Beyond the Scan
For decades, neuroscientists have strived to understand the intricate link between the brain and behavior. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has been a powerful tool in this quest, allowing researchers to observe brain activity in real-time. However, traditional fMRI relies on participants performing specific tasks inside the scanner, limiting its ability to capture the brain's spontaneous activity. This is where resting-state fMRI (rs-fMRI) emerges as a groundbreaking technique. What is rs-fMRI? Unlike traditional fMRI, rs-fMRI doesn't involve specific tasks. Participants simply lie still inside the scanner, their minds free to wander. While seemingly uneventful, this "resting state" reveals a dynamic symphony of brain activity. By measuring blood oxygenation levels, rs-fMRI captures fluctuations in brain function, indicating which regions are communicating with each other. These interconnected networks are thought to underlie various cognitive processes, even when we're not actively engaged in a task.
From Cells to Chaos
" From Cells to Chaos: Unveiling the Physics Behind the Heartbeat" delves into the wonder of our most vital organ, the heart. It explores the heart not just as a powerful muscle, but as a marvel of both nature's design and complex biological processes. The book unveils the fascinating physics behind each beat, the intricate physiology that keeps blood flowing, and how this tireless rhythm sustains our very existence. It's a journey that celebrates the heart as a testament to life's wonder and a reminder of the delicate balance that keeps us going.
Heart Beat
"Heart Beat: Order & Disorder" delves into the intricate world of our heart's rhythm. It unveils the delicate balance between the steady, life-giving beat (order) and the potential for disruptions that lead to arrhythmias (disorder). The book explores the fascinating electrical signals that orchestrate each pulse, and how external factors or underlying conditions can disrupt this symphony. We'll journey through the science of normal heart function and delve into the causes and consequences of arrhythmias. This exploration will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the heart's remarkable resilience and the importance of maintaining its rhythm.
Neural Powerhouse
Embark on a captivating journey into the most complex organ in the human body with "Neural Powerhouse: Unveiled." This book peels back the layers of the brain, revealing the intricate network of neurons that underlies everything we think, feel, and do. Unravel the secrets of this magnificent biological machine. Explore the structure and function of different brain regions, each playing a vital role in memory, learning, emotions, and movement. Delve into the fascinating world of neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers that orchestrate communication between brain cells. "Neural Powerhouse" doesn't shy away from the brain's complexities. Explore the mysteries of consciousness, the ongoing debate on free will, and the remarkable capacity for neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to adapt and change throughout life. This book is a captivating read for anyone curious about the inner workings of the human mind. By understanding the neural powerhouse within us, we gain a deeper appreciation for the wonders of human thought and the potential for future advancements in neuroscience.
Unveiling Cells' Inner Cleanup
Inside your trillions of cells lies a hidden marvel: autophagy, the "self-eating" process. Imagine a tiny recycling plant working tirelessly. Autophagy dismantles damaged organelles, malfunctioning proteins, and even invading microbes. These cellular cast-offs are then engulfed by special structures and broken down into their basic building blocks. These precious materials are then reused to create fresh, functional components, keeping your cells young and functioning optimally. This cellular housekeeping isn't just about tidying up. Autophagy acts as a guardian, preventing the accumulation of cellular junk that can trigger disease. Research even suggests it plays a role in healthy aging and fighting neurodegenerative disorders. By understanding autophagy, we unlock new possibilities for promoting cellular health and potentially combating various diseases
The Secret Life of Blood Flow
Our blood, a seemingly simple red liquid, hides a surprisingly complex world within. Beyond just delivering oxygen, blood flow orchestrates a delicate dance between cells and organs. Imagine tiny blood vessels, like whispering pathways, delivering nutrients precisely where needed. But this intricate choreography can go awry. Diseases like diabetes disrupt this flow, starving tissues and causing damage. The secret life of blood flow isn't just a scientific curiosity. It holds the key to unlocking new treatments. By understanding how malfunctions occur at the cellular level, researchers can develop targeted therapies. Imagine treatments that regulate blood flow, ensuring organs receive the vital supplies they need to thrive. Unveiling the secrets of blood flow isn't just about the "what," it's about the intricate "why" - paving the way for a future where we can address disease at its core
What tumors teach us
Can the functioning of human society be compared to the functioning of tumors in the human body? How do tumors come about? Why are we so interested in them? What can we learn from them? In this book, the multicellular organism is presented as a complex system consisting of multiple cells working together, while tumors arise from the abandonment of cooperation and violate the basic principles necessary to maintain a healthy body. Based on General Systems Theory, the author traces parallels with, and extrapolations from, the rules of cooperation and their potential corruption in other complex systems as well, including human society. In addition to a detailed introduction of the basics of tumor formation and development, the book offers reflections on the question of whether human beings, like tumor cells, tend to corrupt in dangerous and self-destructive ways the most important rules for the healthy functioning of the social system to which they belong.
