This edited book is a comprehensive compilation highlighting sources of biostimulants, their production, influence on plant growth and development, and regulatory status of plant biostimulants for better understanding and opening new vistas for future research. Biostimulants, the biological formulations are known to meliorate the plants growth and vigour, improve nutritional efficiency along with maintaining their well-being mainly via providing protection against a wide range of infections. Both horticultural as well as agricultural crops involve the utilization of the biostimulants. Fulvic and humic acids, nitrogen-containing compounds, protein hydrolysates, favourable bacteria and fungi, and extracts of seaweed are the chief active components of these. The major driving force for these materials is the organic farming industry and demand for sustainable crop production. This book will be of great interest to researchers, teachers, climate change scientists, capacity builders, and policy makers. Moreover, this book does the work of a supplementary reading for students in various fields such as agriculture, soil science, ecology, environmental science and forestry at undergraduate as well as graduate level. This will be a gainful read for national and international agricultural scientists and the policy makers. * Elaborates on biostimulants induced influence of plant growth and development * Covers all aspects of biostimulants sources and its role in plant life in detail * Discusses evidence based approach in biostimulants sources and its useful applications in plants

This self contained book presents a comprehensive overview of the past, present and future of the galactose regulon of yeast, the classical model system of molecular biologists. The book starts with a brief historical overview on yeast research. This is followed by molecular genetics of the galactose regulon, isolation of genes and testing of the hypotheses. Contemporary topics including genomics, evolution, binary and graded responses, and stochasticity are all addressed.

DNA Vaccines: Methods and Protocols, Third Edition explores innovative approaches and technologies used to design, deliver, and enhance the efficacy of DNA vaccines. Featuring applications which should be of great value in moving vaccines from research to clinic, this detailed volume includes sections on DNA vaccine design and enhancement, delivery systems, production, purification, and quality, as well as chapters on new vaccine applications. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters contain introductions 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. Authoritative and practical, DNA Vaccines: Methods and Protocols, Third Edition serves the important role of further documenting the potential of the DNA vaccination as a platform technology for treatment and prevention of human disease.

8-Membered Heterocycle Synthesis focuses on both the new and established methods for the synthesis of various 8-membered heterocycles. 8-membered heterocyclic compounds act as target molecules for a wide range of synthetic studies and are present in a broad range of natural products, showing a wide variety of pharmaceutical and biological properties. Covering an important and rapidly growing branch of heterocyclic chemistry, this book brings together every protocol for the synthesis of 8-membered heterocycles in one place, allowing the reader to see all the possibilities for making a particular compound using one particular reagent. Providing up-to-date and comprehensive information about the synthesis of medium-ring heterocycles and the latest information on this fast-moving field, with easy access to the synthetic protocols for different 8-membered heterocycles, case studies, and application, this book will be essential reading for students, pharmacologists, biochemists, organic and medicinal chemists, researchers, and academic professionals.

Smart Nanomaterials to Combat the Spread of Viral Infections comprises nanotechnology-based approaches with detailed preventive and treatment methodology for enabling their application in antiviral systems. This book discusses the role of metal nanoparticles in the treatment of and prevention of viral infections and nanotechnology advancements in antiviral coatings to combat affected surfaces. It also covers the use of nanomaterials for the efficient intracellular delivery of antiviral agents to disinfect and treat viral infections. This is a timely coverage of how nanotechnologies and materials as well as the utilization of artificial intelligence and Internet of things-based smart nano-systems are used to control and manage viral infections during the COVID-19 pandemic. Advances in smart research and future antimicrobial applications round out the book. This book provides a comprehensive overview of smart nanomaterials and advanced nano-system applications to researchers and academics in virology, microbiology, chemistry, material science, nanotechnology, and biotechnology as well as those in industries interested in their virucidal properties to prevent viral infections.

Advances in Applied Microbiology, Volume 120 continues the comprehensive reach of this widely read and authoritative review source in microbiology, providing invaluable references and information on a variety of areas relating to the topics of microbiology.

