Silicon and Nano-silicon in Environmental Stress Management and Crop Quality Improvement: Progress and Prospects provides a comprehensive overview of the latest understanding of the physiological, biochemical and molecular basis of silicon- and nano-silicon-mediated environmental stress tolerance and crop quality improvements in plants. The book not only covers silicon-induced biotic and abiotic stress tolerance in crops but is also the first to include nano-silicon-mediated approaches to environmental stress tolerance in crops. As nanotechnology has emerged as a prominent tool for enhancing agricultural productivity, and with the production and applications of nanoparticles (NPs) greatly increasing in many industries, this book is a welcomed resource.

Applications of Biosurfactant in Agriculture explores the use of beneficial microorganisms as an alternative to current synthetic plant protection strategies. The book highlights a range of renewable raw substrates including agro-industrial waste as a dependable and cost-effective technology for the mass production of biosurfactant, emphasizes the formulation of biosurfactants using a full-factorial design, scientometric assessment, and presents mathematical modeling for the enhancement of production processes. Recent biotechnological techniques such as functional metagenomics that could help in the molecular characterization of novel biosurfactant with multifunctional activities majorly from uncultured and unexploited microbes available in the soil biosphere are also explored. This book identifies possible modes of action by which nutrients are normally released to plants through the formation of metal-biosurfactant complexes and presents recent research findings on the utilization of biosurfactants for the management of mycotoxins and microorganisms when evaluated in the field and in greenhouses. Finally, the book emphasizes the application of biosurfactants as a form of potent antibiotics for the management of several zoonotic diseases and in animal husbandry.

Advances in Agronomy, Volume 172, the latest release in this leading reference on the topic, contains a variety of updates and highlights new advances in the field, with each chapter written by an international board of authors.

Lipids in Plants and Algae: From Fundamental Science to Industrial Applications, Volume 101 provides in-depth reviews on the most important aspects of the field. Topics in this volume encompass the most recent data about the physical properties of membrane lipids, lipid biosynthesis and metabolism (including glycerolipids, fatty acids, sterols, N-acylethanolamines, prostaglandins, phytoprostane), lipid storage, acyl flux, the dynamic and transport of glycerolipids, and the conversion of fatty acids into hydrocarbons. Lipid metabolism and lipidomics in plants and algae are one of the most challenging areas in biology, not only for fundamental research but also for the sustainable production of valuable molecules for green chemistry, including biofuel and health.

Cancer Vaccines as Immunotherapy of Cancer provides extensive and state-of-the-art information about the meaning, relevance and limitation of therapeutic cancer vaccines. It covers all the aspects involved in the vaccine research and development (identification of optimal target antigens, formulations, delivery strategies, adjuvants among others) as well as their use in combination with other immunomodulatory approaches. The book discusses topics such as identification of tumor associated and specific antigens, proteogenomic for identification of novel target tumor antigens, antigen-specific T cells, and Peptide and RNA based vaccines. Additionally, it covers oncolytic viruses for antigen delivery, cancer vaccine targeting viral antigens and combinatorial immunotherapy strategies. Written by leading experts worldwide, this is a valuable resource for cancer researchers, oncologists and members of biomedical field who wants to understand in depth the recent findings in the field of cancer vaccines.

Sexual Dysfunction in Parkinson's Disease, Volume 182, the latest release in the International Review of Neurobiology series, highlights new advances in the field with this new volume presenting interesting chapters on a variety of trending and important topics, including Prevalence, clinical presentations and impact on relationship, Pathophysiology, Scales for assessing sexual dysfunction in Parkinson's disease, Diagnostic work up: Laboratory and biomarkers, Management strategies, ICD DDS and sex dysfunction, Non-motor fluctuations and sex dysfunction, Exploring Sexual Dysfunction in Care Homes, and The impact of non-motor symptoms burden on sexual functions.

Defence from Invertebrates to Mammals: Focus on Tonic Immobility, Volume 273 in the Progress in Brain Research series, highlights new advances in the field. Chapters in this new release include Defensive responses in invertebrates, Introduction to defensive behavior in vertebrates, Neural circuits of fear and defensive behavior, Fear-associated factors modulating TI, Environmental, ecological and methodological factors of TI Modulation, The neuroethological approach to defense in rabbits, Neurophysiological mechanisms of TI, Neuromediators, brain areas and circuits involved in defense responses, Autonomic correlates of defense responses, Neuroendocrine correlates of stress and TI, Pain control during TI and other immobility models, and more.

