This book addresses the manufacturing methods, characteristic tubular morphologies, diverse functions, and potent applications of organic tubular architectures prepared or self-assembled from rationally designed molecular building blocks. The hollow cylindrical structures with high-aspect ratios are capable of creating unique functions that can be differentiated from well-known self-assembled nanostructures such as organic nanofibers, nanoribbons, and nanorods. Encapsulation, stabilization, transportation, release, and their cooperative functions pave the way for innovative chemical, physical, biological, and medical applications. The book presents attractive advantages of soft-matter nanotubes, which are also different from well-known hard-matter nanostructures such as carbon nanotubes. The topics and figures in this volume intrigue not only academic researchers but also engineers and university students.

This volume discusses the vaccine development process and the role delivery concepts contribute to a global goal of effective health outcomes. The chapters in this book cover a wide range of topics such as antigen discovery methods; genetic and protein antigen preparation; preparation of viral vaccines as VLPs; viral and non-viral gene delivery; needle-less or non-invasive delivery technology; vaccine storage; and vaccine administration and assessment. 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 practical, Vaccine Delivery Technology: Methods and Protocols is a valuable resource for both novice and expert researchers, in and outside the field, who would like to gain insight into the impactful field of vaccines. Chapter 7 is available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com.

This book is the first comprehensive compilation of deliberations on botany, medicinal importance, genetic diversity, classical genetics and breeding, in vitro biosynthesis, somatic embryogenesis, genetic transformation, molecular mapping, genome sequence, and functional genomics of Catharanthus roseus. Catharanthus is the most important medicinal plant in the world that contains about 130 therapeutic alkaloids out of which vinblastine and vincristine are the two highly used anticancer drugs sold by the pharmaceutically industries. Altogether, the book contains about 10 chapters authored by globally reputed experts on the relevant field of this plant. This book is useful to the students, teachers and scientists in the academia and relevant private companies interested in horticulture, genetics, breeding, pathology, entomology, physiology, molecular genetics and breeding, in vitro culture and genetic engineering, and structural and functional genomics. This book is also useful to pharmaceutical industries.

This book provides an in-depth description and discussion of different multi-modal diagnostic techniques for cancer detection and treatment using exact optical methods, their comparison, and combination. Coverage includes detailed descriptions of modern state of design for novel methods of optical non-invasive cancer diagnostics; multi-modal methods for earlier cancer diagnostic enhancing the probability of effective cancer treatment; modern clinical trials with novel methods of clinical cancer diagnostics; medical and technical aspects of clinical cancer diagnostics, and long-term monitoring. Biomedical engineers, cancer researchers, and scientists will find the book to be an invaluable resource. Introduces optical imaging strategies; Focuses on multimodal optical diagnostics as a fundamental approach; Discusses novel methods of optical non-invasive cancer diagnostics.

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on the fate and interaction of pharmaceuticals in soil-crop systems. It addresses the principles of their transport, uptake and metabolism and reviews methodologies for their analytical determination. It also discusses ecotoxicological effects arising from their presence and highlights bioremediation approaches for their removal. The use of treated wastewater to irrigate crops is becoming more widespread in regions where freshwater is limited. This practice conserves freshwater resources and contributes to nutrient recycling. However, concerns remain regarding the safety of irrigation with treated wastewater since it contains residues of pharmaceuticals that have survived treatment, which means that soil and fauna are potentially exposed to these xenobiotics. Various pathways govern the fate of pharmaceuticals in crop-soil systems, including soil degradation; formation of non-extractable residues; uptake by soil-dwelling organisms (e.g. earthworms); and uptake, transport, and metabolism in agricultural crops. Investigations into these aspects have only recently been initiated, and there is still a long way to go before a meaningful assessment of the impact of wastewater has been completed.

Investigation on biobased nanomaterials has provided new insights into the rapidly advancing fields of the biomedical and environmental sciences by showing how these nanomaterials are effective in biomedicine and environmental remediation. These particles hold tremendous prospective applications, and are likely to become the next generation of particles in these areas. As such, research is ongoing and the data generated should have the potential for a sustainable future in both the environmental and biomedical fields. This book presents important findings on the role of and identification of novel applications of biobased nanomaterials. Unlike other books in this field, this book focuses entirely on sustainable application and remediation in biomedicine and environmental science. The chapters are written in such a way as to make them accessible to the reader, and furthermore, the volume can be readily adopted as a reference, or used as a guide for further research. This project was based on recent research (the last 5 years) and developed through an extensive literature search. The editors have also compiled some advanced, outstanding texts that should be of benefit to graduate students in their research.

