Cloudspotting for Beginners
A beautifully illustrated guide to clouds and the sky for inspiring and educating curious minds with meteorological wonder. Renowned journalist, public speaker, and founder of the Cloud Appreciation Society Gavin Pretor-Pinney details the key facts and characteristics about each major cloud type. To accompany these scientific tidbits, William Grill's gorgeous illustrations of vast colorful skies and mesmerizing cloud patterns create a calming, thought-provoking learning experience. From low-lying Stratus to high-flying Cirrus, Cloudspotting for Beginners covers how clouds are formed, the altitudes they prefer, the curious shapes they take, how they affect other meterological events, and more. The book breaks down the life and structure of a cloud on a molecular level, and then even expands on their interesting cross-planetary variations--for example, Jupiter's clouds are composed of ammonia ice crystals and Saturn's clouds congregate in an inexplicable hexagon around the planet's North Pole. Clouds require a fascinating amount of chemical precision in order to exist, yet they disappear and form again on a daily basis with ease. Cloudspotting for Beginners is a whimsical lesson on the oft-overlooked extraordinary lives of clouds that will serve as a gentle reminder to be present and observant in the face of impermanence. Just as informative as it is poetic and peaceful, this is the perfect guide for cloud appreciators and sky lovers.
How Biology Works
Discover everything you need to know about biology, with the simplest most visual guide to the science of life. How do vaccines work? What is special about stem cells? How did we evolve from bacteria? The science of life can be dauntingly complex, and it can be hard to separate "good" science from "bad", fundamental truths from the much-hyped breakthroughs reported in the media. With clear, easy-to-understand graphics and packed with fascinating facts, How Biology Works demystifies both the core biology that may have eluded us at school, and the cutting-edge life science that makes the news, answering the questions that spark our curiosity. With power to every page, this striking science book: - Is illustrated entirely by specially commissioned, boldly-colored, distinctive, flat, vector graphics that explain each topic clearly and engagingly.- Uses clear, distinctive, eye-catching graphics to make even complex biology easy to understand.- Offers a practical, no-nonsense approach to each subject. Building from life's fundamental ingredients, such as carbon and water, the book explains chemical processes in living cells, controlled by the ultimate biochemical, DNA. It shows how DNA is made of units called genes, which are shuffled in each generation of offspring, leading to variation and evolution. It covers topics from school biology, such as how plants work and how animals, including humans, work, and goes on to ecology and biotechnology. Beyond school science, however, it covers the background to the latest medical technology and biotechnology: how gene therapy works, what stem-cell research is achieving, and how our immune systems, boosted by vaccines, are in an arms race with ever-mutating viruses and other pathogens. At DK, we believe in the power of discovery. So why stop there? How Biology Works is part of DK's widely successful How Stuff Works series. Discover the inner workings of the mind with How the Brain Works, succeed in all things science with How Science Works and discover the cosmos like you've never known before with How Space Works. Whatever topic sparks your interests, there's a plethora of knowledge to discover!
The Reign of Wolf 21
"A redemption story, an adventure story, and perhaps above all, a love story."--Nate Blakeslee, New York Times-bestselling author of American Wolf The Druid Peak Pack was the most famous wolf pack in Yellowstone National Park, and maybe even in the world. This is the dramatic true story of its remarkable leader, Wolf 21--whose compassion and loyalty challenges commonly held beliefs about alpha males. In this compelling follow-up to the national bestseller The Rise of Wolf 8, Rick McIntyre profiles one of Yellowstone's most revered alpha males, Wolf 21. Leader of the Druid Peak Pack, Wolf 21 was known for his unwavering bravery, his unusual benevolence (unlike other alphas, he never killed defeated rival males), and his fierce commitment to his mate, the formidable Wolf 42. Wolf 21 and Wolf 42 were attracted to each other the moment they met--but Wolf 42's jealous sister interfered viciously in their relationship. After an explosive insurrection within the pack, the two wolves came together at last as leaders of the Druid Peak Pack, which dominated the park for more than 10 years. McIntyre recounts the pack's fascinating saga with compassion and a keen eye for detail, drawing on his many years of experience observing Yellowstone wolves in the wild. His outstanding work of science writing offers unparalleled insight into wolf behavior and Yellowstone's famed wolf reintroduction project. It also offers a love story for the ages. "Like Thomas McNamee, David Mech, Barry Lopez, and other literary naturalists with an interest in wolf behavior, McIntyre writes with both elegance and flair, making complex biology and ethology a pleasure to read. Fans of wild wolves will eat this one up."--Kirkus starred review
Novel Electrode Materials for Rechargeable Batteries, 2nd Edition
This Special Issue Reprint of Molecules, "Novel Electrode Materials for Rechargeable Batteries, 2nd Edition", highlights recent progress in materials and design strategies for advanced electrochemical energy storage and conversion. The collected articles showcase innovations in electrode engineering-from morphology-optimized NiMo alloys for efficient hydrogen evolution to flexible anodes, sulfur encapsulation strategies, and high-performance zinc-ion and lithium-ion battery materials. The Reprint also features studies on electrolyte and additive optimization, three-dimensional current collectors, and comprehensive reviews covering polyanionic cathodes and metallic lithium anode protection.Together, these contributions present a concise yet insightful overview of emerging concepts and key challenges in modern electrochemical materials research, offering valuable guidance for the development of next-generation sustainable energy storage technologies.
