Introductory Physics for the Life Sciences: Mechanics (Volume One)
This textbook provides an accessible introduction to physics for undergraduate students in the life sciences, including those majoring in all branches of biology, biochemistry, and psychology and students working on pre-professional programs such as pre-medical, pre-dental, and physical therapy.
Isotopic Tracer Techniques in Preclinical Research
This book serves as a practical guide and a manual on the application of isotopic tracers in understanding the cellular processes (e.g. molecular interactions, protein synthesis) in growth, development, and disease conditions. The techniques described in the book have been carefully chosen to underscore the role and relevance of isotopic tracers in the identification of molecular targets and mechanisms, and preclinical validation of potential therapeutics. This book is intended to be a valuable resource to non-experts that may include students, researchers, educators/teachers, and others who have an interest to understand the application of isotopic tracers in research. Each chapter includes a background, an outline of the method and underlying principles, and a detailed step-wise protocol. To augment the clarity and intellectual grasp, the chapters also include relevant illustrations and study questions. More importantly, the book covers techniques involving radioactive as well as non-radioactive tracers to expand the scope of isotopes in preclinical research including basic and applied science.
Beer
Despite competition from an ever-growing range of alternative adult beverages, beer remains a vastly important beverage globally. There is a huge diversity of beer styles, drinks suited not only to refreshment and delight in themselves, but also to suit any drinking occasion, including alongside food of all types. There is nutritional value in beer and evidence that, consumed responsibly, it can be a valuable part of a well-balanced diet. This relates to the wholesomeness of the basic materials employed for the brewing of beer, notably malt and hops, but also the nature of the longstanding processes that are employed in converting cereals such as barley and wheat into malt and thence through the time-honored stages of brewing. This book explains these issues- history, nature and complexity of the modern brewing business, types of beer, quality attributes of beer, the underpinning processes, and much more. Any reader, from those who know little about the subject through to the beer aficionado, will gain a meaningful understanding of beer: the science and technology that are involved in its production and properties but also the art that is at the heart of producing the world's favorite alcoholic drink.
The micro-organisms of the soil
The micro-organisms of the soil, has been considered important throughout human history. In an effort to ensure that this work is never lost, we have taken steps to secure its preservation by republishing this book in a modern format for both current and future generations. This complete book has been retyped, redesigned, and reformatted. Since these books are not scans of the authors' original publications, the text is readable and clear.
The Maiden Voyage of Petrus Van Stijn
Petrus van Stijn's world is besieged by two prime engines of destruction: massive geomagnetic storms caused by unprecedented solar storms - protracted coronal mass ejections (CME), and climate change wreaking unprecedented, but predictable collapse of the Antarctic ice shelves. Petrus has other problems to contend with, like surviving on a floating archipelago of ice, and then walking 2200 kilometers through a post-Apocalyptic world. At the same time, Petrus will discover something of a true social and biological paradise. Herein lies the paradox of a world where one species - ours - is facing extinction, while others - many genetically re-engineered - are enjoying a biodiversity renaissance.With a Foreword by William Shatner, this provocative, lyrical, deeply philosophical work of fiction explores the ethical limits of science and technology, and the future of all life on earth.
The Staircase of Life
Even though we are all different in our own ways, we all have an underlying thread in common: our evolution, our history. However, only roughly 0.0001% of the Earth's whole history has been occupied by human beings with behaviorally contemporary traits. We are, in fact, right at the start of everything. Yet, in order to survive even for such a short period of time, a seemingly unending line of fortunate events was necessary. But what were these fortunate events? How did Homo sapiens get here after many billion years and virtually infinite evolutionary crossroads? How did humankind ultimately conquer the world? And how did life emerge in the first place? In this epic and compelling story, Gerard Alexander Willighagen strives to answer these and many more intriguing questions by taking you through space and time to explore the origins of life, the evolution and rise of Homo sapiens, the dawn and development of civilization, and the emergence and formation of the modern world we know today. In the process of meandering through this multi-billion-year story, we'll come to appreciate the incredible good fortune that all living organisms, including our own highly evolved yet essentially Stone Age-wired species, have of just simply existing. So, let's take a huge step back in time-right at the initial steps of life-to ponder how exceptional our story truly is. However, as a short sneak peek in advance: our story is indeed exceptional, notable, and utterly captivating.
