of several parameters related to the disease condition. Medical devices and drug therapies at the nano level, eventually ensure a much higher level of precision in medicine. Therefore, the healthcare industry is leveraging this technology for diagnostics and nanomedicine. Various nanoscale devices are available that can monitor the disease condition of the body either in vivo or in vitro. Nanotechnology in dentistry has revolutionized the advancement of restorative materials. This chapter deliberates nanointerfaces that compromise the durability of dental restorations, and how nanotechnology has been utilized to adapt them for delivering long-term effective restorations. Recently, cosmetics have been immensely used with the development of innovative cosmetic formulations through the incorporation of the latest technologies. Nano cosmeceuticals is the name given to these products, which incorporate biologically active ingredients having therapeutic benefits on the surface applied. Using nanomaterials in devices makes it possible to enhance the mechanical strength and efficiency of the systems. They have high entrapment efficiency and good sensorial properties and are more stable than conventional cosmetics. Most of the nanoparticles are suitable for both lipophilic and hydrophilic drug delivery. Nanomaterials are widely used in the preparation of anti-wrinkle creams, moisturizing creams, skin-whitening creams, hair-repairing shampoos, conditioners, and hair serums. Promising results have been achieved with nanotechnology cancer theranostics and targeted drug delivery. Apart from high sensitivity, specificity, and multiplexed measurement capacity, nanodevices have been effective in the detection of extracellular cancer biomarkers and cancer cells, as well as in in vivo imaging. The chapter highlights the applications, and research status of nanodentistry and provides an intuition about future, ethical and safety concerns of nanotechnology. Nanodentistry is an offshoot of nanomedicine. Its emergence will aid in the maintenance of perfect oral health care using nanomaterials, biotechnology, and nanorobotics. This review abridges the latest developments in nanoelectronic devices for dentistry & cosmetics. In addition, the challenges in the translation of nanotechnology-based diagnostic methods into clinical applications have also been discussed.

The Place of Mature Drugs in COVID-19 Era

COVID-19 infection, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. COVID-19 infection has three distinct phases: 1, early infection phase; 2, pulmonary phase; and 3, the hyperinflammatory phase. Despite a major focus on vaccines and new therapeutics, existing drugs sharing some known mechanistic with this virus, have also gained interest. The potential positioning of three mature innovative drugs, which could be of potential use in this pandemic environment, is discussed in this chapter: OM-85 and calcium dobesilate, and their salt form etamsylate, have revealed anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. OM-85, a bacterial extract originating from 21 pathogenic strains isolated from human lungs and indicated for the prevention of recurrent respiratory tract infections, stimulates both innate and adaptive immunity, resulting in non-specific loco-regional immune responses. It has shown anti-viral activity in a number of virus infection models, including influenza H1N1, rhinovirus, and more recently, coronaviruses. It has also shown some immunoregulatory properties. Accordingly, there is a rationale for further investigations on OM-85 to be used as prophylaxis for other respiratory infections and potentially in long-COVID. For calcium dobesilate, currently indicated for the treatment of microvascular diseases while preserving microvascular integrity via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, there are cumulating data that could promote its potential use for the treatment during phase 2 to protect the vascular endothelium. Calcium dobesilate has anti-viral properties and was recently shown to interfere with the SARS-CoV-2 spike-protein binding to the ACE2 receptor. Accordingly, one could also postulate to use it during phase 1. Etamsylate, an antihaemorrhagic and antiangiogenic agent that improves platelet adhesiveness and restores capillary resistance, is indicated for the prevention and treatment of capillary haemorrhages. Considering its mechanism of action, etamsylate could be envisage for use as potential treatment during phase 3 for viral-induced complications. Importantly, none of these afore mentioned drugs are currently approved for the prevention or treatment of SARS-CoV-2 viral infection. Further, the conduction of well-designed clinical trials is warranted.

List of Contributors

Radiation from Mobile Phones and Cell Towers, Risks, and Protection

Modern life is strongly associated with new technologies such as telecommunication and wireless devices. These new technologies strongly affect the way people communicate, learn, train, think and solve their problems. Today, modern cell phones not only send and receive phone calls, but they also allow people to send and receive short messages, and e-mails, share photos and videos, write, edit and share documents, play games, listen to music, watch movies, surf the Internet, find an address using GPS (Global Positioning Systems) and use a wide range of applications. Given this consideration, excessive use of smartphones is associated with growing global concerns over the health effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) generated by these devices. As discussed by WHO, considering the very large number of people who use mobile phones, even a small increase in the risk of adverse health effects, either cancer or other health effects, could have key public health implications. WHO believes that research about these health effects is mostly focused on potential adverse effects of mobile phones, not their base stations, because the RF-EMF levels of mobile phones are 3 orders of magnitude higher than those of base stations. Therefore, in this chapter, due to the greater likelihood of adverse health effects of handsets, we mainly focused on reviewing the current scientific evidence on health risks associated with mobile phones. However, the health effects of RF-EMF exposure on people living in the proximity of mobile base stations are also reviewed.

