How to Win Friends and Influence Fungi
In the vein of acclaimed popular-science bestsellers such as Atlas Obscura, Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry, The Way Things Work, What If?, and Undeniable, the co-founders of the global science organization Nerd Nite bring readers a collection of wacky, yet fascinating STEM topics. For 20 years, Nerd Nite has delivered to live audiences around the world, the most interesting, fun, and informative presentations about science, history, the arts, pop culture, you name it. There hasn't been a rabbit hole that their army of presenters hasn't been afraid to explore. Finally, after countless requests to bring Nerd Nite to more fans across the globe, co-founders and college pals Matt Wasowski and Chris Balakrishnan are bringing readers the quirky and accessible science content that they crave in book form, focused on STEM and paired with detailed illustrations that make the content pop. The resulting range of topics is quirky and vast, from kinky, spring-loaded spiders to the Webb telescope's influence on movie special effects. Hilariously named after Dale Carnegie's iconic book, How to Win Friends and Influence Fungi features narratives, bursts, and infographics on all things STEM from scientists around the world. Chapters are sure to make you laugh-out-loud, with titles such as "The Science of the Hangover," "What Birds Can Teach Us About the Impending Zombie Apocalypse," and "Lessons from the Oregon Trail." With fascinating details, facts, and illustrations, combined with Chris and Matt's incredible connections to organizations such as the Discovery Network and the Smithsonian Institution, How to Win Friends and Influence Fungi is sure to reach joyful STEM enthusiasts of all ages around the world. About Nerd Nite: Started in 2003, Nerd Nite is a monthly event held in 100+ cities worldwide during which folks give 20-minute fun-yet-informative presentations across all disciplines, while the audience drinks along!
Molecular Pharmacology and Interventions in Cardiovascular Disease
This Special Issue addresses researchers, physicians, and professionals involved in cardiovascular medicine, pharmacology, and biomedical research. The objective is to aggregate and promote the latest research findings, innovative methodologies, and therapeutic strategies concerning molecular mechanisms and therapies in cardiovascular diseases. By fostering collaboration among these diverse groups, this Special Issue aims to enhance understanding and ultimately improve patient outcomes. These contributions provide valuable insights that can influence future research and clinical practices.
Genomic Characterization of Antimicrobial Resistance and Evolution Mechanism of Bacteria
In the ever-evolving battle against antimicrobial resistance (AMR), our understanding of the genomic landscape of bacteria and their mechanisms of evolution has become pivotal. In bacteria, resistance to antibiotics is determined by genetic factors such as chromosomes, plasmids or other movable genetic elements. Although antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) typically exhibit significant sequence variability, such as the impact of different concentrations of antibiotics on their genomic dynamics, the impact of this diversity on AMR is still unclear. Therefore, understanding the dynamic changes and mobilization of antibiotic resistance genes in humans, animals, plants and environmental microorganisms through genomics and metagenomics methods is crucial.This Special Issue seeks to foster a comprehensive understanding of the genetic underpinnings of bacterial antimicrobial resistance and the evolutionary dynamics that underlie these adaptations.
Advances in Molecular Biology Methods in Hepatology Research
Recent advances in molecular biology methods have profound implications for deciphering the complexities of hepatology research, specifically in understanding liver function, disease development, and novel therapies. The integration of genomic and proteomic technologies such as Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), single-cell sequencing, CRISPR-Cas9, sensitive mass spectrometry, high-throughput proteomics, and epigenetic studies allow for a more comprehensive analysis of the liver's genomic landscape. These technologies enable scientists to understand the molecular pathways involved in liver injury, fibrosis, and regeneration. In addition to advances in genomic techniques, the development of advanced hepatic in vivo models and liver tissue engineering, utilizing technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9, places a clear emphasis on creating humanized organoid models. These molecular innovations, like hepatic organoids, are scalable for high-throughput screening and can replicate complex cellular interactions, providing further insights into the mechanisms underlying liver diseases such as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), hepatitis, and liver fibrosis. By creating patient-derived organoids, researchers can personalize disease models and uncover individualized disease mechanisms and precision therapeutics. Overall, these advancements in molecular biology have propelled hepatology research to the next level, offering additional opportunities for efficient diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies for hepatic diseases.
Computational, AI and IT Solutions Helping Agriculture
This Special Issue was a natural continuation of our previous Special Issue, titled "Internet and Computers for Agriculture"; this one extended further, covering recent and current progress in the application of computational solutions, artificial intelligence (AI), and information technologies (IT) in modern agriculture. Currently, rapid changes are taking place at a planetary scale, including human population growth and global climatic and ecological changes, resulting in a call for immediate sustainable and secure smart solutions for food production, water supply, greenhouse (GHG) gas emissions, and environmental health.This Special Issue provided a stage for the innovative research of scientists and entrepreneurs involved in the development and application of various software products, and digital solutions for agriculture, agroecosystems, and natural ecosystems with applications in agriculture, to be presented. The submission of original articles and reviews involved mobile apps, web applications, internet platforms, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, cloud technologies, AI and machine learning (ML) methods, and applications for precision agriculture, monitoring, cultivation, harvesting, marketing, management, decision making, weather forecasting, optimization, natural language processing, computer/machine vision, drones, real-time detection systems, sensors for field operations, smart agriculture machinery, diagnostics, species and disease recognition, big data collection, scientific-process-based mathematical modeling, and machine learning modeling, which can contribute to modern agriculture now and in the future.
Hymenoptera
This Reprint, "Hymenoptera: Biology, Taxonomy and Integrated Management", focuses on the diverse Hymenoptera group, which is crucial for biological pest control. While new species are regularly described, many remain undiscovered, making research in this area highly significant. It aims to demonstrate taxonomy's role in modern entomology and highlight its importance by showcasing current global specialist work. This includes enhancing biodiversity knowledge through new species descriptions, correctly identifying field species as a key step to understanding their biology and behavior for improving biological pest control programs, cataloging specimens in entomological collections, with both old and new material, and conducting phylogeny studies with appropriate taxonomic changes. Original research articles and reviews are featured, covering areas such as new species description, integrated pest management, molecular studies, cryptic species, and phylogeny. This Reprint serves as a valuable resource, compiling essential research to advance understanding and application of Hymenoptera in pest management and biodiversity conservation.