Bacteriology of acute COPD exacerbations in Tunisia
The role of bacteria including atypical germs in acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in Tunisia has been variously appreciated. This is a descriptive and analytical study including patients with a mean age of more than 68.3 years hospitalized for COPD. Of the 240 patients included, 175 sputum cultures (73%) were considered significant, 29 cultures were positive (16.5%) and 31 germs were isolated, the most frequent being P. aeruginosa (25.8%), K. pneumoniae (16.2%), H. influenzae (13%) and S. pneumoniae (9.7%). The prevalence of C. pneumoniae, M. pneumoniae and C. burnetii infection was 8.4%, 9% and 6.6% respectively. No L. pneumophila infection was found. Anthonisen criteria were associated with a positive culture (p=0.04). In conclusion, the low positivity of quantitative sputum bacteriology and the high percentage of resistant strains with a predominance of exclusively multi-resistant pseudomonas may help in the management of patients with EABPCO. Key words. EABPCO, bacterial infection, atypical germs, bacterial resistance.
Animal Biotechnology
"Animal Biotechnology" is a comprehensive book that covers various aspects of animal biotechnology, from basic concepts to current developments in the field. The book is divided into several sections, each focusing on a different topic in animal biotechnology. It discusses the various techniques used in animal biotechnology, including animal tissue culture media, primary culture, organ culture, collection of embryos, fertilization, tissue engineering, cloning, stem cells, and transgenesis. The section also covers the ethical, social, and legal issues related to animal biotechnology. Overall, "Animal Biotechnology" provides a comprehensive overview of the field of animal biotechnology, making it a useful reference for students, researchers, and professionals in the field.
Bioremediation for Environmental Pollutants
Increased industrial and agricultural activity has led to the contamination of the earth's soil and groundwater resources with hazardous chemicals. The presence of heavy metals, dyes, fluorides, dissolved solids, and many other pollutants used in industry and agriculture are responsible for hazardous levels of water pollution. The removal of these pollutants in water resources is challenging. Bioremediation is a new technique that employs living organisms, usually bacteria and fungi, to remove pollutants from soil and water, preferably in situ. This approach is more cost-effective than traditional techniques, such as incineration of soils and carbon filtration of water. It requires understanding how organisms consume and transform polluting chemicals, survive in polluted environments, and how they should be employed in the field. Bioremediation for Environmental Pollutants discusses the latest research in green chemistry and practices and principles involved in quality improvement of water by remediation. It covers different aspects of environmental problems and their remedies with up-to-date developments in the field of bioremediation of industrial/environmental pollutants. Volume 1 focuses on the bioremediation of heavy metals, pesticides, textile dyes removal, petroleum hydrocarbon, microplastics and plastics. This book is invaluable for researchers and scientists in environmental science, environmental microbiology, and waste management. It also serves as a learning resource for graduate and undergraduate students in environmental science, microbiology, limnology, freshwater ecology, and microbial biotechnology.
Innovative Conservation Cropping Systems and Practices
This Special Issue "Innovative Conservation Cropping Systems and Practices" is focused on the development and assessment of innovative conservation cropping systems and practices in determining system productivity and enhancing crop production and soil quality. It covers applied engineering for achieving a sustainable balance between productivity, environmental, and profitability factors, presenting a collection of research articles that cover a broad range of cropping systems and practices from the farmland ecosystem.
Evaluation of Cytotoxicity and Cytoprotection. Effects of Natural Toxins
The lifestyle associated with good quality of food is well known for its widely recognized health benefits, especially when rich in bioactive compounds. Reduced risks of some types of cancer and other diseases have been associated with the adoption of such a diet, as have increased antioxidants, inhibitors of lipid peroxidation, decrease of pro-inflammatory cytokine production, etc. The focus of this Special Issue of Toxins was to gather advances related to the cytotoxicity of natural toxins and the potential for the cytoprotection of natural compounds present in food or plants. In this context, this Special Issue of Toxins comprises eight original contributions. Special attention is given to Fridericia chica (Bignoniaceae) leaves grown in Colombia, extract from Polygonum cuspidatum, Artemisia annua and coffee extracts against mycotoxins織 effects. Studies of mycotoxins in different animal and human cell lines are also presented for zearalenone, beauvericin, α-zearalenol and β-zearalenol, among others.
Molecular Aspects in Catalytic Materials for Pollution Elimination and Green Chemistry
Environmental issues have attracted great attention with the pursuit of a high quality of life, and the effective removal of environmental pollutants is a great challenge today. This includes two topics: one is to remove the pollutants produced post-treatment, and the other is to synthesize chemicals by a green route, avoiding producing pollutants in the process.Catalytic technology is an effective way to solve environmental problems, which can facilitate the conversion of pollutants to nontoxic or even useful chemicals. Thus, this reprint focuses on resolving the environmental problems by a catalysis technology, including photocatalysis, thermocatalysis, and electrocatalysis. Research works relating to the catalytic removal of pollutants or the catalytic synthesis of chemicals by a green route are reported.
