Artificial Intelligence in Medical Imaging
Artificial intelligence is a term that refers to the ability to provide machines with human intelligence. In medicine it is becoming widely used. It finds application especially in the diagnostic and tumor fields. It is not yet able to replace the human brain, but several studies show how its support can be useful in making diagnoses and providing prognoses. This reprint addresses various satellite topics of this discipline, giving practical examples in various clinical fields. In addition, it highlights the strengths of this tool and proposes methods to improve its weaknesses by addressing issues such as increasing data sets and selecting the right features. It also addresses other innovative aspects that together with artificial intelligence can lead to improvements in surgery.
Nature-Based Solutions
'Nature-based solutions' (NbS) is an umbrella term for ecosystem-based approaches. It focuses on actions and policies that are in harmony with natural principles to achieve development goals and addressing challenges, while benefitting human livelihoods and the environment. The reprint contains empirical studies and systematic reviews regarding, inter alia, natural and green infrastructures, ecosystem-based management approaches, ecosystem and biodiversity conservation, ecosystem-based adaptation and climate change adaptation, and nature-based recreational activities.
Diet Quality and Risk of Cardiometabolic and Diabetes
Cardiometabolic risk factors and type 2 diabetes are the largest contributors to the global disease burden and disease-related mortality. Visceral obesity drives the progression of multiple cardiometabolic risk factors and type 2 diabetes, and behavioral lifestyle weight loss interventions are important strategies for the prevention of these metabolic alterations. Despite the consistent evidence that the greater the body weight loss, the greater the preventive effect on cardiometabolic risk factors or diabetes, too radical strategies might be unfeasible on a large scale, and the long-term maintenance of weight reduction following restricted calorie diets represents a major challenge. Changes in diet composition acting on nutrient quality independently of changes in energy intake may be effective in cardiometabolic and diabetes risk prevention, offering a more feasible and safe alternative treatment to energy restriction. The aim of the present Special Issue is to summarize recent evidence on "Diet Quality and Risk of Cardiometabolic and Diabetes". More specifically, the impact of diet quality in terms of micro- or macronutrient composition, beyond the effect of diet restriction, on the prevention of cardiometabolic and diabetes risk as well as diabetes management, will be discussed. Personalized quality dietary interventions for cardiometabolic health and diabetes prevention, as well as possible underlying mechanisms, will also be addressed in this Special Issue.
To Go Where Nature Leads
The primary compound at the core of ALIAmides, known as palmitoyl ethanolamide (PEA), has been recognized as a nutritional substance with protective qualities since the 1950s. Over time, PEA has been identified in a range of plant and animal food sources, and its role in promoting the resolution of inflammation within the mammalian body has been subject to growing scrutiny. The revelation of the intricate connection between ALIAmides and the endocannabinoid system has significantly bolstered research endeavors in this area. PEA's capacity to impact multiple targets and employ highly effective mechanisms to support homeostasis represents a substantial departure from the conventional pharmacological perspective, which often revolves around the concept of "one drug, one target, one disease." This marks the commencement of a new era in the field of human and animal health management, where a nature-aligned approach is adopted to modulate the body's responses to diverse stimuli and injuries.
Biological Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation, Biomolecular Condensates, and Membraneless Organelles
This reprint presents recent developments in the field of biological liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS, also known as biomolecular condensation). LLPS and related biogenesis of various membraneless organelles (MLOs) and biomolecular condensates (BMCs) represent fundamental molecular mechanisms governing the spatio-temporal organization of the intracellular space. In fact, MLOs and BMCs, being liquid droplets, represent specific compartments within a cell that are not enclosed by a lipid membrane. Most biological LLPS processes are reversible, and many MLOs/BMCs exist transiently; they rapidly emerge when conditions are changed and rapidly disintegrate as soon as the original conditions are restored, thereby showing a characteristic "now you see me, now you don't" behavior. Numerous MLOs/BMCs are found inside eukaryotic cells, where they exist as liquid droplets (or cellular bodies, puncta, etc.) in the cytoplasm, nucleoplasm, mitochondrial matrix, and stroma of chloroplasts. Furthermore, MLOs/BMCs are commonly observed in Archaea, bacteria, and, likely, viruses. MLOs/BMCs have numerous crucial functions, and their biogenesis is known to be controlled by various external factors and environmental cues, such as changes in temperature, pH, and ionic strength of the solution. All of these have garnered the close attention of many researchers to biological LLPS, MLOs, and BMCs.
Research on Plant Genomics and Breeding
In recent decades, crop breeding has greatly benefited from the knowledge of plant genomics and genetics, as well as the development of modern biotechnologies. Exploring the genetic basis and molecular mechanisms underlying various plant developmental and growth processes is imperative, as they underpin crop yield, grain quality, and stress adaptations. The goal of this Special Issue in IJMS, "Research on Plant Genomics and Breeding", is to present an overview of the latest fundamental discoveries in the field of plant genomics, as well as the potential utilization of biotechnologies in crop genetic improvement. We welcome all readers to this Reprint that covers several fields: the genetic and functional characterization of genes regulating important plant development processes or agronomic traits; the genetic improvement in crops using gene editing and other modern biotechnologies; and the discovery, characterization, and application of germplasm resources with elite traits.