Food Science and Engineering for Sustainability
Global food demand is projected to rise by 59-98% by 2050, raising concerns about a potential food crisis. To address this challenge, sustainable food systems-defined by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization as environmentally friendly, socially beneficial, and economically viable-have gained significant attention. Achieving sustainability requires innovation across all stages of the food industry, from production to consumption.This Special Issue aims to highlight challenges and opportunities in developing sustainable food systems, showcase state-of-the-art food processing techniques, and present recent discoveries in fundamental food science that enhance sustainability. It will provide a comprehensive overview of initiatives and advances in sustainable food science and engineering, mainly focusing on, but not limited to, the following areas: agricultural and food waste valorization; eco-friendly and energy-efficient food processing technologies, including innovative biotechnologies, Sustainable food product development, such as plant-based meats and cellular agriculture; smart materials for food packaging and storage; fundamental food science approaches to improve nutritional value; social science perspectives on sustainable food supply chains; consumer behavior; and policy.This Special Issue provides a platform to share insights and solutions to advance sustainable food systems worldwide.
20th Anniversary of Pharmaceuticals
The Special Issue Reprint encompassing peer-reviewed articles on glaucoma and neuroprotection is timely, as the constellation of eye diseases is ever-increasing as the world's population ages. The aim of the Special Issue was to capture some leading aspects of on-going research into pathophysiology, genetics and current and future therapeutic treatment options to mitigate the signs and symptoms of these potentially blinding disorders, especially open-angle and normotensive glaucoma that affect millions worldwide. I hope that this collection of original research and review articles will spur further interest in these elements in the academic arena and in the biopharmaceutical industries.
100 Mind-Blowing Human Body Facts
Discover more mind-blowing books and audiobooks at FelixGrayson.com100 Mind-Blowing Human Body Facts: 100 Astonishing Wonders of the Body You Never KnewThe human body isn't just a collection of organs and bones-it's a living, breathing, self-healing marvel filled with hidden superpowers, strange quirks, and mysteries that even science is still trying to solve. Whether you're a curious reader, a trivia lover, or someone who simply enjoys saying "wait, WHAT?!", this book is packed with 100 incredible facts that will make you see yourself in a whole new light.Inside, you'll discover: That you glow in the dark-but your eyes can't see itWhy your bones are stronger (and lighter) than steelHow your stomach doesn't digest itself-even though it totally couldThat you can survive without a pulse, a stomach, or even most of your liverWhy your body sheds enough skin each year to fill a pillowThe bizarre truth about gill-like structures you had in the wombThat your feet alone contain 25% of your bonesWhy you're slightly taller in the morning than at nightHow your body creates water from scratch inside your cellsAnd dozens more facts that sound made up-but aren'tFrom wild biological twists to fascinating anatomical oddities, this book is a mind-expanding ride through the most complex machine ever built: you. Every page is filled with facts that are equal parts strange, surprising, and awe-inspiring.Perfect for: Science lovers who enjoy weird-but-true biologyTrivia fans looking for unforgettable conversation startersStudents, teachers, or curious minds of all agesAnyone who's ever wondered what their body is really capable ofWhether you read it cover to cover or flip to a random fact, this book is designed to blow your mind, spark your curiosity, and leave you marveling at the incredible world inside your skin.You don't need a lab coat to explore the mysteries of the human body-just an open mind and a sense of wonder.Perfect for readers young and old, 100 Mind-Blowing Human Body Facts is a must-have for anyone who's ever asked, "How does that even work?"
Organisms and Their Evolution
Every organism is a striving agent. It insistently pursues its own meanings and purposes in the manner of its species. This is true, not only of animal behavior (as seen in our pets), but all the way down to the molecular and cellular levels. Whether a cell is dividing - becoming two cells, with each daughter cell re-organizing itself as a living entity - or replicating its DNA, or carrying out the infinitely varying work of metabolism, it is always directing its activity with a remarkable wisdom. Is this future-oriented organizing ability really irrelevant to evolution, as so many seem to think today?During much of the 20th century, biologists, bound by the repressive doctrine of Behaviorism, could not speak of the human mind. And when, during the last decades of the century, the taboo was finally shattered, it gave rise to what is now called the "Cognitive Revolution," and along with it an invigorating renewal of consciousness studies. When biologists break through the taboo against reckoning with their own descriptive language of meaning and purpose - when they can openly acknowledge every organism's agency, as they are showing early signs of doing today - the consequences for our understanding of biology and evolution may dwarf those of the Cognitive Revolution. These consequences are what this book is about.
Biopolymer-Based Nanosystem for Drug Delivery
This Special Issue of Pharmaceutics presents recent advances in the development and application of biopolymer-based nanosystems for drug delivery. The featured articles highlight innovative approaches to designing nanoscale carriers using natural and synthetic biopolymers, focusing on their ability to enhance bioavailability, control drug release, and achieve targeted delivery. Contributions explore a wide range of systems, including nanoparticles, micelles, hydrogels, and nanofibers, as well as their physicochemical characterization, biological performance, and potential clinical relevance. Together, these works demonstrate the versatility and promise of biopolymeric nanocarriers in modern therapeutics and pave the way for future developments in safe, effective, and sustainable drug delivery technologies.
On the Origin of Sex
From split-gill mushrooms to duck-billed platypuses, the spectacular science of sexual reproduction and creation of biodiversity on Earth. "Smart, thoughtful, and witty, this book will make you rethink what you thought you knew about sex." --Cat Bohannon, author of Eve Let's talk about sex. Not boring, human sex, but the endlessly fascinating, varied, and complex forms of reproduction in the rest of the natural world. Biologist Lixing Sun has spent decades researching sexual reproduction and evolution using behavioral experiments, genetic testing, and mathematical and computer modeling. In On the Origin of Sex, he reveals the wild and weird world of how creatures reproduce. In slime molds, sex can involve dozens--or even hundreds--of mating types, or proto-sexes. Among certain algae, nearly every individual can mate with almost any other--a veritable free-for-all. Meanwhile, whiptail lizards and California condors are just two among the many vertebrate species capable of parthenogenesis. Clownfish sequentially change from male to female, and bearded dragons can undergo temperature-dependent sex reversal, all of which challenge the notion that sex is binary and fixed in the natural world. Assiduously researched and narrated with humor and verve, On the Origin of Sex offers an expert and entertaining investigation into the science of how our planet is populated.