Ultraviolet Radiation: Benefits, Harms, and Protection

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is used in several devices for various applications. These applications include medical, research and industrial uses. Some of these applications are fundamental tools for our modern era. These applications range from visualization of DNA to eradication of dangerous diseases and microorganisms in the air and water. While UV radiation is not energetic enough to be considered ionizing radiation and is treated as less hazardous, it is the form of non-ionizing radiation that is closest to the ionization region. UV radiation does have the ability to break chemical bonds and can pose significant hazards to humans. These hazards may include discomfort, temporary loss of sight or impairment, permanent loss of sight, or cancer. To mitigate the hazards from UV exposures, the hazards must be assessed, and administrative controls and engineering controls should be utilized. Federal regulations and guidance regarding UV hazard assessment and mitigation for the end-users of UV devices are not currently robust, but the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) has provided some useful information for assessment.

Security Threats and Detection Mechanisms in Machine Learning

Machine Learning refers to computer programming or data science that can learn from data. For example, the performance of T is increased with experience E if a computer program is learned from E in some tasks T, and performance is measured as P. The learning of computers is allowed without explicit programming in Machine Learning, which is a field of research. Machine learning can be used in various applications, such as banking, travel and tourism, healthcare, marketing, insurance, and human resources. Machine learning is a powerful tool for implementing security applications.

Real World Applications of Machine Learning in Health Care

Machine learning (ML), a subset of artificial intelligence, is used to construct algorithms for monitoring, diagnosing, forecasting, and predicting clinical results. Health is a major concern for human beings. The current success in ML is due to deep learning (DL), using huge artificial neural networks. In the past, machine learning has demonstrated its usefulness and skills in detecting cancer. It is one of the most feasible solutions for top healthcare pioneers to detect anomalies. When healthcare companies succeed in using predictive models, they face challenges in demonstrating their value and gaining trust across the company. Recently, established standards for reporting machine learning-based clinical research will aid in connecting the clinical and computer science communities and realizing the full potential of machine learning techniques. The researchers have many objectives in the design of machine Learning Algorithms for different applications. Many papers discussed how machine learning algorithms are involved in health monitoring which will be updated so that patients, doctors, or any individuals can view the information. The main goal of this paper is to discuss basic types of Machine Learning and the challenges faced by Artificial intelligence (AI) in health care. The possible risks in clinical research give practical information on how to accurately and effectively analyze performance and avoid frequent pitfalls, particularly when dealing with applications for health and wellness contexts.

Narrative Review of Mobile Technology: Evidence from Older Adults

In the 21st century, many developed countries have become aging societies. Although network speed, the improvement of smartphones, and 5G foster the growth of mobile technology, the employment of mobile technology exhibited a significant gap in the design and application of mobile technology that can be applied for older adults. This study analyses the design and implementation of mobile technologies to investigate novel mobile applications that support older adults in aged homes, by conducting a comprehensive discussion. As such, this study selects an expert narrative overview of a literature search from Google Scholar and archives. Analysis results reveal that designing new mobile apps, strengthening the interaction through VR technologies, and developing smartwatches for nursing homes. We need to consult older adults to ascertain if they are willing to use the technology. Mobile technology provides better support for older adults and monitors their health condition.

Vitamin D and Immune System: Implications in Bone Health

Recent studies have identified the involvement of the immune system in several bone complications like osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), periodontitis, osteoarthritis, etc. Immune cells have an indispensable role in the regulation of bone metabolism and explicitly influence the differentiation of bone cells by producing various cytokines. Fortunately, recent research has examined different immune-based therapeutics for the prevention of bone diseases in addition to revealing more information about the interaction of the bone and the immune system. Vitamin D maintains bone health by effectively absorbing calcium and thereby promoting bone mineralization. In addition, vitamin D has great immunomodulatory potential and can influence the effect of immune cells and cytokines on the pathogenesis of bone deformities. Therefore, it is plausible to suggest that the detrimental effect of vitamin D deficiency on bone is also linked to the immune system apart from its classic effect on bone mineralization. However, very few studies have enlightened on this aspect of vitamin D-mediated regulation of bone homeostasis which needs to be further unraveled. In the present chapter, we have compiled recent studies highlighting the effect of vitamin D on bone health via its effect on the host immune system. Further, we have also highlighted the role of the immune system in the maintenance of skeletal health and then have discussed the effect of vitamin D on various immune cells. In addition, we have reviewed vitamin D-facilitated immune-based approaches for the effective management of various bone pathologies such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. This information will supposedly help in revealing further mechanistic insights into the immunological regulation of bone health by vitamin D.