Immunotherapeutics, Volume 129 in the Advances in Protein Chemistry and Structural Biology series highlights new advances in the field, with this new volume presenting interesting chapters on a variety of topics, including Vaccines for the prophylaxis and treatment of HPV, Lung-targeted RNA-based therapeutics, Clostridium difficile: Current overview and future perspectives, Antivenoms for treatment of snake bites, Natural killer cell-based strategies for immunotherapy of cancer, Immunological insights of selectins in human disease mechanism, Current update, challenges, and future aspects of immunotherapeutics in non-small cell lung cancer, In silico interaction analysis of NEMO binding domain peptide on the NFkB protein, and much more.

Phytoplankton ecology has developed from an understanding of taxonomy, species dynamics and functional roles, and species interactions with the surrounding environment. New and emerging technologies enable a paradigm shift in the ways we monitor and understand phytoplankton in a range of environments. Advances in Phytoplankton Ecology: Applications of Emerging Technologies is a practical guide to these new technologies and explores their application with case studies to show how recent advances have changed our understanding of phytoplankton ecology. Part one of this book explores how traditional taxonomy and species identification has changed, moving from morphological to molecular techniques. Part two explores the new technologies for remote and automatic monitoring and sensor technology and applications for management. Part three explores the explosion of omics techniques and their application in species identification, functional populations, trait characterization, interspecific interactions, and interaction with their environment. This book is an invaluable guide for marine and freshwater ecology researchers to how new technologies can enhance our understanding of ecology.

Practical Stress Management, Eighth Edition emphasizes a positive approach to stress management, covering topics such as relaxation techniques, coping with anxiety, managing anger, communication skills, exercise and nutrition. In this edition, the authors cover the latest advances in stress management, as well as stress related to the use of technology in education. The context of disasters, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, is also incorporated throughout. The workbook describes some of the surreptitious meditation techniques from India not described before in any text. Worksheets and Thoughts for Reflection boxes help users determine their own level of stress to apply effective stress management techniques.

Membrane Proteins, Volume 128 in the Advances in Protein Chemistry and Structural Biology series highlights new advances in the field, with this new volume presenting interesting chapters written by an international board of authors.

Advances in Cancer Research, volume 153 provides a timely review of the biology, biochemistry, and current approaches to therapeutically target the RAS oncoprotein, the most frequently mutated oncogene family in human cancers. 2021 saw the approval of the first direct RAS inhibitor (sotorasib) for use in treating non-small cell lung cancers harboring KRAS(G12C) mutations. The successful approval and use of this drug highlights that the once "undruggable" RAS is indeed pharmacologically tractable. This volume provides an overview of efforts to develop additional approaches to therapeutically target oncogenic RAS. In addition, the reader will find excellent reviews on the history and research efforts to understand the biochemistry and oncogenic activity of RAS in human cancers.

Omics in Horticulture Crops presents a comprehensive view of germplasm diversity, genetic evolution, genomics, proteomics and transcriptomics of fruit crops (temperate, tropical and subtropical fruits, fruit nuts, berries), vegetables, tuberous crops, ornamental and floricultural crops and medicinal aromatic plants. Information covering phenomics, genetic diversity, phylogenetic studies, genome sequencing, and genome barcoding through the utilization of molecular markers plays an imperative role in the characterization and effective utilization of diverse germplasm are included in the book. This is a valuable reference for researchers and academics seeking to improve cultivar productivity through enhanced genetic diversity while also retaining optimal traits and protecting the growing environment.

Genomics in Biosecurity: Principles and Applications of Genomic Technologies in Expanded Biosecurity Concepts, in the Translational and Applied Genomics series, explains in definite and practical terms the applicability of genomic technologies in every aspect of biosecurity, from emergent diagnostics to bioterrorism, agroterrorism, next generation biowarfare, biosurveillance and risk assessment. This book offers an integrated discussion of genomics and GCBR (global catastrophic biological risks) events, considering both basic aspects of biosecurity genomics and application of genomic technologies to drive new solutions. Readers will find evidence-based strategies to apply genomics in disease and pathogen monitoring and diagnosis, and more. Social aspects of GCBR events and genomic biosecurity, such as issues of terrorism, policy ethics, and practice, are also considered in-depth.