Epic Earth
Hold on tight for a bold and epically fascinating journey through time packed with bizarre creatures, jaw-dropping facts, and all the chaotic drama Earth has to offer. Known for turning TikTok and YouTube into her own digital science classroom, viral content creator Lindsay Nikole brings her signature energy and storytelling to Epic Earth--a book that transforms 4.6 billion years of history--from the Precambrian era to the present--into an unforgettable adventure. This is the story of Earth like you've never seen it before--from the first spark of life to prehistoric monsters to the rise of humans...and all the weird stuff in between. This book takes you through every era of the Earth's history. Meet some prehistoric creatures too weird for Hollywood: Opabinia - a five-eyed, backward-facing, vacuum-nozzle-mouthed oddball that looks like it lost a bet with evolutionAnomalocaris - a giant ocean predator with sideways-facing claws (basically nightmare shrimp)Aegirocassis - a filter-feeding sea giant Lindsay calls "absolutely grotesque"Titanoboa - the largest snake to ever exist (yes, it could eat you)Smilodon - the legendary saber-toothed cat with a bite far scarier than its Instagram profile would suggestPlus: ancient sharks, giant bugs, and way too many creatures with way too many teethIn Epic Earth, you'll uncover: The chaotic early days of Earth (volcanoes, meteors, and non-stop disaster)Paleozoic oceans teeming with alien-like lifeThe rise and fall of dinosaurs (plus some you've never heard of)Mass extinctions that hit like plot twistsIce Ages, megafauna, and why prehistoric animals were so extraHow life survived again and again -- and how we fit into the storyThe history of Earth is a wild ride. Let Lindsay Nikole be your guide. Perfect for: Fans of Lindsay Nikole's TikToks, YouTube videos, and animal contentCurious readers ages 10 and upScience lovers, animal nerds, dino-obsessed kids (and adults)Classrooms, science teachers, and homeschool familiesAnyone who loves fun facts, wild creatures, and epic storytelling
Animal-Computer Interaction
We are excited to present this Special Issue, which shares new ideas and developments in the field of Animal-Computer Interaction, including those that advance scientific knowledge about animals, enhance connections between species, improve the stewardship of animals in human care and articulate the design of systems that offer greater autonomy to other species. This collection of articles features research with mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians, including wild, farmed, zoo-housed and working contexts. The diversity of approaches illustrates how technology can be used as a tool to support humans working with both free-roaming and managed animals, facilitating initiatives in conservation, welfare and enrichment. This demonstrates the potential for interesting and insightful collaborations between animal experts and technologists, working together to create an equitable and sustainable future for all species.
The Long-Standing Problem of Parasitic Diseases in Zoo Animals
Parasitism is a widespread biological phenomenon and is an inseparable part of life in zoological gardens. The negative effects of parasite infestation in zoo animals can be: the development of secondary deficiencies and other infections; impaired reproduction and a risk of death in cases of massive and dangerous parasitoses. Zoos are also places where wild animals come into close contact with humans. This significantly increases the risk of parasitic zoonoses spreading, which poses a threat to the health of the animals themselves, to the zoo staff and to visitors. The control of parasitoses in zoos is subject to various challenges, such as inadequacies in prevention programs, untimely or inaccurate diagnoses, the introduction of parasites via intermediate hosts, paratenic hosts or mechanical vectors (snails, ants, cockroaches, worms, rodents, etc.), persistent infections (e.g. soil-transmitted helminthoses), the need to adapt antiparasitic treatment to a specific species, the development of drug resistance, etc. Success in this battle requires the combined efforts of all zoo professionals: managers, curators, keepers and veterinarians. Scientific advances are also important, though sometimes the courses of action that can be taken are unclear. The Special Issue titled "The Long-Standing Problem of Parasitic Diseases in Zoo Animals: Current Challenges and Searching for Solutions" was created, aiming to collect scientific articles on the topic. We hope that the developments presented will contribute both to the fundamentals of parasitology, to management practices in zoos, and to a better future for animals in captivity.
Innovations in Drug Resistance
Drug resistance is a critical challenge in microbiology and onco-hematology, still representing a global threat to human health.More than half a century passed from the famous Luria-Delbr羹ck fluctuation test, which demonstrated the development of bacterial resistance to phages. Nevertheless, Salvador Luria's pioneering work on drug resistance remains remarkably contemporary. Indeed, the scientific community continues to explore new strategies to hinder resistant pathogens spreading, as well as to optimize anticancer therapies to improve patients' quality of life.Hence, the studies of Luria, Delbr羹ck, and Hershey not only led to a Nobel Prize, but traced a new path in molecular genetics, which is still followed nowadays by scientists all over the world. This reprinted Special Issue, launched by Biomedicines Journal in honor of Prof. Salvador Luria, collects key contributions in drug resistance management, aiming to catch the latest advancements in this enticing research field.
Human Evolution - The Future
Ever since Charles Darwin wrote about the origin of species, there has been a great deal of argument and controversy over the evolution of humans. The author examines the evidence for the genetic basis of evolution in general and the influence of natural selection on the development of the human race. The focus of the book then turns to the question of what the future might hold for the further evolution of humans with particular reference to space exploration and the long-term effects of space travel. The human body is highly adapted in evolutionary terms to living under the influence of gravity and its absence can have some serious health consequences. Weightlessness and its effects on human physiology are only one aspect of space travel the returning astronauts have to deal with. Long space journeys will involve time discrepancies which, in extreme circumstances, result in astronauts returning to a changed world in which their peer group has already passed away and they find themselves amongst strangers. It is difficult to determine exactly what the psychological effects might be on returning voyagers, but it is likely to be quite traumatic. The author suggests the possibility that those who choose to become career astronauts will likely prefer to remain permanently living in space, and over time exposure to different selection pressures will result in a human variant given that both men and women will be equally drawn to scientific research and/or the adventure and excitement involved.
