Algal Cultivation for Obtaining High-Value Products
Interest in the application of High-Value Products from natural sources for human health, the food and cosmetics industry, and animal feed has increased significantly as consumers increasingly prefer natural ingredients and show concerns about the toxic effects of synthetic compounds. Photosynthetic organisms have evolved different strategies to survive under complex and extreme environmental conditions (high light, high salinity, extreme temperature, nutrient deficiency, UV- radiation) by adapting their metabolism. Various species of algae can produce large amounts of secondary metabolites such as carotenoids, polyphenols, and essential oils, which have varied therapeutic properties, due to their antioxidant activity. This variation may depend mainly on the species, strains, genetic diversity, and/or abiotic stress. For this reason, numerous studies have been carried out to increase knowledge in this field and to optimize the recovery of natural antioxidant compounds under different growing conditions and with different stress factors. This Special Issue focuses on promoting algae capable of producing High-Value Products, as well as cultivation technologies, strategies, and growth conditions that lead to the popularization of these compounds; techniques for the extraction and purification of these compounds and their potential applications will also be explored.
Coccidiosis in Poultry
This Special Issue is a compilation of recent research efforts to better understand coccidiosis in commercial poultry production. Caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria, coccidiosis is characterized by destruction of the intestinal epithelium leading to hemorrhage and, in some cases, death. Poor intestinal health, impaired growth performance, and susceptibility to other pathogens are common outcomes of coccidial infections. It is among the costliest of all diseases affecting poultry production. In the last 25 years, new methods for controlling Eimeria infections in poultry have been slow to reach the marketplace, and as a result, greater emphasis must be placed on understanding the causative organisms and the diseases that they cause. It is hoped that this Special Issue will stimulate interest in and provide direction for additional research toward this objective.
Phytogenic and Phytochemical as Alternative Feed Additives for Animal Production
The Application of Spectral Techniques in Agriculture and Forestry
This Special Issue compiles 12 groundbreaking studies that advance spectral analysis technologies through interdisciplinary integration with machine learning. By synergizing remote sensing data and intelligent algorithms, the featured research establishes multidimensional monitoring frameworks spanning crop phenotyping to ecosystem assessment. Key advances include (1) novel vegetation indices derived from multi-angle hyperspectral data, resolving angular dependencies in leaf area index estimation, and enhanced convolutional neural networks, achieving 98.4% accuracy in maize disease detection under complex backgrounds; (2) L-band synthetic aperture radar innovations for vertical forest parameter retrieval and genetic-algorithm-optimized spectral models quantifying soil heavy-metal contamination via rice leaf signatures; and (3) spatiotemporal coupling of thermal infrared and multispectral techniques elucidating canopy temperature hysteresis mechanisms, enabling XGBoost-based crop water diagnostics for precision irrigation in arid regions. The studies, covering diverse agroforestry systems across European and Asian climates, validate spectral technology's universal applicability to stress response monitoring, nutrient dynamics analysis, and sustainable farming practices. These innovations collectively construct an integrated "air-space-ground" intelligent sensing network, offering scalable solutions for food security under climate change. The findings mark spectral analysis's transition into a data-driven decision-making era, establishing critical frameworks for real-time ecosystem monitoring and resource management.
Financial Analysis, Corporate Finance and Risk Management
This reprint offers a comprehensive exploration of contemporary financial challenges, bringing together eighteen high-quality research contributions. It covers diverse topics such as corporate debt patterns, earnings quality in small- and medium-sized enterprises, and the role of governance structures in financial decision-making. Additionally, it delves into the topics of advanced risk management techniques, financial sustainability, and the integration of technological innovations, including artificial intelligence and machine learning. Designed for researchers, professionals, and policymakers, this reprint provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of corporate finance and risk management practices.
Beachcomber’s Guide from Cape Cod to Cape Hatteras
Here's a helpful, easy-to-read guide that turns beachcombing into exciting expeditions for discovering the marvelous beach creatures and dynamic shore features from Cape Cod to Cape Hatteras. It is a must for anyone visiting the beaches between these two locales because it simply and clearly describes the creatures and natural forces that make the beach so much fun.