Role of Cytokines and Chemokines in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, inflammatory, and destructive polyarthritis with numerous autoimmune features and the potential for extra-articular and systemic complications. Much progress has occurred in defining important mechanistic components of RA, leading to significant advances in its treatment. RA is a multifactorial and multistage disease, beginning with preclinical autoimmunity that arises in a genetically predisposed individual who encounters one or more environmental triggers, progressing to the clinical appearance of inflammation in joints and sometimes in other organs, and leading to destruction of the articular cartilage and adjacent bone. Regulatory role in inflammation, autoimmunity and articular destruction in the joints of rheumatoid arthritis patients is played primarily by chemokines and cytokines. Amongst many top players of inflammation in RA, tumour-necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is counted as the chief culprit. It is produced by synovial macrophages, B lymphocytes, and NK-cells. Furthermore, TNF-α has exhibited to be of particular utility as a therapeutic target. IL-17A is synthesized by T helper 17 (Th17), which initiates the generation of inflammation causing cytokines like interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-8 and GM-CSF by cells of endothelium, epithelium and fibroblasts and localization of neutrophils. Progression of inflammation in the synovial fluid is augmented by chemokines in the joints of rheumatoid patients. Elevated levels of CC chemokines (CCL2, CCL3, CCL4 and CCL5) and CXC chemokines (CXCL5, CXCL8, CXCL9 and CXCL10) have been reported in such patients. Moreover, these chemokines may control cell trafficking directly by interacting with their cognate receptors present on inflammatory cells and also by modulating angiogenesis. Several proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines participate in many biological pathways finally setting the loop of inflammation and exacerbation of the outcome and these serve as biomarkers for a number of autoimmune and inflammatory disorders.

Osteoporosis and Chronic Liver Disease

The liver is composed of hepatocytes, biliary epithelial cells, Kupffer cells, stellate cells, and hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells. It also plays an important role in the digestive system and immune system at the same time. The different types of hepatitis, including viral liver diseases, autoimmune liver diseases, and metabolic liver diseases, are all closely related to osteoporosis. People with liver disease have a significantly higher risk of developing osteoporosis than people without hepatitis. Fibrosis is part of the wound-healing response that maintains organs after tissue injury, but excessive fibrosis may also contribute to a variety of human diseases. Hepatic stellate cells are the key to liver fibrosis. The apoptotic hepatocytes stimulate fibrosis in hepatic myofibroblasts, and activated hepatic stellate cells are the main source of myofibroblasts in the liver. Activated hepatic stellate cells possess many voltage-operated calcium channels. Changes in the concentration of calcium ions mediate hepatic stellate cell activation and fibrosis regression. The skeleton is one of the main regulatory mechanisms of calcium ions in the body. Therefore, chronic hepatitis leads to a disturbance of calcium homeostasis in vivo, which may be one of the factors causing bone loss.

Case Study: Impact of Industry 4.0 and Its Impact on Fighting COVID–19

The emerging development in industrial technology for automation and data sharing is known as Industry 4.0. It incorporates the Internet of Things, Cyber-physical systems, and Cloud computing, all of which contribute to the development of a “smart factory”. Customers, distributors, vendors, and stakeholders in the supply chain would be capable of connecting and can exchange data easily through Industry 4.0. The COVID-19 pandemic is quickly spreading and posing a threat to people all over the world. Employment and activities in all markets have been disrupted, putting economies all over the world in serious jeopardy. To combat the pandemic, retailers will benefit from Industry 4.0 because it will help to mitigate the impact of identified risks. I4.0 executives were focused on gaining a competitive edge, rising efficiency, lowering prices, and, ensuring profitability as their primary aim was to enhance the productivity of business during the time before the COVID-19 crisis. Our Government has imposed new behavioral trends including social distancing, isolation and, lockdown. The Government needs additional financial resources to combat pandemics as a result of these actions, there has been a global economic slowdown. This chapter enlightens the significance and technologies of Industry 4.0, showing how those technologies and applications help in attaining a better society. It also explains how Industry 4.0 helps in accomplishing sustainable manufacturing and the management tactics it used to boost the company's efficiency, as well as the effects of COVID-19.