Initiative In Evolution
A provocative reclamation of a neglected classic Initiative in Evolution reframes how we think about life s forward drive. In this lucid, passionate work, Walter Kidd challenges simple one-liners about natural selection and argues for the role of organismal initiative in biological evolution. Drawing on rich natural-history observations and critical engagement with Darwinian theory, Kidd explores adaptation in nature, the interplay of evolutionary processes, and the contested boundaries between environmental pressure, inherited change, and purposeful response. The result is part scientific essay, part intellectual manifesto: a thoughtful probe into evolutionary biology and human evolution that anticipates later debates in evolution and genetics. This edition restores a book that was out of print for decades and is now republished by Alpha Editions. Carefully remastered for clarity and accessibility, it preserves Kidd s original voice while making his arguments readable for today s scholars, students, and curious readers. More than a reprint, this volume is a collector s item and cultural treasure an indispensable piece for anyone tracing the evolution history of ideas about Darwinian theory, evolutionary science, and adaptation. Perfect for casual readers drawn to big-picture questions and for classic literature collectors of scientific thought, Initiative in Evolution offers a spirited alternative perspective on evolutionary theory and invites renewed conversation about how organisms shape their own destinies within the unfolding story of life.
Hidden Creatures
Welcome to the hidden, squirming world of parasites--some of the most misunderstood creatures with whom we share the Earth (and our bodies). "Astonishing, eye-opening, and inspiring." --Chloe Dalton, author of Raising Hare There is the tapeworm, which can grow 120 feet in length within the gut of a whale; the tsetse fly, a notorious vector of disease that can pierce the skin even of crocodiles with its needle-like mouth; and the most universal symbol of parasitic behavior: the leech. Long villainized as, well, parasitic, these creatures are actually a vital part of every ecosystem--and Dr. Dino Martins, an award-winning entomologist and biologist from Kenya, has made it his life's mission to demystify these beguiling beings. Hidden Creatures is a journey around the world ten times over--from Martins' home in the wilds of East Africa, to the rainforests of the Amazon, to cities and backyards across the globe--and along the way, we encounter the brilliant and eccentric experts who join Martins on his adventures to investigate not only parasites but their hosts, from hyraxes and hippos to, of course, humans. Immersive, driven by an utterly infectious curiosity, and sure to transform every reader's understanding of these organisms, Hidden Creatures has the magnetic force of a David Attenborough documentary and introduces a monumental, charismatic new voice in science writing.
Advances in Biological Research into Shrimps, Crabs and Lobsters
This Reprint explores a diverse range of contemporary research in aquatic biology, focusing on decapods such as crabs, lobsters, and shrimp. It presents original, current studies on critical aspects of these species, including molecular phylogeny and evolution. The Reprint also delves into vital topics for sustainable aquaculture and fisheries management, featuring research on spiny lobster fishery dynamics, genetic selection characteristics during the larval stages of Chinese shrimp, and the life history traits and population dynamics of commercially important speckled shrimp. Furthermore, it includes investigations into the morphological characteristics and fatty acid composition of Pacific white shrimp. This comprehensive collection provides valuable insights into the biology, genetics, and ecological considerations essential for understanding and managing decapod populations in aquatic environments.
Storage and Shelf-Life Assessment of Food Products
This Special Issue of the journal Foods is focused on "Storage and Shelf-Life Assessment of Food Products". The assessment of food product storage and shelf life is a critical aspect of ensuring food safety, quality, and sustainability in the food industry. This entails a methodical assessment of numerous parameters that affect the food storage conditions and the time frame during which the desired characteristics of a food product can be preserved. In today's food industry, there is a growing emphasis on extending shelf life while minimizing the use of artificial additives and preservatives. Innovations in packaging technology, processing techniques, and natural preservatives have resulted from this focus.
The Expression Of The Emotions In Man And Animals
A timeless revelation about the language of the face Charles Darwin shows how feelings speak without words. In The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals, Darwin turns his microscope of reason on the most intimate of human experiences: emotion. Drawing on vivid observations of people and animals, this groundbreaking work traces how joy, grief, fear, and anger are expressed across species and shaped by natural selection. Part scientific study, part humane meditation, the book maps the roots of human and animal behavior and lays a foundation for evolutionary psychology and the psychology of emotions. Historically essential and surprisingly modern, Darwin s emotional research links animal communication, behavior evolution, and human emotions analysis in ways that continue to inform cognitive science and psychology. Readers encounter rich examples, illustrative cases, and a persuasive argument that emotions are inherited, adaptive, and often universal. This Alpha Editions release restores a classic once out of print for decades carefully edited, digitized, and refreshed for today s and future generations. More than a reprint, this edition is a collector s item and cultural treasure: ideal for casual readers curious about emotional expression, students of Darwin's scientific studies, and collectors of classic literature alike. Keywords: Charles Darwin emotions, human and animal behavior, evolutionary psychology, emotional expression, Darwin's scientific studies, emotions in animals, human emotions analysis, Darwin's theories, psychology of emotions, behavior evolution, animal communication, Darwin's emotional research.
Introduction To The Study Of Pal ontological Botany
A lost gateway to Earth s deep green memory rediscover the origin stories of plant life in Introduction to the Study of Pal ontological Botany, reborn by Alpha Editions. This lucid, richly illustrated work guides readers through fossil plants, prehistoric flora, and the methods of paleobotany studies that reveal how ancient plant life shaped our planet. From meticulous descriptions of botanical fossils to discussions of plant evolution across geological epochs, the book balances clear explanation with careful scientific observation, making complex paleobotanical research accessible to curious readers and specialists alike. Topics include classification of fossilized leaves, stems, and reproductive structures; the ecological contexts of plant fossil beds; and the unfolding narrative of botanical history through deep time. Historically significant and long out of print, this edition has been lovingly restored for today s and future generations corrected, reindexed, and remastered to preserve original scholarship while improving readability. More than a reprint, this Alpha Editions release is a collector s item and cultural treasure: a faithful preservation of classic plant paleontology that belongs on the shelf of anyone fascinated by plant paleontology, plant evolution, or the science of ancient ecosystems. Perfect for casual readers captivated by prehistoric flora, students entering paleobotany studies, and collectors of historical botany, this volume reconnects modern readers with the foundations of botanical history and the enduring wonder of ancient plant life. Keywords: Paleontological botany, fossil plants, prehistoric flora, botanical history, plant evolution, ancient plant life, paleobotany studies, botanical fossils, plant paleontology, paleobotanical research, historical botany.