We Are Electric
Now with an afterword exclusive to the paperback edition: science journalist Sally Adee breaks open the field of bioelectricity--the electric currents that run through our bodies and every living thing--its misunderstood history, and why new discoveries will lead to new ways around antibiotic resistance, cleared arteries, and new ways to combat cancer. You may be familiar with the idea of our body's biome: the bacterial fauna that populate our gut and can so profoundly affect our health. In We Are Electric we cross into new scientific understanding: discovering your body's electrome. Every cell in our bodies--bones, skin, nerves, muscle--has a voltage, like a tiny battery. It is the reason our brain can send signals to the rest of our body, how we develop in the womb, and why our body knows to heal itself from injury. When bioelectricity goes awry, illness, deformity, and cancer can result. But if we can control or correct this bioelectricity, the implications for our health are remarkable: an undo switch for cancer that could flip malignant cells back into healthy ones; the ability to regenerate cells, organs, even limbs; to slow aging and so much more. The next scientific frontier might be decrypting the bioelectric code, much the way we did the genetic code. Yet the field is still emerging from two centuries of skepticism and entanglement with medical quackery, all stemming from an 18th-century scientific war about the nature of electricity between Luigi Galvani (father of bioelectricity, famous for shocking frogs) and Alessandro Volta (inventor of the battery). In We Are Electric, award-winning science writer Sally Adee takes readers through the thrilling history of bioelectricity and into the future: from the Victorian medical charlatans claiming to use electricity to cure everything from paralysis to diarrhea, to the advances helped along by the giant axons of squids, and finally to the brain implants and electric drugs that await us--and the moral implications therein. The bioelectric revolution starts here.
Multivariate Biomarker Discovery
Multivariate biomarker discovery is increasingly important in the realm of biomedical research, and is poised to become a crucial facet of personalized medicine. This will prompt the demand for a myriad of novel biomarkers representing distinct 'omic' biosignatures, allowing selection and tailoring treatments to the various individual characteristics of a particular patient. This concise and self-contained book covers all aspects of predictive modeling for biomarker discovery based on high-dimensional data, as well as modern data science methods for identification of parsimonious and robust multivariate biomarkers for medical diagnosis, prognosis, and personalized medicine. It provides a detailed description of state-of-the-art methods for parallel multivariate feature selection and supervised learning algorithms for regression and classification, as well as methods for proper validation of multivariate biomarkers and predictive models implementing them. This is an invaluable resource for scientists and students interested in bioinformatics, data science, and related areas.
Cancer through the Lens of Evolution and Ecology
Cancer cells exist in an ever-changing "ecology" and are subject to evolutionary pressures just like any species in nature. The book is resource for understanding cancer as a disease of multicellularity grounded in evolutionary principles. By using this knowledge, researchers are starting to exploit these behaviors for treatment paradigms.
From Chromosomes to Mobile Genetic Elements
This biography of Barbara McClintock (1902-1992) places her life and work in its social, scientific and personal context. The history documents years of McClintock's notable and lauded scientific work long before she discovered Transposable Elements in the mid-1940s for which she ultimately received the Nobel Prize.
Spark to Mind
From the first flicker of electrical activity to the intricate symphony of thought and emotion, the human brain undergoes an extraordinary journey. "Spark to Mind: Brain's Epic Journey" takes you on a captivating exploration of this remarkable transformation. We'll delve into the early stages of brain development, where a tiny spark ignites a cascade of growth, leading to the formation of trillions of connections. This book unveils the fascinating dance between genes and environment, shaping a brain that can learn, remember, and create. We'll explore critical milestones in brain development, from the language explosion of childhood to the refinement of executive functions in adolescence. "Spark to Mind" isn't just about the science; it's about the implications for learning, behavior, and mental health.
Beyond the Code
Beyond the DNA code itself lies a hidden layer of control - the 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) of messenger RNA (mRNA). This tail-like region, though not translated into protein, plays a surprising role in shaping a cell's destiny. Multiple cleavage sites in the 3'UTR allow cells to choose which portion gets added, resulting in diverse mRNA forms. This diversity impacts how efficiently the mRNA is translated into protein. Researchers are finding connections between 3'UTR variations and cell functions like proliferation and differentiation. Even diseases like cancer may be linked to abnormal 3'UTR processing. Understanding how cells make these choices could unlock new avenues for treating diseases and deciphering the complexities of development.
