Everything Evolves
How the science of evolution explains how everything came to be, from bacteria and blue whales to cell phones, cities, and artificial intelligence Everything Evolves reveals how evolutionary dynamics shape the world as we know it and how we are harnessing the principles of evolution in pursuit of many goals, such as increasing the global food supply and creating artificial intelligence capable of evolving its own solutions to thorny problems. Taking readers on an astonishing journey, Mark Vellend describes how all observable phenomena in the universe can be understood through two sciences. The first is physics. The second is the science of evolvable systems. Vellend shows how this Second Science unifies biology and culture and how evolution gives rise to everything from viruses and giraffes to nation-states, technology, and us. He discusses how the idea of evolution had precedents in areas such as language and economics long before it was made famous by Darwin, and how only by freeing ourselves of the notion that the study of evolution must start with biology can we appreciate the true breadth of evolutionary processes. A sweeping tour of the natural and social sciences, Everything Evolves is an essential introduction to one of the two key pillars to the scientific enterprise and an indispensable guide to understanding some of the most difficult challenges of the Anthropocene.
Biotechnological Potential of Ascidians
As blue biotechnology--the application of science and technology to living aquatic organisms for the production of knowledge, goods, and services--is gaining momentum in recent decades, this volume provides needed and the state-of-the-art information on the biotechnological potential of the as-yet understudied world of ascidians (sea squirts) of the different seas and oceans.It covers their biotechnological applications in the production and development of human food and as feed for aquatic farmed animals; for their therapeutic values from natural compounds in medicine; for their production of pure and high-quality cellulose that can be used in industrial products and by-products; for their bioremediating agents against marine pollution; as well as for their uses in bioethanol production.Biotechnological Potential of Ascidians: Wacky and Weird Sea Squirts is a valuable resource for scientists and researchers as well as students and faculty in marine biology and fisheries science as well as for industry professionals looking into exploring new marine sources for the development of food, feed, drugs, fuel, and more.
Space Biology and Space Biotechnology
Space Biology and Space Biotechnology provides the reader with a wide-ranging review of space biology and related fields. Topics covered include the space environment, space microbiology, space botany, space hydrobiology, space physiology, space development, space ecology, animal and tissue engineering, space simulation technology, and space pharmaceuticals. Written for professionals in biology and biotechnology, graduate students and post-docs, as well as spaceflight professionals in industry, academia and government, this book covers all the right bases in space biology and biotechnology.
Enzymes of Polyamine Metabolism
Enzymes of Polyamine Metabolism, Volume 715 highlights new advances in the field, with this new volume presenting interesting chapters on topics such as Convergence of MYC and the hypusine circuits in the control of metabolism, HDAC10 structure and enzymology, TR-FRET Assay for Profiling HDAC10 Inhibitors and PROTACs, Polyamine Transport Inhibitors: Methods and caveats associated with measuring polyamine uptake in mammalian cells, Evaluation of platinum drug toxicity resulting from polyamine catabolism, Measurements of acrolein adducts resulting from polyamine catabolism, Alterations in polyamine metabolism induced by the pathogen Helicobacter pylori: implications for gastric inflammation and carcinogenesis, and much more. Other sections delve into Molecular and biochemical analysis of eIF5A, Analysis of in vivo SMOX activity, Structure and role of ATP13A2 in polyamine transport, Analysis of Translational Regulation Using Polysome Profiling and Puromycin Incorporation, Targeting polyamine metabolism in an ex vivo prostatectomy model, Development and characterization of a Drosophila model of SRS, Monitoring ODC activity and polyamines in Bachmann-Bupp syndrome patient biological samples, Gene replacement therapy to restore polyamine metabolism, Investigation of polyamine metabolism in bone homeostasis, Collection, preparation, and biobanking of clinical specimens for polyamine analysis, and many other topics.