Evidence As To Man'S Place In Nature
A provocative challenge to how we see ourselves Thomas Henry Huxley s Evidence As To Man s Place In Nature returns, restored and reborn. This concise, commanding classic presents Huxley s rigorous case for human evolution: comparative anatomy and primate comparison, fossil evidence and embryology woven into a clear argument that humans belong within the natural history of life. Written amid the ferment of 19th-century science, Huxley confronts rival views, unpacks Darwinism for the educated reader, and traces human ancestry with lucid analyses that still spark debate and discovery today. Readers will find vivid chapters on skull morphology, muscular structure, and fossil comparisons that together form a compelling portrait of human origins and scientific exploration. Historically significant and intellectually urgent, this work shaped anthropology and evolutionary theory at a pivotal moment. Scholars prize it for its method and rhetoric; curious readers will be gripped by its forensic logic and moral seriousness. Now out of print for decades, this edition from Alpha Editions has been carefully restored for today s and future generations not a mere reprint, but a collector s item and cultural treasure, with typographic care and contextual notes that honor the text s legacy. Perfect for students of human evolution, collectors of classic scientific works, and anyone fascinated by human ancestry, this edition makes Huxley s powerful case accessible, resonant, and ready for a new age of scientific conversation.
Breath
NOW IN PAPERBACK - THE MILLION COPY NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER, FEATURING NEW MATERIAL "I highly recommend this book." --Wim Hof "A fascinating scientific, cultural, spiritual and evolutionary history of the way humans breathe--and how we've all been doing it wrong for a long, long time." --Elizabeth Gilbert "This book is amazing. " --Joe RoganNo matter what you eat, how much you exercise, how skinny or young or wise you are, none of it matters if you're not breathing properly. There is nothing more essential to our health and well-being than breathing: take air in, let it out, repeat twenty-five thousand times a day. Yet, as a species, humans have lost the ability to breathe correctly, with grave consequences. Journalist James Nestor travels the world to figure out what went wrong and how to fix it. The answers aren't found in pulmonology labs, as we might expect, but in the muddy digs of ancient burial sites, secret Soviet facilities, New Jersey choir schools, and the smoggy streets of S瓊o Paulo. Nestor tracks down men and women exploring the hidden science behind ancient breathing practices like Pranayama, Sudarshan Kriya, and Tummo and teams up with pulmonary tinkerers to scientifically test long-held beliefs about how we breathe. Modern research is showing us that making even slight adjustments to the way we inhale and exhale can jump-start athletic performance; rejuvenate internal organs; halt snoring, asthma, and autoimmune disease; and even straighten scoliotic spines. None of this should be possible, and yet it is. Drawing on thousands of years of medical texts and recent cutting-edge studies in pulmonology, psychology, biochemistry, and human physiology, Breath turns the conventional wisdom of what we thought we knew about our most basic biological function on its head. You will never breathe the same again.
Plant Succession and Vegetation Dynamics
Plant cover on earth is changing continuously on different temporal and spatial scales. The processes of directional change in species composition and vegetation structure with time are referred to as succession: a fundamental but controversially discussed concept in plant community ecology and vegetation geography. In addition to succession, there exists a broad variety of additional processes and patterns of vegetation change in both space and time, such as mosaic cycles, gap dynamics, or cohort dynamics, following diebacks. A better understanding of successional pathways, the processes involved, and vegetation dynamics in general is crucial in times of rapid environmental change and the increasing frequency and intensity of natural and man-made disturbances, as it has important implications for ecosystem restoration and overall vegetation management. This Reprint of the MDPI Diversity Special Issue "Plant Succession and Vegetation Dynamics" collects recent findings and advances in this important field of ecology and vegetation geography from different parts of the earth, from a variety of ecosystems, employing a diverse range of methods.
Editorial Board Members' Collection Series
In recent year, global food security and sustainability aspects have become very significant, not only because of the regulatory aspects, but also because there is a holistic ethics approach that should be followed. This approach needs to consider all aspects related to the development of the industry and thus all stakeholders need to adopt this. Environmental action is required to achieve less waste or zero waste, along with policy implications adopted by governments. Of course, we will be the final beneficiaries, as consumers in the society which we live in. This will better our lives and enable us towards other qualitative dimensions for a better future.
Plant-Insect Interactions
Plant-insect interactions involve interactions of great importance, such as pest management and plant pollination, because of their implications in crop yields. Inducible plant secondary metabolites, such as glucosinolates, can affect host-plant resistance and attractiveness to insects. Endophytic bacteria can also affect the interaction between plants and insects. This Special Issue Reprint presents a collection of papers on the interactions of insects with plants and highlights the importance of these interactions in pest management and pollination.
The Life Machines
Improve your lifelong health and well-being by understanding what mitochondria really do for you, and how through small lifestyle changes, these awe-inspiring powerhouses can better your life. Have you ever wondered what makes every heartbeat, every thought, and every movement possible? Meet your mitochondria--tiny but mighty organelles that are the true engines of life. These organelles are popularly known as the "powerhouses of the cell," but new research shows that the mitochondria do more than just convert food into energy--they're orchestrators of critical functions that keep you healthy and alive. This groundbreaking book by a leading scientist from Stanford University School of Medicine and her husband, a bestselling author, is the first to provide a comprehensive yet easy-to-understand look at mitochondria and their vital role in human health. It is based on the premise that healthy mitochondria are the key to healthy cells and, thus, to healthy tissues, healthy organs, and a healthy body. The Life Machines provides practical and fundamental principles that you can use to unlock your body's full potential, answering questions like: -How does exercise help mitochondria improve your muscles and your brain? -What nutrients do mitochondria thrive on, and how is your gut microbiome involved? -How can developing better sleeping habits improve your mitochondrial health? -Why relaxing and managing stress will reduce damage to your mitochondria? -How can you protect your mitochondria from toxins in the environment? -Why mitochondria are the key to healthy aging We are only as healthy as our mitochondria. Dysfunction of these organelles has been linked to diseases and conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, type 2 diabetes, heart diseases, cancer, depression, autism spectrum disorder, chronic fatigue syndrome, and infertility. Now, the remarkable progress in understanding the mitochondrial role in these ailments will shape the future of medicine. Packed with surprising facts, you'll read about "mitochondrial Eve" who lived in Africa 200,000 years ago; tiny rotors that spin inside your body at fantastic speed; how cancer cells steal mitochondria from immune cells; how mitochondria help shape a baby's fingers and brain; how mitochondria in your thighs are linked to your cognitive capacity, and more. Skillfully weaving cutting-edge scientific discoveries, expert testimonies, personal stories, and practical insights, The Life Machines is inspiring and hopeful, empowering you to adopt lifestyle changes that will benefit the smallest--and yet most crucial--parts of the human body.
