Physics of Protein Folding, Misfolding, and Intrinsic Disorder
This Special Issue of Biomolecules, "Physics of Protein Folding, Misfolding, and Intrinsic Disorder: A Themed Issue in Honour of Professor Vladimir Uversky on the Occasion of His 60th Birthday", is a dedication to one of the discoverers of IDPs. This collection is a small token of the respect, admiration, and affection the contributors have for Prof. Vladimir (Volodya) Uversky. It is also a celebration of his illustrious career, and his accomplishments, and contributions to the IDP field that have inspired so many minds worldwide. This Special Issue presents the state of the art as it emerges from the contribution of the community of IDP researchers (IDPers), who have responded to the invitation to give credit to the pioneering work of Prof. Vladimir Uversky aimed at defining the class of disordered proteins and at promoting the attention of scientists toward the existence of "non-globular proteins". The papers in this collection show the advancement of our knowledge through the application of an integrative structural approach and witnesses at the same time the interest of the IDPer community toward new concepts (i.e., liquid-liquid phase separation) and new methodological frontiers (i.e., the application of machine learning and artificial intelligence to disorder prediction and modelling).
Introduction to Cancer Biology
From basic principles to insights into pioneering research, this introductory textbook provides the fundamentals of cancer biology that will enable students of biology and medicine to enter the field with confidence. It opens with a discussion of global cancer patterns, how cancers arise, and the risk factors involved. A description of the normal signalling pathways within cells then explains how DNA mutations affect proteins and what this means for the development and behaviour of tumours. Later chapters discuss methods for tumour detection, biomarker identification and the impact of genome sequencing, before reviewing the development of anti-cancer drugs and exciting current advances in treatment. With 50% new material, including two new chapters on genetic analysis of cancer and cancer chemotherapy, improved pedagogy, examples of revolutionising technologies in drug design and delivery, and useful online resources, this textbook offers an accessible and engaging account of cancer biology for undergraduate and graduate students.
Darwin's Racism, Sexism, and Idolization
In this book Diogo, a renowned biologist and anthropologist, addresses a question that is critical for the understanding of science, beliefs, idolization, systemic racism and sexism, and our societies in general: why has Darwin been idolized in such a unique way, particularly by Western scholars? Diogo shows that many evolutionary 'facts' stated in Darwin's works, particularly about human evolution, are inaccurate constructions based on Victorian biases and stereotypes: non-Europeans are inferior, women have a lower intelligence than men, Victorian society was the pinnacle of evolution, and so on. Importantly, such inaccurate biased statements about our evolution are markedly in contrast with the mostly accurate, and often brilliant, ideas put forward by Darwin concerning non-human organisms. Importantly, it was precisely the combination of such brilliant ideas, the use of simplistic and sometimes exaggerated metaphors that were catchy and easily absorbed by the general public, and Darwin's intellectual conservatism and biased ideas about women and non-European peoples that led to Darwin's idolization, particularly by Western scientists, as well as to the darkest societal repercussions of his works. By portraying such biased ideas as "evolutionary facts", Darwin provided easy ammunition for populist political leaders, authoritarians, colonialists, and white supremacists to 'scientifically' defend social hierarchies, sexism, racism, discrimination, oppression, and segregation. A typical argument used to defend Darwin from portraying such erroneous sexist and racist ideas as "facts" is that 'back then' everybody was racist and sexist. Diogo deconstructs this argument by providing enthralling case studies and travel descriptions by authors such as Wallace and Humboldt, who often praised the indigenous peoples that repulsed - and criticized the social hierarchies and Western imperialism that marveled - Darwin. The aim of this book is therefore not to 'cancel' Darwin orargue that he was always wrong: not at all, in general he was an extraordinary biologist, but was a much less successful anthropologist due in great part to his Victorian biases. Instead, the book discusses Darwin's writings, ideas, and their repercussions in a broader way, without taboos, omissions, idolization or demonization in order to show Darwin, and science in general, in all their complexity. This is because, if we fail to acknowledge and emphasize the biases, prejudices, inaccuracies, and abuses of our past, and merely continue to blindly idealize it, our kids will be condemned to undertake or suffer similar societal abuses in the future.