Radiation Damage in Biomolecules and Cells
The papers collected in this Special Issue deal with the effects of ionizing radiation at molecular and cellular levels, as well as possible applications in medicine and radiation protection. In particular, some works analysed the early stages of the interaction between ionizing radiation and DNA focusing on DNA cluster damage, which is widely considered as an important step towards subsequent endpoints. Other studies investigated the consequences of hypoxia on the evolution of the initial DNA damage, and one work analysed genome-wide DNA alterations in irradiated human cells. Concerning radiation therapy, the response of cancer cells to different radiation types was characterized both in vitro and in vivo, and possible strategies to enhance such response were investigated; furthermore, FLASH radiotherapy was reviewed. In the framework of cancer therapy side effects, the consequences of high doses on gene expression in healthy cells were analyzed, and the RBE (Relative Biological Effectiveness) for late effects in the central nervous system was predicted by the BIANCA biophysical model. Finally, the protective role of melatonin and Vitamin D, as well as hypothermia, was reviewed, valine radiolysis was investigated, the changes in radio-sensitivity of embrios during the early developmental stages of the preimplantation were analyzed, and epigenetic modifications induced by ionizing radiation were reviewed.
How to Be a Scientist
Many undergraduate students choose a science degree but are not aware of how science and research works in the real world. We explain the processes of collecting, sharing and, most importantly, critical analysis of, scientific research, with a focus on the life sciences.
How to Be a Scientist
Many undergraduate students choose a science degree but are not aware of how science and research works in the real world. We explain the processes of collecting, sharing and, most importantly, critical analysis of, scientific research, with a focus on the life sciences.
Life's Engines
The marvelous microbes that made life on Earth possible and support our very existence For almost four billion years, microbes had the primordial oceans all to themselves. The stewards of Earth, these organisms transformed the chemistry of our planet to make it habitable for plants, animals, and us. Life's Engines takes readers deep into the microscopic world to explore how these marvelous creatures made life on Earth possible-and how human life today would cease to exist without them. Paul Falkowski looks "under the hood" of microbes to find the engines of life, the actual working parts that do the biochemical heavy lifting for every living organism on Earth. With insight and humor, he explains how these miniature engines are built-and how they have been appropriated by and assembled like Lego sets within every creature that walks, swims, or flies. Falkowski shows how evolution works to maintain this core machinery of life, and how we and other animals are veritable conglomerations of microbes. A vibrantly entertaining book about the microbes that support our very existence, Life's Engines will inspire wonder about these elegantly complex nanomachines that have driven life since its origin. It also issues a timely warning about the dangers of tinkering with that machinery to make it more "efficient" at meeting the ever-growing demands of humans in the coming century.
Creature Compassion
This richly illustrated book, replete with several QR codes for short, original films, focuses on being compassionate to creatures less than ourselves. From the Introduction: We go through our lives consuming the flesh of other living animals despite our capacity to refrain from doing so. It has been estimated that we kill 55 billion animals each year for food (Hussain). We are willingly neglecting the welfare of 55 billion lives every year when we have other food options for our survival. In the 21st century, we have a moral duty and responsibility not to continue the horrendous suffering endured by animals simply for profit and appetite. Ending the unimaginable suffering of animals for which we bear a responsibility will increase our own eudaimonia since being compassionate to others also benefits us. As we expand our moral circle of compassion and consideration, the individual self can gain a greater sense of well-being.
Novel Feed Ingredients
Milk and meat products originating from small ruminants contain biologically active compounds, such as high-quality proteins, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids that have been proven to have beneficial effects on human nutrition, metabolism and health. However, the raising consumer demands for safe animal products of high nutritional value has reshaped the direction of livestock production and food industry. Currently, research efforts are focused on the development of niche functional products that fortify human health and are in harmony with the concept of sustainable production, green economy, environmental protection, and proper health and welfare status of farm animals. Innovative feeding strategies are therefore evaluated that could promote ruminal function, enhance animal health and welfare status, increase production yield, improve quality of milk and meat products and prolong their shelf life by minimizing environmental burden and production costs.