The Cell's Recycling Center
Inside your body's trillions of cells, a hidden recycling center tirelessly works to break down and discard cellular waste. This essential process, known as autophagy, literally translates to "self-eating" and is crucial for maintaining cellular health. Imagine a tiny sanitation truck cruising within the cell, engulfing damaged organelles and misfolded proteins. Autophagy then delivers this cellular garbage to a designated disposal unit, the lysosome, where it's broken down into its basic building blocks. These components are then reused to create new molecules, promoting cellular survival and adaptation. But autophagy's role goes beyond mere housekeeping. During times of nutrient scarcity, this recycling system kicks into high gear, providing the cell with vital nutrients for survival. Recent research even suggests a link between autophagy and neurodegenerative diseases, raising hope that unlocking its secrets could lead to new therapeutic avenues. So, the next time you think about recycling, remember the remarkable cellular process happening within you - autophagy, the cell's very own recycling center.
Mind Maps
Have you ever wondered how a simple thought transforms into a complex action? " Mind Maps: Movement Control " unlocks the secrets of the brain's internal models, the hidden blueprints that guide our every move. This book delves into the fascinating world of these internal models, exploring how the brain constantly simulates and predicts the outcome of our actions. You'll discover how these models integrate sensory information with past experiences, allowing us to reach for objects, navigate crowded spaces, and even plan for the future. " Mind Maps: Movement Control " isn't just about theory. We'll explore the practical applications of this knowledge, from understanding how the brain learns new skills to the potential for developing brain-computer interfaces that bridge the gap between thought and action. Prepare to be amazed by the intricate workings of your brain and gain a newfound appreciation for the incredible journey from a fleeting thought to the actions that shape our world.
Beyond Brains
The human story isn't simply one of big brains. While our complex craniums are undeniable marvels, a deeper evolutionary puzzle remains. Our ancestors possessed brains not much larger than chimps, yet they displayed tool use and social behaviors. This suggests other factors, alongside brain size, were at play. Perhaps a shift in brain organization, the emergence of key genes, or even changes in our environment unlocked hidden potential. Unraveling this puzzle requires delving beyond just brain size. Studying the intricate dance between genetics, behavior, and ecology might reveal a more nuanced picture. By examining the complete evolutionary toolkit, we can gain a richer understanding of how we became who we are
Hippocampus
Imagine the hippocampus as a memory hub, buzzing with conversations between neurons. These conversations, happening at tiny junctions called synapses, are the foundation of how we remember. Synapses aren't static; they're dynamic. When information flows repeatedly between neurons, their connections strengthen, like a well-worn path. This strengthening, called long-term potentiation, is thought to be the cellular basis of memory formation. The hippocampus plays a central role in this process. It helps convert short-term memories into long-term ones, solidifying them for later recall. By analyzing patterns of synaptic activity, the hippocampus can even orchestrate the replay of memories during sleep, further solidifying them. So, the next time you remember a childhood birthday party or the scent of your grandmother's cookies, remember - it's all thanks to the dynamic dialogue happening within the synapses of your hippocampus.
Teen Brain
Teenage years are a rollercoaster of emotions and experiences. Why? It's all in the brain! During adolescence, the emotional center develops rapidly, making teens crave excitement and novelty. This "wired for risk" state isn't a bug, it's a feature. It helps teens explore independence, learn from trial and error, and solidify their identities. However, the prefrontal cortex, responsible for planning and long-term thinking, lags behind. This can lead to impulsive decisions - that joyride that seems thrilling might not seem so great later. While risk-taking is a natural part of growing up, understanding these brain changes can help teens (and parents!) navigate this adventurous stage more safely.
Basal Ganglia
Basal Ganglia: From Eminence to Function - Unveiling the Silent Conductor of Movement Deep within the brain lies a cluster of structures known as the basal ganglia. Often overshadowed by its more prominent neighbors, the cortex and cerebellum, the basal ganglia plays a critical, yet often underappreciated, role in coordinating movement, posture, and even some aspects of cognition. This article delves into the fascinating story of the basal ganglia, exploring its historical journey from anatomical obscurity to its current recognition as a vital conductor of motor control. A Historical Enigma: The Eminences of Unknown Function The basal ganglia's story begins shrouded in mystery. Early anatomists, intrigued by these prominent structures nestled at the base of the forebrain, dubbed them the "corpora striata" (striped bodies) due to their distinct appearance. However, their function remained an enigma for centuries. These "eminences" were visible but their purpose a puzzle, leading to various speculative and often inaccurate attributions.