Biomedical Applications of Extracellular Vesicles
Biomedical Applications of Extracellular Vesicles Unique resource focusing on biomedical applications and clinical translation of extracellular vesicles in science and medicine Focusing on key points to better understand extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their development, Biomedical Applications of Extracellular Vesicles describes in detail the biogenesis of EVs, the mechanism of intercellular communication, and the treatment of various diseases of EVs and the EV-based drug delivery platforms. An application-oriented resource, the work presents rapidly newer biomedical and clinical applications of natural and engineered EVs such as drug delivery, diagnosis, prognosis monitoring, immunotherapy, and more. The first part of this book provides a basic background on EVs. Next, the book introduces the excellent therapeutic effects of EVs themselves and the underlying mechanisms, followed by how EVs from different sources were used to construct drug delivery platforms. The latest research on EVs from leading groups around the world is presented. Sample topics covered in Biomedical Applications of Extracellular Vesicles include: Biogenesis of various EVs Pros and cons of the different instrumental and methodological developments for analytical strategies applied to EVs EVs in treatment of major diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases Current methods of engineering EVs, and a comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of each method Biomaterials, such as hydrogels, scaffolds, and microneedles, that have been developed to further enhance the therapeutic efficacy of EVs Key challenges, such as quality control, scalability, and biosafety, that limit the clinical and industrial translation of EVs Explaining in detail how extracellular vesicles are produced and engineered, along with potential applications and commercial developments of EVs in science and industry, Biomedical Applications of Extracellular Vesicles is an essential resource on the subject for chemists, cell biologists, and molecular physicists.
The Wuhan Cover-Up
"RFK Jr. exposes the decades of lies."--Luc Montagnier, Nobel laureate From the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of The Real Anthony Fauci comes an explosive expos矇 of the cover-up behind the true origins of COVID-19. "Gain-of-function" experiments are often conducted to deliberately develop highly virulent, easily transmissible pathogens for the stated purpose of developing preemptive vaccines for animal viruses before they jump to humans. More insidious is the "dual use" nature of this research, specifically directed toward bioweapons development. The Wuhan Cover-Up pulls back the curtain on how the US government's increase in biosecurity spending after the 2001 terror attacks set in motion a plan to transform the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), under the direction of Dr. Anthony Fauci, into a de facto Defense Department agency. While Dr. Fauci zealously funded and pursued gain-of-function research, concern grew among some scientists and government officials about the potential for accidental or deliberate release of weaponized viruses from labs that might trigger worldwide pandemics. A moratorium was placed on this research, but true to form, Dr. Fauci found ways to continue unperturbed--outsourcing some of the most controversial experiments offshore to China and providing federal funding to Wuhan Institute of Virology's (WIV's) leading researchers for gain-of-function studies in partnership with the Chinese military and the Chinese Communist Party. Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s meticulously researched and rigorously sourced analysis leads readers on a staggering journey to learn about: the key enablers and henchmen pushing for gain-of-function research the economic motives behind gain-of-function research successfully engineered "chimeric viruses" that can infect and kill humans the coordinated effort to silence speculation of COVID-19's laboratory genesis the complicity of scientific journals to hide the origins of COVID-19 the role of the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China's biowarfare/biodefense program the relationships between US health, military, and intelligence bureaucracies and scientists and their Chinese counterparts the roles of Bill Gates and Sir Jeremy Farrar in orchestrating a global cover-up The Wuhan Cover-Up unveils a global conspiracy of epic proportion and lethal consequence.
Writing in the Biological Sciences
Writing in the Biological Sciences: A Comprehensive Resource to Scientific Communication serves as an essential "one-stop" reference to scientific writing and communication for budding professionals in the life sciences and related fields. This guide is designed to function as both a free-standing textbook for a course on writing in the sciences and as an accompanying text or reference guide in courses with writing-intensive components. It covers all the basics of scientific communication that students need to master for successful scientific careers. It lays the foundation for professional writing, starting with basic principles. It then shows students how to apply these principles to various types of scientific documents, from lab reports and statistical analyses to research articles and grant proposals. Writing in the Biological Sciences also offers practical advice on organizing academic presentations, creating posters, and preparing job applications.
Biodiversity and Bioeconomy
Biodiversity and Bioeconomy: Status Quo, Challenges, and Opportuniti es comprehensively delivers the latest developments in theories of biodiversity and ecosystem functi oning and their major implicati ons for biodiversity conservati on through diversifying agriculture, forestry, and biomass producti on systems and linking these developments with sustainability of bioeconomy. This book provides basic understanding of biodiversity and bioeconomy, diff erent views of their interrelati onship, and their links with sustainable development goals. It also examines the research and practi ce of biodiversity and ecosystem functi oning in agriculture, forestry, and biomass producti on systems to achieve sustainable bioeconomy. Finally, this book examines status, challenges, and opportuniti es for biodiversity-centered bioeconomy providing a way forward.
Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants
Plant responses to environmental factors are extraordinarily complex. They can be observed at various levels of plant organization, ranging from changes in the intensity of basic biochemical processes, such as respiration, photosynthesis, and transpiration, to morphological and anatomical changes in organs. However, these biochemical changes are preceded by the activation of an efficient signaling system which endures environmental fluctuations. This Special Issue showcases the latest reports on the impact of abiotic factors on plant responses. It contains 3 reviews and 9 original works and is preceded by an editorial summarizing the most important issues discussed in the publications.