Diagnosis, Classification, and Monitoring of Pulmonary Diseases
This Special Issue (SI) aims to inform, inspire, and guide researchers in the field of lung diseases. The focus is on the dynamics of change and the latest advancements, including the development of new methods and approaches in lung disease research. Key topics of interest include innovative imaging techniques that enhance diagnosis and treatment, and recent strategies for identifying causal biological pathways and clinically relevant biomarkers. Recent progress in lung disease research, particularly over the past year, has been remarkable and is a testament to the significant achievements of scientists and researchers. The heightened interest in lung health, intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores the need to deepen our understanding of disease triggers and natural history.This SI emphasizes the evolution of research methods, technological innovations, and conceptual frameworks that have driven new discoveries and shaped modern approaches to studying lung diseases.
High-Performance Super-capacitors
Climate change is now a global concern, and new energy materials and devices are being extensively studied to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help solve the climate change problem. Supercapacitor materials and devices are very promising due to their quick charge/discharge capabilities, high safety and long cycling lifetimes.However, the success of supercapacitor technology, when competing with existing energy storage technologies, largely depends on the improvement of its critical properties, such as the energy storage capabilities of the supercapacitor materials and devices. Thus, the development of high-performance supercapacitor materials and devices is a critical and timely research direction of the field.This Reprint discusses original research on frontier supercapacitor materials, including porous carbons, biochars, MXene, transition metal oxides, sulfides, and their composites, in addition to ion liquid electrolytes. Reviews on various cutting-edge supercapacitor technologies are also included. All of these are important for boosting the development of supercapacitor science and engineering, which are envisioned to help in powering up our future.
Catalysts in Chemical Looping Technology for Energy Storage and Carbon Emission Reduction
Chemical looping technology has emerged as a versatile and effective platform for energy storage and the production of value-added chemicals. The closed reaction cycle composed of multiple redox processes can potentially lower the reaction barrier, improve the yield of chemicals, and help to avoid some complicated separation processes. Recent years have seen great progress in the utilization of such technology in various reactions, including power generation, hydrocarbon conversion, ammonia synthesis, H2O/CO2 splitting, and so on. Additionally, numerous efforts have also been dedicated to reactor design, process engineering, and numerical simulations. In view of the prosperity in the area, this Reprint will focus on recent advances in redox materials, kinetics, mechanism, reactor design, and process analysis for chemical looping applications.
Laser Cladding Coatings
The aim of this Reprint is to immerse the reader in the latest laser cladding approaches employed in the surface field. The content includes the use of AI to optimize laser cladding process parameters, the development of various laser cladding materials (high-entropy alloys, nickel-based alloys, iron-based alloys, and titanium alloys), and the various properties of laser cladding coatings. We aim to unravel the potential and promise of these cutting-edge technologies. In this Reprint, leading experts in the field share their insights, research findings, and visions for the future. Together, we embark on a journey to unlock the full potential of laser cladding technology, striving to forge sustainable industrial solutions that balance humanity's growing demand for high-performance materials with our duty to protect the integrity of our planetary ecosystems. By extending the lifespan of critical components, reducing raw material consumption, and minimizing waste, we pave the way toward a greener, more efficient future-where industry thrives and nature is preserved in harmony with human progress.
Contemporary Synthetic Glycoscience
This Special Issue contains ten contributions discussing challenging topics pertaining to both syntheses and analyses. Additionally, three reviews discuss relevant aspects of sucrose-based components, the immunogenicity of neoglycoconjugates, and a feature paper describing the numerous synthetic contributions of the Paulsen group, addressing questions of glycoprotein biosyntheses. In this Special Issue, a broad overview of contemporary glycoscience research is compiled, indicating the significant influence of this subject to natural products and heterocyclic chemistry, as well as its value in addressing broader issues in biology and medicine.
Precision Agriculture and Crop Monitoring Based on Remote Sensing Methods
This Special Issue, entitled "Precision Agriculture and Crop Monitoring Based on Remote Sensing Methods", brings together twelve peer-reviewed papers that advance remote sensing for crop management. The contributions span satellite and UAV platforms, multispectral and hyperspectral spectroscopy, radar, and LiDAR, with workflows that combine physics-based modelling, machine learning, and deep learning. Across cotton, wheat, rice, maize, soybean, and vineyards, the studies demonstrate the robust retrieval of canopy structure, leaf area, biomass, nitrogen uptake, water status, and grain quality, alongside field and crop mapping and early stress and disease characterisation. Methodological innovations include optimised UAV LiDAR acquisition and processing, time series feature selection and matching for crop mapping, uncertainty quantification for biophysical retrieval, and plant-level detection and panoptic recognition in RGB imagery and 3D point clouds. Together, this Reprint illustrates how scalable sensing and analytics support timely, data-driven decisions for more efficient and sustainable agriculture.
Brain Functional Connectivity
This reprint captures how functional connectivity research is revolutionizing brain science. The featured papers bridge fundamental discovery with tangible applications, uncovering the neural architecture of decision-making, social cognition, and clinical disorders. Integrating methods from electrophysiology to artificial intelligence, the contributions advance beyond correlation toward predictive modeling and mechanistic insight. This collection affirms that mapping brain networks is a foundational tool for progress in healthcare, neurotechnology, and our core understanding of the human mind.
Thomas Jefferson's Flowers
The fascinating and innovative horticultural world of the Sage of MonticelloContemplating the conclusion of his public life in 1809, Thomas Jefferson observed, "I retire to my family, my books and farms. . . . Nature intended me for the tranquil pursuits of science, by rendering them my supreme delight." Drawing on a deep understanding of Jefferson as a scientific gentleman farmer, Monticello's official curator of plants offers a definitive account of the planning and preservation of the paths, borders, and flowerbeds of Jefferson's "little mountain." This richly illustrated book examines Jefferson's gardening friendships in the United States and abroad, his many botanical and horticultural influences, and the role of his family relationships--as well as of enslaved individuals such as Wormley Hughes and Burwell Colbert--in his gardening pursuits. Informed by Monticello's ongoing research and the preservation and educational efforts of the Center for Historic Plants, the book includes a comprehensive annotated list of the flowers documented by Jefferson in the gardens at Shadwell, Monticello, and Poplar Forest, affording visitors, gardeners, and scholars alike a handy reference that is eye-catching, substantive, and comprehensive.