DNA
Imagine life as a complex construction project. DNA serves as the architect's blueprint, meticulously detailing every component and assembly step. Within each cell, this twisted molecule stores the instructions for building proteins, the versatile workhorses that carry out life's functions. Each rung on the DNA ladder, a nucleotide pair, acts as a coded message. The order of these pairs determines the protein's structure and ultimately its function. This manual isn't a rigid one. DNA can be copied with remarkable accuracy, ensuring offspring inherit traits. However, occasional errors, called mutations, can introduce variations. These variations can be beneficial, driving evolution and adaptation. By deciphering DNA's code, scientists are unlocking the secrets of life, leading to breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture, and even forensics. It's a testament to the power of this remarkable instruction manual
Unlocking Potential
The human body holds a hidden treasure: stem cells. These remarkable cells have the potential to revolutionize medicine. "Unlocking Potential" is your comprehensive guide to the fascinating world of stem cells. This book delves into the different types of stem cells, from embryonic to adult, explaining how they are classified and what makes them unique. You'll discover the incredible ability of stem cells to differentiate, transforming into specialized cells like muscle, bone, or nerve cells. But the true power of stem cells lies in their potential to treat a wide range of diseases. "Unlocking Potential" explores the cutting-edge research in regenerative medicine, where stem cells offer hope for healing damaged tissues and organs. This is your roadmap to understanding stem cells, their potential, and the ethical considerations surrounding their use. With "Unlocking Potential," you'll gain the knowledge to navigate the exciting future of stem cell therapy.
Bridging the Gap
Does your child with Autism struggle to focus while reading? "Bridging the Gap: Autism, Attention, Reading" explores the connection between attention and reading success in children on the spectrum. This book equips parents and educators with practical strategies to help children develop the focus needed to become confident readers. You'll discover how attention difficulties can manifest during reading and gain valuable tools to improve concentration. Learn how to create a sensory-friendly reading environment, develop engaging activities, and choose appropriate reading materials to ignite your child's love of books. "Bridging the Gap" empowers you to support your child on their journey to becoming a successful reader.
Brain's Hidden Switches
Brain's Hidden Switches: Beyond DNA Our understanding of the brain has traditionally focused on DNA, the blueprint of life. However, recent research unveils a fascinating truth - DNA is just the first act in the grand play of brain function. Beyond the rigid code of genes lies a hidden layer of control - epigenetic mechanisms that act as the brain's hidden switches, dynamically fine-tuning its operations. Imagine a beautifully composed symphony. The sheet music (DNA) outlines the melody and harmony, but the conductor (epigenetics) brings the music to life, adjusting tempo, volume, and individual instrument contributions to create a nuanced and dynamic performance. This analogy aptly describes the interplay between DNA and epigenetics in the brain. Epigenetics, literally meaning "above genetics," refers to modifications that influence gene expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence. These modifications act like dimmer switches on genes, controlling how much protein (the functional output of genes) is produced in different brain regions and throughout an organism's lifespan. There are two key epigenetic mechanisms at play: DNA methylation and histone modifications. DNA methylation involves adding a chemical tag to DNA, often silencing gene activity. Conversely, histone modifications loosen or tighten the packaging of DNA around proteins called histones. Tightly packed DNA is less accessible for protein production, while looser packaging allows for increased gene expression.
Unveiling Bee Decline's Causes
We all love honey, that golden nectar produced by the tireless bee. But bees are so much more than honey makers. They're the unsung heroes of our food chain, responsible for pollinating about a third of the world's crops. From the apples on your breakfast table to the berries in your smoothie, bees play a vital role in bringing us the fruits (and vegetables!) of nature's labor. Sadly, bee populations are declining due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and disease. This decline threatens not just our honey supply, but the very foundation of our food system. But here's the good news: saving bees is more than just about honey. It's about ensuring a healthy, diverse food future for ourselves and generations to come. By planting bee-friendly gardens, supporting local beekeepers, and advocating for sustainable farming practices, we can all play a part in saving these essential pollinators. Let's move beyond the honey jar and recognize the true value of the bee - a tiny creature with a big impact on our world.
mRNA Guardians
The destiny of a messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule, the intermediary between DNA and protein, is not predetermined. RNA binding proteins (RBPs) act as cellular puppeteers, dictating the fate of mRNA throughout its lifespan. These specialized proteins latch onto specific sequences within the mRNA, influencing its stability, location, and ultimately, its ability to be translated into a protein. RBPs wield a powerful influence. They can usher mRNA to the translation machinery, kickstarting protein production. Conversely, they can target mRNA for degradation, preventing unwanted protein synthesis. This intricate control allows cells to fine-tune gene expression based on their ever-changing needs. Understanding RBPs and their interactions with mRNA is crucial. It sheds light on how organisms develop, respond to stress, and fight disease. By deciphering the "code" of RNA-protein interactions, researchers hope to develop therapies that manipulate gene expression for the benefit of human health.
Powerhouse Actin
Embark on a captivating journey into the cellular world with "Powerhouse Actin: In Motion." This book unveils the secrets of actin, a fundamental protein that plays a starring role in the dynamic processes within every living cell. Delve into the intricate dance of actin filaments, constantly assembling and disassembling to generate force and power vital for cell movement, division, and shape. Explore how actin interacts with other cellular players, orchestrating a symphony of functions, from muscle contraction to cargo transport. "Powerhouse Actin" sheds light on the significance of actin in health and disease, revealing its potential as a target for future medical advancements. This book is a captivating read for anyone curious about the hidden machinery that powers life at the cellular level.