Boosting Host Immunity to Combat Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19)

Despite significant efforts in drug discovery and development, combating Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) still remains to be an increasingly challenging health problem because of the fact that the recommended current therapies are intended only for the symptomatic treatment and/or prophylaxis of SARS-CoV-2 infections/ COVID19 patients, but do not cure the disease. In this context, several complementary and alternative, but potential healthcare practices (CAMs) that could effectively boost host immunity are firmly believed to be one of the major medical interventions for the prevention as well as control of COVID-19. In this review, several immunity-boosting measures based upon traditional healthcare practices including traditional herbal remedies, home remedies, and alternative and complementary therapies including yoga and naturopathies to fight against SARS-CoV-2 infections/ COVID-19 have been reviewed

Plant Sources of Pro and Anti-Inflammatory Mediators against COVID-19

The first and the most vital biotic response of the immune system against stress, oxidation, infection, injury and irritation is inflammation. Reports revealed that the anti-inflammatory effect is mediated by various inflammatory cytokines and non-cytokine mediators i.e. tumor necrosis factor alpha-a, nitric oxide, interleukins, interferon gamma-g, and prostaglandin E2 respectively. Herbal medicine is playing an important role in the treatment of COVID-19. Plant-based foods are rich source of bioactive compounds (phytochemicals) and have a potential anti-inflammatory effect. The purpose of this chapter is to sum up the recent findings of work already done both in vitro and in vivo on the anti-inflammatory effects of plant-based foods. As a source of natural modulators of gene expressions, phytochemicals from plants could be used along with other pharmaceutical formulations as anti-inflammatory drugs. Therefore, the regulation of inflammation by modulating the pro-inflammation and anti-inflammation cytokine expression through different plant-based food also boosts immunity.

Immune Foods for Fighting Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19)

Nutritional measures and food components such as micronutrients, macronutrients, and food bioactive compounds, boost the immune system to effectively fight COVID-19. Nutrient deficiencies reduce immune functions against COVID-19, while supplementation of specific nutrients improves the immune system against viral disease. Several macronutrients and micronutrients, including bioactive compounds, prebiotics, and probiotics, have been linked to COVID-19 treatment and prevention. Vitamins D, C, A, E, and B vitamins have been linked with improvement and recovery from COVID-19. Several minerals such as zinc, selenium, iron, copper, magnesium, etc. have activities against SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19. Many studies have shown that bioactive compounds such as resveratrol, astaxanthin, quercetin, docosahexaenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, theaflavin, etc., have promising actions against SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19. Foods and food components should be properly utilized to fight COVID-19 and are valuable in drug discovery against COVID-19.

The Traditional Immune Boosting Recipes

The immune system is amazingly complicated and vital for our survival. Several different systems and cell types of our body work effortlessly in ideal synchrony throughout the body to fight off pathogens and clear up dead cells. Our immune systems perform an implausible job by putting up a wall that can safeguard the disease-causing microorganisms. Our immune system requires equilibrium to function smoothly, so a person must eat and drink healthy balanced foods for getting energy and nutrients. The immunity related diseases may occur due to several factors such as seasonal change, environment factors, virus attacks, and simple stress. To combat these, we need to consume immunity-boosting foods and nutrients rich in antioxidants like Alium sativum, Alium cepa, Citrus limon, Withania somnifera,Moringa oleifera, Curcuma longa, etc., which can build up the immunity. The traditional system of medicine like Ayurveda and Siddha system of medicine quoted several traditional immune-boosting recipes like Maha- sudharshnachoornam, Talisadichoornam, Dhanavantam, Gulika-churnam, sitophaladichoornam, etc. Several times it is proven that lifestyle and dietary changes can result in a better immune system. A healthy lifestyle includes consuming foods which help in boosting immunity. In addition to keeping a balanced diet in our daily life, there is a necessity for traditional immunityboosting agents simultaneously. Traditional immunity-boosting agents are usually rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and other minerals and the requisite nutrients for maintaining equilibrium in the immune system. In this chapter, detailed information about Traditional immunity-boosting agents will be discussed.

Application of d- and f- Block Elements and Their Compounds in Medicine

Application of Main Group Elements and Their Compounds in Medicine

Biological Functions of d- and f- Block Elements

Biological Functions of Elements of Main Groups

Fast Foods: Chemical Composition and Implications for Health

With changing the scenarios of living style, professional work culture, and daily hectic routine, liberal and global thoughts are impacting our dietary patterns and normal food consumption. So the preference for foods is changing, and foods that can be ready in a shorter time, like “fast foods”, are gaining popularity among the masses, especially young generations. The fast food business has become one of the fastest-growing industries across the globe. This growing trend of fast food consumption has also brought several health-associated issues, like obesity and heart-related problems. Therefore, health-conscious people do like to know the chemical ingredients embedded in fast foods as well as their packaging and storage. For this purpose, the chemistry relating to quality aspects of fast foods, including nutritional, physiological, sensory, flavor, microbiological and packaging, is very important for healthy consumption of fast food for a healthy life. In this book chapter, we have made efforts to bring updated information related to fast food, its chemical composition and implications for human health.

