Numerical and Evolutionary Optimization 2024
This Special Issue was inspired by the 11th International Workshop on Numerical and Evolutionary Optimization (NEO 2024), held from 3 to 6 September 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico, and hosted by Cinvestav. Solving real-world scientific and engineering problems has always been a challenge, and the complexity of these tasks has increased in recent years as more sources of data and information have been continuously developed. Thus, the design and analysis of powerful search and optimization techniques is of great importance. Two well-established fields that focus on this task are (i) traditional numerical optimization techniques and (ii) bio-inspired metaheuristic methods. Both of these general approaches have unique strengths and weaknesses, allowing researchers to solve certain challenging problems while failing to solve others. The goal of the NEO workshop series is to gather experts from both fields to discuss, compare, and merge these complementary perspectives. Collaborative work allows researchers to maximize the strengths and minimize the weaknesses of both paradigms. NEO also intends to help researchers in these fields to understand and tackle real-world problems like pattern recognition, routing, energy, lines of production, prediction, and modeling, among others.
New Challenges in the Cosmetics Industry
This reprint compiles nine high-quality research and review articles focused on the new challenges faced by the cosmetic industry. The contributions address the future perspectives of innovative cosmetic products, considering not only the incorporation of bioactive molecules derived from residues and biotechnological processes but also the application of nanotechnology to enhance product efficacy. Drawn from five MDPI journals-Pharmaceuticals, Pharmaceutics, Antioxidants, Journal of Functional Biomaterials, and Cosmetics-this collection explores the complexities inherent to developing innovative cosmetic products.
Fatty Acids from Marine Organisms, 2nd Edition
Marine ecosystems are an extraordinary reservoir of biochemical diversity, and fatty acids (FAs) stand out as one of their most functionally and ecologically significant components. Found in virtually all marine organisms, fatty acids play pivotal roles in cellular structure, energy storage, and intercellular communication. Beyond their fundamental biological functions, they are increasingly recognized as valuable biomarkers for food web analysis and as promising compounds with nutritional and therapeutic potential. This Special Issue has brought together the recent advances in the study of marine fatty acids, with a focus on their chemical diversity, biological functions, ecological significance, and bioactivities. Contributions covered a wide range of topics, including the following: Structural characterization of novel marine fatty acids.Biosynthesis and metabolism of fatty acids in marine species.Fatty acids as trophic biomarkers in marine ecology.Nutritional value and health benefits of marine-derived polyunsaturated fatty acids (e.g., EPA, DHA).Bioactive fatty acids with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, or anticancer properties.Applications of marine lipids in food, nutraceutical, or pharmaceutical industries.This Special Issue provides an opportunity to showcase cutting-edge findings that underscore the importance of marine fatty acids in science, health, and industry.
Recent Advances in the Diversity and Taxonomy of Subterranean Arthropods
The subterranean fauna of arthropods is one of the richest on our planet. At the same time, however, it is still insufficiently researched. The characteristics of the underground environment have led hypogean arthropods to evolve both morphological and physiological adaptations, such as depigmentation, complete loss of eyes, elongation of appendages, slow metabolism, lower energy consumption, and much more. These animals are excellent models to study the general principles of evolution and the mechanisms of adaptation to a new environment. As the diversity of subterranean arthropods has not been sufficiently studied worldwide and most previous studies have focused on faunal diversity, it is desirable to analyse other aspects of the diversity of this particular group of animals, including morphological, molecular, ecological, chemoecological, and behavioural diversity. As the editors' expertise covers both troglobitic (associated with terrestrial subterranean environment) and stygobitic (associated with all types of subterranean waters) arthropods, this Special Issue Reprint is dedicated to the study of the diversity of both groups. We hope that it will contribute to a better knowledge of the diversity of subterranean arthropods within several biological disciplines, indicating their great importance in the habitats they inhabit and for humans in general.
Remote Sensing in Mangroves III
This comprehensive volume explores the cutting-edge applications of remote sensing technologies in monitoring and understanding climate change. Featuring contributions from leading experts, the Reprint delves into innovative methodologies that leverage satellite data, aerial imagery, and ground-based sensors to track environmental changes on a global scale. Readers will gain insights into the latest advancements in data analysis, climate modeling, and predictive tools that are transforming how scientists study atmospheric phenomena, land cover transformations, and oceanic shifts. Essential for researchers, policymakers, and environmentalists, this Reprint underscores the critical role of remote sensing in addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change, offering practical solutions and strategies for sustainable development.
