Recent Advances and New Challenges in Coupled Systems and Networks
Gene Editing by CRISPR-Cas
CRISPR-Cas systems have redefined the landscape of genetic engineering, offering an unprecedented level of precision, efficiency, and versatility in genome editing. This book entitled "Gene Editing by CRISPR-Cas" provides a comprehensive and well-structured approach on the historical context of genetics and gene editing techniques leading to the ground-breaking discovery of CRISPR-Cas systems.Distinguished by its multidisciplinary scope, this volume not only delves into CRISPR-Cas systems but also examines alternative and next-generation gene-editing technologies. The book aims to inform and engage both general audience with a keen interest in science and biology, as well as professionals and students in related fields. By offering a balanced blend of scientific explanations, real-world applications, the book seeks to empower readers to understand the potential of CRISPR technology and its impact across diverse domains such as medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, and diagnostics, while addressing the ethical, regulatory, and biosafety considerations essential for responsible implementation. Furthermore, this book engages in a discussion on the future directions and broader impacts of CRISPR technologies, providing valuable insights into the evolving landscape of genome engineering and its implications for scientific advancements.Key Features: This book is written in a clear and accessible manner, making complex scientific concepts understandable to a general audience without overwhelming them with technical jargon. This book provides a comprehensive exploration of the discovery and evolution of CRISPR technology, delving into the underlying science and its transformative capabilities. It serves as an excellent introduction to both the technical intricacies and the human implications of this groundbreaking technology. This book provides an in-depth exploration of the potential uses of CRISPR across multiple domains, with a particular focus on genetic disease treatment, cancer studies, agricultural advancements, HIV, blood disorders, neurological conditions, insect biology, microbial engineering, and both infectious and non-infectious diseases. Furthermore, this book also provides critical analysis of bioethics, safety concerns, and regulatory frameworks, providing a responsible perspective on genome editing.
Photodynamic Therapy for the Management of Disease
Advances in medical technology have brought the use of photosensitizing materials and light for treating diverse ailments to a new level, with reduced adverse effects and enhanced therapeutic outcomes. This new book focuses on diffusion optical imaging, a non-invasive imaging technique that allows for real-time visualization of the treatment area, and explores its application for treating patients through various modes. The volume discusses photodynamic treatement for pharmacological intervention, breast cancer diagnosis using biophotonics, photothermal therapy for cancer with gold nanoparticles, photobiomodulation therapy for the brain, with a specific focus on its potential impact on neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and more.
Omics Approaches in Biofilm Research
The increased incidence of microorganisms' selective pressure to traditional antibiotics has led to the emergence of multi-drug resistance (MDR) phenomena and has become a global health issue with a catastrophic influence on millions of lives, as well as the global economy. The inherent tendency of pathogenic microorganisms to infer MDR could be attributed to their ability to form recalcitrant biofilm matrices. The biofilm matrix not only advocates chronic nosocomial infections, but also critically provides protection against environmental stress including antibiotic therapies. Biofilm-mediated MDR has posed a serious challenge to human well-being. Henceforth, it is important to understand the pathophysiology of biofilms and the concomitant development of diagnostic & therapeutic modalities to counteract biofilm-mediated chronic infections.The lack of understanding on biofilm biology has a critical negative influence on diagnostic and therapeutic efforts. Therefore, it is imperative to discover the right course of action to understand biofilm mechanics. The advent of Omics-based approaches has provided a holistic realization to understand biofilm ecology with special reference to the pathophysiological interactions of antibiotic-resistant genes, protein-protein interactions, and response-based interactions with therapeutic agents upon infection. The inherent ability of several Omics-based approaches has provided a comprehensive understanding of biofilm dynamics at various levels of organization such as genes, mRNA, proteins, and their regulation. Omics-based tools such as metagenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, etc. have provided a new horizon to understand and tackle the biofilm-mediated antibiotic resistance. The integrated approach to consider multi-Omics tools (e.g. genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, lipidomics, metabolomics, etc.) has further improved our understanding of the mechanisms associated with biofilm resistome profile. The applications of transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics profiles of biofilm matrices could provide new dimensions in relation to the characteristic properties of different ARGs, their relative expression profiles, and their metabolic intervention in biofilm mechanics. Also, advanced integrated Phenomics, Lipidomics, and Culturomics approaches could provide novel avenues to understand the diverse range of biofilm phenotypes, their macromolecular reorganization profiles, and molecular tools for identification of microbial species in the complex biofilm microenvironment. Based on the advancement in omics-based tools, "Omics Approaches in Biofilm Research: Perspectives and Applications" integrates the current knowledge of biofilm microenvironment and innovative strategies to address biofilm mediated drug resistance. This work provides a comprehensive platform to enhance our knowledge, diagnosis and strategies to mitigate biofilms and associated diseases.