STEAM Education and the Innovative Pedagogies in the Intelligence Era
This academic reprint is a timely and essential resource for educators, researchers, and policymakers seeking to revolutionize STEAM education. As we embark on the era of intelligence, technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) offer unique possibilities to improve learning experiences in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. However, there is a notable gap in the research on how to effectively integrate these innovations and foster critical skills for the 21st century. Comprising 12 groundbreaking papers, this Special Issue addresses the urgent need for transformative teaching and learning methods that blend intelligent technologies with cutting-edge pedagogies in STEAM education. The reprint showcases original research and reviews that provide valuable insights into the current landscape of STEAM education and innovative approaches in this intelligence-driven age. This collection is designed to inspire further exploration, collaboration, and advancement in the field, ultimately benefiting future generations through the enhancement of STEAM education. Perfect for anyone interested in the future of education, this reprint is your guide to unlocking the potential of intelligent technologies and innovative pedagogies for a new era of learning.
Regulation of Crop Quality and Stress Responses
This reprint focuses on the mechanisms of crop response to abiotic stresses and quality formation, which are an important basis for breeding high-quality and stress-resistant varieties, especially addressing global climate change. In addition, crop adversity adaptability is closely related to the quality of agricultural products. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms that crops use to respond to environmental changes is of great significance to improve their quality.
State-of-the-Art Biosensors in China
Every new development in biosensors matters to the global sensor market and burgeoning field of interdisciplinary research that is hailed as a potential revolution in healthcare, consumer and industrial testing. The goal/objective of this Special Issue is to keep scholars, inspection agencies and companies informed on the progress of research into state-of-the-art biosensors in China. Specifically, this Special Issue serves as a means of showing that the biosensors have been proven at the concept level and developed in the laboratory setting; thus, many sensors could have strong healthcare or commercial applications.
Functional Properties of Natural Products and Human Health
In this Special Issue are collected original research articles, short communications, and reviews on new perspectives for the chemical and functional properties of natural products, including the molecular mechanisms behind the therapeutic effects of natural products used to treat human diseases. This reprint is addressed to all researchers interested in the studies about the bioavailability and biological effects of natural products isolated from plants and algae.
Microbial Biodiversity in Sustainable Agriculture
"The present book Microbial Biodiversity in Sustainable Agriculture covering the all the information's on area of macro and microorganisms. It mainly includes bio-fertilizers, sustainable plant diseases management, soil fertility, bio-control of insect pests, mycotoxin, and PGPR. This will provide an agricultural sustainability in basic and applied research related to plant and microbes. The manuscripts of this book are mostly invited ones from the eminent academicians from various scientists, teachers, researchers of Renounces University and Institutions. This Microbial Biodiversity in Sustainable Agriculture is intended for the undergraduate post graduate research scholars senior research fellow, and research associate in agriculture, biotechnology, botany, microbiology, home sciences, food sciences, horticulture and forestry. "
Phase-Separated Biomolecular Condensates
This volume provides readers with a broad collection of theoretical, computational, and experimental methods to quantitatively study the properties of phase-separate biomolecular condensates in diverse systems. The chapters in this book cover topics such as theoretical and computational methods; methods for in vitro characterization of biomolecular condensates; and techniques that enable in-cell characterization of biomolecular condensates. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introduction to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and expert tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Comprehensive and thorough, Phase-Separated Biomolecular Condensates: Methods and Protocols is a valuable resource that helps researchers learn and use established methods to study both biophysical properties and biological functions of biomolecular condensates.
RNA Structure and Dynamics
This volume provides a wide spectrum of multidisciplinary approaches for studying RNA structure and dynamics, including detailed accounts of experimental and computational procedures. Chapters guide readers through cryo-electron microscopy, crystallography, isothermal titration calorimetry, small angle X-ray scattering, single-molecule F繹rster Energy transfer, X-ray free electron laser, atomic force microscopy, computational simulation, and prediction. Written in the format of the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, each chapter includes an introduction to the topic, lists necessary materials and reagents, includes tips on troubleshooting and known pitfalls, and step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols.Authoritative and cutting-edge, RNA Structure and Dynamics aims to be a foundation for future studies and to be a source of inspiration for new investigations in the field.