Plant Pathogenic Microorganisms
Pathogenic microorganisms, including fungi, oomycetes, bacteria, viruses, and viroids, constitute a serious threat to agriculture worldwide. In Spain, one of the countries with the highest proportion of agricultural gross domestic product in Europe, the agri-food industry is the main manufacturing activity. Consequently, the presence and emergence of microorganisms causing serious plant diseases to economically important crops is especially relevant. In line with this, Spain has an important number of research groups interested in plant pathology, with scientists working on many aspects of pathogenic microorganism-plant interactions, from the basic aspects to more applied studies. In recent years, numerous important advancements have been achieved by scientists working in Spain in terms of the biological and molecular characterization of plant pathogenic microorganisms, in elucidating mechanisms of microbe pathogenesis, plant resistance to microbe infection, and plant-microbe-vector interactions. All these new achievements have provided essential knowledge for agricultural researchers worldwide.The aim of this Special Issue was to provide a platform for Spanish researchers interested in plant pathogenic microorganisms to share their recent results related to microbe-plant host interactions, microbe-vector interactions, microbe-microbe interactions, evolution, ecology, and control strategies.
Soil Carbon, Nitrogen Sequestration and Greenhouse Gas Mitigation under Global Change
Global change induced extreme climate events are becoming more common than ever. Soil carbon and nitrogen pools correlated significantly with changes in atmospheric greenhouse gas. Large increase in atmospheric greenhouse gases, majorly carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and methane, can enhance the heating of atmosphere, which will be generally followed by global warming. Mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions including various strategies, such as the sequestrations of carbon and nitrogen in soil, plant or ecosystems, efficient management of agricultural and forestry ecosystems, mitigation of ecosystem carbon and nitrogen leaching, etc. The mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions from all kinds of sources will be therefore crucial in mitigation of global climate change.This reprint gathered latest case studies and methodologies, including, but not limited to measurement and mitigation strategies of carbon and nitrogen pools in soil, plant, or ecosystems, and greenhouse gas emissions, will substantially improve our understanding of the potential, ability, and capacity of ecosystems in mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions and hence global climate change. This reprint can be used by colleagues working on global climate change, ecology, agriculture, forestry and policy makers associated with global change. Chapters included in this reprint were contributed by colleagues from China, Egypt, Italy, Jordan, Mexico, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, etc. It can be used in most countries in the world.
Research on Pathogenic Fungi and Mycotoxins in China (Volume II)
Pathogenic fungi and mycotoxins threaten plant and animal health and cause economic losses. This book focuses on the recent research progress into pathogenic fungi and mycotoxins in China. The molecular mechanisms of mycotoxin biosynthesis and pathogenic fungi growth and development are reported from the perspectives of transcription regulation, histone modification and enzymes, providing a theoretical basis for discovering new control targets. This Special Issue not only includes a review about the microbial degradation of mycotoxins, but also discusses several new chemical and biological methods which inhibit the biosynthesis of mycotoxin. Special attention is also given to the effect of nutrition on the production of mycotoxins. Some papers have also been collected about detection assays and the risk assessments of mycotoxins. The fundamental and applied research into mycotoxins is not only of particular interest but is also important for reducing economic losses.
Synthetic Biology Brings New Opportunity for Antibiotics Discovery
We are facing a complicated public health issue in the form of global drug shortages, including antibiotics. Synthetic biology empowers the next generation of antibiotics development, bringing us into a new era.
Food Composition and Dedicated Databases
This Special Issue collects research on and applications of the relationship between food, nutrition, and databases. The development of databases of nutrients, bioactive compounds, and metabolites are key tools for human health and public nutrition and represent resources for a wide range of applications in food, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, epidemiology, and medicinal areas. The current research trends are highlighted.
Plant Adaptation to Extreme Environments in Drylands
Our reprint consists of 13 papers. In the first five papers, the influencing factors of biodiversity and community composition are addressed. In the sixth and seventh papers, the spatial distribution patterns and drivers of arid plants under the background of global climate change are examined. The eighth paper describes leaf stoichiometry in arid zones. The ninth studies the change in carbon allocation depending on plant growth stage and the tenth deals with the use of condensed water by plants. Papers 11-13 look at the relationship between plants and soil.