Flipons
Alan Herbert has played a leading part in discovering the biological roles for a high-energy form of DNA twisted to the left rather than to the right. Both Z-DNA and the Z-RNA sensing proteins are critical for protecting hosts against both viruses and cancers.
Darwin's Sandcastle
It's about time Darwinism is seen for what it is. Why are brilliant and logical scientists not reasonable on the question of the ultimate cause of the unity, diversity, and complexity of life on Earth? We wrongly think that an accurate view of life's origins can be deduced by science and logic alone apart from faith and humble submission to God's Word. Without the light of God's Word, unbelievers have built up an edifice, a theory of life's origins known as Darwinian Evolution, which they believe is an impregnable fortress. In our Darwin-dominated society, blind chance, mutation, and natural selection have received most of the glory for the unity, diversity, and complexity of life on Earth. It's about time this philosophy is seen for what it is: a sandcastle on the beach, in the face of the rising tide.
In Vitro Models of Tissue and Organ Regeneration
The recovery of cells after tissue and organ injury is a complex process, more detailed insights into the cellular processes of repair and regeneration are urgently needed if we are to understand underlying molecular biological mechanisms. Based on this knowledge, this Special Issue will focus on current in vitro systems exploring repair and regeneration mechanisms. As such, this SI includes experimental research approaches to investigate the mechanisms involved and laboratory methods to establish and optimise models for tissue and organ repair and regeneration, theoretical modelling and computational models, as well as review papers are included here. Eleven articles are published in the Special Issue, which deals with various tissue and organ regeneration questions or the modelling or summary of the research models used in this process.
A Themed Issue in Memory of Academician Zhu Yingguo (1939-2017)
Professor Yingguo Zhu, an Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, devoted his whole life (1939-2017) with tremendous enthusiasm to breeding hybrid rice. He studied and worked at Wuhan University for 58 years and contributed to enriching the diversity of hybrid rice, such as Maxie-type and Honglian-type hybrid rice. We are organizing this Special Issue in his honor to remember his great contributions to hybrid rice, especially Honglian-type male sterility. We invite researchers, including his former students, to submit manuscripts focused on male sterility, rice breeding, and, in particular, hybrid rice breeding, functional genomics research, gene mining and utilization, transposons, and the creation of germplasm. In addition, new technology and cutting-edge research studies are also welcome. We believe that this Special Issue will be helpful to the research on rice and the improvement of hybrid rice breeding in the future.
Toward Sustainability through Bio-Based Materials at the Interfaces with Living Systems
Over the centuries, technological advancements have significantly enhanced various aspects of human life by improving the performance of materials that interact with living systems. Nevertheless, the mass production and disposal of numerous newly developed materials have given rise to a pressing 21st-century challenge: environmental sustainability. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Health Organization estimated that 89 million facial masks were required monthly for frontline health workers. A promising solution to this challenge lies in the micro- and nanofabrication of bio-based materials, which can transform current technology that is reliant on traditional materials by providing recyclable, biodegradable, and energy-efficient alternatives. Bio-based materials, such as papers and silk textiles, have demonstrated their sustainability over thousands of years. Recent progress in science and engineering has unveiled innovative functionalities and applications of these conventional materials through processes such as regeneration, recombination, and structural modification. This Special Issue is dedicated to exploring the future potential of bio-based materials in various applications interfacing with living systems, such as the human body, plants, soil microbiomes, and food.
Molecular Biology of Ornamental Plants
Relative to model plants, ornamental plants have many special characteristics, such as their flower color, shape and fragrance. Furthermore, these traits are unique and complex compared to different plants. With the development of sequencing technology and omics tools, core regulatory networks and genes related to specific traits were discovered in a variety of ornamental plants. These research methods have enriched the exploration of the regulatory mechanisms of ornamental traits and provided elite candidate genes for directional breeding. This Special Issue "Molecular Biology of Ornamental Plants" covers 13 ornamental plant species, including 7 woody flowers, 3 perennial flowers, 1 aquatic flower and 2 herbs. The research topics include flower color, abiotic stress, species diversity, plant development and research protocol innovation. The research methods integrate the latest methods of bioinformatics and molecular biology.
Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatocellular Tumors
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent primary liver cancer, accounting for >80% of primary liver cancers worldwide. The diagnosis of HCC, relying solely on noninvasive criteria, is currently under debate due to the need for molecular information that necessitates tissue biopsies, while therapy is provided in accordance with tumor stages and the anticipated advantages of major interventions, following the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging system. Principally, resection, transplantation and local ablation are most commonly performed in patients with early-stage HCC tumors, while TACE and systemic therapy are, respectively, the preferred treatment options for intermediate- and advanced-stage tumors. However, the HCC tumor immune microenvironment (TME) affects the response to current anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapies. Therefore, an enhanced understanding of the immunobiology of TME is essential for the development of predictive biomarkers of patient stratification and strategies of drug combinations to improve therapeutic efficacy, especially for patients with tumors that are unresponsive to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy. Taking into account the health burden of HCC worldwide, with this Special Issue, we aim to enhance our knowledge of innovative diagnostic and prognostic methods and to discuss experimentation with different novel treatment modalities, believed to be of the utmost priority to progress in our seemingly never-ending fight against hepatocellular cancer.