Agricultural Environmental Pollution, Risk Assessment, and Control
This reprint addresses one of the most pressing challenges in modern agriculture: the growing burden of environmental pollution in soils and crop systems. Rapid industrialization and urban expansion have introduced pesticide residues, chemical fertilizers, persistent organic pollutants, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, heavy metals, microplastics, radionuclides and pathogens into agricultural landscapes. These contaminants not only degrade soil health but also accumulate in edible and non-edible plant parts, raising risks for food safety, ecosystem stability and human well-being.This collection brings together recent advances in monitoring and remediation strategies designed to tackle these complex threats. Contributions in this reprint include innovative approaches such as biological fertilizers, integrated organic farming systems and the bioremediation of contaminated soils, as well as studies that improve the understanding of pollutant fate and transfer within agricultural environments. By integrating scientific knowledge with practical solutions, this reprint provides valuable insights into developing sustainable agricultural practices that protect both ecosystems and human health.
Molecular Mechanisms, Diagnoses, and Treatments of Respiratory Diseases
The Reprint Molecular Mechanisms, Diagnoses, and Treatments of Respiratory Diseases brings together cutting-edge research and comprehensive reviews that explore the complex landscape of respiratory health. Inspired by the global impact of COVID-19, this collection highlights the urgent need to better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying respiratory diseases and to translate these insights into effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.The contributions cover a broad spectrum of respiratory conditions, including COVID-19, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), interstitial lung disease (ILD), lung cancer, bronchiectasis, pulmonary infections, and pulmonary hypertension. Topics span from novel biomarkers and genetic associations to innovative diagnostic tools and treatment approaches, such as high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy, anti-fibrotic strategies, and precision medicine applications.By integrating perspectives from basic science, clinical practice, and public health, this volume provides a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers seeking to improve patient care and outcomes. The reprint underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and translational research in addressing the growing burden of respiratory diseases worldwide. Ultimately, it aims to inspire continued innovation in early diagnosis, personalized therapies, and comprehensive disease management for diverse patient populations.
The Use and Management of Invasive Plants
Invasive plant species pose significant challenges to biodiversity, ecosystem stability, and economic sustainability, such as disrupting native flora, altering soil chemistry, and creating ecological imbalances. However, recent research highlights the potential of these species as resources. Their secondary metabolites, allelopathic properties, and adaptability offer avenues for novel applications, particularly in phytopharmacy, energy production, and agriculture. This Reprint presents key advancements in both the control and utilization of invasive plant species, exploring their chemical properties, ecological impact, potential applications, and alternative management strategies.
The Chitosan Biomaterials
This Reprint showcases cutting-edge research on chitosan and its derivatives, emphasizing their multifunctional role across biomedical, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and environmental fields. The selected contributions highlight recent progress in drug delivery, wound healing, antimicrobial activity, heavy metal adsorption, and plant protection. Special attention is given to the design of chitosan-based composites, their functionalization, and biocompatibility, as well as their ability to modulate oxidative stress. By bringing together innovative methodologies and practical applications, this Reprint provides a comprehensive and timely overview of how chitosan is being developed into a versatile material to address current scientific and technological challenges.
The Chitosan Biomaterials
This Reprint gathers original research and reviews from the Special Issue "Chitosan Biomaterials: Advances and Challenges" (International Journal of Molecular Sciences), offering a clear picture of how chitosan is being developed into advanced, multifunctional biomaterials. The contributions highlight the versatility of chitosan, from films and scaffolds designed for controlled drug delivery and wound healing to membranes and tablets enriched with plant extracts that enhance antimicrobial performance. Studies also present smart composites that combine chitosan with innovative components such as boron-based molecules or cellulose nanofibers, improving strength, cytocompatibility, and therapeutic effect. Beyond biomedical use, chitosan is explored as a natural coagulant to improve drinking water quality and as a carrier for inhalable formulations with antiviral activity. Together, these works demonstrate how chemical modification and functionalization strategies expand the physicochemical and biological potential of chitosan. This Reprint provides an up-to-date and accessible resource for scientists, engineers, and practitioners interested in biomaterials, showing how a natural polymer can be transformed into solutions for medicine, healthcare, environmental protection, and beyond.