Association of Dietary Intake with Chronic Disease and Human Health
Plants, Lichens, Fungi and Algae Ingredients for Nutrition and Health
Benthic Biodiversity from Microbes to Multicellular Organisms and Its Functional Interplays
Detection, Control, Risk Assessment, and Prevention of Foodborne Microorganisms
Study on Prognostic Marker Mucin1
Mucin1 is an important tumor marker, and is notable for the autoproteolytic event, a signature of all SEA domain containing proteins. This work reports an in silico, study of the structural and functional significance of the 18 residue insert in the autoproteolytic process and also the peptide inhibitors for preventing its receptor-ligand alliance. It also reports ligand scaffolds that could effectively participate in inhibition of autoproteolysis of mucin 1. The study reveals both isoforms to poses an intact SEA domain, with an altered functional scaffold around the cleavage site. Mutation analysis by alanine substitutions at the insert region revealed ILE67 to be more destabilizing, resulting in increased fluctuation of the neighboring residues. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulation revealed Isoleucine67 to contribute more to the structural and functional properties of the protein and therefore is one of the crucial residues for the cleavable nature of MUC1/X. Through virtual screeing and docking two ligand scaffolds were identified that have higher binding affinity towards the cleavage site.
Vitamin D and Its Effects in Craniofacial Growth
Vitamin D plays a pivotal role in Craniofacial growth by regulating calcium-phosphorus balance, bone mineralization, and gene expression via the vitamin D receptor (VDR) in bone, cartilage, and dental tissues. Chronic deficiency defined by 25(OH)D levels below 20-30 ng/mL can impair jaw development, leading to underdeveloped maxilla or mandible, crowding, narrow arches, high palates, and increased risk of crossbites. Thus, ensuring adequate vitamin D levels during growth through sun exposure, diet, or supplementation is essential not only for systemic bone health but also for optimal craniofacial and dental development. This Dissertation contains the metabolism of Vitamin D in detail with particular emphasis of its effect in growth and development of the Craniofacial skeleton.
TA Cloning
We have exploited the technique of TA cloning of a gene responsible for antibiotic resistance i.e Kanamycin resistance by following the basic steps involved in the cloning process.Background of the invention An essential requirement for effective genetic engineering of bacteria and other cells propagated in cell cultures is the capacity to select the cells with a specific genotypic alteration. The most common selection strategy in recombinant DNA technology is to include a selection marker in the cloning vector or plasmid. A selection marker can be a cloned gene or a DNA sequence, which allows the separation of the host cells containing the selection marker from those not containing it. The selection marker together with a suitable selection medium maintains the cloning vector in the cells. Otherwise, since the replication of plasmids is an energetic burden for the bacterial host, in a growing cultures the bacteria, which have lost the plasmid, would have a growth advantage over the cells with the plasmid.
Seroepidemiology of Transfusion Transmitted Toxoplasma gondii, CMV and
The seroepidemiology of transfusion- transmitted infections such as Toxoplasma gondii, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and parvovirus B19 among healthy blood donors in India underscores a significant public health concern, particularly for immunocompromised individuals, neonates, and pregnant women. Studies from various regions in India reveal that the seroprevalence of T. gondii IgG antibodies among blood donors ranges from approximately 20% to 25%, indicating past exposure, with a smaller percentage showing IgM positivity, suggesting recent infections . CMV exhibits a notably high seroprevalence among Indian blood donors, with IgG positivity rates reported between 90% and 97%, reflecting widespread prior exposure, while IgM positivity remains low, indicating fewer recent infections . Parvovirus B19 seroprevalence studies indicate that IgG antibodies are present in approximately 27% to 40% of donors, signifying previous exposure, with IgM antibodies detected in about 1.4% to 7.5% of donors, pointing to current or recent infections.