The Diversity of Wood and Non-Wood Forest Products
The diversity of wood and non-wood forest products is enormous and reflected in their anatomical, physical and chemical properties as well as their potential applications. Special attention should be given to lesser-known species and even to invasive species, which may be profitable when properly managed, thereby decreasing the overexploitation of threatened species. Besides the market importance of stem wood, other tree components and non-wood forest products, often regarded simply as forest residual materials, are valuable forest resources with various potential applications that can strengthen the circular economy. Assessing the characteristics of these diverse materials, such as their structure and anatomy as well as their physical and chemical properties, is fundamental for evaluating their potential and increasing high-quality end-uses. This knowledge will also contribute to sustainable forest management with enhanced forest diversity and species conservation in addition to the reinforcement of certification and environmental policies.
Diversity of Inland Wetlands
Inland wetlands are among the ecosystems disappearing with the highest rate, although they can offer numerous benefits to humans and their welfare. We have learned that wetlands are not just the treasures of biodiversity and a refuge for many threatened or vulnerable species but are also one of the best tools to mitigate the consequences of climate changes. The significance of this should not be understated if we want to increase the resilience of our cities, communities and civilization to extreme weather events. This Special Issue contains 17 papers presenting a variety of wetland types, species and communities thriving within, discussing their structure, functioning and suitable management practices to preserve them.
Space Bites
"During her decades-long career at NASA, my friend and colleague Vickie Kloeris made sure my fellow astronauts and I were well-fed and healthy while in space. Space Bites is not only a compilation of stories of her amazing career but also a behind-the-scenes look at the evolution of human space travel. Read this book to be inspired and to learn, and don't be surprised if it also leaves you hungry for some space food." ​--Mike Massimino, Former NASA Astronaut and NY Times Bestselling Author of Spaceman: An Astronaut's Unlikely Journey to Unlock the Secrets of the Universe As a microbiology undergrad entering her final semester at Texas A&M University, Vickie found she was missing a single one-hour credit in her elective studies. As she scanned through the list of approved options, a course in food microbiology caught her eye. Vickie didn't know it then, but that seemingly simple decision would drastically change the course of her career--and life--from that moment forward. Vickie Kloeris's Space Bites: Reflections of a NASA Food Scientist takes readers through the many memorable moments of her career as she worked on both the Shuttle and International Space Station food systems. If you've ever wanted an inside look at what it's like to assemble a sandwich in space, produce a space food breakfast for the cast of Apollo 13, or work side by side with astronauts as they prepare for the journey of a lifetime, you're sure to learn something new with the turn of every page. A charming balance of technical knowledge and human experience, Vickie's career memoir is a story for the scientist, space enthusiast, and spontaneous reader alike.
Intersex Diversity
"Intersex Diversity" by Megan Dennis is a comprehensive exploration of intersex conditions and their various manifestations. The book delves into the definition of intersex and highlights the wide diversity of intersex variations. It provides detailed insights into chromosomal intersex conditions, such as Klinefelter Syndrome, Turner Syndrome, Triple X Syndrome, and XYY Syndrome, shedding light on their unique characteristics. The author examines gonadal intersex conditions, including True Hermaphroditism and Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome, elucidating the complexities of these conditions. Additionally, anatomical intersex conditions, such as Hypospadias, Micropenis, Clitoromegaly, and Ambiguous Genitalia, are explored to understand their impact on affected individuals. Furthermore, the book explores hormonal intersex conditions like Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia and 5-alpha Reductase Deficiency, as well as mosaicism intersex conditions, such as XX/XY, XX/XXX, and XY/XO Mosaicism, offering in-depth insights into their biological underpinnings. The psychosocial aspects of intersex variations are also addressed, emphasizing the significance of gender identity and expression for intersex individuals. The book highlights advocacy and support mechanisms available for those with intersex variations. The latter sections of the book delve into medical management and treatment options for intersex conditions, including hormonal therapy, surgical interventions, and psychological support. Ethical considerations and human rights are thoughtfully discussed, with a focus on informed consent, autonomy, and intersex rights advocacy.
Ways of Nature
In Ways of Nature, Dr. D矇cossard articulates the first theory of evolution since Darwin. By his own account, he stumbled upon his proposed mechanism of eukaryogenesis using a process worthy of the three princes of Serendip. From there, he succeeded in establishing a comprehensive theory of life and the universe. For instance, we learn that a new paradigm, called " the seeds-first theory," explains biodiversity among eukaryotes. It is interesting to find out what contributions, if any, the theory of natural selection has made to the new model. Nevertheless, neo-Darwinism - the modern version of Darwinism - has long been engaged in a major antagonism with the theory of Intelligent Design (ID), which holds that the living world emanated from the conscious choice of a designer rather than chance events. In any case, the author will be the first one to admit that the new model of evolution delineated in this opus is not born out of the crisis that is currently rocking neo-Darwinism, a crisis sparked by the assaults of many thinkers and scientists, including those of the ID movement. He is also quick to reveal how little he knew about the standoff between the two main protagonists in the crisis of natural selection theory before he began work on this book, cloistered as he was, both literally and figuratively, within the confines of emergency rooms caring for the sick and injured. In Ways of Nature, Dr. D矇cossard explores the paths taken by life since its apparition and shines a bright spotlight on its destiny and the fate of the universe. In so doing, he also identifies the connections between the living and the nonliving and opens our eyes to novel ideas about physical phenomena whose conventional descriptions we thought were settled. Ways of Nature is undoubtedly a landmark publication. It is indeed a paradigm shift ? la Kuhn in our understanding of life and its evolution.