Medicinal Plants: A Future of Modern Medical System

Humans, since their evolution, have always been in close contact with mother nature. Early life has been dependent solely on environmental resources for their livelihood. The trial-and-error approach in utilizing different resources came up with incorporating plants as a whole or their parts for food and survival. Gradually, the knowledge of medicinal plants was gained by our ancestors, and there started the Indian medical history of Ayurveda. In the current scenario, a huge number of medicinal herbs are being consumed in day-to-day life, which imparts tremendous benefits to human health. Our interest in gaining knowledge of medicinal components present in these herbs has led to many important discoveries in the area of drug development. Nowadays, numerous plants derived compounds are being used in modern medicines. In view of utilizing these natural resources efficiently, we need to understand their components in a better way. This chapter is towards gaining a deeper knowledge about medicinal plants, their role in different diseases, and insights into drug discovery.

Skin Ulcers as a Painful Disorder with Limited Therapeutic Protocols

A skin ulcer is a type of open wound on the skin caused by injury, poor circulation, pressure, or infection. Specific forms of wounds are described using distinct terms, such as surgical incision, burn, and laceration. Skin ulcers can be extremely painful and take a long time to heal. They can become infected and cause other medical complications if left untreated. Treatment for skin ulcers is determined on the basis of the ulcer condition as well as the underlying cause. However, there is still a shortage of effective and safe medications for skin ulcer since current treatment guidelines for wound management consists only of wound dressing, antibiotics, and pain control. Wound healing and anti-inflammatory agents used for treating skin ulcers are quite limited. Recent revelations about natural compounds and their multifunctional pharmacological attributes, especially those with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant and wound-healing activities, have been very encouraging for therapeutic skin ulcer development. Various phytochemicals, such as curcuminoids, flavonoids, xanthones, polyphenolic compounds, saponins, and terpenoids, were reportedly used as alternative agents for the treatment of skin ulcers. This chapter describes skin ulcers, their pathophysiology, as well as current therapeutic protocols. In addition, some selected phytochemicals and herbal extracts with strong prospects as well as their commercially available products for the treatment of skin ulcers, are highlighted.

Eczema, Etiology and Treatment

Eczema is not a condition but a group of skin diseases that causes skin inflammation and irritation. It exists in several different forms, and each form has its signs and symptoms. Eczema is also referred to as Atopic dermatitis (AD), which is its most prevalent and popular form, with a high global burden in morbidity and healthcare costs. It is a chronic recurrent skin inflammatory disorder that is characterized by itching, redness, burning sensation of dark or light patches, papular bumps and weeping or crusting eruptions of the skin. Pathophysiology of AD is complex and multifactorial, involving genetic predisposition, skin barrier defects, immunological dysfunction and regulation, microbial colonisation, neuroinflammation, altered lipid composition, food allergies and other environmental risk factors. Currently, available treatment regimens, which include corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, antibiotics, immunomodulatory agents, UV therapy, may offer some relief to patients, but there is no permanent cure for the disease. Specific cases may additionally need psychosomatic counselling (in stress induces exacerbations), Monoclonal antibodies targeting T-helper 2 pathways and aeroallergens, which may improve the condition of associated asthma or rhinitis. To minimize the side-effects caused by conventional treatments such as skin atrophy, telangiectasia, lymphomas and malignancies, Novel jakus kinase (JAK) receptor inhibitors are under development which are believed to show promising effects in treating AD. Traditional Chinese herbs, used widely, have revealed some supplementary activity in reducing the severity of AD. Tapinarof, a naturally derived stilbene that activates aryl hydro carbon receptor (AHR) and triggers inflammation, has shown significant results in AD and psoriasis patients. Homeopathy, aroma therapy, essential oils, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, have also been exemplified to aid clinical AD treatment.

Technology-Service Business Innovations through the Pandemic Era

In this Chapter, we will overview the cases of business innovation with a focus on servitization and digitization. The Chapter will introduce innovative initiatives in traditional markets, such as health and medicine-related, as well as manufacturing spheres. Lastly, we will become familiar with more unconventional pandemic-induced innovations within the clothing retail and fitness industries.