Climate Change and Agriculture
This Reprint aims to present readers with the impacts of climate change on the agricultural sector, particularly on crop production and soil health, as well as the innovative strategies and adaptation mechanisms employed to address these challenges. From evaluating the effects of climate change on the yield and quality of key agricultural products such as rice, wheat, and olives, to exploring adaptive strategies for crops in response to climatic shifts, and analyzing impacts of climate changes on soil nutrient cycles and soil health, we seek to illuminate the depth and breadth of these research fields. In this edition, experts in the field share their insights, research findings, and visions for the future. Drawing on this invaluable knowledge and experience, we collectively embark on an exploratory journey to unlock agriculture's boundless potential in adapting to climate change and to pursue innovative, sustainable pathways for development. Our goal is to meet the escalating global demand for agricultural products while safeguarding the balance of our terrestrial's ecosystems. These efforts aim to lay a robust foundation for an eco-friendly and agriculturally sustainable future, where agricultural prosperity aligns with nature's rhythms, fostering a new chapter of harmonious coexistence between humanity and the natural world.
Interaction Between Intestinal Microorganisms and Hosts to Regulate Animal Growth
With the rapid development of modern biotechnology and in-depth research in the field of digestive tract microecology, the complex interaction between intestinal microorganisms and their hosts is gradually being deciphered. Intestinal microorganisms, which include a diverse array of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes, play pivotal roles in regulating animal growth by affecting various biological processes. Two key research directions have emerged in this field. The first focuses on nutrients and their role in maintaining intestinal innate immunity. Nutrients are not only essential for host health, but also influence the balance of gut microorganisms, promoting an optimal immune response to protect the gut from pathogens while supporting its natural microflora. The second direction explores the interaction between intestinal microorganisms and host cells, particularly considering how microorganisms communicate with and influence host cell function at the molecular level, affecting nutrient absorption, energy metabolism, and overall growth performance in animals. By understanding these molecular mechanisms, researchers aim to develop new strategies to improve animal health and growth through tailored nutritional and microbial interventions. This field of research holds great promise for advancements in both animal husbandry and biotechnology.
Sing Like Fish
A captivating exploration of how underwater animals tap into sound to survive, and a clarion call for humans to address the ways we invade these critical soundscapes--from an award-winning science writer "Sing Like Fish is that rare book that makes you see the world differently."--Mark Kurlansky, New York Times bestselling author of Salt and Cod LONGLISTED FOR THE ANDREW CARNEGIE MEDAL FOR EXCELLENCE IN NONFICTIONFor centuries, humans ignored sound in the "silent world" of the ocean, assuming that what we couldn't perceive, didn't exist. But we couldn't have been more wrong. Marine scientists now have the technology to record and study the complex interplay of the myriad sounds in the sea. Finally, we can trace how sounds travel with the currents, bounce from the seafloor and surface, bend with the temperature and even saltiness; how sounds help marine life survive; and how human noise can transform entire marine ecosystems. In Sing Like Fish, award-winning science journalist Amorina Kingdon synthesizes historical discoveries with the latest scientific research in a clear and compelling portrait of this sonic undersea world. From plainfin midshipman fish, whose swim-bladder drumming is loud enough to keep houseboat-dwellers awake, to the syntax of whalesong; from the deafening crackle of snapping shrimp, to the seismic resonance of underwater earthquakes and volcanoes; sound plays a vital role in feeding, mating, parenting, navigating, and warning--even in animals that we never suspected of acoustic ability. Meanwhile, we jump in our motorboats and cruise ships, oblivious to the impact below us. Our lifestyle is fueled by oil in growling tankers and furnished by goods that travel in massive container ships. Our seas echo with human-made sound, but we are just learning of the repercussions of anthropogenic noise on the marine world's delicate acoustic ecosystems--masking mating calls, chasing animals from their food, and even wounding creatures, from plankton to lobsters. With intimate and artful prose, Sing Like Fish tells a uniquely complete story of ocean animals' submerged sounds, envisions a quieter future, and offers a profound new understanding of the world below the surface.
The Genetic Book of the Dead
From a renowned biologist and best-selling author, a whole new way of looking at living organisms: reading them as documents describing ancient worlds A Financial Times Best Book of 2024: Science - Named Science Book of the Year by Times (UK) - A Guardian Best Ideas Book of 2024 "Intellectually sparkling and beautifully crafted."--Adrian Woolfson, Wall Street Journal "A glorious affair. . . . Arguably [Dawkins's] most joyous ode to the wonders that evolution has wrought in the animal world."--Philip Ball, Science An exquisitely camouflaged lizard has a desiccated landscape of sand and stones "painted" on its back. Its skin can be read as a description of an ancient desert, a world in which its ancestors survived. Such descriptions are more than skin deep, however. They penetrate the very warp and woof of the entire animal. In this groundbreaking exploration of the power of Darwinian evolution and what it can reveal about the past, Richard Dawkins shows how the body, behavior, and genes of every living creature can be read as a book--an archive of the worlds of its ancestors. In the future, a zoologist presented with a hitherto unknown animal will be able to decode its ancestral history, to read its unique "book of the dead." Such readings are already uncovering the remarkable ways animals overcome obstacles, adapt to their environments, and, again and again, develop remarkably similar ways of solving life's problems. From the author of The Selfish Gene comes a revolutionary, richly illustrated book that unlocks the door to a past more vivid, nuanced, and fascinating than anything we have seen.