Artificial Intelligence Innovations for Biomedical Engineering and Healthcare
Artificial Intelligence Innovations for Biomedical Engineering and Healthcare bridges the evolving domains of artificial intelligence and biomedical engineering and healthcare. In an era where data-driven insights and precision medicine are essential in healthcare, this book explores emerging trends and showcases AI's potential in transforming patient care, diagnosis, and the treatment of chronic diseases. It simplifies the relationship between artificial intelligence and biomedical engineering, elucidating how these technologies are revolutionizing self-care. The book goes on to examine how advanced technologies, including complex networks and AI-driven diagnostics are reshaping the healthcare landscape. From decoding complex networks to revealing AI's role in treating chronic diseases, this book serves as a guide to understanding how innovation is reshaping the healthcare landscape.
Strategic Report on Research and Development in Biotechnology for Defense Innovation
Recent Advances and New Challenges in Coupled Systems and Networks
Benthic Biodiversity from Microbes to Multicellular Organisms and Its Functional Interplays
Detection, Control, Risk Assessment, and Prevention of Foodborne Microorganisms
Autophagy - From Molecular Mechanisms to Flux Control in Health and Disease
Gene Editing by CRISPR-Cas
CRISPR-Cas systems have redefined the landscape of genetic engineering, offering an unprecedented level of precision, efficiency, and versatility in genome editing. This book entitled "Gene Editing by CRISPR-Cas" provides a comprehensive and well-structured approach on the historical context of genetics and gene editing techniques leading to the ground-breaking discovery of CRISPR-Cas systems.Distinguished by its multidisciplinary scope, this volume not only delves into CRISPR-Cas systems but also examines alternative and next-generation gene-editing technologies. The book aims to inform and engage both general audience with a keen interest in science and biology, as well as professionals and students in related fields. By offering a balanced blend of scientific explanations, real-world applications, the book seeks to empower readers to understand the potential of CRISPR technology and its impact across diverse domains such as medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, and diagnostics, while addressing the ethical, regulatory, and biosafety considerations essential for responsible implementation. Furthermore, this book engages in a discussion on the future directions and broader impacts of CRISPR technologies, providing valuable insights into the evolving landscape of genome engineering and its implications for scientific advancements.Key Features: This book is written in a clear and accessible manner, making complex scientific concepts understandable to a general audience without overwhelming them with technical jargon. This book provides a comprehensive exploration of the discovery and evolution of CRISPR technology, delving into the underlying science and its transformative capabilities. It serves as an excellent introduction to both the technical intricacies and the human implications of this groundbreaking technology. This book provides an in-depth exploration of the potential uses of CRISPR across multiple domains, with a particular focus on genetic disease treatment, cancer studies, agricultural advancements, HIV, blood disorders, neurological conditions, insect biology, microbial engineering, and both infectious and non-infectious diseases. Furthermore, this book also provides critical analysis of bioethics, safety concerns, and regulatory frameworks, providing a responsible perspective on genome editing.
Photodynamic Therapy for the Management of Disease
Advances in medical technology have brought the use of photosensitizing materials and light for treating diverse ailments to a new level, with reduced adverse effects and enhanced therapeutic outcomes. This new book focuses on diffusion optical imaging, a non-invasive imaging technique that allows for real-time visualization of the treatment area, and explores its application for treating patients through various modes. The volume discusses photodynamic treatement for pharmacological intervention, breast cancer diagnosis using biophotonics, photothermal therapy for cancer with gold nanoparticles, photobiomodulation therapy for the brain, with a specific focus on its potential impact on neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and more.