Organic Phosphorescence
Phosphorescence, the eerie afterglow sometimes seen in glow sticks or deep-sea creatures, might conjure images of cold, dark environments. However, the world of organic phosphorescence extends far beyond the chill, offering a fascinating range of applications with the potential to revolutionize various fields. Unlike fluorescence, which emits light almost instantly after absorbing energy, organic phosphorescence allows materials to store and release light over a much longer duration - from milliseconds to even hours. This unique property unlocks a treasure trove of possibilities. One exciting area of application is bioimaging. Organic phosphorescent molecules can be designed to bind specifically to certain biomolecules within living cells. When exposed to light, these molecules become excited and then emit light for an extended period. This extended emission allows researchers to track the movement and behavior of these biomolecules within a cell with unparalleled clarity. Imagine studying protein interactions or visualizing cellular processes in real-time - organic phosphorescence paves the way for such groundbreaking research. Organic phosphorescence also holds immense promise in the field of security and anti-counterfeiting. Special inks or coatings incorporating phosphorescent materials can be incorporated into documents, packaging, or even currency. These materials would be invisible under normal light but would reveal a hidden message or image when exposed to a specific wavelength of light. This technology offers a powerful tool for combating counterfeiting and ensuring the authenticity of products.
Membrane Shields
Membrane Shields: Plants Fight Environmental Stress Plants, the silent titans of our world, stand stoic against a barrage of environmental assaults. From scorching deserts to frigid tundras, they must possess an arsenal of defenses to survive. At the forefront of this battleground lies a crucial line of defense - the cell membrane. But this isn't a static barrier; it's a dynamic shield actively orchestrated by specialized molecules. These "membrane shields" play a pivotal role in plant stress tolerance by orchestrating a fascinating dance of adaptation. The Cell Membrane: A Dynamic Battleground Imagine a microscopic shield that seamlessly adapts to protect a city. That's the essence of the cell membrane - a thin, yet dynamic barrier surrounding every plant cell. This shield is composed of a mosaic of lipids and proteins, constantly in flux. Lipids, the fatty molecules, provide fluidity and integrity, while proteins act as channels and pumps, regulating the flow of essential molecules like water, ions, and nutrients in and out of the cell.
Seeing Inside Cells
Inside every cell, millions of tiny machines, called proteins, tirelessly work to keep us alive. But understanding what these proteins do and where they go is a challenge. That's where protein labeling comes in. By attaching special tags, scientists can track proteins like detectives following a clue. These tags can glow, bind to specific molecules, or even be radioactive, revealing a protein's location, function, and interactions with others. Like a map lighting up a hidden city, protein labeling sheds light on the intricate workings of the cell, unlocking secrets of health, disease, and even the development of new drugs.
Salty Survival
Microbes face a constant challenge: maintaining balance in a world that's anything but. "Salty Survival" delves into the fascinating world of B. subtilis, a bacterium that thrives in salty environments. Imagine a tiny conductor, a molecule called C-di-AMP, leading an orchestra of ions - potassium and glutamate - to ensure the bacteria's survival. This book explores how B. subtilis uses C-di-AMP as a master regulator, fine-tuning the levels of these crucial ions to adapt to salty conditions. Discover the ingenious ways this bacterium pumps out excess salt while holding onto essential potassium. Learn how C-di-AMP coordinates this complex dance, ensuring B. subtilis not only survives but thrives in a salty world. "Salty Survival" is a captivating exploration of microbial resilience and the intricate workings of the cellular world.
The Mode of Actions of the Current Point-of-Care Treatments for Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Point-of-care treatments are now the focus of attention for osteoarthritis of the knee (OAK). Cellular therapies, which can be performed on an outpatient clinic basis, are rapidly expanding in free practice. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for OAK is a prime example of such therapies. It is seen as an unmet medical need that fills the gap between surgical and conservative therapy. In other words, even though it is not an innovative regenerative medicine and cannot improve the disease itself by modifying the tissue structure, point-of-care cell therapy appears to have become an established treatment, advanced by patients' desire for some improvement in symptoms without the need for surgery. This Special Issue covers the current use of point-of-care therapies and potential future candidates, from basic research to clinical practice.
Novel Antioxidants for Animal Nutrition
In recent years, interest in nutrition has grown, with a particular focus on the pivotal role of antioxidants in the formulation of functional diets essential for animal health and disease prevention. This comprehensive reprint offers a deep dive into the world of innovative antioxidants that can be used in animal nutrition. The key to this field lies on the oxidative balance. The inclusion of antioxidants aligns with sustainable farming practices, following the One Health principles, thus supporting health and feed and food safety. With an exploration across different animal species, from piglets to dairy ewes, and from broilers to calves, the studies showcased in this collection underscore the beneficial impact of antioxidant-enriched diets on animal welfare, product quality, and stress reduction. As the quest for sustainable approaches in livestock farming gains importance, the supplementation of natural antioxidants emerges as a valuable strategy, promising to increase health, welfare, and sustainability in the livestock field.