Nanomaterials for Photodynamic Therapy takes a unique approach to this area, with a key focus on the use of nanomaterials and nanocarriers for photodynamic therapy (PDT). The book introduces the history and mechanism of action behind PDT, covering the variety of sensitizers currently available. Subsequent chapters review existing and emerging nanomaterials for PDT, including hydrogel nanocomposites, fullerenes, quantum dots, polymeric micelles, and more. Challenges and translational aspects of PDT are also discussed, touching on the issues and hindrances of drug resistant cancers. The book bridges the gap between the physics and clinical aspects of PDT, offering a unique nanomaterials-focused perspective. This book will prove useful for materials scientists, biomedical engineers, electrical and optical engineers, and pharmaceutical scientists interested in cancer treatment.

The Flax Genome is a comprehensive compilation of most recent studies focused on reference genome, genetic resources and molecular diversity, breeding, QTL mapping, gene editing tools, functional genomics and metabolomics, molecular breeding via genomic selection, and genomic resources. The flax genome reference sequences and the new genome assemblies are presented. A list of flax QTL and candidate genes associated with more than 35 traits, including yield and agronomic, seed quality and fatty acid composition, fibre quality and yield, abiotic stress, and disease resistance traits, are summarized. A QTL- based genomic selection strategy and genome-editing tools are systematically introduced. In addition, huge amounts of flax genomic resources generated in the last decade are summarized. The book contains 13 chapters with about 390 pages authored by globally reputed researchers in the relevant fields to this crop The book is intended to be useful to students, teachers, and researchers interested in traditional and molecular breeding, pathology, molecular genetics and breeding, bioinformatics and computational biology, and functional genomics

Animal cell technology has undergone a rapid transformation over the last decade from a research tool and highly specialised technology to a central resource for innovation in pharmaceutical research and development. These proceedings of the 14th Meeting of the European Society for Animal Cell Technology (Vilamoura, Portugal, May 1996) bring up to date the historical perspective of animal cell technology for the benefit of society, `From Vaccines to Genetic Medicine', and will charter this vital technology for the years to come. Strong contributions are grouped in the traditional ESACT areas of 'Cell and Physiology Engineering' dealing with cell state, including genetics, and its environment, and 'Animal Cell Process Engineering' covering integration of bioreaction with bioseparation coupled with on-line monitoring to improve protein production and consistency. Extensive coverage of metabolic engineering on synthesis, folding, assembly, transiting and secretion is dealt with in the session on 'Recombinant Proteins: Biosynthesis and Bioprocessing'. Two traditional but expanding areas of animal cell technology relevance are highlighted in the broad sessions of 'Animal Cells as Tools for Discovery and Testing' and 'Animal Cell Vaccines: Present and Future'. Two sessions finally cover the more recent domains of animal cell technology work - 'Tissue Engineering and Biomedical Devices' and 'Cells and Vectors for Genetic Medicine' - where one can foresee a very bright future.

Personalized healthcare -- or what the award-winning author Donna Dickenson calls "Me Medicine" -- is radically transforming our longstanding "one-size-fits-all" model. Technologies such as direct-to-consumer genetic testing, pharmacogenetically developed therapies in cancer care, private umbilical cord blood banking, and neurocognitive enhancement claim to cater to an individual's specific biological character, and, in some cases, these technologies have shown powerful potential. Yet in others they have produced negligible or even negative results. Whatever is behind the rise of Me Medicine, it isn't just science. So why is Me Medicine rapidly edging out We Medicine, and how has our commitment to our collective health suffered as a result?

In her cogent, provocative analysis, Dickenson examines the economic and political factors fueling the Me Medicine phenomenon and explores how, over time, this paradigm shift in how we approach our health might damage our individual and collective well-being. Historically, the measures of "We Medicine," such as vaccination and investment in public-health infrastructure, have radically extended our life spans, and Dickenson argues we've lost sight of that truth in our enthusiasm for "Me Medicine."