This book aims to structure, in a complete and sequential way, the mainstream technical knowledge which is related to eutrophication control. The book considers the development of innovative technologies for phosphate removal, while supporting the restoration of currently degraded lakes and reservoir systems. In addition, this book contains key-aspects of future benchmark interests being specially framed under the ongoing development of a circular economy. In particular, the book will contribute to a better understanding of the problem of internal P-loads and P-sources disposition towards a more effective control of nutrients' enrichment in lakes. The chemical routes and environmental fate of such lake nutrients will be viewed in the light of innovative technologies (engineering dimensions) and circular economy perspectives (economics dimensions). The main theme extends to an economic appreciation of environmental polluted aquifers. The book will appeal to an interdisciplinary audience, covering a wide spectrum of scientific fields, such as environment, physical chemistry, surface chemistry, interfacial phenomena, coastal engineering, bio-engineering, environmental policy makers, and economists.

Animal cell technology is becoming an increasingly important part of biotechnology and many products are now used in human health care and for veterinary applications. However, there are many times more products actually in the developmental pipelines of the biotechnology industry, including various phases of clinical trials. The Proceedings of the 15th Meeting of the European Society for Animal Cell Technology (Tours, France, September 1997) presents the actual current state as well as New Developments and Applications in Animal Cell Technology for the benefit of society. These Proceedings represent both the current state and applications of animal cell technology and the way the technology is expanding into new areas to give a unique insight into new products and applications for human and animal health care.

This volume discusses the role of MOFs in removal of pharmaceutical pollutants. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are advanced porous materials and are promising adsorbents with facile modifications, high specific surface area, controllable porosity, and tailored surface properties. Pharmaceutical pollution is an issue of concern due to its effects on environment. Recently, researchers have designed MOFs for use in remediation.

This book covers basic aspects of different nanoparticles, including type of materials, lipid, polymeric and inorganic structures, synthesis strategies, as well as the main physicochemical characterization techniques. Moreover, this book addresses applications for both treatment and diagnosis of diseases, highlighting in vitro and in vivo findings and clinical evaluation. The chapters highlight the main barriers for drug delivery which can benefit from nanoencapsulation: the topical and oral routes. The main innovations in the field, such as gene therapy and functionalization of nanoparticles with a variety of moieties, including monoclonal antibodies for selective delivery, are discussed and illustrated with examples. Finally, the application of nanoparticles for drug delivery to cancer is reviewed considering toxicology and regulatory aspects.

Biopesticide: Volume Two, the latest release in the Advances in Bioinoculant series, provides an updated overview on the active substances utilized in current bioinsecticides, along with information on which of them can be used for integrated pest management programs in agro-ecosystems. The book presents a comprehensive look at the development of novel solutions against new targets, also introducing new technologies that enhance the efficacy of already available active substances. Finally, readers will find insights into the advanced molecular studies on insect microbial community diversity that are opening new frontiers in the development of innovative pest management strategies. This book will be valuable to those prioritizing agro biodiversity management to address optimal productizing and enhanced food security.

This book gathers the main international research findings on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as emerging contaminants in water. It focuses on the major routes of exposure, and the destinations and life cycles of NSAIDs in water, as well as the manifestations of toxicity in different organisms. It also reviews the methods used in the detection, analysis and quantification of NSAIDs in water as well as the biological and chemical methods of removing them. Lastly, the book offers an overview of the legal frameworks in place and provides conclusions and recommendations for the future. Given its scope, the book is an indispensable resource for scientists in academia and industry, as well as for decision-makers involved in contamination assessment and environmental analysis and NGOs interested in the problem of water contamination by NSAIDs.

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in a wide range of biomaterials for the development of smart and advanced functional materials. It discusses the fundamentals of bio-interfacial interactions and the surface engineering of emerging biomaterials like metals and alloys, polymers, ceramics, and composites/nanocomposites. In turn, the book addresses the latest techniques and approaches to engineering material surfaces/interfaces in, e.g., implants, tissue engineering, drug delivery, antifouling, and dentistry. Lastly, it summarizes various challenges in the design and development of novel biomaterials. Given its scope, it offers a valuable source of information for students, academics, physicians and particularly researchers from diverse disciplines such as material science and engineering, polymer engineering, biotechnology, bioengineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, nanotechnology, and biomedical engineering for various commercial and scientific applications.