An Introduction to Mycosporine-Like Amino Acids
Mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs), have the property of absorbing ultraviolet rays, and are widely used as active ingredients in cosmetics such as sunscreens. They also have many bioactive properties that make them an attractive ingredient for pharmaceuticals and functional food. This book summarizes information about the molecular structures, activities and applications of mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs). It aims to be an introductory book for undergraduate and graduate students in applied sciences, or as a handbook for researchers in pharmaceutical chemistry and cosmetics. Key features - 11 structured chapters covering the biochemistry of MAAs - Introduces readers to biochemical and synthetic pathways of MAAs - Presents information on many bioactive properties of MAAs including helioprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-collagenase effects - Simple, clear explanations for learners - Academic and scholarly references for advanced readers - Illustrated appendices
The Rise and Reign of the Mammals
By the author of the acclaimed bestseller The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs, a "brilliant" and "beautifully told" new history of mammals, illuminating the lost story of the extraordinary family tree that led to us [New Scientist; The Times UK]National Bestseller - Top 10 Nonfiction of the Year: Kirkus - Best Science Book of the Year: The Times UKWe humans are the inheritors of a dynasty that has reigned over the planet for nearly 66 million years, through fiery cataclysm and ice ages: the mammals. Our lineage includes saber-toothed tigers, woolly mammoths, armadillos the size of a car, cave bears three times the weight of a grizzly, clever scurriers that outlasted Tyrannosaurus rex, and even other types of humans, like Neanderthals. Indeed humankind and many of the beloved fellow mammals we share the planet with today--lions, whales, dogs--represent only the few survivors of a sprawling and astonishing family tree that has been pruned by time and mass extinctions. How did we get here?In his acclaimed bestseller The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs--hailed as "the ultimate dinosaur biography" by Scientific American--American paleontologist Steve Brusatte enchanted readers with his definitive history of the dinosaurs. Now, picking up the narrative in the ashes of the extinction event that doomed T-rex and its kind, Brusatte explores the remarkable story of the family of animals that inherited the Earth--mammals-- and brilliantly reveals that their story is every bit as fascinating and complex as that of the dinosaurs.Beginning with the earliest days of our lineage some 325 million years ago, Brusatte charts how mammals survived the asteroid that claimed the dinosaurs and made the world their own, becoming the astonishingly diverse range of animals that dominate today's Earth. Brusatte also brings alive the lost worlds mammals inhabited through time, from ice ages to volcanic catastrophes. Entwined in this story is the detective work he and other scientists have done to piece together our understanding using fossil clues and cutting-edge technology.A sterling example of scientific storytelling by one of our finest young researchers, The Rise and Reign of the Mammals illustrates how this incredible history laid the foundation for today's world, for us, and our future.
Carbazole Derivatives
Carbazoles are important aromatic heterocyclic compounds isolated from plants or synthetically obtained. Today, many carbazole derivatives are used in different industrial sectors, especially in the fields of physical chemistry, materials chemistry, and pharmaceuticals.In this Special Issue, "Carbazole derivatives: latest progress and prospects", recent studies on carbazole derivatives that are utilized, such as β1-blocking, anticancer (e.g., STAT inhibitors, microtubule-targeting agents), and antidiabetic as well as antiviral (e.g., for the treatment of COVID-19 infection) agents, are reported.
Electromyography Signal Acquisition and Processing for Movement Analysis
This reprint focuses on recent advances in the processing of surface electromyography (EMG) signals acquired during human movement, as well as on innovative approaches to sense muscle activity.A wide range of methods is examined, including machine learning techniques to detect the onset/offset timing of muscle activity and approaches to evaluate muscle fatigue and analyze muscle synergies and co-contractions. Applications of these techniques are explored in different medical scenarios, e.g., for the benefit of patients suffering from low back pain, stroke survivors, and patients requiring polysomnography.
Island Biogeography
Island biogeography is the study of the distribution and dynamics of species in island environments. Due to their isolation from more widespread continental species, islands are ideal places for unique species to evolve, but they are also places of concentrated extinction. Consequently, they are widely studied by ecologists, evolutionary biologists, and conservationists. This accessible textbook builds on the success and reputation of its predecessors, documenting the recent advances in this exciting field and explaining how islands have contributed to both theory development and testing. In addition, the book describes the main processes of island formation, subsequent dynamics, and eventual demise, explaining the relevance of island environmental history to island biogeography. The authors demonstrate the significance of islands as hotspots of biodiversity and of prehistoric and historic anthropogenic extinction. Since island species continue to feature disproportionally in the lists of threatened species today, the book examines both the chief threats to their persistence and some of the mitigation measures that can be put in play, with conservation strategies specifically tailored to islands.
Emerging Protein Sources for Food Production and Human Nutrition
The scope of this reprint, entitled "Emerging Protein Sources for Food Production and Human Nutrition", encompasses the latest advancements in analytics and the application of new methods in the processing of proteins, both plant and animal, as well as methods of producing and testing foods enriched with these proteins.
Dietary Supplements and Human Health
The prevalence of dietary supplement is increased in the world. The primary purpose of dietary supplements is the provide nutrients, such as vitamin and mineral, to maintain health. However, the functional ingredients in food, especially polyphenols, have attracted attention in recent decades, and these ingredients have beneficial effects on human health. On the other hand, a lot of ingredients with poor evidence as to their effects have also been marketed as dietary supplements, and adverse events associated with dietary supplement use have been reported. It is important to choose dietary supplements whose efficacy and safety for our health have been studied. In this regard, you are invited to submit proposals for manuscripts that fit the objectives and the topics of this Special Issue.