Dickenson explores how personalized medicine illustrates capitalism's protean capacity for creating new products and markets where none existed before -- and how this, rather than scientific plausibility, goes a long way toward explaining private umbilical cord blood banks and retail genetics. Drawing on the latest findings from leading scientists, social scientists, and political analysts, she critically examines four possible hypotheses driving our Me Medicine moment: a growing sense of threat; a wave of patient narcissism; corporate interests driving new niche markets; and the dominance of personal choice as a cultural value. She concludes with insights from political theory that emphasize a conception of the commons and the steps we can take to restore its value to modern biotechnology.

This book is the ultimate assembly of recent research activities on molecular architectonics and nanoarchitectonics by authors who are worldwide experts. The book proposes new ways of creating functional materials at the nano level using the concepts of molecular architectonics and nanoarchitectonics, which are expected to be the next-generation approaches beyond conventional nanotechnology. All the contents are categorized by types of materials, organic materials, biomaterials, and nanomaterials. For that reason, non-specialists including graduate and undergraduate students can start reading the book from any points they would like. Cutting-edge trends in nanotechnology and material sciences are easily visible in the contents of the book, which is highly useful for both students and experimental materials scientists.

The aim of the Technical Advisory Committee, in planning the c~:>Dtent of this meeting, was to illustrate the range of separation processes in which the use of membranes was practical and effective at an industrial scale. As Professor Strathmann reveals, the market for process equipment built around membranes is now worth about $5x1(f annually, and it seemed important to review this technology, and to point the direction of future technical advances. All but the most critical reader should find some items of interest. The Committee would admit to not fulftlling all of thier aims, although those delegates who attended the meeting in Edinburgh judged it a success. In the event it provided representative examples of processes from the food and beverage industry, from water treatment, and from the chemical industry, of which the removal of alcohol from fermented beverages, shipboard desalination and solvent recovery are three. The major uses of charged membranes and sterile processes are not covered, nor 9 is the largest market, $1.2x10 annually, for artificial kidney dialysis. However, it is interesting to see artificial kidney now finding an alternative use as a reactor for the production of monoclonal antibodies. We are also reminded by Professor Michel of the importance and efficiency of natural membranes in the kidney under conditions where fouling is crucial to their performance and enhances their selectivity.

This book review series presents current trends in modern biotechnology. The aim is to cover all aspects of this interdisciplinary technology where knowledge, methods and expertise are required from chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, chemical engineering and computer science.Volumes are organized topically and provide a comprehensive discussion of developments in the respective field over the past 3-5 years. The series also discusses new discoveries and applications. Special volumes are dedicated to selected topics which focus on new biotechnological products and new processes for their synthesis and purification.In general, special volumes are edited by well-known guest editors. The series editor and publisher will however always be pleased to receive suggestions and supplementary information. Manuscripts are accepted in English.

Mammalian and Avian Transgenesis presents a collection of novel methods for the production of a wide range of transgenic animals. The manual focuses largely on mice, but also contains protocols for successful transgenesis in rats, cows, pigs and birds.

The manual provides detailed, step-by-step protocols covering all aspects of the production of transgenic animals, including the use of lentiviral vectors in gene transfer, intracytoplasmic sperm injection, nuclear transfer, large insert transgenesis, conditional gene expression systems, the use of reporter genes in transgenesis and transgenesis in large animals and birds. The text is supplemented by superb color photos. While the focus is on newly established techniques, the fundamental methods of transgenesis are also covered for those new to the field. Thus this manual is perfectly suited for those wishing to adopt new technologies in transgenesis.