Functional Ingredients from Food Waste and By-Products
The increasing global concern over food loss and waste, along with its environmental, economic, and social consequences, accentuates the urgent need for effective mitigation strategies. Addressing food waste offers benefits for the climate, food security, and the sustainability of the agri-food system.This Special Issue brings together cutting-edge research and practical approaches aimed at transforming food residues, discards, and surpluses into valuable functional ingredients and products. Covering a broad range of topics, this collection explores state-of-the-art upcycling strategies and expands knowledge on the characterization of bioactive compounds, ingredients and products derived from food by-products, and explores their diverse applications across sectors such as food, beverages, packaging, and agriculture.
Innovative Technologies for Food Preservation and Processing
The Special Issue entitled "Innovative Technologies for Food Preservation and Processing", published in the journal Applied Sciences, focuses on the latest advancements in food production and storage. We invite researchers to explore mechanisms of food spoilage prevention and the development of innovative methods for raw material processing. The aim of such measures is to provide products with enhanced preserved qualities and health benefits through evolving food industry technologies.
Big Data Analytics and Machine Learning for Smart Agriculture
Modern agriculture is undergoing a transformation through the integration of advanced technologies, such as big data analytics and machine learning. Since the first edition of "Big Data Analytics and Machine Learning for Smart Agriculture" in 2023, the agricultural sector has progressed from Industry 4.0 to 5.0, underscoring the rapid pace of innovation in this field.Big data analytics and machine learning are revolutionizing farm and agricultural system management by enabling more efficient resource use and increasing crop yields. Artificial intelligence is now used in fertilization recommendation systems, helping to optimize the application of agricultural inputs and support sustainable practices. AI technologies also assist in identifying plant diseases and pests-an essential aspect of Agriculture 5.0.The integration of drones and other devices with AI enables precise crop monitoring and rapid responses to potential threats. Beyond crop production, AI is also applied in animal husbandry, for example, in optimizing meat production. AI-powered prognostic systems help predict failures in smart farms, thereby improving operational reliability. One of the key ongoing challenges is the standardization of data, due to the wide variety of measurement devices and differing environmental conditions during data collection. The efficient processing and analysis of large datasets is crucial for generating actionable insights and driving innovation in digital agriculture.
Estimation and Monitoring of Forest Biomass and Fuel Load Components
The aim of this Reprint is to immerse the reader in the latest cutting-edge approaches for quantifying forest biomass components. This Reprint presents 13 studies advancing forest biomass estimation through methodological innovations, technological integration, and management strategies. The research highlights multi-scale data fusion for precise carbon accounting and sustainable forestry practices. These contributions provide actionable insights for achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals 13 (Climate Action) and 15 (Life on Land) through precision forestry.
Gait and Balance Control in Typical and Special Individuals
Research on gait and balance control has significantly advanced in recent years due in part to the development of sophisticated biomechanical techniques, allowing us to move beyond simple observations to a deeper, more quantitative understanding of human movement. This knowledge is not just theoretical; it has significant implications for both healthy individuals and a wide range of special populations-from high-performance athletes to those grappling with neurological conditions or age-related decline. In this Special Issue, "Gait and Balance Control in Typical and Special Individuals", we present a collection of studies that showcase the breadth and depth of modern biomechanics, covering various topics. Readers can uncover new insights into the variability of developmental gait in children, the challenges of gait asymmetry following a stroke, and even how humans adapt to simulated hyper-gravity. The Special Issue also delves into specific clinical applications, exploring foot coupling in runners with plantar heel pain, key biomechanical parameters linked to falls in the elderly, and the intricate complexities of gait and balance in individuals with Parkinson's disease. The final article provides a comparative look at dynamic balance in gymnasts. We hope that these diverse contributions will not only serve as an important resource for researchers and clinicians but also foster new avenues of investigation, ultimately advancing our collective understanding and improving the lives of countless individuals.
Theoretical and Computational Polymers Science
The study of polymers has been central to numerous scientific and technological advancements over the past several decades. The primary aim of this reprint is to present, in a concise format, recent developments in polymer theory and its applications, as contributed by experts actively engaged in the study of polymer phenomena across condensed matter physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. The contributions emphasize theoretical and simulation-based approaches to polymers in complex environments, whether as individual chains or in multi-polymer systems such as melts. The applications span a wide range of materials, including block copolymers, polymer brushes, thermoplastic resins, carbon fiber-reinforced resins, gels, rubbers, cross-linked polyethylene, polyelectrolytes, and proteins.
Why Whales Sing
Reconceives whale songs as a sophisticated sonar system, revealing incredible insights into these creatures' intelligence and behavior.With breathtaking complexity and haunting beauty, the songs of whales have long fascinated scientists. Whales are the only mammals that can sing continuously for ten hours or more, changing the unique songs they sing every year. In Why Whales Sing, bioacoustician and cognitive scientist Eduardo Mercado transforms our understanding of these enigmatic sounds and proposes a groundbreaking theory that challenges decades of established science. Fifty years of field research have led most scientists to conclude that humpback whales sing for the same reason that birds do: to advertise their sexual fitness. But if whale songs are nothing more than tools of attraction, why do whales sing even when they're alone and there are no listeners nearby? In light of modern advances in neuroscience and ocean acoustics, Mercado reaches the surprising conclusion that whales may not actually be "singing," but rather engaging in an activity more commonly associated with dolphins and bats--echolocating--which enables them to see their world with sound. By incessantly streaming sounds while listening closely to the returning echoes, whales may be actively tuning their brains in ways that allow them to monitor the movements of silent whales located miles away.Sophisticated, long-range sonar can enable whales to perceive their vast underwater worlds in unimaginable ways. From the military origins of whale song recordings to the persistent mysteries of cetacean communication, this book displays the wonder of whales and reshapes how we view their intelligence, behavior, and acoustic mastery.
Aspergillus flavus and Aflatoxins (3rd Edition)
Aspergillus flavus and its carcinogenic secondary metabolites, aflatoxins, not only cause serious economic losses but also threaten human and animal health. This Special Issue focuses on recent research progress related to Aspergillus flavus and aflatoxins. Of the included papers, three reviews cover the effects of AFB1 on intestinal microbiota and the intestinal health of monogastric animals, the decontamination of Aspergillus spp. and aflatoxin with atmospheric cold plasma, and aflatoxin residues in chicken products. Herein, it is reported that the chitin deacetylase homologous gene cda impacts development and aflatoxin synthesis in A. flavus. Two included papers highlight methods employed for aflatoxin determination. This Special Issue not only includes methods for the control of aflatoxins but also several aflatoxin detoxifying methods. A particular focus is placed on the mechanistic effects of aflatoxins on the host. Fundamental and applied research on A. flavus and aflatoxins is not only of particular interest but also crucial for reducing economic losses.