Treatment of Scabies with Herbal Medicines

Scabies is a chronic and serious community disorder caused by a parasite commonly known as a mite (Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis). The long-term infection may lead to chronic complications such as septicemia, acute post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, heart disease, and secondary infections. The majority of novel medicinal agents from various plant sources are responsible for the management and treatment of several types of chronic disorders. The safe and cost-effective alternative treatment strategy is the use of medicinal plants that plays a potential role against a variety of diseases due to the presence of numerous types of active phytochemicals with no or negligible adverse effect. This study gives a unique summary, including a correlation between traditional medicinal plants and their derived active phytochemicals for the significant treatment of scabies. The literature search was carried out via search engines through different databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Medline, ScienceDirect, etc. A large number of medicinal plants and their active medicinal agents have been reviewed with remarkable therapeutic effects against scabies. There are some limitations due to insufficient data related to limited pre-clinical and clinical trials in this particular area. This review provides a baseline to explore the therapeutic potential of these medicinal plants against skin diseases, especially scabies. However, extensive studies are required to identify, authenticate, and characterize the bioactive compounds present in these plants, which may lead to value addition in pharmaceutical industries by providing a cost-effective way of treatment with minimal side effects.

Wounds and Natural Remedies: A Long Way of Effective Treatment

Wound healing is quite a complicated process in the human body, consisting of the action of constricting injured blood vessels, activating the immune system, angiogenesis, remodeling, etc. Under intensive mechanical stress, a fibrotic scar, which is unfavorable with respect to the beauty of the skin, can be formed to patch the wound. Moreover, chronic wounds due to the disruption in wound healing are another clinical problem for patients with diabetes or vascular diseases. Of note is that natural remedies, especially natural products, are demonstrated to elicit certain positive effects on many aspects of wound healing. In this chapter, global mechanisms, the role of natural remedies and newly emerging therapeutic targets regarding wound healing are presented, and the remaining hurdle for the natural product-based treatment in wound healing is also introduced.

Autism Spectrum Disorder during Infancy: Implications for Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Therapeutic Approaches

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex psychiatric and neurodevelopmental issue related to delays in the acquisition of behavioral and social skills. The main symptoms of ASD are impairments in communication, limited interest and skills in social interactions, and repetitive behavior. In the present chapter about ASD during infancy, we reviewed the behavioral indicators of ASD, different ways of diagnosis, and the significance of an early and correct diagnosis. While children with ASD are usually diagnosed between ages 2-4, many pediatricians and psychiatrists are interested in understanding the developmental course of ASD in early infancy and infancy. Such an understanding would help both infants with ASD and their family members to identify useful interventions to cope more favorably with difficulties related to the infants’ symptoms of ASD. We highlighted that ASD traits unfavorably impact a child’s and their family’s social, behavioral, and the family’s economic status and conditions. Given this, an early diagnosis and timely and appropriate interventions should mitigate ASD-related issues in everyday life. To this end, assessing a child’s behavior is the gold standard for ASD diagnosis. Most of the symptoms appear in the second year of life; often language acquisition is impaired. Considering the signs of ASD in infancy, promising perspectives on ASD diagnosis will be introduced in the future.

Fetal Tumors: Diagnosis and Management

Tumors can be formed in any organ throughout life. The fetal period is no exception to this fact, and it is important to diagnose these tumors as soon as possible to provide timely care to patients. If management is halted, tumors can cause complications in delivery, child development and even death. In this chapter, we discuss the diagnosis and management of several common fetal tumors. We also overview possible future directions in the management of tumors found during the fetal period.

Meconium Stained Newborn

Meconium Stained Amniotic Fluid (MSAF) and Meconium Aspiration Syndrome (MAS) in newborn are commonly encountered by obstetricians and neonatologists world over, and more so in developing countries. MAS is a serious condition as it causes severe respiratory morbidity and complications like air leak, pneumothorax, Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension (PPHN), surfactant inactivation and death in many cases. There have been several changes in the management of pregnant mothers and their neonates, as well as in the endotracheal suctioning guidelines for babies born with MSAF ever since the pathogenesis of intra-uterine passage of meconium and meconium aspiration syndrome, and evidence on intervention outcomes became known. This chapter shall review the mechanism of meconium stained amniotic fluid, the pathophysiology of meconium aspiration syndrome and management of the newborn infant in the labor room, NICU and beyond, as per the present consensus. Potential newer therapies and drugs shall also be briefly addressed.