This pioneering handbook serves as an essential tool for any biobanking entity to create, implement and continuously improve their Quality Management System (QMS). Written in a concise and highly readable manner all biobanking related QMS aspects, ranging from legal aspects to safety matters, are addressed according to the best knowledge in compliance with the dedicated Biobanks ISO standards. Following a practical approach by making use of FAQ and common practice sections this book guides the readers through this complex field in an easy-to understand way.The guidelines are convergent not only with ISO 20387:2018 Biotechnology - Biobanking - General requirements for biobanking but also with ISO 9001:2015, ISO 19011:2018, ISO 27000:2014, and ISO 27002:2013. Furthermore, they are compatible, among others with the recommendations of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), IARC, and ISBER Best Practices. Aimed at both biobank employees and other stakeholders (e.g. public bodies, political bodies, hospitals, pharmaceutical industry, funders) at any level of experience the book serves as valuable source for self-education and teaching. The manual complies to the principles of responsibility, openness, and transparency and can be used by any biobanking unit regardless of the biological material the biobank operates with and independent of their associated biobank network. On behalf of a group of specialists and experts in the area of biobanking, regarding Quality Management Systems (QMS), Ethical, Legal and Societal Issues (ELSI) and IT solutions, the authors present with this book a significant achievement based on activities within the project, European Research Infrastructure BBMRI-ERIC "Quality Standards for Polish Biobanks" Handbook (QSPB).

Following an introduction to biogenic metal nanoparticles, this book presents how they can be biosynthesized using bacteria, fungi and yeast, as well as their potential applications in biomedicine. It is shown that the synthesis of nanoparticles using microbes is eco-friendly and results in reproducible metal nanoparticles of well-defined sizes, shapes and structures. This biotechnological approach based on the process of biomineralization exploits the effectiveness and flexibility of biological systems. Chapters include practical protocols for microbial synthesis of nanoparticles and microbial screening methods for isolating a specific nanoparticle producer as well as reviews on process optimization, industrial scale production, biomolecule-nanoparticle interactions, magnetosomes, silver nanoparticles and their numerous applications in medicine, and the application of gold nanoparticles in developing sensitive biosensors.

This edited book is a comprehensive compilation of principles, conventional and molecular approaches used to develop improved varieties and hybrids of major crops in light of their origin, evolution, taxonomy, production and productivity and need by human civilization. The book covers breeding prospects of all important food and commercial crops. It highlights the importance of breeding tools and techniques in ensuring food security. This book is of interest to teachers, researchers, agriculture scientists, capacity builders, and policymakers. Also, the book serves as additional reading material for undergraduate and graduate students of agriculture, soil science, and environmental sciences. National and international agricultural scientists and policymakers will find this book useful.

This volume provides a practical guide providing step-by-step methods and protocols on vaccine development and production. Divided into three volumes, Volume 3: Resources for Vaccine Development guides readers through chapters on vaccine adjuvants, vaccine vectors, production, vaccine delivery systems, vaccine bioinformatics, vaccine regulation, and intellectual property. 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 practical, Vaccine Design: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition, Volume 3: Resources for Vaccine Development aims to be a useful practical guide to researchers to help further their study in this field.

During the past five to ten years, a variety of tools has been developed in the disciplines of both gene engineering, and molecular and structural biology. Some of these advances have permitted scientists not only to identify and characterize genes, but also to target these genes by disruption, thus eliminating their function in living animals, and to det- mine the biological responses to altered gene products. This has particular significance in endocrine systems, in which feedback mechanisms between the hypothalamus, pi- itary, and end organs are critical in normal physiology. Interpretation of the physiological significance, or the site of action of specific molecules in this context, has been difficult prior to transgenic technology. Major advances have occurred specifically in the areas of growth and development, and of reproduction. Coupled with analysis of naturally occurring mutations in humans, the use of transgenic animals and in vitro systems has recently allowed endocrinologists to understand the importance of specific thyroid hormone receptor isoforms in vivo, the molecular basis for generalized resistance to thyroid hormones via mutations in the nuclear receptor, and mechanisms for suppressing gene transcription. Previously designated "orphan rec- tors," such as steroidogenic factor-1, were demonstrated to have critical roles in dev- opment and reproduction. Other nuclear receptors-including those for thyroid hormone, estrogens, androgens, and progesterone-were shown to bind to coactivator and co- pressor proteins that modified their transcriptional activity, and contributed to the ce- specific effects of the hormones.