West Nile Virus Infection
This reprint covers different aspects of the West Nile virus (WNV), a mosquito-borne pathogen that belongs to the Flavivirus genus (family Flaviviridae).The virus is maintained in nature in a rural cycle between mosquito vectors, mainly Culex species, and avian hosts. Spillover from this cycle occasionally results in outbreaks in horses and humans. In severe cases, the infection can induce neurological signs, such as meningitis and encephalitis, and in some cases, it can lead to death. The virus has spread across the world in this century, including its expansion in the Americas since 1999, and an increase in the number of outbreaks and its severity has been observed in Europe in recent years. Considering all these aspects, an approach including public, animal and environmental health is the best option to increase the knowledge of this problem, making this disease an excellent example of a "One Health" issue. Bearing in mind this multidisciplinary aspect, the volume includes contributions related to the pathogenesis, vaccines, diagnosis and epidemiology of the virus both in humans and animals.
Fundamental Knowledge on Forgotten Species
Dear Colleagues, Zoological institutions contribute a large amount of fundamental and applied knowledge on a diverse array of animal species. Despite this significant contribution, research conducted within zoos or other captive wildlife facilities has historically been skewed toward charismatic mammals, which comprise only a small proportion of the species that are held in captive collections. Modern zoos play an important role in animal welfare, conservation, and environmental education; therefore, this shortfall in knowledge may have large, unseen, and negative impacts on these "forgotten species". Hypothesis-driven, experimental research plays a key role in filling these knowledge gaps; however, other avenues of data collection exist which may be equally important. These include observational data (collected without experimental interventions), operational data (data collected within the general management activities of a facility), and incidental data (data collected for one purpose which may reveal further important information when explored in more detail). These unpublished datasets may provide fundamental information on species for which comparatively little is known.
Microbial Diseases of Marine Organisms
This book, entitled "Microbial Diseases of Marine Organisms", was conceived to raise awareness of threats to the sustainability of marine environments that we are increasingly facing today and are caused by various human activities. Each marine organism plays a unique role in the marine ecosystem, regardless of whether it is prey or predator or its status in the food chain. Microorganisms such as protists, bacteria, fungi, and viruses mostly share mutually beneficial symbiotic relationships, with their hosts. However, environmental changes, including climate change, which are mostly induced by anthropogenic impacts, can affect these relationships and consequently influence the health, welfare, physiology, and ecology of marine organisms and environments. Many microorganisms have exhibited changes in nature and have been reported as causes of diseases or mortality of marine organisms. These disease outbreaks may lead to declines in the host populations, resulting in changes in diversity and imbalances in marine environments.
A Scientific Approach to Improving Animal Research in Biomedicine
This book examines animal research conducted with the goal of medical translation to humans. It is written by Dr. Bradley Weiner, a surgeon who is active at a high level clinically and in biomedical research. After documenting that the vast majority of biomedical animal research fails to result in benefits to humans via translation, the book examines the sources of such failure; including the failure to justify the use of animals, the failure to properly apply scientific methods, the failure to perform the research properly in the lab, the failure to consider the possibility of translation a priori, and systematic sources of failure built into the biomedical research enterprise. The book then explores options to improve the situation, for the benefit of both the animals and humans.
Diversity Of Dragonflies And Damselflies Insecta Odonata
In "Diversity of Dragonflies and Damselflies," author A Joshua Andrews provides a comprehensive study on the Odonata insects in the Tiruvallur District of Tamil Nadu, India. The book presents an extensive review of the taxonomy, morphology, ecology, and distribution of these fascinating creatures.Andrews delves into the classification of Odonata into dragonflies and damselflies, highlighting the key differences in their appearance and behavior. He also explores the ecological importance of these insects as bioindicators, as well as their role in aquatic food webs and nutrient cycling.Through a detailed survey and analysis of the Odonata species in the Tiruvallur District, Andrews sheds light on the species richness, distribution, and conservation status of these insects. He also discusses the challenges involved in preserving their habitat and population in the face of environmental degradation and climate change.The book provides a valuable resource for researchers, students, and practitioners in the fields of entomology, ecology, and conservation biology. It offers insights into the diversity an ecological significance of Odonata in Tamil Nadu and underscores the importance of preserving their habitat and biodiversity for future generations.