Biotechnology of Edible Fungi
As key decomposers within ecosystems, edible fungi embody the principles of circular agricultural production which emphasize reduction, reuse, and recycling. The realization of this sustainable approach to agriculture is inextricably linked to the cutting-edge biotechnology pertaining to edible fungi. This collection reports recent advancements and compiles reviews concerning the development of edible fungi biotechnology, offering readers an enhanced comprehension of the unique characteristics that set fungi apart from plants and animals.
Preharvest and Postharvest Factors Improving Horticultural Crops Quality and Shelf-Life
The quality and safety of fresh horticultural products involves their own development, environmental factors, and interactions with postharvest pathogens. Effective pre- and post-harvest techniques play a key role in improving the quality of fresh horticultural products, and this reprint focuses on the understanding of the pre- and post-harvest factors that affect postharvest quality, disease, ripening and senescence, and the shelf life of horticultural crops. This reprint contains papers from the aspects of field management and pre- and post-harvest treatments, and new methods are proposed to improve the quality and shelf life of different fresh horticultural products.
Advanced Alloy Degradation and Implants
Metals and their alloys are one of the oldest biomedical materials known to human beings. They still play an irreplaceable role in modern clinical treatment with excellent mechanical load-bearing properties, chemical stability, and good biocompatibility. In recent years, the R&D and design of metal implants and devices, the further exploration of their powerful functions, and the in-depth exploration of their interaction with the body microenvironment have made great progress. In particular, the design of biodegradable alloys, the elaboration of their degradation mechanism in different environments, the research on degradation behavior and degradation products, and the prospect of their advanced exclusive coating have attracted the attention of scholars. The aim of this reprint, "Advanced Alloy Degradation and Implants", is to publish full-length research articles, short communications, and review articles covering the latest studies, progress, and challenges on the design, fabrication, degradation, and surface modification of metal alloy implants for their future biomedical applications.
Flora of North America, Volume 13
Flora of North America represents the first and only comprehensive taxonomic guide to the extraordinary diversity of plant life in North America north of Mexico. The collaborative effort of more than 30 major U.S. and Canadian botanical institutions, this series revises and synthesizes literally thousands of floristic monographs and regional floras published over the last three centuries. Flora of North America North of Mexico Volume 13: Magnoliophyta: Geraniaceae to Apiaceae includes treatments prepared by 60 authors covering 624 species in 147 genera classified in 14 families. Apiaceae, the carrot or parsley family, is by far the largest family in the volume with 403 species, and includes many economically important plants that are used for food, spices, medicine, and ornamentals, as well as some species that are notoriously toxic. Many species are narrow endemics, a significant number of which have been described only recently. The treatment brings together the latest taxonomic and phylogenetic information on this diverse family. Some other families in the volume that have significant numbers of species include Anacardiaceae, Araliaceae, Geraniaceae, Rutaceae, and Sapindaceae. Descriptions for all families, genera, species, and infraspecies are provided, as are occurrence maps for all species and infraspecies. Every genus and 30% of the species are illustrated. Keys are included to aid in the identification of taxa at all ranks. Volume 13 is the twenty-fifth volume to be published in the planned 30-volume Flora of North America North of Mexico series.
A Map of the Human Brain
Unlock the Secrets of Your MindDive into the complexities of the human mind with this enlightening exploration into brain anatomy.In this comprehensive guide you will discover the intricate regions and their functions that dictate every thought, memory, and emotion.Nurture your mental well-being, because better brain health begins with knowledge.Get it now.Key Insights for a Healthier BrainComprehensive Coverage: Understand the major areas of the brain and their specific roles in daily life.Age and Adaptation: Learn how the brain changes with age and how you can adapt to maintain cognitive function.Health Connections: Explore how brain health affects your mind and body, emphasizing preventative measures.Accessible Science: Presented in clear, engaging language suitable for both beginners and those with a background in science.Invest in your future by enhancing your brain health, because understanding is the first step to improvement.Get it now.
A Map of the Human Brain
Unlock the Secrets of Your MindDive into the complexities of the human mind with this enlightening exploration into brain anatomy.In this comprehensive guide you will discover the intricate regions and their functions that dictate every thought, memory, and emotion.Nurture your mental well-being, because better brain health begins with knowledge.Get it now.Key Insights for a Healthier BrainComprehensive Coverage: Understand the major areas of the brain and their specific roles in daily life.Age and Adaptation: Learn how the brain changes with age and how you can adapt to maintain cognitive function.Health Connections: Explore how brain health affects your mind and body, emphasizing preventative measures.Accessible Science: Presented in clear, engaging language suitable for both beginners and those with a background in science.Invest in your future by enhancing your brain health, because understanding is the first step to improvement.Get it now.