The Biology of Ageing: From Hallmarks to Drugs
The Biology of Ageing: From Hallmarks to Drugs provides a series of reviews covering multiple aspects of the translational pipeline as interventions in the biology of ageing itself become a clinical reality. New chapters cover Cellular senescence and NAD+: what are the links?, Biomarker for ageing: potential and pitfalls, What chemists offer to ageing research, You are what you eat - or are you? Exploring dietary versus topical anti-oxidants in skin ageing, Clinical trials: A simple guide for gerontologists, Towards an ethical framework for geroscience, and more. The book explores links between known ageing mechanisms and new interventions, agents and actions at the nutraceutical-drug divide, the challenges and opportunities provided by biomarkers and chemistry- biology interface and lastly the ethical and operational challenges of clinical trials in the age of translational geroscience.
Redox Metabolism in Ecophysiology and Evolution
Due to the accumulation of oxygen in Earth's atmosphere, endogenous antioxidants in aerobic organisms evolved. More than a simple attack (reactive species) or a defense (enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants) duel, redox metabolism also comprises non-radical redox metabolites, redox-sensitive transcription factors, and redox-sensitive proteins that form a network of signaling pathways. These pathways are now known to mediate important processes in aerobic organisms, from circadian rhythms to ageing and lifespan regulation. Indeed, oxidative stress is considered to be important to living organisms. Unsurprisingly, environmental stresses might disrupt the redox balance, triggering compensatory adaptive responses. The modulation of redox metabolism has been documented for phylogenetically diverse species exposed to a myriad of environmental stressors, such as warming, freezing, dehydration, exposure to UV radiation, exposure to pollutants, and variations in oxygen availability. In natural settings, several of these environmental factors (e.g., temperature, water availability, oxygen availability, and radiation incidence) fluctuate over time (e.g., daily and seasonally). This Special Issue focuses on the responses of organisms' redox metabolism when exposed to single or combined changes, biotic or abiotic, in environmental factors (e.g., oxygen availability, temperature, drought, radiation, and pollutants) and provides insights into the adaptive responses of antioxidant systems to environmental perturbations.
Feeding Strategies and Nutritional Quality of Animal Products
The production of food enriched with bioactive compounds, through natural means, represents a concept desired by nutritionists, doctors and consumers. Animal products with high nutritional quality can be designed using innovative feeding strategies. Animals are known to be able to ''bio-convert'' health-promoting components from their diet into their eggs, milk or meat. The nutritional quality of animal products depends on genetic, physiological and environmental conditions, but also upon their diets. Lately, various feed additives have been shown to increase the nutritional quality of animal-origin food, which in turn promotes a healthy human diet. Some of them have proven effects on productive parameters or on the sensory attributes of animal products, or modify the nutrient composition of products. Nutritional evaluations of animal products and feeds are necessary for establishing the bioconversion yield of nutrients, from feeds to animal-origin food. This Special Issue focuses on, but is not limited to, the development of new feeding formulas thst lead to improved animal production or the enhanced nutritional profiles of conventional or ecological animal products. Studies presenting feed additives that have beneficial effects on the production and quality of animal products, as well as natural feeding solutions that are environmentally friendly, were also welcomed. The proposed Special Issue is addressed to specialists from the domains of animal nutrition, food quality, chemistry and biology.
Biocontrol of Plant Diseases
Biocontrol of plant diseases is considered one of the most important and current challenges of our society due to the need to look for eco-friendly alternatives to chemicals. Thus, research towards the biological control sensu lato [antagonist microorganisms, biostimulants, Induced Resistance (IR)] of plant diseases is an urgent demand for the agro-food sector of the Euroregion as well as for our society in the frame of the European Green Deal. Exploring different biocontrol tools as well as their combined effect against plant diseases is essential to generate knowledge on such topics to look for optimum management strategies in crop protection in the frame of organic and sustainable agriculture. Within this framework, this Special Issue of Plants brings together a collection of research papers on applied plant pathology and targeted reviews of biocontrol, including studies on antagonist microorganisms, biostimulants, and host resistance-inducers against plant diseases.
Efficiency in Kinesiology
This Special Issue dives into the evolving realm of sports science by exploring innovative methods to enhance athletes' motor skills and performance. It showcases research studies aiming to discover validated strategies, cutting-edge approaches, and the intricate interplay of factors that shape athletic excellence. From training methodologies to technological advancements, this collection of empirical investigations and reviews offers valuable insights for both trainers and scientists. We invite readers to join us in uncovering the science behind peak athletic achievement.