Dietary Supplements in Human Health and Disease
This Reprint brings together a curated selection of recent studies investigating the role of dietary supplements and naturally derived bioactive compounds in supporting human health. The contributions examine both potential benefits and safety considerations, with particular attention to mechanisms of action, interactions with physiological and pathological processes, and implications for clinical or functional applications. The articles encompass a broad spectrum of topics, including plant extracts with estrogen-like activity for the management of menopausal symptoms; myo-inositol supplementation for anxiety; epigenetic alterations induced by high-fat diets, highlighting EZH2 as a potential pharmacological target in metabolic dysfunction; and a comprehensive evaluation of the composition, bioaccessibility, pharmacokinetic interactions, and cellular effects of berberine-containing botanicals. Additional studies explore the therapeutic potential of purple corn extract in dry eye disease and the antiadipogenic activity of Euscaphis japonica fruit extract in models of adipocyte differentiation. Two further contributions investigate the impact of natural compounds in humans, examining the effect of mulberry fruit extract on postprandial glycemia in individuals with type 2 diabetes and the influence of lutein supplementation-both in free and esterified forms-on visual outcomes in healthy subjects. Together, these studies offer an integrated perspective on the opportunities and limitations of dietary supplements, underscoring the need for rigorous experimental and clinical approaches to assess their efficacy safety in human health.
Beyond Solitude
What happens when the oldest human question becomes a measurable problem? In Beyond Solitude: The Science and Mystery of Cosmic Civilisations, Clara Bennett charts the science, scenarios, and societal implications of the search for life and intelligence beyond Earth.Part One follows "Fermi's Children" from the Drake Equation and exoplanet demographics to the modern repertoire of technosignatures-radio beacons, laser flashes, infrared waste heat, and industrial gases-set against the capabilities of JWST, the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, and the Square Kilometre Array. Bennett clarifies how AI is transforming searches while multiplying false positives, and she separates careful UAP analysis from speculation.Part Two turns from search to signal: the choreography of verification (independent replication, chain of custody, open data), the first 72 hours (information, panic, perspective), and the longer arc of meaning. In "Mirrors of Disruption," Copernicus and Darwin become guides to the identity shock of contact-or the ethical vocation of confirmed solitude.FeaturesUp-to-the-minute synthesis of SETI, astrobiology, and data-driven technosignature scienceClear, method-first treatment of UAP claims and false positivesActionable frameworks for post-detection coordination and communicationHumane, hopeful framing that respects evidence and imaginationAudience: General readers of popular science; students; science communicators; policy and media professionals preparing for high-impact discovery.
Erectus
Erectus is a philosophical and scientific investigation into the possibility that the human species which endured was not the one best suited for long-term survival. Drawing on evolutionary biology, paleoanthropology, cognitive neuroscience, and existential philosophy, Felipe Heemann examines the profound disparity between our extraordinary technical efficacy and our catastrophic evolutionary effectiveness.Where Homo erectus persisted for more than a million years in relative ecological equilibrium, Homo sapiens developed a hypertrophied cortex and a recursive, symbolic language that allowed us to inhabit psychological pasts and imagined futures-temporalities that generate chronic anxiety, depression, and existential dread. These forms of suffering are not civilizational malfunctions to be corrected, but structural consequences of our neurocognitive architecture.Rejecting romantic primitivism and human exceptionalism alike, Erectus confronts the brutal naturalistic possibility that our survival was an accident whose costs we are only beginning to understand. Without consolation or optimism, the book invites the reader to face the mirror of our lineage with clarity, rigor, and a rare existential honesty.
Advances in Processing, Simulation and Characterization of Alloys
This Special Issue brings together recent advancements in the processing, simulation, and characterization of alloys. The articles featured highlight how new manufacturing steps can be incorporated with novel simulation approaches and characterization techniques to provide insights into how various parameters influence the microstructure-property relationships in alloy design. For this purpose, contributions related to experimental and industrially produced alloys have been included. This collection of articles is appropriate for both experts from academia and industry who would like to obtain insights regarding state of the art in processing, simulation and characterization as well as gain a deeper understanding of property-microstructure relationships in alloys.
Recent Progress of Battery Design, Modeling and Testing in Electric Vehicles
Electrified vehicles (EVs) are becoming more and more widely adopted since they help to reduce both petroleum dependence and greenhouse gas emissions. Nevertheless, to compete with internal combustion engine vehicles, EV battery technology still faces numerous challenges (such as energy density, fast charging capacity, safety, durability, etc.) that must be overcome. This reprint collects research papers that help to improve one or more attributes of EV batteries.
Adenovirus Cell and Immune Interactions
Ever since their discovery in the early 1950s, human adenoviruses (HAdVs), the cause of respiratory diseases of young children, have been the subject of intense basic research as well as efforts to engineer HAdV vectors to ameliorate human diseases. Although much information has been gleaned over the past 67 years from laboratory and clinical investigations, we still have an incomplete picture of the critical associations of HAdV with host cells and specific components of the immune system. An ability to uncover additional information will likely influence the future success (or failure) for exploiting HAdV vectors for gene and vaccine therapies.Each contribution in this series will highlight the efforts and progress made to acquire basic knowledge of adenovirus host interactions and will indicate particular areas that remain to be uncovered. Topics in this new series include key steps in HAdV-host cell interactions as well as structure-based investigations of virus and virus capsid protein associations with cell receptors and innate immune molecules. These topics will culminate with discussions on examples of HAdV vector design and how these approaches are influenced by the accumulation of knowledge of host-vector interactions.