Medical and Social Outcomes in the Management of Cardiac Diseases in Children

Children with cardiovascular diseases, especially congenital heart diseases are exposed to socioeconomic burdens ranging from poverty, economic difficulties, and emotional breakdown to parental schism. There are various ways by which cardiac diseases affect children. These include the effect of the disease on the child, the family and the nation as a whole. Management of cardiovascular diseases in children comprises diagnosis, investigations, medical and surgical rehabilitation/ergonomics and follow-up. All these steps in management have both medical and social implications on the child. The effects of cardiovascular diseases are not limited to health, but can seep into social life, as well. Affected individuals tend to forgo a lot of things, including restrictions in their life, depression and even family structure disintegration, decrease life expectancy and family disharmony in some cultures. The socio-economic burden of pediatric cardiovascular diseases is quite huge both for the individual, household and society. The impact includes loss in financial resources, productivity, increased disability-adjusted life years, decreased quality of life, catastrophic expenditure and premature death. These burdens are more in the low and middle-income countries. This chapter aims at eliciting the various social and economic burdens that children with heart diseases encounter in the course of their illness.

Epidemiological Evidence for Influences of Non-genetic Transgenerational Inheritance on Child and Adolescent Development

Our use of the term ‘Non-genetic transgenerational inheritance’ concerns the influence of environmental exposure to one generation on phenotypes in later generations in the absence of changes in the structure of the DNA. Although animal experiments have shown that the phenomenon exists in plants and animals, many scientists have expressed doubt as to whether this type of inheritance is detectable in humans. In this chapter, we describe the observational epidemiological data that has been published and evaluate the evidence for this type of inheritance. We mainly concentrate on the environmental exposures concerning famine, cigarette smoke and radiation, and chart the associations between pre-conception and prenatal exposures. We describe associations between these exposures and outcomes for the offspring and grandchildren. In general, we demonstrate frequent evidence of sex-specific differences in the likelihood of particular phenotypes, depending on whether it is the maternal or paternal ancestor who is exposed. We also show that the timing of the exposure is often important regarding specific outcomes, with particular emphasis on the 4-5 years before puberty for preconception exposures and the trimester of pregnancy for prenatal exposures. The evidence for non-genetic transgenerational inheritance is increasing. Interestingly, the consequences of exposures that are harmful to one generation often have a beneficial effect on a subsequent generation. It is important that future epidemiological studies are planned to collect information concerning previous and/or subsequent generations so that transgenerational consequences of exposures, such as medications or pesticides, can be charted.

The Role of Integrated Services in the Care of Children and Young People with Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Co-Morbid Mental Health Difficulties: An International Perspective

Children and Young People (CYP) affected by Neurodevelopmental, Emotional, Behavioural and Intellectual Disorders (NDEBIDs) such as Attention Deficit and Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are at increased risk of other Mental Health (MH) difficulties such as anxiety and depression. Therefore, they require comprehensive and holistic services to meet their complex needs. However, many countries still offer them disjointed services involving different healthcare providers and professionals each looking at only one aspect of the CYP’s needs. To address this problem, the framework of “Integrated Care” is recommended as a template for providing comprehensive and joined-up care to meet the complex needs of these CYP with NDEBIDs and MH difficulties. This chapter aims to explore integrated care. It outlines the adverse impacts of disjointed care including: unnecessary multiple referrals, inefficient multiple assessments, delays in accessing required assessment and treatment, frustration and distress for affected CYP and their families and conflicts among professionals. Identified barriers to integrated care include problems with health planning, limited evidence-base, inter-professional difficulties related to different training and professional cultures and mental health stigma. The chapter highlights the benefits of integrated care including user satisfaction, the shortened path to point of care, systemic efficiencies and improved professional relationships. Finally, the chapter discusses the following desirable characteristics of integrated care: joint care commissioning, adequate ring-fenced funding, strategic leadership and planning, cross-training for professionals and good adherence to evidence-based protocols. Perspectives from Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) were also discussed to acknowledge the international nature of the problem.

Introduction of Challenges with Pediatric Diseases

Children and the knowledge of taking care of them, pediatrics, are faced with growing challenges. With the advancement of medical sciences, pediatrics is becoming a group of subspecialties. This could lead to improving the care and management of pediatric disorders, however, transdisciplinary management should not be ignored. Although the health status of children has improved over the past years, still preventable child deaths are occurring, especially in low-income countries. The increased sexual abuse, discrimination, racism, increased intercountry adoption, malnutrition, environmental hazards like arsenic contamination, pornography, and surrogacy are among the most important current challenges to children’s health. Worldwide vaccination coverage has declined from 86% in 2019 to 83% in 2020, and the number of completely unvaccinated children increased by 3.4 million. Approximately, 1 billion children are dealing with multidimensional poverty all around the world among which at least 356 million of them live in extreme poverty, and 100 million more children plunged into poverty as a result of COVID-19. In this chapter, we will review the most important challenges of children’s health and pediatrics with a focus on social and mental health problems.