Conservation Agricultural Practices for Improving Crop Production and Quality
In crop production, the conventional management of agroecosystems often leads to a reduction in soil quality and alters the soil processes involved in providing many ecosystem services. Intensive tillage, combined with high-mineral fertilization, increases the mineralization of organic carbon in the soil, thereby contributing to an increase in greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere. Conservation agriculture (CA) may be the answer to these threats. CA is a crop and soil management practice for sustainable agriculture, defined by three related principles: minimum tillage and soil disturbance, permanent organic soil cover, and diversified crop rotations. Adherence to these principles improves soil quality, optimizes yields, and reduces production costs. Conservation practices help minimize soil erosion, directly increase CO2 sequestration in the soil due to increased organic matter, improve the efficiency of water capture and use, stimulate internal C and N cycling, and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. CA's success is driven by component technologies such as water, weed, and nutrient management strategies to support crops under reduced tillage conditions.
Functional Foods as a New Therapeutic Strategy 2.0
This reprint of the Special Issue Functional Foods as a New Therapeutic Strategy 2.0 explores the potential of functional foods and nutraceuticals in improving metabolic health, highlighting the role of bioactive compounds found in plants, marine products, and dietary supplements. The Issue includes studies focusing on quinoa leaves, avocado seeds, red clover isoflavones, and marine algae, emphasizing their therapeutic properties. Additionally, it reviews plant-derived compounds like ursolic acid and supplements such as Dekosilhue(R) and melatonin for their anti-inflammatory and metabolic benefits. The findings underscore the growing significance of functional foods in modern healthcare and underscore the need for further research and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Applied Simulation of Marine Communities with Reference to the Fouling Community
The Elephant in the Room
A healthier future starts with seeing the human causes of wildlife diseases. When new diseases spread, news reports often focus on wildlife culprits--rodents, monkeys and mpox; bats and COVID-19; waterfowl and avian flu; or mosquitoes and Zika. But, in this urgent and engaging book, we see it often works the other way around--humans have caused diseases in other animals countless times, through travel and transport, the changes we impose on our environment, and global warming. With science journalist Liz Kalaugher as our guide, we meet the wildlife we have harmed and the experts now studying the crosscurrents between humans, other animals, and health. Herds of buffalo in Kenya, cloned ferrets in Colorado, and frogs shipped worldwide as living pregnancy tests for humans, all help Kalaugher dive into the murky backstories behind wildlife epidemics past and present. We learn that military conflict likely contributed to the spread of rinderpest, or cattle plague, throughout Africa, devastating pastoral communities. That crowded poultry farms may create virulent new forms of bird flu that spill back into the wild. And that West Nile virus--which affects not only birds and humans, but other animals, including horses, skunks, and squirrels--is spreading as global temperatures rise. Expanding today's discussions of environmental protection to include illness and its impact, Kalaugher both sounds the alarm and explores ways to stop the emergence and spread of wildlife diseases. These solutions start with a simple lesson: when we protect other animals, we protect ourselves.
Blood Cells and Redox Homeostasis in Health and Disease
This reprint explores the complex balance between oxidative stress and redox homeostasis in blood cells, shedding light on their impact on cellular function, systemic health, and disease states. Blood cells continuously navigate a dynamic redox environment, from their formation in the bone marrow to their lifespan in circulation, where oxidative challenges shape their function, integrity, and interactions with other cell types. The studies featured in this reprint highlight the role of antioxidant defense mechanisms, metabolic adaptations, and novel therapeutic approaches in mitigating oxidative damage. By integrating the findings of diverse conditions, ranging from hematological disorders to systemic diseases, this reprint offers a comprehensive perspective on the dynamic interplay between redox biology and blood cell function.
Microbial Nanotechnology
This cutting-edge book investigates the exciting junction of microbiology and nanotechnology, demonstrating how microbes might be used to produce novel nanomaterials and applications. This volume gives a thorough review of current research and new developments in microbial nanotechnology, with subjects ranging from biosensors and medication delivery systems to environmental remediation and biofuels.Contributions from prominent specialists in the area focus on the methods by which microorganisms interact with nanomaterials, providing insights into their distinct features and prospective applications. Readers will obtain a grasp of both the fundamental concepts and practical applications of microbial nanotechnology, making this book an invaluable resource for researchers, practitioners, and students.
Identification of Plant Metabolites
Identification of Plant Metabolites: Characterization and Biological Activities" is a Special Issue aiming to encourage researchers worldwide to discover novel insights concerning metabolities from natural sources, especially focusing on their biological activities. The COVID-19 pandemic represents an important challenge that researchers have faced in their attempt to establish a common communication platform for the latest discoveries in the areas of natural metabolities; however, at the same time, it opened numerous paths for research subjects and collaborations. In this context, the present Special Issue aims to provide a platform for the exchange of ideas, subjects, and discoveries in the field of plant science, with the hopes of providing an excellent opportunity for researchers to offer novel perspectives regarding the characterization of natural metabolites through different separation methods and their corresponding biological activities.