The Social Genome
For more than 150 years, the question of nature versus nurture has been one of the most contentious issues in the human sciences. On the one side are "blank-slaters," who believe we are mainly shaped by our environment. On the other side are "hereditarians," who believe in the primacy of genes. From the start, the fight has been highly politicized and extremely bitter, given that it has implications for how we think about racial disparities, meritocracy, reproduction, and free will itself. In The Social Genome, pioneering scientist Dalton Conley demonstrates that this longstanding debate is fundamentally misguided. The true question is not nature versus nurture, but how nature and nurture interact to make each of us who we become. The Social Genome is a sweeping account of the sociogenomics revolution, which has, in the last decade, upended many of our notions about human development. Sociogenomics brings together advances in molecular genetics and traditional social and behavioral science. The key tool is the polygenic index, which allows us to analyze DNA to measure a child's genetic potential. Today, we can estimate a child's adult height, how far they will go in school, and their weight as an adult--all from a cheek swab, finger prick, or vial of saliva. Conley and other researchers are using this new science to shed light on the ways in which genes shape our world, influencing how each person both creates and responds to the environment around them. Conley reveals a world where children's DNA influences the nurture they extract from their parents; the genes of our schoolmates affect our likelihood of smoking as much as our own DNA does; and spouses' genes influence each other's moods and behaviors. Looking forward, Conley envisions a future where dating, education, public health, and other institutions have been radically altered by the sociogenomic revolution.As Conley argues, we should no longer think of nature versus nurture, but about how our genes seek the nurture they need to express themselves and how, in turn, our environments are made partly from the genes of other people. The Social Genome presents a nuanced, powerful perspective on individual potential and social dynamics and raises critical ethical questions about how we will navigate a future where we have access to far more genetic information than ever before.
Advances in Ecophysiology of Root Systems-Environment Interaction
Despite their significance, root physiology and root function remain relatively underexplored in plant science research. Soil microorganisms, including mycorrhizae and bacteria, exert profound effects on nutrient cycling, root development, soil health, and overall plant productivity. In addition, different propagation methods can significantly influence root system architecture, further highlighting the complexity of underground dynamics. Various factors, such as nutrient levels, organic matter content, and management practices, impact both root and soil health. Suboptimal conditions can hinder root growth and affect plant physiology, ultimately affecting agricultural productivity. Recognizing the intricate interplay between roots, soil, and environmental factors is essential for implementing sustainable agricultural practices. This Special Issue of Plants aimed to bridge these knowledge gaps by integrating diverse research strands and spotlighting recent advancements in the ecophysiology of root systems and their interactions with the environment. By synthesizing insights from root biology, soil science, and agronomy, this collection seeks to advance our understanding of root-soil-environment interactions, paving the way for innovative strategies with which to enhance crop resilience and productivity in an everchanging world.
2nd Edition
The increase we have witnessed in life expectancy in recent years has been a historical milestone in the history of humanity. Nevertheless, this social success presents great clinical and social challenges. After the first successful Special Issue on this topic, the Guest Editors aim to explore different initiatives that result in the health promotion of older adults, such as multicomponent physical exercise programs, interventions that try to avoid loneliness and social isolation and multidisciplinary assessment, and the treatment of frailty and other geriatric syndromes in various settings, such as the emergency unit, orthogeriatrics, and oncogeriatrics. Broadly, this Special Issue is seeking original submissions that examine (1) the method to detect and to reverse frailty and sarcopenia; (2) the method to diagnose early and prevent delirium and other geriatric syndromes; (3) best practices to manage the treatment of the older adults with specific situations, such as hip fracture or oncological disease; (4) best practices for designing, implementing, and/or evaluating integrated interventions to improve healthcare in older adults; and (5) best practices to develop healthcare to improve quality of life in older adults. Special interest will be given to innovative practices that expand and build upon geriatric approaches with multidisciplinary models. Other manuscript types of interest include relevant position papers, meta-analyses, reviews, brief reports, and commentaries.
Advanced Coating Material for Heritage Preservation
At present, many cultural artifacts are being destroyed due to natural and human forces. Advancements in coating materials and technologies are critical to the success of cultural relic preservation. Indeed, numerous studies have demonstrated that, while using incorrect materials can result in more significant damage, using suitable coating materials and processes can safeguard cultural artifacts. However, because cultural treasures are made of diverse materials, scientists must deal with various preservation situations and problems to create coating materials and suitable coating technologies that address the specific circumstances of the artifacts at hand.This Special Issue covers cultural relic-coating analysis methodologies, the use of inorganic materials and inorganic-organic hybrid materials for reinforcing stone cultural relics, as well as the synthesis of functional nanomaterials and their application in waterproofing, anti-aging, and antibacterial treatments of cultural relics.