Antimicrobial Drug Discovery Approaches, Challenges, and Development

The need for the identification of novel antimicrobial agents is greater than ever due to the emergence of multidrug resistance (MDR) among clinically important pathogens which pose serious threats to public health worldwide. Unfortunately, the pace of discovery and development of new antimicrobial agents to treat MDR infection has significantly slowed down. Identifying new targets and chemical classes is not easy, and reinvestigating old strategies by testing new compounds on known targets and expecting novel outcomes, seems not only a failure but a border on insanity. The development of new antimicrobial agents, chiefly those with novel mechanism(s) of action, remains essential, but this alone does not guarantee success. It is important to explore diverse information from multiple strategies, including multi-omics, bioinformatics, system biology and other non-conventional approaches. In this chapter, we give a brief background on the importance of antimicrobial drug discovery, detail several discovery platforms from target-based discovery to the current innovative strategy being evaluated, and list the challenges alongside each platform.

Immunomodulatory Plant Extracts and their Compounds. Evaluation of your Safety

Medicinal herbs have been in use for the management of human health, for prevention. as well as for the cure of human diseases since ancient civilizations. In recent times, the use of herbal drugs has increased in both developed and developing countries, because of the large chemical, pharmacological, and clinical knowledge of plant drugs and their derivatives, the development of new analytical methods for quality control, the development of new forms of preparation and administration of plant drugs and their derivatives and finally the relatively wide therapeutic margins with less frequent adverse effects. However, naturals are not a synonym for innocuous as many adverse effects can occur. In this regard, there are different levels of perceptions about the safety of medicinal herbs, varying from “completely safe” to “completely harmful”, although there is also a clear idea about its side effects depending on factors such as dosage, characteristics of the plant material and consumer-related factors. Because of this, medicinal plants need to be studied and effective and innocuous doses must be established. Nowadays, immunomodulatory drugs have gained a main role principally as a consequence of COVID-19 produced by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Some South American plants frequently used in Argentine folk medicine such as Larrea divaricata and Ilex paraguariensis and others used all over the world like Tilia spp. and Coffeea Arabica are known to exert immune-enhancing effects. In this review, we discussed some reports about the immunological effect of the mentioned plants and their majority compounds, focusing on their efficacy and safety.

In silico Approaches to Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors’ Development

Many cellular communications and cellular activities are regulated by a class of enzyme tyrosine kinases. Mutations or increased expression of these enzymes lead to many proliferative cancers as well as other non-proliferative diseases such as psoriasis, atherosclerosis and some inflammatory diseases. Hence, they are considered vital and prospective therapeutic targets. Over the past decade, considerable research work has been carried out to develop potential inhibitors against these tyrosine kinases. So far, a number of compounds have been identified successfully as tyrosine kinase inhibitors and many compounds were developed as drugs to treat tyrosine kinase-induced diseases. Behind the successful development of these inhibitors, many Computer Aided Drug Design (CADD) (in silico) approaches include molecular modelling, high throughput virtual screening against various chemical databases, and docking (both rigid and flexible method of docking). Further many studies identified the possible features which are responsible for tyrosine kinase inhibition activities for a number of series of compounds through the quantitative structure-activity/property relationship (QSAR/QSPR) process. In this review article, the structural characteristics, mechanism of action, and mode of inhibition of tyrosine kinases are discussed followed by the successful applications of a variety of in silico approaches in tyrosine kinase inhibitors development.

An Introduction to Diabetes Drug Discovery in Biomedical Industry through Artificial Intelligence, Using Lichens' Secondary Metabolites

Proven history in science shows that natural products play a vital role in drug discovery, specifically for immune deficiencies, infectious diseases, and other therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular diseases and multiple sclerosis. Monk Agastyar and Pandit Ayothidhas contributed more to the field of Siddha through monoand polyherbal medicine and cured many diseases, including oxidative stress and diabetes. Using computational and analytical intelligence methods, this study aims to develop a natural phycobiont (lichens) edible source of metabolites for the chronic and metabolic disorder type II diabetes. The level of docking was ranked based on the iGEMDOCK grading function, with zero being the most accurate ligand. Ultimately, each complex from each fungus that ensured different binding pockets of the 6AK3 had been designated throughout the virtual screening process. Based on the uppermost energy value, the best compounds from each fungus showed accurate molecular docking. Out of the 22 compounds tested, the anthracene-9-one and acetamide found in R. conduplicans showed a high binding capacity. Meanwhile, the binding energy potential of M-Dioxan-4-ol, 2,6-dimethyl, obtained from X. curta, and 2-Chloroethyl Methyl Sulfoxide, obtained from M. fragilis, was enormous. 3, 4-13, 14-dodecahydr-18,18a-dihydroxy-2-methyl-, and 1,4-Bis (trimethylsilyl) benzene were all found in P. reticulatum.