Human Brain Responses and Functional Brain Networks across the Lifespan
Human brain networks undergo life-long adaptations, thereby responding to age-specific cognitive and behavioral challenges. Environmental stressors, neurodegeneration, and other factors can, however, disrupt healthy brain development and function. Electrophysiology and other non-invasive neuroscientific methods provide insight into these dynamic changes in behavior and cognitive function across the lifespan. This reprint of the Special Issue "Human Brain Responses and Functional Brain Networks across the Lifespan" presents state-of-the-art research from recognized experts, offering comprehensive coverage of brain function across all age groups.
Advanced Stimuli-Responsive Polymer Composites
This Reprint compiles original research articles from the Special Issue of Polymers titled "Advanced Stimuli-Responsive Polymer Composites", highlighting the rapid progress in polymer-based materials that actively respond to external stimuli such as temperature, pH, light, or mechanical stress. These "smart" composites enable novel applications in soft robotics, biomedicine, sensing, and adaptive surfaces.The Special Issue aimed to bridge polymer chemistry, materials science, and engineering, with a focus on understanding stimuli-response mechanisms and translating them into functional materials. Contributions included thermo-chromic polymer mixtures, bio-hydrogels with photonic nano-chains, hybrid dielectric systems, and liquid crystalline elastomer composites. Both experimental and computational approaches were used to investigate how micro- and nanostructures determine macroscopic behavior under dynamic conditions.This collection is intended for researchers in polymer science and responsive materials design. By presenting interdisciplinary insights-from synthesis and processing to in situ characterization and device integration-it offers a concise yet diverse overview of current advances.I thank all contributing authors, anonymous reviewers, and the Polymers editorial team. This Reprint aims to stimulate future research and collaboration in this exciting and fast-moving field.
New Tools for Monitoring Genetic Diversity in Animals
The aim of this Reprint is to showcase how recent advances in molecular biology and, particularly, sequencing technologies have transformed animal research across multiple disciplines. With the decreasing costs of genomic data generation and the growing availability of reference genome resources, high-throughput approaches are now applied broadly to study the genetic diversity of a wide range of species. This Special Issue collates research contributions that illustrate how modern genetic and genomic tools are reshaping our understanding of conservation biology, evolutionary processes, wildlife monitoring, and animal ecology.
Diversity of Marine Fungi as a Source of Bioactive Natural Products, 2nd Edition
Marine fungi-derived bioactive metabolites represent a significant source for drug discovery, with distinct metabolic mechanisms evolving in fungi from different marine environments. Natural product scientists have explored various environments, such as deep oceans, polar regions, and marine mangrove ecosystems, to discover unique fungi strains that can produce new bioactive structures. This collection aims to highlight the diversity of fungi derived from different marine environments, in addition to their potential as producers of bioactive marine natural products.
Marine Algae
Marine algae (seaweed) are increasingly recognized for their rich nutritional profiles and health-promoting properties, making them valuable in the realm of nutraceuticals. This Reprint of Marine Drugs examines the diverse roles seaweed plays in human nutrition and health, with a particular focus on the bioactive compounds underpinning their therapeutic effects. The topics addressed include the biochemical makeup of various seaweed species, their antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activities, and their integration into functional foods and dietary supplements. Research also explores the sustainability of seaweed harvesting and cultivation, along with advancements in extraction and processing techniques aimed at maximizing health benefits. This collection provides a comprehensive analysis of seaweed as a vital resource for enhancing human well-being and advances ongoing discourse in marine nutraceuticals.
Making New Out of the Old
This Special Issue aims to present recent biological advances made in research on Mesozoic Marine Reptiles, which include the most iconic and largest predators of their time, mirroring terrestrial dinosaurs. Through the study of exceptionally preserved specimens and/or the use of innovative methods, the authors shed light on several biological and ecological aspects that were previously inaccessible by conventional studies. The endocranial morphology of mosasaur is revealed by 3D micro-computed tomography (Par獺mo-Fonseca et al.; Allemand et al.), and their alimentation patterns (permitting to infer niche partitioning and food preferences) are approached using various proxies applied to their teeth, such as 3D morphometric analyses (Bardet et al.), microstructural analyses (Holwerda et al.), and carbon isotopic geochemistry (Polcyn et al.). Locomotion capabilities and swimming performances are addressed by studying fin evolution using anatomical networks in ichthyosaurs (Fern獺ndez et al.) and neck and vertebrae elongation patterns in plesiosaurs (O'Gorman). Soft tissue (skin and colour) of ichthyosaurs is highlighted by a combination of molecular and imaging techniques (Bonnevier Wallstedt et al.). Finally, a complete systematic and anatomical revision of Jurassic ichthyosaurs, plesiosaurs, and thatattosuchians faunas from Russia reveals their astonishing richness and diversity (Zverkov et al.).
Recent Progress in Bioimaging and Targeted Therapy
Bioimaging is used to visualize biomolecules and their biological activity in a specific period of time. It does not influence the life processes during visualization, but can help in understanding biological activities at molecular levels and connecting the observation of subcellular structures with multicellular tissues and organs. Targeted bioimaging contributes to current therapies by providing evidence for disease diagnosis; locating and guiding surgical operation; indicating the time and position to perform treatments; and evaluating therapeutic effects. The topics of this reprint may include the following themes: Developing novel in vivo strategies for targeted MRI, PET, CT, fluorescence, Raman imaging, etc.Developing specific biosensing techniques for disease biomarkers, including small molecules, nucleic acids, macromolecules, circulating cancer cells, cancer cells, tumor organs, etc.Designing and fabricating targeted imaging probes including, but not limited to, organic molecules; inorganic nanomaterials such as rare earth materials, silica nanoparticles, and quantum dots; conducting polymers; and DNA self-assembly materials.Developing strategies to enhance imaging S/N ratio, resolution, specificity, efficiency.