Stepwise Culture of Human Adult Stem Cells
This volume on stepwise techniques to culture adult human stem cells begins with the basic methods to culture adult stem cells followed by related methods to supplement stem cell culture.
Experimental Design and Data Analysis for Biologists
Applying statistical concepts to biological scenarios, this established textbook continues to be the go-to tool for advanced undergraduates and postgraduates studying biostatistics or experimental design in biology-related areas. Chapters cover linear models, common regression and ANOVA methods, mixed effects models, model selection, and multivariate methods used by biologists, requiring only introductory statistics and basic mathematics. Demystifying statistical concepts with clear, jargon-free explanations, this new edition takes a holistic approach to help students understand the relationship between statistics and experimental design. Each chapter contains further-reading recommendations, and worked examples from today's biological literature. All examples reflect modern settings, methodology and equipment, representing a wide range of biological research areas. These are supported by hands-on online resources including real-world data sets, full R code to help repeat analyses for all worked examples, and additional review questions and exercises for each chapter.
Advanced Mammalian Cell Culture Techniques
This up-to-date book compiles the basic and advanced laboratory techniques of mammalian cell culture. It provides elaborate stepwise protocols, key points, and troubleshooting tips.
Cellular Mechanisms of Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the major cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Although cardiovascular outcomes have significantly improved due to early diagnosis and timely treatment, the prevalence of CVD is expected to increase in the coming years, highlighting the pressing need to identify novel biomarkers and disease-modifying treatments. In addition to classical risk factors, CVD burden is now recognized to be aggravated due to the growing population of cancer survivors treated with cardiotoxic cancer therapies or radiotherapy, which has fostered the development of a new field of research-cardio-oncology. Across the spectrum of CVD, multiple molecular pathways converge in endothelial dysfunction and myocardial remodeling, including inflammation, oxidative stress, defective calcium homeostasis, intercellular communication, and metabolic abnormalities. Therefore, a major future challenge in cardiovascular medicine lies in understanding the molecular basis of cardiac and valvular remodeling, paving the way for the identification of more efficient diagnostic and therapeutic tools. This Special Issue intended to bring together the latest findings in the field of cardiovascular biology and cardio-oncology, involving both cell-based studies and animal models of CVD, aiming to identify novel mechanisms underlying cardiac remodeling and dysfunction.
Effects of Dietary Protein and Polysaccharide Fortification on Disease
Proteins and polysaccharides are two kinds of versatile natural macromolecules that are ubiquitous in nature. A tailored diet fortified with proteins and polysaccharides has been developed to ameliorate a wide array of diseases. This reprint contains experimental studies, reviews and systemic reviews that cover all beneficial aspects related to protein or polysaccharide fortification, especially for the treatment of various disorders and their complications.
Experimental Design and Data Analysis for Biologists
Applying statistical concepts to biological scenarios, this established textbook continues to be the go-to tool for advanced undergraduates and postgraduates studying biostatistics or experimental design in biology-related areas. Chapters cover linear models, common regression and ANOVA methods, mixed effects models, model selection, and multivariate methods used by biologists, requiring only introductory statistics and basic mathematics. Demystifying statistical concepts with clear, jargon-free explanations, this new edition takes a holistic approach to help students understand the relationship between statistics and experimental design. Each chapter contains further-reading recommendations, and worked examples from today's biological literature. All examples reflect modern settings, methodology and equipment, representing a wide range of biological research areas. These are supported by hands-on online resources including real-world data sets, full R code to help repeat analyses for all worked examples, and additional review questions and exercises for each chapter.
Bioorganic and Enzymatic Catalysis
In diesem Lehrbuch werden die wichtigsten enzymatischen Reaktionen und verwandten katalytischen bioorganischen Reaktionen im Rahmen eines neuen didaktischen Konzepts behandelt: Neben der speziellen Enzymklasse, die f羹r eine spezielle Umwandlung erforderlich ist, werden auch die entsprechenden katalytischen Reaktionen beschrieben.