Potent Compounds from Seagrasses Against Deadly Vectors
In "Potent Compounds from Seagrasses Against Deadly Vectors," author D Monisha delves into the fascinating world of seagrasses and their potential as sources of natural compounds for controlling disease vectors such as Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti. These mosquitoes are responsible for transmitting deadly diseases such as dengue, malaria, and Zika, and finding effective ways to control their populations is a pressing global health challenge. Monisha's book provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on seagrass compounds with mosquito larvicidal activity. She explores the various species of seagrasses and their unique biochemical profiles, as well as the methods used to extract and isolate bioactive compounds.Drawing on her own research and that of other scientists in the field, Monisha discusses the potential applications of seagrass compounds as larvicides and the challenges involved in developing them into effective and safe mosquito control agents. She also highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect seagrass ecosystems and the potential benefits that could be derived from sustainable seagrass harvesting."Potent Compounds from Seagrasses Against Deadly Vectors" is a must-read for anyone interested in the fascinating world of natural product discovery and the fight against mosquito-borne diseases.
The Apprentice's Companion for Life Science
This text is a collection of 26 experiments, observations, and other activities designed to accompany our text Life Science, an introductory biology text designed for sixth-grade students. The activities include a mixture of short items (10-15 min) and full-period (45-60 min) items. The Apprentice's Companion concept is unique: the book is a combination of experiment book, commonplace book, lab journal, and sketch book. Throughout the book are poems, historical connections, literary references, and artwork, all of which creates a delightful environment for students as they pursue practical studies in biology.
Homo Erectus
The papers that are presented in this volume are the results of a resolution to organize a symposium that would include biographical and historical sketches of Davidson Black. The neglect of Black by both scientists and laymen in Canada is in part due to his untimely death in 1934, just seven years after the first in situ discovery of Sinanthropus at Chou Kou Tien. Other factors that contributed to his anonymity among his countrymen are historical circumstances and, perhaps, the national temperament.
Humans
How did humanity evolve? And what does our evolutionary history tell us about what it means to be human? These questions are fundamental to our identity as individuals and as a species and to our relationship with the world. But there are almost as many answers to them as there are scientists who study these topics. This book brings together more than one hundred top experts, who share their insights on the study of human evolution and what it means for understanding our past, present, and future. Sergio Alm矇cija asks leading figures across paleontology, primatology, archaeology, genetics, and many other disciplines about their lives, their work, and the philosophical significance of human evolution. They reflect on questions that are both fun and profound: What set you down your career path? Are humans special? Where and when would you travel in a time machine? Does human evolution offer lessons for society? Is evolution compatible with spirituality and religion? Humans features a remarkably accomplished cast of contributors, including Kay Behrensmeyer, Frans de Waal, Nina Jablonski, Richard Leakey, Robert Sapolsky, and Richard Wrangham. Together, they provide a refreshing, personable, engaging, cross-disciplinary, and thought-provoking exploration of different--even diametrically opposed--ideas about our nature and evolution, what makes humans unique, and what our future might hold. This book also offers practical suggestions for readers seeking to embark on a scientific career.
Evolution
The publication in 1859 of Charles Darwin's On the Origin of Species touched off a violent controversy which, when the tumult had died down, left the theory of biological evolution firmly established. The success of the book was instantaneous, partly because the educated public was ready to listen to a reasonable explanation and parly because Thomas Huxley and Herbert Spencer were available and anxious to fight for the theory in the face of all opposition. The opposition was considerable but merely served to fan the flame of public interest. Hence the concept of descent with modification spread and widened and the doctrine of Evolution did more to revitalize human thinking during the past century than any other force. It is for this reason that the Royal Society of Canada commemorated the centenary of the publication of Darwin's book by organizing a symposium on Evolution at its annual meeting in June 1959. This volume consists of papers on geological, biological, philosophical, sociological, and cosmological subjects related to Evolution. Contributors include: L.S. Russell, Vladimir J. Okulitch, M.Y. Williams, Gordon Edmund, Thomas W.M. Cameron, W.P. Thompson, M.J. Dunbar, D.B.A. Savile, Askell Love, R.G.E. Murray, Bruce F. Crocker, le R.P. Louis-Marie R矇gis, Alexander Brady, H.B. Hawthorn, C.T. Bissell, N.H. Grace, G.M. Shrum, G.M. Volkoff, A.G.W. Cameron. The volume represents a major contribution by Canadian scholars of various disciplines to the world-wide celebration of the Darwin centenary. Royal Society of Canada "Studia Varia" Series, No. 4.