Recent Advances in Polymeric Membranes
This Reprint provides an overview of recent advances in polymeric membranes, focusing on their preparation, functionalization, and applications in water treatment, environmental remediation, energy conversion and storage, and biomedical technologies. Contributions cover membrane design and modification strategies, sustainable fabrication methods, enhanced selectivity and stability, and the integration of functional or bioactive materials. The Reprint highlights the versatility of polymeric membranes and their potential impact for industrial, medical, and environmental applications.
Using Mineral Chemistry to Characterize Ore-Forming Processes
An ore deposit is an aggregate of minerals that can be economically recoverable and utilized. Ore minerals and gangue minerals are products of ore-forming processes and indicators of ore genesis. The radioisotopes of minerals can provide insights into the ages of mineralization. The stable isotopes of minerals can indicate the nature and origin of ore metals and fluids. The chemical composition of minerals can reflect the original composition and evolution of ore fluids. Combined with the texture, generation, and paragenetic association of minerals, the ore-forming processes can be well constrained. This Special Issue is intended to present mineralogical, geochemical, isotopic, and geochronological studies aiming at constraining the ore-forming processes and mechanisms of various types of mineral deposits. This Special Issue brings together nine studies that employ mineral-based investigations to advance the understanding of ore-forming processes. The contributions demonstrate how integrated approaches combining microtextural analysis, in-situ geochemistry, and isotopic systems can unravel complex mineralization processes across diverse geological settings. These studies successfully trace fluid evolution pathways, constrain metal sources, determine precise mineralization ages, and reveal petrogenetic processes controlling metal endowment. The findings demonstrate how mineral-scale signatures can reveal large-scale geological processes, from crust-mantle interactions in magmatic systems to fluid-rock reactions in hydrothermal environments.
Advanced Multi-GNSS Positioning and Its Applications in Geoscience
Although real-time kinematic positioning (RTK), precise point positioning (PPP), and PPP-RTK have the ability to provide centimeter- or millimeter-level positioning accuracy, they are easily affected by observation environments, resulting in the insufficient positioning stability, continuity, and credibility. As a result of their high equipment costs, it is also difficult to target consumer-level mass users. To further expand the application of multi-GNSSs in geoscience and achieve industrialization, new theories, models, and methods are urgently required. This Special Issue offers insights into the advanced algorithms for multi-GNSS high-precision positioning, multi-sensor integrated data processing, and their applications in geoscience.
Pests, Pesticides, Pollinators and Sustainable Farming
Modern agriculture faces the dual challenge of ensuring food production while preserving biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. Crop pests remain a major threat to global food security, yet heavy reliance on synthetic pesticides has led to pest resistance, loss of beneficial organisms, pollinator decline, and environmental contamination. Addressing these issues requires sustainable pest management strategies that minimize chemical inputs, enhance ecosystem services, and protect pollinators-the cornerstone of agricultural productivity.This Special Issue, "Pests, Pesticides, Pollinators and Sustainable Farming," presents thirteen multidisciplinary papers advancing ecologically compatible crop protection. The studies span field ecology, biocontrol, precision agriculture, and pollinator-friendly management, offering a roadmap toward sustainable production aligned with the European Green Deal and the Farm to Fork Strategy.Contributions highlight the value of habitat diversification and pollinator conservation, the potential of essential oils, microbial agents, and entomopathogenic fungi as biopesticides, and the use of unmanned aerial systems, remote sensing, and artificial intelligence for precision pest detection.
Sustainable Feed Ingredients in Freshwater Aquaculture
The cost of aquafeeds represents about 50-70% of the total production cost in intensive and semi-intensive freshwater aquaculture systems, and this has implications for the sustainable development of aquaculture. The decreasing proportion of fishmeal and fish oil in aquafeeds has coincided with an increase in the introduction of alternative protein meals and oils from a variety of sources, including plant, animal, microalgae, and insect sources. There is growing interest in incorporating agro-industrial by-products, agri-food waste, or products from circular economic chains into aquafeeds. However, these new resources cause several adverse effects on the physiology and metabolism of fish. On the other hand, some benefits can be obtained if we consider, for example, the increased digestibility or the presence of several bioactive compounds in these new resources.This Collection provides an overview of the nutritional studies of freshwater fish, including the following: (1) The influence of diet on fish performance and nutrient utilization.(2) The influence of diet on the antioxidant defense system of fish.(3) The relationship and interaction between dietary ingredients and gut microbiota.
Cellular Redox Mechanisms in Inflammation and Programmed Cell Death
Redox reactions play an important role in the regulation of various physiological processes, resulting in the diversity of articles featured in this Special Issue (SI), from works studying mechanisms of antioxidant activity to a prospective randomized study of the effects of hypoxia-hyperoxia exposures on metabolic products of the intestinal microbiome in patients. In vitro, microbiota metabolites formed under inflammation and sepsis inhibit cyclooxygenase peroxidase activity. Macrophages are the most persistent cells at inflammatory sites, with phenotypes differing not only in cytokine secretion but also in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Neuronal dysfunction and pain may be caused by an imbalance in ROS/reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and antioxidant defense; thus, compounds with antioxidant properties can be promising therapeutic agents to mitigate oxidative stress and alleviate pathological conditions. An example of this is manganese porphyrins, which target key pathways involved in neuropathic pain. In this SI, flavonoids, polyphenols, and selenium compounds are studied for their protective ability against inflammation and oxidative injury. Pre-treatment with ferroptosis inhibitors or maintenance of mitochondrial functions enables the safe rewarming of cooled cells. In contrast, excess glutamate triggers a cascade of oxidative and metabolic disorders causing neuronal ferroptosis, with mitochondria playing a central role in this vulnerability. While diverse in biological models, the articles in this SI all demonstrate that ROS/RNS disorder is both a driver of pathology and a target for therapeutic intervention.