Quantitative Risk Assessment of Listeria monocytogenes in Foods
Listeriosis is a rare foodborne infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, a 1-2 繕m long bacillus that can multiply at low temperatures and in the presence of high salt concentrations, and results in 0.1 to 10 cases per million people per year according to the World Health Organization. This bacterium is ubiquitous-it can be found in water, soil, plants, and many animals-and it has the ability to contaminate ready-to-eat foods and food production sites. It is sensitive to heat but can multiply slowly at low temperatures.Often occurring sporadically, its widespread propagation in a broad range of foods can cause epidemics.The scope of this Special Issue on 'Quantitative Risk Assessment of Listeria monocytogenes in Foods' is twofold: (1) we seek to present a critical analysis of the existing human listeriosis quantitative risk assessment models conducted on milk and dairy products, fresh produce, seafood, and meat products, highlighting common results from intervention strategies despite the unavoidable differences in model scopes and assumptions; (2) we also aim to present new quantitative risk assessment models encompassing a longer food chain scope, in the light of new data and approaches, to control listeriosis linked to specific foods such as frozen vegetables, cantaloupes, and ready-to-eat seafood.
Our Bodies, Our Planet
In praise of parasites, a surprising exploration of the profound impact of biological freeloaders on human history and our daily lives. Parasites and parasitic relationships are fundamental to life on Earth and to human history. Our Bodies, Our Planet explores how vital they are. Unlike harmful pathogens, parasites may produce no ill effects and may even improve our well-being and the lives of the creatures that surround us. Marcus Hall shows how our fellow travelers have evolved to help keep us alive, or else they themselves will perish. Parasitism is a phenomenon of partnership, and the association of parasite and host has had far-ranging cultural, biological, and possibly geophysical consequences. From Ascaris to Zika, we are instinctively repulsed by these little freeloaders, but what collateral effects do they have on our lives, lifestyles, or even our imagination? As Hall demonstrates, we disregard our parasites at our peril.
Advances in the Astonishing World of Phytochemicals
This Reprint represents a collection of 12 scientific papers belonging to the Special Issue in Antioxidants titled "Advances in the Astonishing World of Phytochemicals: State-of-the-Art for Antioxidants-2nd Edition" edited by us. Several studies have shown that plants are a source of a plethora of bioactive compounds, such as phytohormones, glycosides, terpenoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and essential oils, with a strong potential impact in the fields of pharmaceutics and agriculture. These phytochemicals represent a valuable set of weapons that plants use in self-defense to counteract abiotic stresses disturbing the delicate equilibrium between the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defense systems. In recent years, the interest in this area of research has been increasing due to the multifaceted properties of natural compounds containing antioxidants and exhibiting anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanism of their action is crucial to establishing their real potential in applied sciences and their potential health benefits. This reprint is addressed to researchers exploring the multifaceted properties of natural compounds containing antioxidants, and describes the need to understand how active compounds, solvents, and complex formations interact, in order to better establish their potential in applied sciences. We are grateful to all the authors for their contributions to the research topic of this reprint and all the editorial staff members for their valuable support.
Advanced Materials for Clinical Endodontic Applications
During the last few decades, many new instruments and materials have been developed and introduced to the market. Along with these innovations, new, more clinically appealing, and promising techniques of root canal cleaning, shaping, and obturation were introduced to increase the success rates of endodontic treatment and retreatment, and the survival of endodontically treated teeth.This Special Issue of the Journal of Functional Biomaterials will cover different topics of new biomaterials developed for endodontic application: materials for the disinfection/irrigation of the root canal system, temporary and permanent endoaccess and root canal filling, the management of endodontic complications, regenerative endodontics, or endodontic surgery.
RNA Interference Pathways
One of the most important breakthroughs of the 20th century was the discovery of how short RNA molecules from the genomic "dark matter" can control invasive genetic elements or fine-tune endogenous gene expression. The collective name of these pathways is RNA interference (RNAi), or "gene silencing", and the main players here are short, single-stranded RNA molecules in complex with Argonaute proteins. The scientific significance of these small RNA-based regulatory pathways was recognized by the awarding of the Nobel Prize in 2006 for the discovery of RNAi and by the recently awarded 2024 Nobel Prize for the discovery of miRNAs. This reprint is mainly a tribute to the diversity of the miRNA pathway. The selected articles provide an overview not only of some molecular aspects of the maturation of these tiny regulators but also provide evidence of how miRNAs control cell proliferation and differentiation and how their misregulation could lead to the formation of various types of cancer. As certain gene therapy applications also involve miRNA-based strategies, the importance of understanding the molecular details of this pathway clearly extends beyond pure scientific interest. This collection of articles not only presents scientific discoveries using cutting-edge technologies in several model systems but also provides evidence of how modern molecular genetics, as well as molecular medicine, can benefit from an in-depth understanding of the miRNA pathway.