Epigenomics
This detailed volume provides a comprehensive collection of protocols for epigenomic research, powering our ability to analyze epigenetic modifications across the entire genome. Beginning with methods used to investigate epigenomic modifications such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin structure, the book continues with methods for manipulating the epigenome, including platforms for epigenome editing, inducible systems for epigenome editing, and epigenetically modified animals. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters feature introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step and readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and practical, Epigenomics: Methods and Protocols serves as an ideal resource for researchers looking to further expand the utility and scope of epigenomics research.
Chemistry and Biochemistry of Food
This book provides an excellent platform for understanding the chemical processes involved in food transformation. Starting with the examination of major food components, such as water, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and minerals, the author further introduces the biochemistry of digestion and energy metabolism of food ingredients. The last section of the book is devoted to modern food technologies and their future perspectives.
Advances in Food Chemistry
The book compiles the latest advances in food chemistry. It gives a detailed account of the changes in food components during food processing and storage. It analyses and describes different food components such as water, protein, fat, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, pigments, flavors, chemistry of plant tissues and animal tissues, milk, etc. The book also discusses the effect of different food processing operations on the food components. The book brings forth chapters authored by eminent researchers working in the area of Food Science and Technology. The book is an up-to-date compilation of recent advances in food chemistry and is useful for students, researchers, and faculty as well as to industry experts in food sciences.
In Defense of the World's Most Despised Species
In Defense of the World's Most Despised Species examines the psychological motivations that lead people to make judgments about the attractiveness of species, noting the overwhelming importance of visual cues. It describes in considerable detail the physical and behavioral traits of species that lead us to love or hate them.
Our Fingertips Spiral Like Galaxies
Our Fingerprints Spiral Like Galaxies is a quite literal "handbook," a single-focus anatomy guide made up of a series of freestanding micro-essays depicting the human hand as a cosmic map, an insignia of personal will, and a crossroads of bodily intake and output.In this manual of manual actions, our hand is a poly-sensual organ that can utter, listen, sniff, and savor as well as grasp, carry, manipulate, and gesture. These pages treat the hand as a five-fingered pentagram and a microcosm of Selfhood, an engine whose movements form a vast repertoire of oracles, dances, and pantomimes. Aristotle saw our hand as the "instrument of instruments," and Kant regarded it as the foremost "window on the mind." Anaxagoras viewed this body part as the most supreme proof of our near-divinity and an epicenter of mortal significance. This book gladly partakes of such perspectives and envisions our hand's array of bones, muscles, and ligaments as a primal emblem radiating its meaning in every direction.
Bitch
A "playful, enlightening," and "effervescent expos矇" (Scientific American) on the queens of the animal kingdom Studying zoology made Lucy Cooke feel like a sad freak. Not because she loved spiders or would root around in animal feces: all her friends shared the same curious kinks. The problem was her sex. Being female meant she was, by nature, a loser. Since Charles Darwin, evolutionary biologists have been convinced that the males of the animal kingdom are the interesting ones--dominating and promiscuous, while females are dull, passive, and devoted. In Bitch, Cooke tells a new story. Whether investigating same-sex female albatross couples that raise chicks, murderous mother meerkats, or the titanic battle of the sexes waged by ducks, Cooke shows us a new evolutionary biology, one where females can be as dynamic as any male. This isn't your grandfather's evolutionary biology. It's more inclusive, truer to life, and, simply, more fun.
Tales of Discovery
Research data sharing has traditionally been addressed to other peer researchers. Nowadays there is general awareness that putting research at the disposal of society is beneficial and necessary. However, the popularization of science is a hard endeavor. It must deal with transmission of transcendental knowledge with the appealing adornment of a good story, but avoiding the risk of falling into banality. This book consists in a series of individual stories delving into the world of biology and medicine. Some topics included in this volume consist in the explanation of basic biological concepts like the origin of modern eukaryotic cells, the importance of mutations as the driving force behind evolution, the molecular ins and outs of the nervous system, or the relevance of microorganisms to humans and science including food and energy industries. Others rather lean to a more biomedical perspective and constitute popular cases that have been, to some extent, trending in global media outlets: the divulgation of some current under-reckoned non-infectious pandemics like obesity and chronic pain, the presence of longer-living populations around the world named blue zones, the American (and African) opioid crisis, or the discovery and development of CRISPR-Cas as a promising genetic editing tool. All chapters are depicted with accompanying illustrations thoroughly elaborated by professionals of Fine Arts to make it easier to understand for the non-experts... but may perhaps also proof that the scientific method and multidisciplinary work are not unique to natural sciences, but also shared by other apparently distant disciplines like arts.