Omics Approaches in Biofilm Research
The increased incidence of microorganisms' selective pressure to traditional antibiotics has led to the emergence of multi-drug resistance (MDR) phenomena and has become a global health issue with a catastrophic influence on millions of lives, as well as the global economy. The inherent tendency of pathogenic microorganisms to infer MDR could be attributed to their ability to form recalcitrant biofilm matrices. The biofilm matrix not only advocates chronic nosocomial infections, but also critically provides protection against environmental stress including antibiotic therapies. Biofilm-mediated MDR has posed a serious challenge to human well-being. Henceforth, it is important to understand the pathophysiology of biofilms and the concomitant development of diagnostic & therapeutic modalities to counteract biofilm-mediated chronic infections.The lack of understanding on biofilm biology has a critical negative influence on diagnostic and therapeutic efforts. Therefore, it is imperative to discover the right course of action to understand biofilm mechanics. The advent of Omics-based approaches has provided a holistic realization to understand biofilm ecology with special reference to the pathophysiological interactions of antibiotic-resistant genes, protein-protein interactions, and response-based interactions with therapeutic agents upon infection. The inherent ability of several Omics-based approaches has provided a comprehensive understanding of biofilm dynamics at various levels of organization such as genes, mRNA, proteins, and their regulation. Omics-based tools such as metagenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, etc. have provided a new horizon to understand and tackle the biofilm-mediated antibiotic resistance. The integrated approach to consider multi-Omics tools (e.g. genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, lipidomics, metabolomics, etc.) has further improved our understanding of the mechanisms associated with biofilm resistome profile. The applications of transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics profiles of biofilm matrices could provide new dimensions in relation to the characteristic properties of different ARGs, their relative expression profiles, and their metabolic intervention in biofilm mechanics. Also, advanced integrated Phenomics, Lipidomics, and Culturomics approaches could provide novel avenues to understand the diverse range of biofilm phenotypes, their macromolecular reorganization profiles, and molecular tools for identification of microbial species in the complex biofilm microenvironment. Based on the advancement in omics-based tools, "Omics Approaches in Biofilm Research: Perspectives and Applications" integrates the current knowledge of biofilm microenvironment and innovative strategies to address biofilm mediated drug resistance. This work provides a comprehensive platform to enhance our knowledge, diagnosis and strategies to mitigate biofilms and associated diseases.
TA Cloning
We have exploited the technique of TA cloning of a gene responsible for antibiotic resistance i.e Kanamycin resistance by following the basic steps involved in the cloning process.Background of the invention An essential requirement for effective genetic engineering of bacteria and other cells propagated in cell cultures is the capacity to select the cells with a specific genotypic alteration. The most common selection strategy in recombinant DNA technology is to include a selection marker in the cloning vector or plasmid. A selection marker can be a cloned gene or a DNA sequence, which allows the separation of the host cells containing the selection marker from those not containing it. The selection marker together with a suitable selection medium maintains the cloning vector in the cells. Otherwise, since the replication of plasmids is an energetic burden for the bacterial host, in a growing cultures the bacteria, which have lost the plasmid, would have a growth advantage over the cells with the plasmid.
Vitamin D and Its Effects in Craniofacial Growth
Vitamin D plays a pivotal role in Craniofacial growth by regulating calcium-phosphorus balance, bone mineralization, and gene expression via the vitamin D receptor (VDR) in bone, cartilage, and dental tissues. Chronic deficiency defined by 25(OH)D levels below 20-30 ng/mL can impair jaw development, leading to underdeveloped maxilla or mandible, crowding, narrow arches, high palates, and increased risk of crossbites. Thus, ensuring adequate vitamin D levels during growth through sun exposure, diet, or supplementation is essential not only for systemic bone health but also for optimal craniofacial and dental development. This Dissertation contains the metabolism of Vitamin D in detail with particular emphasis of its effect in growth and development of the Craniofacial skeleton.
Seroepidemiology of Transfusion Transmitted Toxoplasma gondii, CMV and
The seroepidemiology of transfusion- transmitted infections such as Toxoplasma gondii, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and parvovirus B19 among healthy blood donors in India underscores a significant public health concern, particularly for immunocompromised individuals, neonates, and pregnant women. Studies from various regions in India reveal that the seroprevalence of T. gondii IgG antibodies among blood donors ranges from approximately 20% to 25%, indicating past exposure, with a smaller percentage showing IgM positivity, suggesting recent infections . CMV exhibits a notably high seroprevalence among Indian blood donors, with IgG positivity rates reported between 90% and 97%, reflecting widespread prior exposure, while IgM positivity remains low, indicating fewer recent infections . Parvovirus B19 seroprevalence studies indicate that IgG antibodies are present in approximately 27% to 40% of donors, signifying previous exposure, with IgM antibodies detected in about 1.4% to 7.5% of donors, pointing to current or recent infections.