Emerging Technologies in the Hydrometallurgical Recycling of Critical Metals
The number of identified critical materials included in the lists published by the European Union every three years, since 2011, has been steadily increasing. Metals occupy a major part of those materials, since many of them hold significant importance for key sectors in the European economy, are difficult to replace, and have a highly threatened supply. It is crucial to invest in the creation and development of sustainable technologies to reuse and recycle metals from end-of-life devices, residues, gaseous and liquid effluents, wastes, and scraps to effectively establish a circular economy and protect the future of the planet and all living species.In recent years, hydrometallurgy has been playing a key role in the sustainable recycling of metals from several secondary sources. Therefore, emerging hydrometallurgical approaches for recovering critical metals from permanent magnets, photovoltaic panels, electronic waste, various slag dusts, single-use medical devices, superalloys and batteries, and vanadium-bearing waste, can be found in this Reprint, excellently described in nine research articles and critically discussed in two review articles.
My Religion
A transformative, inspirational nonfiction in verse exploring Abrahamic religions, society, human mind (thoughts and feelings), and their negative impact on environment. It is about Artificial Intelligence and Consciousness, Soul, Nature and its Spirit, Past and Future.The poem explores interconnectedness of humans and Nature through its Spirit. It examines both human and Artificial Consciousness, offers thoughtful definitions of God and Devil, Heaven and Hell, prayer and meditation, and shares insights into a lifestyle and diet that support both human and Earth well-being.Ultimately, it seeks to reconnect humanity with Spirit and Wilderness, guiding readers toward more conscious and compassionate way of living.The book is for lovers of Nature who approach religions and consumer society with a critical mind.The charters are: Pastreject the Path from the Past!civilizationembrace Minimalism!Hellturn away from the Hell!Devilundo the Devil!Presentpray and meditate!Godact for the God!Heavenrestore the Heaven!Wildernessdon't be Nature's parasite!Futurechoose the Path to the Future!This second edition gives you 50% more content at the same price!
The Alibi of Capital
Stealing the future and concealing the theft - capitalism's method, as examined by the author of the acclaimed Carbon Democracy Today, extraordinary wealth seems to arrive from nowhere. The trick of conjuring this unearned wealth is, in fact, the key to understanding capital­ism's origins and a clue to why the catastrophe of climate collapse is upon us: value is created by consuming the future. The Alibi of Capital explains how this came about through the imperial expansion of the West, en­cumbering today's generations with repayments on earlier extractions. Timothy Mitchell identifies the forms of capitalisation, credit, and coercion that turn prospective assets into present income. Rejecting the common idea that claims on the future create only financial or fictitious capital, he traces the terraforming projects - the destruction of rivers, the colonising of territory, the expan­sion of infrastructure, and the burning of carbon - through which the future has been squandered. Terms such as finance, technology, the economy, and growth function as alibis that conceal this devastating form of extraction.
Making Science History
The history of science from 1945 to 2020, told from the perspective of Arnold Thackray, a pioneering expert in the field In this fascinating personal account of what he calls the "American century," Arnold Thackray, noted historian of the development of science, relates his life's story, beginning in post-war Manchester, England, to his time as an undergraduate at Bristol University, followed by his years at Cambridge University, where he earned a Ph.D. in the newly created field of science history. This subject turned out to be his life's passion and, lured by the new opportunities in academia in the United States, he joined the faculty of the University of Pennsylvania, where he founded the Department of the History and Sociology of Science. He went on to found the Chemical Heritage Foundation (later to become the Science History Institute) in Philadelphia. In this book, Thackray views his long career through the lens of the United States' rise and fall as a global power, from the testing of the first atomic bomb at Alamogordo in 1945, to the ignominious retreat of American forces in Afghanistan in 2020, coinciding with the rise of artificial intelligence--a technology whose benefits, and perils, have yet to be fully realized. An absorbing read for anyone with an interest in the technological developments of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, Making Science History is at once a memoir as well as a thoughtful examination of the achievements, and limitations, of human scientific thought.
Cerebrovascular Diseases
This Special Issue of Current Issues in Molecular Biology explored the current knowledge and innovative concepts regarding preclinical and clinical research into stroke mechanisms, prevention, and treatment and provided a critical overview of the underlying factors involved in stroke-related brain injury, especially the role of cell signaling in excitotoxicity, inflammation, apoptosis, and the newly described types of cell death such as ferroptosis and their potential treatment. Gene and protein expression profiles after stroke and neurogenesis, angiogenesis, and neuroplasticity are other important features in stroke and should lead to the better understanding of the pathophysiology of acute stroke.
Cadmium and Trace Elements Toxicity
This Reprint, entitled "Cadmium and Trace Elements Toxicity," brings together ten high-quality research articles that advance our understanding of the sources, mechanisms, and health impacts of cadmium and trace element exposure. The contributions span multiple disciplines, from molecular toxicology and environmental monitoring to plant science and risk assessment, providing a comprehensive overview of current research in this critical field. The articles address key topics including novel toxicity mechanisms, biomonitoring approaches, protective strategies, and environmental quality criteria.