Overview of Prostate Cancer and its Diagnostic Techniques
Prostate cancer remains one of the prevalent malignancies affecting men globally. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality among men in the United States and many other countries.A liquid biopsy refers to a non-invasive diagnostic test that detects cancer-related biomarkers shed by tumors into the bloodstream or other bodily fluids. Early Detection and Screening Liquid biopsies have the potential to aid in the early detection of prostate cancer, particularly in high-risk populations. By analyzing PSA levels and genetic markers, liquid biopsies can provide insights into a patient's risk profile, leading to timely interventions. Monitoring Disease Progression Liquid biopsies allow for real-time monitoring of cancer progression without the need for repeated invasive procedures.
Antimicrobial Resistance - New Insights
This comprehensive book provides a timely and authoritative overview of the latest advances in antimicrobial resistance (AMR), bringing together leading experts to share their knowledge on the complex mechanisms of AMR and the latest clinical recommendations for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. The book delves into how AMR is a critical global health threat driven by the misuse of antibiotics in medicine, agriculture, and the environment, undermining treatment effectiveness and food security. The volume highlights urgent needs for molecular research, global collaboration, and innovative solutions such as nanotechnology and alternative therapies to combat the spread of multidrug-resistant pathogens. It also emphasizes the importance of responsible antimicrobial use, improved surveillance, and coordinated action across sectors to manage and prevent AMR sustainably. With a balanced view of the current state of knowledge, this book highlights areas of uncertainty and controversy and identifies future research directions. The book is an essential resource for researchers and clinicians seeking to stay up-to-date with the latest advances, students and academics looking for a comprehensive and authoritative textbook, and industry professionals and policymakers interested in understanding the latest developments and challenges in the field. The book will provide them a unique opportunity to explore the complex interplay between AMR and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, ultimately aiming to contribute to developing effective strategies to combat AMR and improve human health globally. This book is a self-contained collection of scholarly papers targeting an audience of practicing medical and basic researchers, academicians, MD/Ph.D. students and scientists.
Human Microbiome
The human microbiome is the sum total of all microorganisms (fungi, viruses, bacteria, and other microbes) that inhabit and reside on the human body. These microorganisms mostly live in places such as the skin, gut, mouth, and other body systems. The human gut microbiome, specifically, harbors trillions of organisms and plays vital functions in the following terms: Digestion and metabolism, immune system development and function, protection against pathogens production of essential vitamins and compounds Influence on mental health through the gut-brain axis.
Genotyping
This volume covers the latest techniques used to study single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) genotyping, such as Sanger sequencing, qPCR, Nanopore sequencing, and PACE. The chapters in this book cover topics such as SNP nomenclature, databases, and significance of SNPs in various fields; PCR-based techniques like HRM and CD-PCR; isothermal amplification methodologies; high-throughput methods like FCS-based SNP genotyping; and guidance of data analysis, emphasizing the importance of quality control, statistical analysis, and visualization. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Cutting-edge and thorough, Genotyping: Methods and Protocols is a valuable resource for both new and experienced researchers who want to gain a deeper understanding of genotyping and its myriad of applications.
The Stronger Sex
A myth-busting vindication of women's physical strengths For decades, Starre Vartan--like most women--was told that having a woman's body meant being weaker than men. Like many women, she mostly believed it. Not anymore. Following a half decade of research into the newest science, Vartan shows in The Stronger Sex that women's bodies are incredibly powerful, flexible, and resilient in ways men's bodies aren't. Tossing aside the narrow notion of a fully ripped man as the measure of strength, Vartan reveals the ways that women surpass men in endurance, flexibility, immunity, pain tolerance, and the ultimate test of any human body: longevity. Vartan--a deadeye shot since her grandmother showed her how to aim a .22--debunks myth after myth like so many tin cans at two hundred yards and reveals why, if anyone wins in a battle of the sexes, it's women. In interviews with dozens of researchers from biology, anthropology, physiology, and sports science, plus in-depth conversations with runners, swimmers, wrestlers, woodchoppers, thru-hikers, firefighters, and more, The Stronger Sex squashes outdated ideas about women's bodies. It's a celebration of female strength that doesn't argue "down with men" but "up with us all."
Review of the Doctrine of a Vital Principle, As Maintained by Some Writers On Physiology