This book provides the first comprehensive overview of saline and alkaline soils in Latin America, known for having one of the most extensive surface of salt-affected soils in the world. It is organized along two main axes: soils and vegetation. The book discusses the occurrence of such soils in the region, focusing mainly in management strategies for their sustainable use, and it presents accounts of natural vegetation and crops in the various environments of the region. Social impacts of such conditions and ongoing projects to overcome them are considered. Likewise, the book highlights physiological mechanisms that are responsible for the negative effects these soils exert on crops and forest resources and determine vegetation distribution in them. Plant breeding challenges and new perspectives for such environments are discussed. Technologies such as irrigation and drainage are included. The readership includes soil and plant scientists, as well as policy makers.

The rapid thriving of industries, conversion of agricultural land to residential areas, habitat destruction, deforestation and use of recalcitrant synthetic substances enhanced the rate of degradation of the environment. Although there are various conventional techniques for degradation and cleaning of noxious pollutants from disturbed environs, they are energy inefficient and costly to install. Bioremediation has emerged recently as an alternative and novel approach to manage and control environmental pollutants. This volume focuses explicitly on the remediation of noxious substances in stressed environs. It includes expert-contributed chapters on bio-monitoring by way of evaluating the relationship of biota with the polluted/stressed environs, sustainable plant-based degradation of noxious pollutants, and the application of biotechnologies to achieve tailored responses. Academicians, researchers, scientists and students will find this work essential for sustainable treatment of noxious pollutants. This book also serves as a core guide for training, teaching and research in conservation biology and environmental rehabilitation.

Complete and comprehensive reference on the principles of diagnostic and therapeutic techniques using pressure oscillation Pressure Oscillation in Biomedical Diagnostics and Therapy presents key findings in imaging, diagnostics, and therapies using high and low frequency pressure waves in a concise and easy-to-understand way, focusing primarily on the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems that utilize acoustics (mechanical wave motion). The work provides basic background in relevant acoustic theory as well as specific technical information associated with modern medical applications. Low frequency acoustics (pressure oscillation) and some aspects of ultrasound (radiation force) are also reviewed. The principles in the work can be extended to include other areas relating to materials and metal diagnostics. To allow for maximum reader comprehension regardless of current expertise on the subject, each chapter includes a brief history, current developments, and practical applications of the topic covered within. Furthermore, all chapters are based on engineering and physiological principles to deliver practical technologies. Sample topics covered in the work include: Fundamental principles of pressure oscillation (PO), discussing the basic principles of pressure oscillation and how they can be formulated into mathematical equations PO in imaging techniques, discussing the basic principles of converting pressure oscillation to a tool in biomedical imaging Lung mechanics, discussing how each part of the lung is associated with various diseases and how PO can target these parts Asthma, discussing the basic concepts of asthma, the importance of airway smooth muscle (ASM), and dynamic behavior of ASM Pressure Oscillation in Biomedical Diagnostics and Therapy links pressure oscillation (PO) and biomedical diagnostics and therapy for scholars and practitioners. It is an essential resource for all professionals who wish to be on the cutting edge of treating lung diseases such as obstructive sleep apnea, asthma, and respiratory distress syndrome.

This book targets new advances in areas of treatment and drug delivery sciences for Malaria. This is the only published book which compiles the complete road map of malarial drug delivery systems along with an overview on the pathology, current state of malaria across the globe, new clinical trials, emerging drugs and evolving novel drug delivery platforms. A wide variety of novel micro-and nano-formulations using promising technologies are being explored to deliver the malarial drug via different administration routes. This book addresses the gap between new approaches and old treatment modalities and how the former is superior in pharmacological performance when tested in in-vitro and in-vivo. Audience from wide range group like from researchers to regulatory bodies can benefit from the compiled information to find out patient needs and addresses a much-needed update to the existing malaria drug delivery research.