Redox Regulation of Differentiation and De-Differentiation
Even before oxygen appeared in our athmosphere, redox reactions provided the energy for metabolic steps in the evolution of life. Redox modifications are now important in cellular functions including differentiation/development. This book compiles current knowledge regarding the roles of redox regulation in differentiation and de-differentiation.
Bioenergetics
Bioenergetics deals with the very first energy transformation steps performed by living cells. Increased dissipation is the major effect of processing external energy packages. Enzyme-supported charge separation is the minor but essential outcome for maintaining life.
Bioinformatics and Human Genomics Research
Advances in high-throughput biological methods have led to the publication of a large number of genome-wide studies in human and animal models. In this context, recent tools from bioinformatics and computational biology have been fundamental for the analysis of these genomic studies. The book Bioinformatics and Human Genomics Research provides updated and comprehensive information about multiple approaches of the application of bioinformatic tools to research in human genomics. It covers strategies analysis of genome-wide association studies, genome-wideexpression studies and genome-wide DNA methylation, among other topics. It provides interesting strategies for data mining in human genomics, network analysis, prediction of binding sites for miRNAs and transcription factors, among other themes. Experts from all around the world in bioinformatics and human genomics have contributed chapters in this book. Readers will find this book as quite useful for their in silico explorations, which would contribute to a better and deeper understanding of multiple biological processes and of pathophysiology of many human diseases.
Food Supplements and Functional Foods Assessment for Health and Nutrition
Nowadays, diet-related non-communicable diseases and their complications are one of the most important public health problems worldwide. Food supplements and functional foods are considered food products which contribute to the achievement of optimal nutritional well-being, health status, and quality of life through reducing the risk of diseases and promoting the appropriate function of human organs and systems. Nowadays, the assessment of these functional foods and the study of their implications in nutrition and health are important challenges in societies of developed countries where consumers increasingly demand foods with added value beyond the provision of nutrients and the satisfaction of appetite. In this reprint, the characterization of the nutritional composition and phytochemicals of functional foods and food supplements as well as the evaluation of their potential health benefits in different disorders and diseases through clinical trials or preliminary studies are addressed.
Antimicrobial Natural Products
Since the discovery and clinical application of penicillin, microbial natural products have played a critical role in protecting public health. However, the emergence and wide spread of drug-resistant pathogens pose a new grave threat to humankind and make this issue one of the world's most severe public health problems. New chemical entries with antimicrobial activities, new mechanisms, or novel therapeutic methods are urgently needed for drug development. By exploring new sources, new technologies in separation and structural elucidation, genome mining, and synthetic biology, natural product research is entering a new golden age.This Special Issue on natural products with antimicrobial activities covers the discovery of new secondary metabolites, new mechanisms, and new therapeutic methods for potential application in antimicrobial drug screening and development.
Efficacy, Safety, and Immunogenicity of Vaccines against Viruses
This reprint emerges as a beacon guiding researchers, scientists, and medical professionals through uncharted territories. In this volume, we delve deep into the intricate world of immunization, where the fusion of bioinformatics and network medicine reshapes our understanding of vaccines' efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity.
Sustainable Crop Plants Protection
This reprint, titled "Sustainable Crop Plants Protection: Implications for Pest and Disease Control", has become of scientific interest again for a reason: to continue its mission of advancing the science and practice of sustainable agriculture. This Special Issue delves into the multifaceted world of crop protection, exploring innovative approaches, technologies, and solutions that are pivotal for the future of agriculture. Our objectives remain as relevant today as they were when the first call went out for the Special Issue of sustainability, to shed light on sustainable pest and disease control strategies, foster scientific collaboration, and provide a platform for sharing knowledge that can transform agriculture for the better.
Effects of Polyphenol-Rich Foods on Chronic Diseases
Polyphenols are a group of bioactive compounds in plant foods that have been gaining attention since the 1990s due to their health implications. However, it is still difficult to define their implications concerning health maintenance and chronic disease prevention or even treatment. There are many difficulties in their study, with the first being the fact that this group of compounds includes such a diverse array of chemical structures and effects as part of the food products in which they coexist with many other nutrients and non-nutrients. However, today, it is generally accepted that they exert a vasoprotective effect, that they may modulate blood pressure and exert a regulatory effect both on lipid and glucidic metabolism, and that they have an immunomodulatory and gut microbial effect. It is through all these means that polyphenols may be of use in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases as prevalent as obesity and cardiovascular disease or neurocognitive decline.