This body of work represents the first volume of a book series covering the field of tissue engineering. Tissue engineering, which refers to a category of therapeutic or diagnostic products and processes which are based upon a combination of living cells and biomaterials, was defined as a field only a few years ago (1988). Tissue engineering is an inherently interdisciplinary field, combining bioengineering, life sciences and clinical sciences. The definition of this area of work as the field of tissue engineering brought together scientists from multiple backgrounds who already were working toward the achievement of similar goals. Why a book series exclusively devoted to tissue engineering? The field of tissue engineering is heterogeneous. The cells involved in tissue engineering can be autologous, allogeneic or xenogeneic. The biomaterials utilized can be either naturally occurring, synthetic or a combination of both. The appli cation of the technology can be either for acute or permanent purposes. An attempt to cover the field of tissue engineering in a single volume, with the degree of detail necessary for individuals with different scientific back grounds and disciplines, would be a difficult task to accomplish, particularly when this field is just emerging and changing rapidly. Therefore, addressing different technologies within the field of tissue engineering, in a comprehen sive manner, is the main mission of this series of volumes. A stellar group of scientists has been brought together to form the editorial board of the series."

Simulating for a crisis is far more than creating a simulation of a crisis situation. In order for a simulation to be useful during a crisis, it should be created within the space of a few days to allow decision makers to use it as quickly as possible. Furthermore, during a crisis the aim is not to optimize just one factor, but to balance various, interdependent aspects of life. In the COVID-19 crisis, decisions had to be made concerning e.g. whether to close schools and restaurants, and the (economic) consequences of a 3 or 4-week lock-down had to be considered. As such, rather than one simulation focusing on a very limited aspect, a framework allowing the simulation of several different scenarios focusing on different aspects of the crisis was required. Moreover, the results of the simulations needed to be easily understandable and explainable: if a simulation indicates that closing schools has no effect, this can only be used if the decision makers can explain why this is the case. This book describes how a simulation framework was created for the COVID-19 crisis, and demonstrates how it was used to simulate a wide range of scenarios that were relevant for decision makers at the time. It also discusses the usefulness of the approach, and explains the decisions that had to be made along the way as well as the trade-offs. Lastly, the book examines the lessons learned and the directions for the further development of social simulation frameworks to make them better suited to crisis situations, and to foster a more resilient society.

This title brings to the attention of researchers in the industry, and in academia, the application of fractals to help in modeling the analyte/receptor binding and dissociation kinetics on biosensor surfaces.
The work builds on that done in Engineering Biosensors: Kinetics and Design Applications, published by Academic Press in 2002. In particular, more examples are provided of where biosensors may be effectively used. This sequel is extremely timely, given the anticipation that the applications and reliance on biosensors will increase due to the advances in miniaturization, (wireless) communications, and the development of new materials (especially biological and chemical). Other applications of biosensors on the increase can be found in: the protection of civilian structures and infrastructures; protection from possible biological and chemical threats; health care; energy; food safety; and the environment to name a few.
- Covers all areas of applications of biosensors
- No other book on biosensors describes the kinetics of binding
- Provides numerous examples of where biosensors may be used

Biofilms -- Science and Technology covers the main topics of biofilm formation and activity, from basic science to applied aspects in engineering and medicine. The book presents a masterly discussion of microbial adhesion, the metabolism of microorganisms in biofilms, modelling of mass transfer and biological reaction within biofilms, as well as the behaviour of these microbial communities in industry (waste water treatment, heat exchanger biofouling, membranes, food processing) and in medicine (teeth, implants, prosthetic devices). Laboratory techniques and industrial monitoring methods are also presented. The book is directed at readers at the postgraduate level and is organised as a textbook, containing 11 chapters, a glossary, and a detailed subject index.