Lion Song
'Brian Jackman is a passionate but unsentimental conservationist. He writes with relish for the experience... and the language.'The Sunday TimesFOREWORD BY SABA DOUGLAS-HAMILTON, Conservationist and TV PresenterFor five decades, Brian Jackman, Britain's foremost safari writer, has witnessed Africa's wildlife drama unfold like no other journalist. From his transformative first encounter with a roaring lion in Kenya's Maasai Mara in 1974 to documenting the famous Marsh Lions that captivated millions through BBC's Big Cat Diary, Jackman chronicles both the majesty and fragility of Africa's last wilderness.This beautiful and expansive memoir reveals the evolution of African conservation, from the days when elephants numbered over a million to today's urgent battle for survival, where living elephants are worth $1.6 million each to tourism but face extinction from poaching. Through vivid encounters with legendary conservationists like George Adamson and firsthand accounts of anti-poaching wars, Jackman weaves an unforgettable portrait of a continent where lions still greet the dawn - but may not for much longer.A portion of proceeds supports the Tusk Trust wildlife conservation charity.
Winged Wonders
Embark on a Journey into the World of Feathered TreasuresDiscover the mesmerizing world of birdwatching with Winged Wonders: Exploring the Art of Birdwatching, a guide that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, awakening a deep appreciation for nature's avian marvels.Whether you're a curious beginner or a seasoned observer, this book offers a captivating journey into birdwatching's vibrant tapestry. Immerse yourself in a hobby that delights the senses and rejuvenates the spirit. The charm of birdwatching lies in its simplicity and the profound connection it fosters with the natural world, as beautifully outlined in Chapter 1, where you will explore why watching birds can unlock an unparalleled sense of joy and tranquility.Delve into the essentials with easy-to-follow guidance on picking the right gear, understanding bird behavior, and mastering patience and stillness-all crucial elements of this ancient pursuit. As you hone your identification skills and learn to recognize birds by sight and sound, a universe of colors, shapes, and melodies unfolds before your eyes, as detailed in Chapter 3.Venture beyond borders in search of prime birdwatching locales, from local hotspots to international destinations, and experience the awe of witnessing the seasonal migrations that defy imagination. Each page inspires a newfound desire to protect and cherish these winged wonders. From urban birding adventures to ethical photography tips, this book empowers you to take action in supporting bird conservation efforts and creating bird-friendly environments, as explored in Chapters 6 and 10.Invite the beauty of birdwatching into your life, for it's not just a hobby; it's an adventure waiting to be embraced by individuals of all ages.
Philosophy for a Time of Crisis
The book is an accessible and comprehensive introduction to the ecological philosophy of Michel Serres. It traces how Serres explores: an inclusive legal contract that embraces all nature; a collective, common story; the transformative potential of digital technologies; the invention of a global politics; and a philosophy of hope.The book will appeal to the general reader as well as those with a specific interest in radical proposals for responding to the climate crisis, more-than -human jurisprudence, the rights of nature, indigenous knowledge, ecological philosophy, political ecology and 'digital nature'.Michel Serres investigated how we have become the world's parasites, taking and giving nothing back. We have broken from the deep alliances of nature. As we battle, as we devour each other and the earth's resources, as we destroy the habitat that we share with all living things, Serres offers a challenging and hopeful way forward.
At Leap Of Faith Farm
At Leap of Faith Farm is a tender, clear-eyed memoir about saying yes to the life you've always imagined-and discovering what that choice truly asks of you.When an unexpected job offer opens the door to a lifelong dream, the author and her husband leave behind their suburban Twin Cities careers for a small horse farm in southern Minnesota. What follows is a twenty-year leap into a world of hard winters, unpredictable land, close-knit neighbors, and the daily, often demanding realities of animal care.Told through interwoven stories and poems, the book chronicles the cats, horses, wildlife, and winged visitors who shape life on the farm. Each animal arrives with its own personality, challenges, and lessons-many of them learned in the barn through veterinary visits, and after long drives for emergency care. With honesty and grace, the author reveals the emotional and physical labor behind the pastoral dream, from joyful beginnings to inevitable, heartbreaking goodbyes.Rich with vivid descriptions of Minnesota seasons, rural community, and the intimate bond between humans and animals, At Leap of Faith Farm is both an escape from modern chaos and a grounded meditation on responsibility, love, and remembrance. Above all, it is a promise kept: to tell the stories of those who gave so much, and to ensure they are never forgotten.
Les Papillons MIDI Unlined Hardcover Journal, 144pg, 120gsm by Paperblanks (Giacomelli's World)
This golden Hector Giacomelli design was created for the cover of L'Insecte, an 1875 book by Jules Michelet. A French engraver and illustrator, Giacomelli was highly sought after for his artistic ornamentations. Originally etched in gold on a cloth cover, our Les Papillons cover reflects his passion for the natural world.Format: MidiSize: Width: 120mm (43/4") x Height: 180mm (7") x Depth: 18mm (3/4")Interior: UnlinedPage Count: 144PagesClosure: Elastic BandColour: BlueGSM (paper weight): 120Binding Type: Smyth SewnCover: HardcoverEdge Printing: YesPouch Type: Memento PouchInterior Paper: Custom-designed laid paperRibbon Markers: 1100% recycled binder boardsDecorative printed cover paperFSC-certified text paperThreaded stitching and glue, as neededAcid-free sustainable forest paper
Wild Flowers
Wild flowers presents a reflective exploration of the connections that shape the lives of plants and the insects that interact with them, offering an interpretation that blends observation with an appreciation for the subtle strategies that guide survival. The book introduces the idea that flowers function as active participants in their environments, developing colors, forms, and behaviors that support ongoing cycles of growth and renewal. Instead of focusing on specific events or characters, the narrative underscores how these organisms adapt to ensure continuation, forming partnerships that reveal the complexity of natural systems. The introductory section highlights the author's intention to examine hundreds of species through an accessible structure, using color as an organizing guide to help readers recognize patterns in nature. As the work unfolds, it emphasizes cooperation, interdependence, and the quiet intelligence displayed in the natural world. Through its careful observations, the book encourages a deeper appreciation of how small interactions contribute to broader ecological balance and how each flower participates in an ongoing dialogue between form, function, and the environment.
