This book introduces the fundamentals of biobanking and guides through the practical planning thereof, with a special focus on the situation in low- and middle-income countries. On the example of the setup of a Ukrainian biobank the book discusses the main steps and aspects of successful biorepository implementation and management. Topics covered include collection, storage and shipping of samples, establishment of an IT system, development of a sustainability plan, and project and risk management. Furthermore, the importance of the formation of international biobanking societies such as the Ukraine Association of Biobanks is highlighted, and their main objectives and tasks are discussed.The book addresses life science and business professionals as well as national authorities who are interested in biobanking in general and in setting up a biobank in particular.

The first quarter of the 21st century introduced the world to rapid uncertainty, be it the social-political and financial crises, or pandemics, or the shaking up of well-established democracies with an increasing rise in populism. At the same time, the technological promise has taken off with automation, artificial intelligence, and nanotechnologies increasingly becoming an economic reality. This open-access book brings together experts of specific domains, through the windows of their experience, and in a crowdsourced fashion, to analyze these world developments to develop an overall view, a compelling case of what we should be prepared for, as we march towards 2050.  Topics covered include the future of leadership, the future of solving global challenges, and designing a way of life in harmony with nature. Other topics include disruptive entrepreneurship, the relevance of geographical borders, game-changing future innovations, education, and networked learning, interplanetary travel, and communication. The book also places an importance on the role of empathy, mindfulness, presence, and sharing becoming the anchors for future decision-making by 2050. Of general interest to anyone eager to understand the future of the world, this book is particularly useful for planners, policymakers, strategists and entrepreneurs.