Advances in Biomimetics
Biomimetics research on living systems attempts to transfer their properties and functions to engineering applications. Biological materials, structures, and processes are predominantly based on the combination of various effects at different scales: from the nano- to the micro-, meso-, and, finally, macroscale. This Special Issue is devoted to the latest advances in biomimetics in all its subfields: (1) materials and structures; (2) designs, constructions, and devices; (3) surfaces and interfaces; (4) locomotion and bioinspired robotics; and (5) the development of biomimetic methodology. This Special Issue contains papers from biological fields focusing on the proper identification of the underlying structure and functional principles in nature, which explains the observed properties of biological systems. Manuscripts that apply these to modern technologies are included as well.
Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Plant Tolerance upon Abiotic Stress
The important processes of plants are influenced by adverse environmental factors, which can have a negative impact on their growth and development. The last decade has seen an increase in the impact of abiotic stresses on plants due to climate changes. The impact of abiotic stress on plants and their defense mechanisms is presented in this Special Issue titled "Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Plant Tolerance upon Abiotic Stress". The studies included in this Special Issue enhance our understanding of how biotic factors affect plants and their defense mechanisms.
Dairy Products
In recent decades, consumers' preferences, habits, and expectations regarding food have changed, leading to a new landscape in which food is expected to be produced with natural ingredients, balanced chemical compositions, enhanced properties for promoting health, a long shelf-life, safety, and sustainable processing methods. In this context, the dairy sector is facing significant challenges in providing suitable products without impairing their sensory characteristics. This Special Issue presents 11 papers studying different research topics that address these needs, showcasing authors that focus on improving cheese shelf-life or preservation conditions, have developed innovative products with enhanced nutritional properties, and focus on the impact of processing on product quality and safety.
Fermentation and Bioprocess Engineering Processes
This is the Reprint of the Special Issue of Processes on "Fermentation and Bioprocess Engineering Processes", contributing 11 interesting and high-quality papers in the broad field of research on fermentation and bioprocess engineering. This convergence of waste utilization and microbial synthesis demonstrates the potential for innovation in the field of biotechnology that promotes resource efficiency and environmental sustainability. Through optimized fermentation strategies and bioprocessing technologies, the aim is to facilitate the creation of value-added products, increase economic sustainability, and reduce our ecological footprint. Ongoing research and development in these areas holds the promise of transforming industries by increasing resilience in the face of global sustainability challenges.
Computational and Mathematical Methods for Neuroscience
This reprint immerses readers in the latest advancements in the computational and mathematical modeling of neural systems, with a focus on brain functionality. It explores foundational principles, established models, and emerging technologies that are shaping the future of computational neuroscience. By integrating theoretical foundations with empirical data, the approaches presented not only enhance our understanding of neural dynamics but also pave the way for transformative applications in clinical practice and therapeutic innovation. This special issue underscores the pivotal role of computational methodologies-including machine learning, network analysis, brain-computer interfaces, and predictive modeling-in unraveling the complexities of brain function, cognition, and behavior. Addressing key challenges in data integration and model validation, the methods described in this reprint demonstrate the vast potential of these techniques to drive groundbreaking discoveries with far-reaching implications for medicine, technology, and neuroscience. From improving medical diagnostics to refining cognitive models and developing innovative statistical frameworks, this edition strengthens our ability to analyze, predict, and interpret brain activity with unprecedented precision. By showcasing cutting-edge methodologies and their real-world impact, we aim to inspire further research and push the boundaries of neuroscience, unlocking new horizons in our understanding of the human mind.
Water Quality Engineering and Wastewater Treatment III
Providing clean water is essential for life sustainability, achievable through effective prevention, control measures, and efficient wastewater technologies. Despite significant knowledge, the field still faces challenges with emerging contaminants, improving conventional technology efficiency, and advancing innovative technologies to large-scale applications. This reprint includes 13 papers (1 editorial, 8 research papers, 4 review papers) focusing on recent advances in wastewater treatment technologies, such as chemical precipitation, flocculation, biological treatment, sorption, and combined advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) with sorption. This reprint also addresses pollution source control, including sewage system corrosion mitigation, microplastic pollution reduction, permeable barriers, and leachate treatment. Primary treatment methods, including chemical precipitation for Hg removal and microbial flocculants, are discussed. Advances in secondary treatment, such as biogas production optimization, enhanced biological phosphorus removal, and moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) optimization, are presented. Tertiary and quaternary treatments cover the removal of methyl red dye, chromium, and emerging contaminants using biochar, clinoptilolite, and sorbents. Lastly, the Special Issue discusses controlling H2S in sewage systems, microplastic pollution and leachate remediation.