Society of Crows
The crows' intelligence, sagacity, and penchant to interact with humans has captivated human imaginations for decades. Yet only a few people have had the opportunity or motivation to devote much of their life to trying to understand them. A lifelong sojourn for Robert Butler all began with a pet crow he fostered as a teenager. From that auspicious moment, Butler watched and listened to crows in remote coastal locations of British Columbia and Alaska, and the suburbs near Vancouver to reveal a story like no other. With humour and scientific insight the Society of Crows will charm and surprise you. Illustrated by original artwork by the author, the book is partly a biographical adventure to uncover new discoveries of the coastal dwelling crow in British Columbia.
Bird Neighbors
Bird neighbors introduces readers to the experience of discovering local bird life in everyday outdoor spaces. The book encourages attentiveness to the natural world and shows how even familiar surroundings can become a place of exploration when one learns to recognize the differences among species. Through clear explanations, the text teaches how to distinguish birds by appearance, movement, and behavior, helping readers notice patterns they may have previously overlooked. It presents the idea that observing wildlife does more than provide information; it nurtures patience, curiosity, and appreciation for the environment. The guide highlights how each bird contributes to the larger ecosystem, reminding readers that these creatures share our gardens, fields, and wooded areas. By focusing on practical knowledge and the joy of observation, the book transforms bird watching from an abstract hobby into a meaningful and accessible way to engage with nature. It invites readers to slow down and form a deeper connection with the world just beyond their window, revealing how small moments outdoors can bring lasting satisfaction.
Spring Rain
"Marc Hamer knows how to live--simply, sparely, reverently, abundantly. Spring Rain is a tonic for the soul."--Sy Montgomery, author of How to Be A Good Creature From the beloved author of How to Catch a Mole and Seed to Dust comes a highly original memoir of childhood, old age, and the restorative power of gardens. Best enjoyed in a single sitting under the shade of a tree, this inventive and curative book captures the moment when an adventurous young boy who traveled the world in his mind meets the old man he becomes. Together, they build a new garden from a neglected plot behind his house on the edge of town. Retired professional gardener Marc Hamer has always found the answers to life's questions in the natural world, whether as a child watching ants, as a young man living homeless in the countryside, or as a professional gardener creating places of calm and restoration for others. Now in his sixties, he is finally creating a garden for himself, at his home in Cardiff, Wales. This moving memoir follows his process as he shares what he's learned, from the spring of youth to his autumn years, and reflects on how we reconcile our childhoods with where we end up. In Hamer's own words, "Spring Rain is about the joy of your own back garden. It is a story about the joy of small things, the world in a grain of sand, a universe in a small garden, with love for all the insects and slugs and flowers and weeds and seeds and roots and boundaries and shade and weather that the garden contains."
Les Papillons Mini Lined Hardcover Journal, 176pg, 85gsm by Paperblanks (Giacomelli's World)
This golden Hector Giacomelli design was created for the cover of L'Insecte, an 1875 book by Jules Michelet. A French engraver and illustrator, Giacomelli was highly sought after for his artistic ornamentations. Originally etched in gold on a cloth cover, our Les Papillons cover reflects his passion for the natural world.Format: MiniSize: Width: 90mm (31/2") x Height: 140mm (51/2") x Depth: 16mm (1/2")Interior: LinedSpace between lines: 6.60mmLines Per Page: 19Page Count: 176PagesClosure: Elastic BandColour: BlueGSM (paper weight): 85Binding Type: Smyth SewnCover: HardcoverEdge Printing: YesPouch Type: Memento PouchInterior Paper: Custom-designed laid paperRibbon Markers: 1100% recycled binder boardsDecorative printed cover paperFSC-certified text paperThreaded stitching and glue, as neededAcid-free sustainable forest paper
Les Papillons Mini Unlined Hardcover Journal, 176pg, 85gsm by Paperblanks (Giacomelli's World)
This golden Hector Giacomelli design was created for the cover of L'Insecte, an 1875 book by Jules Michelet. A French engraver and illustrator, Giacomelli was highly sought after for his artistic ornamentations. Originally etched in gold on a cloth cover, our Les Papillons cover reflects his passion for the natural world.Format: MiniSize: Width: 90mm (31/2") x Height: 140mm (51/2") x Depth: 16mm (1/2")Interior: UnlinedPage Count: 176PagesClosure: Elastic BandColour: BlueGSM (paper weight): 85Binding Type: Smyth SewnCover: HardcoverEdge Printing: YesPouch Type: Memento PouchInterior Paper: Custom-designed laid paperRibbon Markers: 1100% recycled binder boardsDecorative printed cover paperFSC-certified text paperThreaded stitching and glue, as neededAcid-free sustainable forest paper
Lotus River Mini Lined Softcover Journal, 208pg, 80gsm by Paperblanks (Living with Yuko)
Featuring a lively contemporary work by Japanese American artist Yuko Shimizu, this Lotus River design brings a touch of whimsy to the Paperblanks collection. The illustration was originally created in 2015 to lend colour and life to the pages of a magazine article. Format: MiniSize: Width: 90mm (31/2") x Height: 140mm (51/2") x Depth: 12mm (1/2")Interior: LinedSpace between lines: 6.60mmLines Per Page: 19Page Count: 208PagesClosure: Elastic BandColour: BlueGSM (paper weight): 80Binding Type: Smyth SewnCover: SoftcoverEdge Printing: YesPouch Type: Back Cover PouchInterior Paper: SmoothRibbon Markers: 1Decorative printed cover paperFSC-certified text paperThreaded stitching and glue, as neededCloth headbandsAcid-free sustainable forest paperFlexible cover and spine
Society of Crows
The crows' intelligence, sagacity, and penchant to interact with humans has captivated human imaginations for decades. Yet only a few people have had the opportunity or motivation to devote much of their life to trying to understand them. A lifelong sojourn for Robert Butler all began with a pet crow he fostered as a teenager. From that auspicious moment, Butler watched and listened to crows in remote coastal locations of British Columbia and Alaska, and the suburbs near Vancouver to reveal a story like no other. With humour and scientific insight the Society of Crows will charm and surprise you. Illustrated by original artwork by the author, the book is partly a biographical adventure to uncover new discoveries of the coastal dwelling crow in British Columbia.