Mass Spectrometry-Based Metabolomics
This book is a simple, step-by-step reference for profiling metabolites in a target organism. It discusses optimization of sample preparation for urine, serum, blood, tissue, food, and plant and animal cell samples. The book summarizes all steps in metabolomics research, from experimental design to sample preparation, analytical procedures, and
Health Promoting Effects of Phytochemicals
Overwhelming studies have reached a consensus that cellular oxidative damage is involved in various human chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, and various cancers. It is widely accepted that the health-promoting effects of natural products, including botanical food and herbal medicines, are generally associated with the antioxidative activities, free radical quenching, or inflammation suppression properties of phytochemicals.This Special Issue brought together current research and critical thinking on the health-promoting effects of phytochemicals in terms of their antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antiaging, anticancer, antiobesity, antidiabetes, etc., properties. This Special Issue includes 11 original research papers and 6 reviews on recent findings in the field. We focused on topics such as the molecular mechanisms of phytochemicals in disease prevention and the role of phytochemicals in cell signaling, cell metabolism, cell cycle, cellular stress, and chronic diseases. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Prof. Maurizio Battino, the Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, for giving us this opportunity to publish the Special Issue of the "Health-Promoting Effects of Phytochemicals". We also appreciate the contributions from authors and peer reviewers.
Homo Sapiens
Have you ever wanted to know how Homo sapiens became "human?"In the beginning, Homo sapiens was just one of the human species in the world. After centuries of coexistence, it was the only survivor. How did that happen?This captivating book on Homo sapiens uncovers the secrets of our species and what made us human. From their humble beginnings in the dawn of prehistory, Homo sapiens rose to become one of the most resilient species in the world.Unlike many other creatures, Homo sapiens lack the physical prowess of fierce predators. Yet, armed with an exceptional cognitive capacity, our species has defied the odds. How did we achieve that?This book uncovers the fascinating stories locked within our DNA, as well as our cultural legacy, tracing the history of our species since its very beginnings. Our cognitive capabilities and advanced communication skills have paved the way for our species' success. From harnessing the power of fire to mastering the art of metalworking, our ancestors were relentless inventors who tamed the wild and conquered new frontiers.Transporting readers back in time, this captivating exploration begins seven million years ago in Africa. Witness the remarkable moment when a group of primates started walking upright, setting in motion the extraordinary story of our species.In the book, you will discover these fascinating things about Homo sapiens: How walking upright made us humanWhat was the relationship between Homo sapiens and the NeanderthalsHow Homo sapiens became the last surviving human species on EarthAll about Homo sapiens migrations around the globe throughout prehistoryFascinating insights about prehistoric stone toolsHow our species developed language and human thoughtHow the invention of agriculture revolutionized the worldAnd much, much more!
Foodborne Pathogens
'Foodborne Pathogens: Detection Methods, Food Safety, and Public Health' is a collection of papers that document the logical sequence of the occurrence of foodborne outbreaks. The papers in this reprint document the occurrence and characteristics of foodborne pathogens (Salmonella, Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), enterotoxigenic Staphylococcus aureus, and Norovirus) in foods. This is followed by the application of sensitive and specific detection and diagnostic methods (MALDI-TOF, PCR, WGS), as well as potential interventions using processes such as drying, in order to reduce the degree of contamination and the multiplication of pathogens in foods. Finally, data were provided on the involvement of pathogens in investigated outbreaks. The reprint provides information that could lead to the prevention and control of the contamination and multiplication of pathogens in foods in order to reduce the occurrence of foodborne outbreaks in humans.
IV Conference Ia ValSe-Food CYTED and VII Symposium Chia-Link
This reprint brings together the complete presentations of the IV International Ia-ValSe-Food Conference and VII Symposium of Chia-Link Network, held in the cities of La Plata and Jujuy, Argentina, on November 14 to 18, 2022. The topics are approached from diverse and articulated perspectives, such as agronomic and nutritional properties, the content of bio-functional compounds, technological characteristics, and the development of new products from ancestral Latin American crops, responding to the motto "Promoting research and innovation in food with valuable Ibero-American seeds".