Liquid Chromatography in Analysis of Bioactive Compounds for Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics, and Functional Food Interest
Plants produce a wide range of phytochemicals, known as non-nutrition compounds, to confirm their identity, and they are used for the production of natural pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and functional food, among other things, due to their pro-health properties. The use of modern chromatographic techniques allows for accurate quantitative and qualitative identification of the above-mentioned phytochemicals and their natural products. Liquid chromatography is one of the most efficient and robust specific techniques due to the merits of convenience and strong separation ability, as well as a wide range of material applications for identification. Liquid chromatography is widely used to analyze plants, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics and in natural product quality control or quantitative determination of bioactive compounds. The most commonly used for identifying different plant materials and pharmaceuticals are ultra- and high-performance liquid chromatography with UV-VIS, fluorescence, and diode array, which is equipped with mass spectrometry or tandem mass spectrometry detection methods. Therefore, for this Special Issue, we published studies concerning the latest scientific news, insights, and advances in the field of innovation of liquid chromatography for the analysis of bioactive compounds for pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and functional food interests.
Advances in Legume Research
This reference provides comprehensive insights on the harm inflicted by pests and diseases on leguminous crops. Internationally acclaimed authors provide succinct reviews on breeding and impact of biotic stress factors such as insect pests, microbial pathogens, spiders, and vertebrate pests in legumes like soybean, cowpea, and common bean. The book also contains detailed technical analysis of methods such as the PCR-based detection, next generation sequencing / marker-assisted selections, low cost lethal-non-lethal vertebrate pest control and mechanisms of climate/nutrient induced resistance. The unique feature of this book is its focus on the optimization and development of environmentally friendly methods for pest and disease control in leguminous crops. Other features include structured sections for easy reading and a list of references for advanced readers. Key themes: -Biotic Stress and Plant Resistance -Biotic Stress in Legumes (Cowpea and Soybean) -Diagnostic and Control Methods for Microbial Plant Pathogens -Viral Diseases of Legumes and Management: -Vertebrate Pests in Legumes and Economic Implications -Spiders in Legume Agroecosystems -Climate-Driven Factors and Insect Pests of Legumes -Sustainable Crop Nutrition for Biotic Stress Alleviation in Legumes -Physiological Responses in Legumes to Combined Stress Factors
Ways of Nature
In Ways of Nature, Dr. D矇cossard articulates the first theory of evolution since Darwin. By his own account, he stumbled upon his proposed mechanism of eukaryogenesis using a process worthy of the three princes of Serendip. From there, he succeeded in establishing a comprehensive theory of life and the universe. For instance, we learn that a new paradigm, called " the seeds-first theory," explains biodiversity among eukaryotes. It is interesting to find out what contributions, if any, the theory of natural selection has made to the new model. Nevertheless, neo-Darwinism - the modern version of Darwinism - has long been engaged in a major antagonism with the theory of Intelligent Design (ID), which holds that the living world emanated from the conscious choice of a designer rather than chance events. In any case, the author will be the first one to admit that the new model of evolution delineated in this opus is not born out of the crisis that is currently rocking neo-Darwinism, a crisis sparked by the assaults of many thinkers and scientists, including those of the ID movement. He is also quick to reveal how little he knew about the standoff between the two main protagonists in the crisis of natural selection theory before he began work on this book, cloistered as he was, both literally and figuratively, within the confines of emergency rooms caring for the sick and injured. In Ways of Nature, Dr. D矇cossard explores the paths taken by life since its apparition and shines a bright spotlight on its destiny and the fate of the universe. In so doing, he also identifies the connections between the living and the nonliving and opens our eyes to novel ideas about physical phenomena whose conventional descriptions we thought were settled. Ways of Nature is undoubtedly a landmark publication. It is indeed a paradigm shift ? la Kuhn in our understanding of life and its evolution.
Advanced Spectroscopy Techniques in Food Analysis
In today's global food market, ensuring both consumer satisfaction and the highest standards of safety is paramount. Food quality analysis covers chemical composition, physical properties, taste evaluation, and even traceability. Traditional methods are often slow, expensive, and eco-unfriendly due to their destructive nature. Here's the exciting part! Advanced spectroscopy techniques offer solutions. Imagine using non-destructive methods like X-rays, hyperspectral imaging, NMR, and Raman-quick, cost-effective, and eco-friendly, using less solvent. Now, let's demystify chemometrics-it extracts hidden info from spectra or image data, creating models for both qualitative and quantitative food analysis. This reprint presents recent advances in spectroscopy and chemometrics, focusing on their role in food analysis, quality evaluation, safety, and practical industry use. It's all about ensuring safe, delicious, and trustworthy food. Whether you're a curious consumer, food enthusiast, or industry insider, this reprint unveils cutting-edge methods for maintaining top food standards. With advanced spectroscopy and chemometrics, we're on track to boost consumer confidence in the food we love.
Omics Approaches to Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases
Chronic immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs), usually accompanied by cardiovascular disease and neoplasias, are now prevailed worldwide. The limited efficacy of current therapeutics and a proportion of non-responders are linked to missing aspects in their pathophysiology at the molecular and cellular levels. High-throughput single- and multi-omics approaches and their combinations are expected to pinpoint the key players underlying IMIDs' establishment and/or progression, thus suggesting potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers. This Reprint gathered 13 papers presenting recent relevant data related to the assessment of CVD risk in RA, tailored therapeutics in RA-interstitial lung disease, IgG4-related RA, and Sj繹gren's syndrome, enabling early identification of PsA and improving outcomes in patients' with psoriasis. Also, novel non-invasive biomarkers for endoscopic activity and mucosal healing in ulcerative colitis, IBD, and cell-death-associated inflammatory syndromes are proposed. Moreover, a certain subset of telocytes is suggested as the pilot governor of epithelial behavior in preneoplastic gastric lesions, a newer member of IL-1 family, as it is a critical partner in lung adenocarcinoma, while distinct transcriptomic signatures and pathway profiles in human melanocytes corresponding to different Staphylococcal superantigenic enterotoxins are possible targets for therapeutic intervention in cases of toxic shocks. Lastly, Tregs- and dendritic cell-based IMID biomarkers are recommended to enable at more efficient, personalized, and precise treatment strategies.