Progress in Genomic Medicine: From Research to Clinical Application provides a careful synthesis of the foundations, current trends and translational challenges in genomic medicine, clarifying pathways forward and enabling genomic medicine research and implementation across clinical settings and treatment development. Sections address the history and growth of genetic medicine, with a discussion of key studies in syndrome delineations, inherited diseases, biochemical genetics, and chromosome abnormalities, overview clinical applications made possible through genomic advances, with chapters on DNA sequencing for clinical genetic diagnosis, genotype-phenotype correlations in individuals and across populations, new-born screening for treatable genetic disorders, and more. In addition, social, ethical and public health aspects of applying genomic technologies are included throughout. Here, Dr. Smith applies her experience and participation in the field, across its major milestones, to put current research, clinical advances, and ongoing questions in context.

Modelling: The Oculomotor Systems, Volume 269 in the Progress in Brain Research serial highlights new advances in the field with this new volume presenting interesting chapters on topics including The function and phylogeny of eye movements, The behavior of motoneurons, Statics of plant mechanics, Dynamics of plant mechanics, The functional operation of the vestibulo-ocular reflex, Basic framework of the vestibulo-ocular reflex, Oculomotor signals, Signal processing in the vestibulo-ocular reflex, Plasticity and repair of the vestibulo-ocular reflex, The behavior of the optokinetic system, Models of the optokinetic system, Neurophysiology of the optokinetic system, and much more.

Recent Advances and Controversies in Gamma Knife Neurosurgery, Volume 268, the latest release in the Progress in Brain Research series, highlights new advances in the field with this new volume presenting interesting chapters on the latest in Dosimetry, Radiobiology, Evolving Gamma Knife Technology, Imaging, Arteriovenous Malformations, Dural A-V Fistulae, Cavernous Malformations, Vestibular Schwannoma, Other Schwannoma, Meningiomas, Pituitary Adenomas, Craniopharyngiomas, Metastases, Glioma Low Grade, Glioma High Grade, Glomus Tumors, Less Common Tumors, Orbital Indications, Trigeminal Neuralgia, Epilepsy, Movement, Psychosurgery, and Future Trends.

Advances in Genetics, Volume 108 provides the latest information on genetics, presenting new medical breakthroughs that are occurring as a result of advances in our knowledge of the topic. The book continually publishes important reviews of the broadest interest to geneticists and their colleagues in affiliated disciplines, with this new release including chapters on Clinical applications of cancer genetics and genomics, Epigenetic mutations in childhood tumors- the paradigm of Wilms tumor, Preventive population genomics-the model of BRCA related cancers, Recent advances of PARP inhibitors in medical oncology, Role of single cell and liquid biopsy in cancer research and clinical applications. Other chapters cover Recent advances and clinical utility of prostate cancer genomics, Recent advances in lung cancer genomics- applications in targeted therapy, and more.

Effects of Peri-Adolescent Licit and Illicit Drug Use on the Developing CNS, Volume 161 in the International Review on Neurobiology series, highlights new advances in the field, with this new volume presenting interesting chapters on topics including Cannabis Exposure During Adolescence: A Uniquely Sensitive Period for Neurobiological Effects, The Stoned-Age: A Systematic Review of the Neurobiological Effects of Adolescent Cannabinoid Exposure on Preclinical Animal Models, Genetic Influences Impacting Nicotine Use and Abuse During Adolescence: Insights from Human and Animal Studies, the Impact of Adolescent Nicotine Exposure on Adulthood Alcohol Consumption: The Role of Neuropeptides, and much more. Additional chapters cover The Role of Sex in the Persistent Effects of Adolescent Alcohol Exposure on Behavior and Neurobiology in Rodents, The Effects of Peri-Adolescent Alcohol Use on the Developing Hippocampus, Regulation of Glutamate Signaling in the Extended Amygdala by Adolescent Alcohol Exposure, Peri-Adolescent Binge Drinking Effects on Hippocampal Neurogenesis, Neuroepigenetic Consequences of Adolescent Ethanol Exposure, Adolescent Neuroimmunity and Its Interaction with Alcohol, and much more.

Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence: Research and Applications presents current theories, fundamentals, techniques and diverse applications of human-centered AI. Sections address the question, "are AI models explainable, interpretable and understandable?, introduce readers to the design and development process, including mind perception and human interfaces, explore various applications of human-centered AI, including human-robot interaction, healthcare and decision-making, and more. As human-centered AI aims to push the boundaries of previously limited AI solutions to bridge the gap between machine and human, this book is an ideal update on the latest advances.