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease, currently affecting more than 10 million people worldwide. There is currently no identified treatment and only symptomatic relief can be offered. The disease has clinical and pathological definitions through its cardinal motor manifestations and substantia nigra neuronal loss associated with intraneuronal Lewy bodies, respectively. The molecular mechanisms that lead to neurodegeneration remain elusive. It is becoming increasingly apparent that genetic factors contribute to its complex pathogenesis, with 90 loci from genome-wide association studies and many monogenic causes unraveled in the past years. The knowledge acquired from their protein products revealed pathways of neurodegeneration that Mendelian and sporadic Parkinsonism may share. These pathways include synaptic, lysosomal, mitochondrial, and immune-mediated mechanisms of pathogenesis. This Special Issue, "Parkinson's Disease: Genetics and Pathogenesis", collected 12 high-quality papers, including 7 original research articles and 5 reviews, that seek to deepen the knowledge of multiple aspects related to Parkinsonism.
Clinical Biochemistry
A knowledge of the practical aspects of clinical biochemistry is essential for medical students to understand the diagnostic and prognostic status of any ailment. This book addresses and compiles some of the invariably used protocols in biochemistry with the aim to enhance the understanding of the basics behind following the methodologies, including those for urine analysis; carbohydrate, protein, and lipid analyses; and diabetes and lipid profile. It discusses organ function tests, such as liver, renal, or pancreatic function tests, in addition to exploring pH and buffer, colorimeter, spectrophotometer, chromatography, electrophoresis, enzyme-linked adsorbent assay, radioimmunoassay, biosensor/glucometer, fructosamine, DNA isolation, mass spectrometry, flow cytometry, centrifugation, automation, cerebrospinal fluid examination, and oxalic acid test. The book also touches upon the basics of laboratory safety rules and laboratory glassware.The book is helpful for students to understand the relationship between quality management and specimen collection and processing them for their biological functions. It is well-suited for academic courses, including undergraduate, graduate, postgraduate, and professional courses and covers the practical syllabus for MBBS, BDS, BSc MLT, BSc nursing, and MSc students. For undergraduate students in the disciplines of biochemistry, molecular biology, chemistry, and other related biological sciences, the book forms an integral part of the syllabus with its case studies, MCQs, biochemistry, OSPEs, etc. It also demonstrates the actual experiments for understanding the concepts better and is a must read for students to acquire skills to work with a clinical biochemistry laboratory.
Endocannabinoid Signaling
This second edition provides new and updated chapters detailing all major elements of the ECB system. Chapters guide readers through identification of drug targets, electrophysiology, computational chemistry, and machine learning. Written in the successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols, and notes on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Comprehensive and cutting-edge, Endocannabinoid Signaling: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition is a valuable resource for all researchers interested in learning more about this important and developing field.
Inoculating Cities
Inoculating Cities: Case Studies of the Urban Response of the COVID-19 Pandemic uses detailed case studies to document and describe how cities located in high, middle and low-income countries responded to the COVID-19 pandemic. City governments and municipal authorities exist and operate in extremely varied contexts (i.e., socioeconomic, demographic, legal and governance, etc.) and intentionally documenting the experiences in these different contexts provides guidance to decision-makers for future preparedness and response activities. This volume highlights the innovative solutions throughout the pandemic as described by the people who designed and implemented pandemic response efforts in their cities. In addition, it identifies successful models that can be adopted in the future by city leaders around the world.
Food-Evoked Emotion, Product Acceptance, Food Preference, Food Choice and Consumption
Food choice, acceptance, preference, and consumption are affected by many factors, including both intrinsic and extrinsic factors and cues. Emotions are becoming a critical component in designing products that meet consumers' needs and expectations. Emotional profiles may effectively differentiate products with similar sensory characteristics and hedonic ratings; hence, they may provide additional information that goes beyond traditional hedonic ratings. In addition to the sensory quality of food, food-evoked emotion has been reported to be critical in predicting a consumer's food preference, acceptance, and food choice, which are, in turn, critical in developing novel products. Appropriate health benefit information has also been reported to impact emotion, purchase decisions, and food choices. Human senses and cues play an instrumental role in food choice and intake, emotion, and product acceptance; hence, understanding their roles and importance is critical. This Special Issue includes both original and cutting-edge research and comprehensive reviews contributing to a deeper understanding of food-evoked emotion, food choice, preference, acceptance, and consumption. The editor hopes that the readers will find this Special Issue insightful and interesting. The work presented in this Special Issue inspired and encouraged future exploration of multidisciplinary research collaboration which would lead to a better understanding of the complex relationship among emotion, acceptance, preference, choice, and consumption of food.