Ernst Haeckel's Art Forms in Nature
In a beautiful celebration of the natural world, Ernst Haeckel's Art Forms in Nature is a masterful union of science and art. This volume is comprised of 100 illustrated plates, featuring stunning watercolour paintings and pencil sketches.First published in 1904, under the German title Kunstformen der Natur, this unique collection of plates holds a lasting influence in both the art and science worlds. Ernst Haeckel's detailed illustrations serve as a visual encyclopaedia for his pioneering research and anatomical discoveries. Working in both pencil and watercolour paint, he preserved the complex forms, patterns, and structures of the organisms he discovered. Featuring intricate depictions of various land and sea life, this volume serves a scientific purpose while boasting exceptional aesthetic beauty. As a proud addition to the Art Meets Science collection, Read & Co. Books has faithfully reproduced Haeckel's innovative work. Taking care to conserve the original detail, shapes, and colours as they were printed on initial publication, this beautiful volume recaptures the magic of Art Forms in Nature for a new generation to enjoy.
Humans
How did humanity evolve? And what does our evolutionary history tell us about what it means to be human? These questions are fundamental to our identity as individuals and as a species and to our relationship with the world. But there are almost as many answers to them as there are scientists who study these topics. This book brings together more than one hundred top experts, who share their insights on the study of human evolution and what it means for understanding our past, present, and future. Sergio Alm矇cija asks leading figures across paleontology, primatology, archaeology, genetics, and many other disciplines about their lives, their work, and the philosophical significance of human evolution. They reflect on questions that are both fun and profound: What set you down your career path? Are humans special? Where and when would you travel in a time machine? Does human evolution offer lessons for society? Is evolution compatible with spirituality and religion? Humans features a remarkably accomplished cast of contributors, including Kay Behrensmeyer, Frans de Waal, Nina Jablonski, Richard Leakey, Robert Sapolsky, and Richard Wrangham. Together, they provide a refreshing, personable, engaging, cross-disciplinary, and thought-provoking exploration of different--even diametrically opposed--ideas about our nature and evolution, what makes humans unique, and what our future might hold. This book also offers practical suggestions for readers seeking to embark on a scientific career.
Advanced Research on Sprouts and Microgreens as a Source of Bioactive Compounds
Today, researchers are focused on studying and identifying new products that can be beneficial for both food and pharmaceutical purposes. In this context, sprouts and microgreens are widely recognized as functional foods due to their high nutritional value, and in particular, their high bioactive compound content, which is mainly composed of phytochemicals. However, despite extensive research on the germination of species cultivated under optimal conditions, knowledge gaps remain regarding various aspects of sprout and microgreen production. To address this research issue, interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial. This involves the identification of novel species for edible sprout cultivation, the exploration of innovative strategies to stimulate bioactive compound production, and the development of new "nutraceutical" foods. Moreover, it is imperative to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of the consumption of microgreens. This reprint presents cutting-edge research on sprouts and microgreens, providing valuable insights for the academic community.
Toxins
Toxins are biologically active substances produced by most kinds of living organisms, bacteria, fungi, plants, and animals. They present a vast diversity of molecular structures and target a wide variety of receptors involved in a range of physiological processes. As toxins are selected during evolution to acquire/improve their disabling/lethal effects, they display finely tuned functional properties often associated with high affinities and selectivity. Moreover, toxins are valuable tools to unravel cellular processes due to their extreme specificity for cell surface and/or intracellular targets. Therefore, toxins are very attractive compounds because of their Janus-like character; while they mostly act as deadly poisons like monstrous Mr. Hyde, they can also be tamed into good remedies like admirable Dr. Jekyll. As such, they have been primarily investigated not only for the light they can throw on fundamental physiological processes but also for their potential therapeutic applications. This book, emerging from the 27th Annual Meeting of the French Society of Toxinology (SFET, http: //sfet.asso.fr/international), will be of great interest for those in the scientific community who want to know more about the fascinating world of toxins.
Preparation and Application of Polymer Nanocomposites
This book focuses on the preparation of polymer nanocomposites for various fields, such as structural, electronic, sensing, energy harvesting, and biomedical applications. A wide variety of matrices have been considered, such as polymer-modified asphalt, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, polymethyl methacrylate, polydimethylsiloxane elastomer, polyvinylidene fluoride, polyvinyl amide, poly(e-caloprolactone), and ureasyl polyether. The results corroborate that incorporating nanomaterials into polymeric matrices facilitates developing advanced materials with improved properties. Issues such as filler‒matrix interactions, molecular organization and rearrangement, size-dependent functionality, etc., are addressed in detail. Advanced nanosensing, nanofabrication, and nanocharacterization procedures are advantageously applied.