Biotic Stress Management in Tomato
This valuable volume highlights biotechnological tools and their utilization for biotic stress management in the tomato plant, one of the world's most important vegetable crops consumed by us in our daily diet and which is vulnerable to over 200 diseases as well as the impact of global climate change.The chapters cover the major diseases of tomato along with practical biotic stress management strategies through biotechnological and molecular approaches. The focus is on molecular tools that can be used to prevent or mitigate damage from such diseases as bacterial wilt, bacterial canker, damping off seedlings, late blight, early blight, fusarium wilt, septorial leaf spot, cercospora leaf spot, verticilium wilt, tomato leaf curl virus, tobacco mosaic virus, tomato spotted wilt virus, root knot nematode, fruit borer, and sucking pests. Gene stacking/pyramiding and postharvest management strategies are also systematically discussed.This book provides an up-to-date and comprehensive review that will be a greatly useful resource, containing basic facts and information on the new and recent discoveries for biotic stresses management of tomatoes.
The Geochemical Origin of Microbes
This is a textbook covering the transition from energy releasing reactions on the early Earth to energy releasing reactions that fueled growth in the first microbial cells. It is for teachers and college students with an interest in microbiology, geosciences, biochemistry, evolution, or all of the above.
Evaluation and Prevention of Mycotoxin Contamination and Toxicological Effects
Over the last few decades, mycotoxins, toxic fungal secondary metabolites that frequently contaminate foods and feeds, have attracted great interest at both scientific and industrial levels. The toxicity of these compounds has led to several regulations in many countries to control and quantify these contaminants for their subsequent risk assessment. Many analytical methods have been developed, from rapid screening tests to mass spectrometry technology and the establishment of multi-mycotoxin-validated methods. At present, the food processing industry is looking for technologies to remove or reduce mycotoxins from food materials, with the aim of maintaining the nutritive value and palatability of the products treated. New non-destructive strategies, also known as innovative non-thermal food processing technologies, are being explored as an alternative to conventional thermal treatments for mycotoxin decontamination. The aim of the Special Issue "Evaluation and Prevention of Mycotoxin Contamination and Toxicological Effects" was to provide a space of exchange to address analytical methodology for mycotoxin determination for subsequent risk assessment as well as the identification of toxicological effects and the prevention of contamination. More specifically, the Special Issue covers two main aspects: experimental data and literature reviews. The methodology covered molecular methods for mycotoxin assessment to high-throughput mass spectrometry techniques with the inclusion of emerging mycotoxins in occurrence data and the use of computational methods in mycotoxin risk assessment.
Recent Process Design and Development Strategies for Dental Materials
This Special Issue presents a comprehensive exploration of recent developments and technological advancements in the field of dental materials. Compiled with the intent to foster a deeper understanding of the material science behind restorative dentistry, this reprint offers detailed insights into novel materials, manufacturing techniques and their clinical applications.The highlights include the following: Exploration of 3D-printed bioglass and advanced resin composites;Discussion on the integration of nanotechnology for improved material properties;Evaluation of environmental and health impacts of new dental materials;Overview of innovative manufacturing processes such as CAD/CAM and selective laser melting (SLM).
ADP-Ribosylation in Pathogens
ADP-ribosylation was discovered over 60 years ago, and much of the research focused on bacterial toxins that employed ADP-ribosylation to kill host cells. However, in the last 20 years, the field has identified many cases where host-mediated ADP-ribosylation can either promote or repress pathogenic infections. It is clear that ADP-ribosylation is a key component of the innate immune response in eukaryotes and bacteria, and many of the mechanistic details of how ADP-ribosylation impacts pathogens have yet to be uncovered. In this Special Issue, we have focused on publishing unique reviews and primary research on the topics of pathogens and ADP-ribosylation. We hope that you will enjoy this collection.
Effect of Protein and Peptide Supplementation on Physical Performance and Health Status
As one of the major nutrients in the human diet, food proteins are important for human health and wellbeing. In addition to providing a source of energy and amino acids for synthesizing body proteins, food proteins are vital for many physiological processes, such as structure, function, synthesis, restoration, and transportation. Protein hydrolysates composed of small peptides are absorbed more rapidly than free amino acids and intact proteins, and they can improve the retention of proteins in the human body. Moreover, the supplementation of proteins and peptides is proposed as an effective dietary strategy in prevention and/or adjunctive treatment of various lifestyle- and aging-related diseases (e.g., type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cancer, liver disease, sarcopenia, and cardiovascular disease).The planned Special Issue on the "Effect of Protein and Peptide Supplementation on Physical Performance and Health Status" will include original studies and review articles focusing on the impact of proteins, peptides, and products enriched with them on human physical performance and health status, as well as their absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.