Chapters collected from "The Virtual Conference on Chemistry and its Applications (VCCA-2021) - Research and Innovations in Chemical Sciences: Paving the Way Forward". This conference was held in August 2021 and organized by the Computational Chemistry Group of the University of Mauritius. These peer-reviewed chapters offer insights into research on fundamental and applied chemistry with interdisciplinary subject matter.

This third edition provides new and updated chapters detailing preparation of liposomes, physicochemical characterization of liposomes, lipid analysis, drug encapsulation, surface modification, stimuli response as well as cellular interaction, and biodistribution. Also included is an updated chapter on the history and evolution of the field of liposomology. Written in the format of the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, each chapter includes an introduction to the topic, lists necessary materials and reagents, includes tips on troubleshooting and known pitfalls, and step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Liposomes: Methods and Protocols, Third Edition aims to serve as a reference for graduate students, post-doctoral researchers as well as established investigators utilizing lipid-based systems.

A collection of twenty cutting-edge essays on issues raised by biotechnology's increasing impact on humans and nature, The Meaning of Life in the 21st Century provides a forward-looking discussion by a wide array of prominent experts on where today's scientific discoveries are taking humankind. The theme is that there are expanded perspectives for retaining unique meanings of being human in the 21st century. This collection is the result of a 2005 conference organized by the Yoko Civilization Research Institute of Japan. Organized into themes by Dr. Don Hanlon Johnson, these essays present deeply informed, sometimes conflicting views of complex issues, which, in the contemporary world, are inescapably global, including: Science and religion in a pivotal age Science, experience, and values Stem cells, embryos, and the meaning of embodiment Enhancement and transformative practices Religion and ecology: a growing alliance Bringing a diversity of prominent thinkers from several continents to the scientific, sociopolitical, and religious issues at the forefront of contemporary challenges, this collection makes clear that the world is now a community which faces these issues together. This serious, thoughtful book, rich in dialogue, provides hope for new perspectives for developing a positive, sustainable future.

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.

This detailed volume explores fibrous proteins widely present in different biological tissues or biological structural materials. The book begins by introducing the structure of representative fibrous proteins, including animal silks, collagen, elastin, resilin, and keratin, and it then continues by providing detailed experimental protocols for the synthesis, assembly, and characterization of natural, regenerated, and recombinant fibrous proteins. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, 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. Authoritative and practical, Fibrous Proteins: Design, Synthesis, and Assembly is an ideal guide for researchers aiming to master fibrous protein preparations with the aid of this broad and interdisciplinary perspective on understanding the structure-property-function relationships of natural and reconstituted fibrous proteins.

Johannes Klumpers Biotechnologies, such as genetic engineering, cloning and biodiversity, raise many legal and ethical concerns, so it is important that people understand these issues and feel able to express their opinions. This is why the European Commission has been, for a number of years, supporting actions to improve communication among scientists in these diverse areas. The project 'Women in Biotechnology' (WONBIT), financed under the 6th Framework programme of the European Commission, is an excellent example of what can be done to target opinion-formers such as scientists, economists and lawyers in bottom-up activities, and to encourage a debate on gender issues triggered by developments in the life sciences. WONBIT gave rise to a successful international conference highlighting the importance of adopting good practices and ethical considerations in parallel with the rapid pace of progress in biotechnology - from a woman's point of view. In particular, the conference addressed women in decision-making positions in b- technology with specific reference to scientific excellence, social competencies and management qualities as well as issues relating to environment, society and the younger generation. But it did not stop there: a key part of the conference was dedicated to stimulating public debate among non-specialists, which has led to a number of recommen- tions to policy-makers on better communication in biotechnology, on taking better account of the gender aspects of research, and on involving more women in the decision-making process that surrounds developments in biotechnology.

Due to the huge quantity and diverse nature of their metabolic pathways, fungi have great potential to be used for the production of different biofuels such as bioethanol, biobutanol, and biodiesel. This book presents recent advances, as well as challenges and promises, of fungal applications in biofuel production, subsequently discussing plant pathogenic fungi for bioethanol and biodiesel production, including their mechanisms of action. Additionally, this book reviews biofuel production using plant endophytic fungi, wood-rotting fungi, fungal biocontrol agents, and gut fungi, and it investigates highly efficient fungi for biofuel production and process design in fungal-based biofuel production systems. Finally, life cycle assessment of fungal-based biofuel production systems are discussed in this volume.