Further Research in Food Processing Safety and Quality from Field to Fork
The global population is continuously growing, increasing the demand for food production. While agricultural innovations support this goal, food safety is often overlooked. Additionally, the nutritional value of food changes during storage, highlighting the need for efficient contaminant monitoring and sensitive detection techniques to track harmful substances. Advances in green extraction methods, pesticide residue analysis, and novel sensor technologies are essential for addressing contemporary food safety challenges. This Special Issue presents research on advanced methodologies for detecting and mitigating contaminants such as pesticides, mycotoxins, and heavy metals, while also examining the effects of pretreatment, processing, and storage on food quality and safety. Emphasis is placed on sustainable extraction techniques for agro-industrial byproducts and the development of innovative materials and sensors for real-time monitoring. Collectively, these contributions underscore the importance of integrating advanced technologies and interdisciplinary approaches to ensure safe, high-quality food from field to fork.
Microbial and Enzyme-Based Technology for Plastic Biodegradation
Improper disposal of plastics increases micro-plastic discharge and waste to the environment. It causes growing global concern about the environmental and public health impacts of related byproducts. This book presents a safe process based on application of microbial cultures from different sources for the degradation of plastic waste to harmless products. The book begins by introducing the problem of plastic waste and its environmental impact, then moves on to describing microbial resources and the mechanism of biodegradation before presenting examples of biodegradation processes. Challenges of the microbial and enzyme based technologies for plastic biodegradation and potential research directions are also discussed.
Principles of Computational Genomics
The main focus is on the analysis of next-generation-sequencing assays, both for the interpretation of the DNA sequence per se and for the study of gene regulation and epigenomics.
Stem Cell-based Biosystems
Recognizing the demand for knowledge in stem cell applications, this book aims to provide comprehensive information on stem cell technology and its application in biosystems.
Biomedical Application of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence
This Special Issue, Biomedical Applications of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence, explores the transformative role of AI and big data in biomedical research and healthcare. This volume features 14 rigorously reviewed studies covering topics such as disease diagnosis, medical image processing, survival prediction, cognitive load assessment, and medical knowledge extraction. By integrating AI-driven methodologies with big data analytics, these studies aim to enhance diagnostic accuracy, medical efficiency, and personalized treatment planning.Bridging the gap between AI-driven analytics and real-world medical applications, this reprint provides researchers, practitioners, and healthcare professionals with cutting-edge insights and methodologies. By collating studies exploring research areas including deep learning models for pathology segmentation, wearable ECG systems, or graph-based neural networks for patient monitoring, this collection presents a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in AI-powered biomedical solutions. It is an essential resource for those interested in the intersection of data science, AI, and medicine, paving the way for future breakthroughs in healthcare technology.
Sex Is a Spectrum
Why human biology is far more expansive than the simple categories of female and male Being human entails an astonishingly complex interplay of biology and culture, and while there are important differences between women and men, there is a lot more variation and overlap than we may realize. Sex Is a Spectrum offers a bold new paradigm for understanding the biology of sex, drawing on the latest science to explain why the binary view of the sexes is fundamentally flawed--and why having XX or XY chromosomes isn't as conclusive as some would have us believe. In this lively and provocative book, leading biological anthropologist Agust穩n Fuentes begins by tracing the origin and evolution of sex, describing the many ways in the animal kingdom of being female, male, or both. Turning to humans, he presents compelling evidence from the fossil and archaeological record that attests to the diversity of our ancestors' sexual bonds, gender roles, and family and community structures, and shows how the same holds true in the lived experiences of people today. Fuentes tackles hot-button debates around sports and medicine, explaining why we can acknowledge that females and males are not the same while also embracing a biocultural reality where none of us fits neatly into only one of two categories. Bringing clarity and reason to a contentious issue, Sex Is a Spectrum shares a scientist's perspective on why a binary view of sex and gender is not only misguided but harmful, and why there are multitudes of ways of being human.
Potential of p70S6 kinase in regulating dynamics of actin cytoskeleton