Food Processing and Its Impact on Phenolic and Other Bioactive Constituents in Food - Second Edition
Special Issue of Molecules entitled "Food Processing and Its Impact on Phenolic and Other Bioactive Constituents in Food-Second Edition". Bioactive compounds, including phenolic ingredients, have long been used as important constituents of a healthy diet. As a result, consumer awareness about the important role of high-quality products rich in bioactive compounds-especially phenolic compounds-in human nutrition, health, and prevention against diseases has increased. Additionally, methods for food processing, regardless of the technology used, have a huge impact on the quality of the final products. Therefore, the big challenges for scientists lie in the monitoring of changes during food processing and the optimization of technology to achieve minimal degradation of nutrients (including phenolic compounds). Thus, for this Special Issue, we published the latest scientific news, insights, and advances in the field of food processing and its impact on bioactive constituents in food, especially phenolic compounds. The information presented will certainly attract considerable interest among a large group of our readers from different disciplines and research fields.
Recent Advances in Understanding of the Role of Synuclein Family Members in Health and Disease
In this Special Issue, we have compiled data and opinions from leading scientists to demonstrate the recent advances in the study of function and dysfunction of synucleins. These proteins are involved in multiple normal and pathological molecular processes and consequently have various effects on cell biology of the nervous system. Three members of the synuclein family share many structural properties and have an overlapping pattern of expression and intracellular distribution in the developing and adult nervous system, which point to functional redundancy within the family. However, each synuclein has its own functions which are not shared with the two other family members, and there are certain cellular mechanisms and pathways in which these functions could be antagonistic rather than synergistic.
Ecosystem Monitoring
Ecological patterns are the manifestation of salient feedback between species and the environment, considering both the natural and built environment. Mapping this dynamical feedback over space and time means extracting the structural and functional networks of habitats and species whose nexus defines the systemic function that can be preserved and enhanced via protection and eco-engineering solutions. The key is to sense the ecological collective behavior that is salient for quantitative ecosystem assessment, forecasting, and engineering. This Topic aims to highlight data, methods, inferred processes, and solutions about collective ecological patterns at multiple scales and for diverse ecosystems. The core objective is to stress the crucial importance of ecological information and monitoring for detailed and quantitative assessment of ecosystems on which future nature-based solutions can be developed considering climate risks and population values.
Shark
A superlative study of our planet's dominant predator for millions of years. A major and fully indexed contribution to the preservation of this amazing creature, now much threatened by human activity - with losses from overfishing, pollution, and the destruction of their habitat.Although scientific knowledge of sharks is increasing rapidly, the author shows that there is still much to learn about these complex and elusive animals. For many species it may already be too late.The book overturns negative and damaging perceptions of sharks. Thoroughly researched, it is written in clear jargon-free language and informs the reader of everything necessary to know about these sophisticated guardians of our oceans.
Life as No One Knows It
An intriguing new scientific theory that explains what life is and how it emerges. What is life? This is among the most difficult open problems in science, right up there with the nature of consciousness and the existence of matter. All the definitions we have fall short. None help us understand how life originates or the full range of possibilities for what life on other planets might look like. In Life as No One Knows It, physicist and astrobiologist Sara Imari Walker argues that solving the origin of life requires radical new thinking and an experimentally testable theory for what life is. This is an urgent issue for efforts to make life from scratch in laboratories here on Earth and missions searching for life on other planets. Walker proposes a new paradigm for understanding what physics encompasses and what we recognize as life. She invites us into a world of maverick scientists working without a map, seeking not just answers but better ways to formulate the biggest questions we have about the universe. The book culminates with the bold proposal of a new theory for identifying and classifying life, one that applies not just to biological life on Earth but to any instance of life in the universe. Rigorous, accessible, and vital, Life as No One Knows It celebrates the mystery of life and the explanatory power of physics.
Antioxidants in Animal Production, Reproduction, Health and Welfare
The exposure of animals to environmental stresses (restraint, bad housing conditions, irradiation, pollution, diseases, and heat stress) and endogenous stresses (metabolic and physiological disorders) can seriously disrupt the redox homeostasis, leading to impairments in animals' health and overall performance. Under these circumstances, the self-antioxidant defense system may not be enough to neutralize ROS effects. In this context, the utilization of an exogenous source of antioxidants, mainly dietary sources, may present an effective and cost-effective solution. There are a plethora of substances, either naturally occurring or synthesized (organic acids, minerals, vitamins, hormones, and specific feed additives originating from plants such as essential oils and polyphenols), known for their antioxidant activity, that can be used to maintain adequate redox status in animals in order to preserve their well-being and/or productivity. This area of research still needs more investigations in order to clearly elucidate the effective antioxidant substances that could be used in practical applications, with an emphasis on their biological mechanisms during different physiological conditions and health statuses. We intend to bring together current research concerning the role of antioxidant substances either from natural sources or those synthesized for improving animal production, reproduction, health, and welfare.