Vascular Inflammation
"Vascular Inflammation: From Target Molecules to Therapeutic Approaches" aims to highlight the latest advances in vascular inflammation research. This Special Issue brought together experts to explore new target molecules, biomarkers, and innovative therapeutic strategies.Key Topics: Pathophysiology of Vascular Inflammation: the impact of COVID-19; Emerging Biomarkers and Target Molecules: exploring microRNA, PCSK9, and APE1/Ref-1; Understanding Vasculitis: the study of coronary vasculitis, lupus vasculitis, and Kawasaki disease; Learning about cutting-edge strategies: the study of targeted drug delivery.Our Special Issue comprises a collection of nine review articles and five research papers, uncovering novel biomarkers and therapeutic target proteins.
Digital Innovations in Agriculture
The world population is increasing significantly, and is expected to reach almost 10 billion in the year 2050. At the same time, observed climate change is accelerating and strongly affecting agricultural production. These aspects, as well as the latest socioeconomic limitations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, bring new challenges to modern agriculture and the need to have high production efficiency combined with a high quality of obtained products in accordance with the principles of sustainable production. This applies to both crop and livestock production, as well as the other domains related to food production.To meet these challenges, advanced digital innovation techniques are more and more frequently being used, including those based on machine learning, artificial neural networks, the Internet of things (IoT), and big data. They are widely applied in solving various optimization tasks in the agri-food production processes in the context of the increasing use of precision and digital farming technologies on the path from Agriculture 3.0 to 5.0.The publications in this Special Issue include original research, research concepts, communications, and reviews related to digital innovation in the agri-food sector.
Digital Innovations in Agriculture
The world population is increasing significantly, and is expected to reach almost 10 billion in the year 2050. At the same time, observed climate change is accelerating and strongly affecting agricultural production. These aspects, as well as the latest socioeconomic limitations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, bring new challenges to modern agriculture and the need to have high production efficiency combined with a high quality of obtained products in accordance with the principles of sustainable production. This applies to both crop and livestock production, as well as the other domains related to food production.To meet these challenges, advanced digital innovation techniques are more and more frequently being used, including those based on machine learning, artificial neural networks, the Internet of things (IoT), and big data. They are widely applied in solving various optimization tasks in the agri-food production processes in the context of the increasing use of precision and digital farming technologies on the path from Agriculture 3.0 to 5.0.The publications in this Special Issue include original research, research concepts, communications, and reviews related to digital innovation in the agri-food sector.
From Dietary Cholesterol to Blood Cholesterol
Cholesterol is indispensable for a proper functionality of human cells. A high blood cholesterol concentration is associated with development of cardiovascular disease. Dietary cholesterol intake and endogenous synthesis are the input fluxes of the whole body cholesterol pool. In the liver, cholesterol homeostasis is controlled via regulation of a large set of interactive fluxes: lipoprotein metabolism, cholesterol synthesis, bile acid formation and biliary cholesterol secretion. The small intestine determines the degree of absorption of cholesterol and the secretion of cholesterol-containing chylomicron particles. Many of these processes as well as the role of the food matrix in dietary cholesterol handling are only partially understood. Dietary means of lowering blood cholesterol involves extreme low cholesterol intake and increased intake of fiber and phytosterols. However, these processes initiate increased cholesterol synthesis. Pharmacological cholesterol lowering is essential to reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease.
Histochemistry of Single Molecules
This volume details histochemical techniques for the detection of specific molecules or metabolic processes, both at light and electron microscopy. Chapters are divided into seven sections covering Vital histochemistry, Carbohydrate histochemistry, Protein histochemistry, Lipid histochemistry, Nuclear histochemistry, Plant histochemistry and Histochemistry for Nanoscience. Written in the successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols, and notes on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. The volume also contains three discursive chapters on Histochemistry in advanced cytometry, Lectins and Detection of molecules in plant cell walls by fluorescence microscopy. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Histochemistry of Single Molecules: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition aims to be a useful practical guide for researchers to help further their study in this field.