Overview of Prostate Cancer and its Diagnostic Techniques
Prostate cancer remains one of the prevalent malignancies affecting men globally. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality among men in the United States and many other countries.A liquid biopsy refers to a non-invasive diagnostic test that detects cancer-related biomarkers shed by tumors into the bloodstream or other bodily fluids. Early Detection and Screening Liquid biopsies have the potential to aid in the early detection of prostate cancer, particularly in high-risk populations. By analyzing PSA levels and genetic markers, liquid biopsies can provide insights into a patient's risk profile, leading to timely interventions. Monitoring Disease Progression Liquid biopsies allow for real-time monitoring of cancer progression without the need for repeated invasive procedures.
Genotyping
This volume covers the latest techniques used to study single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) genotyping, such as Sanger sequencing, qPCR, Nanopore sequencing, and PACE. The chapters in this book cover topics such as SNP nomenclature, databases, and significance of SNPs in various fields; PCR-based techniques like HRM and CD-PCR; isothermal amplification methodologies; high-throughput methods like FCS-based SNP genotyping; and guidance of data analysis, emphasizing the importance of quality control, statistical analysis, and visualization. Written in the highly 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 laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Cutting-edge and thorough, Genotyping: Methods and Protocols is a valuable resource for both new and experienced researchers who want to gain a deeper understanding of genotyping and its myriad of applications.
Body Oxygen Homeostasis and Mitochondrial Function
This book links oxygen metabolism from experimental animal models to human clinical applications, bringing together concepts and knowledge from laboratory models to clinical practice. In particular, the book provides the experimental results of a rat model exposed to various protocols that prove the suggested monitoring approach, describes the various monitoring devices developed for patients' monitoring in clinical situations, and provides a discussion of the results as well as conclusions. The book is ideal for a range of basic scientists, seeking greater understanding of the clinical applications and potential translation of in vitro and animal model studies as well as a range of clinicians, seeking greater understanding of the fundamentals of oxygen metabolism and homeostasis.
Sea Otter Conservation II
Driven to the brink of extinction by the maritime fur trade, sea otter recovery is a remarkable success story, one with broad implications to our understanding of their life history, ecology, and socio-ecology. Sea Otter Conservation II: Nearshore Ecosystem Restoration summarizes current knowledge regarding sea otter recovery and the role it plays in the restoration and resilience of coastal systems. Written by experts in the field, this volume describes the influence of sea otters in kelp, seagrass, salt marsh, and mixed sediment communities, and how their ecological effects can link marine and terrestrial systems. The authors consider the ecological and socio-ecological consequences of the maritime fur trade, the ways in which abundant food and space have affected sea otter recovery, and the potential of future sea otter reintroductions to aid their recovery and that of related ecosystems. This book reviews the latest methods in monitoring sea otter behavior, population status and genetic diversity, and the impact of climate change on sea otters and their associated communities. Sea Otter Conservation II: Nearshore Ecosystem Restoration is an important resource for anyone studying ecology, conservation, or restoration.
The Stronger Sex
A myth-busting vindication of women's physical strengths that's "fun, rooted in science, and a strong pitch for a stronger sex" (Cat Bohannon) For decades, Starre Vartan--like most women--was told that having a woman's body meant being weaker than men. Like many women, she mostly believed it. Not anymore. Following a half decade of research into the newest science, Vartan shows in The Stronger Sex that women's bodies are incredibly powerful, flexible, and resilient in ways men's bodies aren't. Tossing aside the narrow notion of a fully ripped man as the measure of strength, Vartan reveals the ways that women surpass men in endurance, flexibility, immunity, pain tolerance, and the ultimate test of any human body: longevity. Vartan--a deadeye shot since her grandmother showed her how to aim a .22--debunks myth after myth like so many tin cans at two hundred yards and reveals why, if anyone wins in a battle of the sexes, it's women. In interviews with dozens of researchers from biology, anthropology, physiology, and sports science, plus in-depth conversations with runners, swimmers, wrestlers, woodchoppers, thru-hikers, firefighters, and more, The Stronger Sex squashes outdated ideas about women's bodies. It's a celebration of female strength that doesn't argue "down with men" but "up with us all."