The Complete Writings Of Charles Dudley Warner
The complete writings of Charles Dudley Warner Volume 1 offers a reflective exploration of everyday experiences through a series of thoughtful essays that highlight the quiet rewards of engaging with the natural world. The collection opens with a warm introduction that frames the essays as an invitation to notice the subtle beauty found in ordinary surroundings. The narrative focuses on the pleasures and challenges of cultivating a garden, using observations about soil, plants, and changing seasons to illustrate how simple tasks can nurture patience and personal awareness. Instead of relying on detailed portrayals of individuals, the volume turns its attention to broader ideas such as the value of care, the discipline required to nurture growth, and the sense of fulfillment that comes from watching small efforts turn into meaningful results. With a blend of gentle humor and contemplative insight, the essays encourage readers to slow down, appreciate natural rhythms, and view the act of tending the earth as a metaphor for understanding oneself and the world.
Birds And Bees, Sharp Eyes And Other Papers
Birds and bees, sharp eyes and other papers presents an exploration of the natural world shaped by close attention, personal reflection, and an appreciation for the subtle patterns that define life outdoors. The collection opens with thoughts on the experiences that influenced the writer's approach to observing nature, establishing a tone that blends curiosity with a steady awareness of how fragile many creatures are. Early reflections consider the daily struggles faced by birds, noting how their routines are shaped by weather, predators, and the shifting conditions of their surroundings. Bees and other small creatures appear not only as subjects of study but also as examples of intricate harmony within the environment. Across the essays, moments of beauty mingle with reminders of the consequences that human activity can impose on wildlife. The work encourages readers to notice fine details, value patience, and consider how even simple interactions affect the balance of life. Through gentle observation and thoughtful insight, the book invites a deeper appreciation of nature's quiet resilience.
The Complete Writings Of Charles Dudley Warner
The complete writings of Charles Dudley Warner Volume 2 offers a reflective exploration of everyday experiences through a series of thoughtful essays that highlight the quiet rewards of engaging with the natural world. The collection opens with a warm introduction that frames the essays as an invitation to notice the subtle beauty found in ordinary surroundings. The narrative focuses on the pleasures and challenges of cultivating a garden, using observations about soil, plants, and changing seasons to illustrate how simple tasks can nurture patience and personal awareness. Instead of relying on detailed portrayals of individuals, the volume turns its attention to broader ideas such as the value of care, the discipline required to nurture growth, and the sense of fulfillment that comes from watching small efforts turn into meaningful results. With a blend of gentle humor and contemplative insight, the essays encourage readers to slow down, appreciate natural rhythms, and view the act of tending the earth as a metaphor for understanding oneself and the world.
Luck
Luck or cunning as the main means of organic modification presents an argument that reconsiders how living beings change over generations by linking inherited traits to the persistence of memory. The work questions the idea that evolution operates solely through random variation, suggesting instead that the continuity between generations may be shaped by purposeful patterns that resemble remembered experience. The discussion highlights how organic development can be understood through a blend of observation, reasoning, and careful examination of biological processes. Early in the book, the narrator shifts from a general interest in classification to a closer look at evolutionary theory, emphasizing that understanding descent requires taking intention and structured influence into account. The text proposes that instinct should be viewed as memory carried forward, shaped not by chance alone but by influences that echo through successive generations. By exploring these ideas, the book invites readers to consider evolution as a process that blends adaptation, continuity, and an underlying sense of design, offering a perspective that moves beyond conventional interpretations.
The Formation Of Vegetable Mould Through The Action Of Worms
The formation of vegetable mould through the action of worms examines the critical role of earthworms in transforming soil and creating fertile top layers essential for plant growth. The opening establishes the importance of studying these seemingly humble creatures, emphasizing how their behaviors influence broader ecological systems and agricultural productivity. Observations detail how worms feed, burrow, and produce castings, highlighting the instinctual actions that contribute to soil aeration and nutrient enrichment. Early sections present controlled experiments demonstrating the cumulative impact of these processes over time, showing how small, repetitive activities can lead to significant environmental change. The narrative underscores the interconnectedness of living organisms and their habitats, revealing how understanding minute natural processes provides insight into ecosystem dynamics. By focusing on detailed observation and scientific analysis, the work illustrates that even simple creatures play a foundational role in maintaining soil health, shaping landscapes, and supporting life, offering a careful and methodical study of natural contribution to fertility and ecological balance.