Food Contaminant Components
The contaminants in food (e.g., heavy metals, foodborne pathogenic microorganisms, pesticides, veterinary drugs/antibiotics, toxins, prohibited additives, and allergens) can seriously threaten the 'health of human beings. In recent years, research on the source, detection, toxicity, and removal of food contaminant components has undergone rapid development and achieved tremendous progress through the painstaking efforts of researchers. Therefore, the aim of this Special Issue is to provide a broader perspective of the latest advances in the source, detection, toxicity, and removal of food contaminant components. In this Special Issue, we aim to address: 1) Where do these contaminant components come from? How can we detect these contaminant components? How toxic are these contaminant components? How can we remove these contaminant components? Methodological advances in all areas of food contaminant components, from fundamental research to applied research, can be covered. We welcomed both original research and review articles on topics including, but not limited to: food contaminants; sources; metabolism; biotransformation; toxicity; elimination; excretion; detection
Fatty Acids from Marine Organisms
Fatty acids (FAs) are considered very important biomolecules because they have been used as trophic biomarkers in the marine food chain analysis of several ecological niches. They are compounds universally present in all organisms and play very important biological roles, such as acting as building blocks in biological membranes and signaling molecules. A great number of different fatty acids (saturated, mono- and di-unsaturated, branched, halogenated, hydroxylated, and methoxylated), as well as the major polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) such as eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids, occur in marine organisms. In addition, marine organisms are a rich source of metabolites with unusual structures that often exhibit interesting pharmacological properties. Moreover, it is worth emphasizing that the nutritional value of fish and marine invertebrates directly depends on their lipid composition and, in particular, their fatty acid profile, and this represents the basis of the trade of most international marine products. For this Special Issue, we invited academic and industry scientists to submit reviews and original research articles focusing on the chemistry, biological roles, and bioactivities of fatty acids from marine organisms.
Biosaline Agriculture and Salt Tolerance of Plants
The salinity of soil and water is a problem present in all continents, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. Worldwide data indicate that 20% of the total cultivated area (upland and irrigated) and 33% of irrigated agricultural land are affected by excess salts in the soil. Furthermore, a significant number of the water sources in these regions, notably groundwater, have high concentrations of salts, which is a limiting factor for agricultural production. On the other hand, the growing demand for food because of population increases, the scarcity of water resources and land for the expansion of agriculture, and global climate change scenarios indicate the need to use these saline resources. In this context, biosaline and HALO agriculture appear to be some of the sustainable tools to increase food production and create job opportunities and sources of income for farmers. In this Special Issue, successful examples of biosaline agriculture in different parts of the world are presented, as well as studies on crop tolerance to salinity, strategies to mitigate salt stress, and the bio-remediation of salt-affected soils. Therefore, this Special Issue brings relevant contributions to sustainable agriculture using saline resources, and the published knowledge can be useful for students, professionals, and farmers.
Regulation of Autophagy under Stress
Autophagy is a conserved degradative mechanism essential for cellular homeostasis in eukaryotic organisms. It is a cellular response mechanism that helps cells adapt and survive under various stressful conditions. It involves the degradation and recycling of cellular components to maintain cellular homeostasis and protect against damage from stressors like nutrient deprivation, oxidative stress, infection, and protein misfolding. However, the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of autophagy regulation is still in significant development, including the involvement of gasotransmitters and small signaling molecules, such as those produced under ROS, RNS and RSS. Dysregulation of autophagy has been implicated in various diseases, making it an important area of research to improve biomedical therapies and strategies for overcoming the challenges from environmental stresses. Therefore, this Special Issue aims to review the current developments regarding autophagy research.
Convergent Evolution
An analysis of convergent evolution from molecules to ecosystems, demonstrating the limited number of evolutionary pathways available to life.Charles Darwin famously concluded On the Origin of Species with a vision of "endless forms most beautiful" continually evolving. More than 150 years later many evolutionary biologists see not endless forms but the same, or very similar, forms evolving repeatedly in many independent species lineages. A porpoise's fishlike fins, for example, are not inherited from fish ancestors but are independently derived convergent traits. In this book, George McGhee describes the ubiquity of the phenomenon of convergent evolution and connects it directly to the concept of evolutionary constraint--the idea that the number of evolutionary pathways available to life are not endless, but quite limited.Convergent evolution occurs on all levels, from tiny organic molecules to entire ecosystems of species. McGhee demonstrates its ubiquity in animals, both herbivore and carnivore; in plants; in ecosystems; in molecules, including DNA, proteins, and enzymes; and even in minds, describing problem-solving behavior and group behavior as the products of convergence. For each species example, he provides an abbreviated list of the major nodes in its phylogenetic classification, allowing the reader to see the evolutionary relationship of a group of species that have independently evolved a similar trait by convergent evolution. McGhee analyzes the role of functional and developmental constraints in producing convergent evolution, and considers the scientific and philosophical implications of convergent evolution for the predictability of the evolutionary process.