Tolerance and Response of Ornamental Plants to Abiotic Stress
Abiotic stress severely affects the growth, quality, and ornamental value of ornamental plants, which are key to horticultural ecosystems and urban greening. This Special Issue of Horticulturae focuses on "Tolerance and Response of Ornamental Plants to Abiotic Stress", showcasing the latest research on how ornamental plants adapt to stressors like heavy metal pollution, saline-alkali environments, extreme temperatures, and abnormal light, as well as the underlying regulatory mechanisms. All papers in this Reprint have passed strict peer review by experts and Guest Editors, ensuring high academic quality, and were published in Horticulturae in full open access format for knowledge sharing. It contains eleven publications, including one editorial, nine research articles, and one review article, which provide a representative and valuable collection of studies on the tolerance mechanisms and response patterns of ornamental plants under various abiotic stresses. This Reprint summarizes current progress in ornamental plant abiotic stress tolerance, provides references for cultivating stress-resistant varieties and improving adaptability in harsh environments, serves as a valuable resource for students, researchers, and horticultural technicians in related fields, and highlights directions for future research.
Application of Marine Chitin and Chitosan, 3rd Edition
Chitin and chitosan are abundant marine-derived biopolymers with unique properties, including biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low cost. Furthermore, their functional groups easily enable versatile modifications for biomedical and tissue engineering applications. Processing strategies allow tuning of their characteristics, including their degree of deacetylation, molecular weight, viscosity, and mineral and protein content, making them highly adaptable compared to synthetic polymers. These sustainable materials have demonstrated significant potential in therapeutic biomaterials, including anti-infective coatings, tissue engineering scaffolds, drug delivery systems, gene therapy vectors, and implant applications. Through this reprint, we aim to showcase advances that expand the role of these natural polymers in next-generation healthcare solutions.
New Challenges and Perspectives in Neurology and Autonomic Disorders
The autonomic nervous system, consisting of sympathetic, parasympathetic, and enteric divisions, is an integral part of the central and peripheral nervous systems and controls homeostasis, blood flow, and responses to internal and external stimuli. Disorders of the autonomic nervous system-both common, such as POTS, neurocardiogenic syncope, and orthostatic hypotension, and rare, such as multiple system atrophy, amyloid neuropathy, and familial dysautonomia-have been an evolving area of research in basic and translational science, as well as in clinical practice. More recently, the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic further underscored the need to elucidate the neurologic and autonomic mechanisms of post-infectious syndromes. To this end, the new frontier in neurology and autonomic disorders, as well as the mechanistic interplay between a wide range of neurologic conditions and autonomic dysfunctions, present an exciting opportunity for groundbreaking discoveries. In this reprint, we gather original research, reviews, and perspectives on a variety of topics involving neurologic and autonomic disorders, including post-COVID sequelae as part of long COVID.
Development and Application of Polymer Scaffolds
This Reprint, "Development and Application of Polymer Scaffolds", captures the dynamic and rapidly advancing research in the design, fabrication, and application of polymer-based scaffolds, which are at the forefront of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. The collection highlights a significant paradigm shift in the field, moving from passive, biocompatible supports to 'bio-instructive' or 'functional' systems. These advanced scaffolds are engineered to be active participants in the healing cascade, capable of presenting biological cues, releasing therapeutic agents, and responding to physiological stimuli to orchestrate a more targeted regenerative response. This Reprint brings together 14 peer-reviewed articles, including original research, comprehensive reviews, and a systematic review, contributed by 98 authors from 24 institutions across 17 countries. The works cover innovations in scaffold fabrication, strategic functionalization for enhanced biological performance, application-specific designs for various tissues (nerve, cornea, bone), and fundamental studies in drug delivery and material degradation. This collection offers a comprehensive snapshot of the current state-of-the-art, serving as a valuable resource for the scientific community.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
