Science

Jellyfish Age Backwards: Nature's Secrets to Longevity

Nicklas Brendborg, Elizabeth de Noma

Humans have long sought the fountain of youth, but it was usually more philosophical than practical. Recent advances in medicine and technology have expanded the science of human aging, even though compared to life as a whole, we are embarrassingly outmatched. Despite modern humans living longer today than ever before, our understanding of what is possible is limited to our species—until now. In this spunky, effervescent debut, the immortality key is revealed to be a superpower already present on earth. With mind-bending stories from the natural world, Jellyfish Age Backwards reveals lifespans we cannot imagine and physiological gifts that feel closer to magic than reality. For example: There is a Greenland shark that was 286 years old when the Titanic sank, and is currently 390, making it older than the United States. Scientists predict it will live for another 100 years. Trees and lobsters don’t “age” in the way we know it. They simply get bigger and bigger. If they die, it’s almost always by accident. Radiation, which is deadly to humans, has been known to actually increase the lifespans of certain species, from turtles to naked mole-rats. There's a species of jellyfish, the size of a fingernail, that can revert back to its polyp stage when threatened and, remarkably, “age again.” Mixing cutting-edge research and stories from habitats all around the world, molecular biologist Nicklas Brendborg explores what nature has to teach us about aging. Along the way, we meet lobsters who are virtually ageless; redwoods that survive thousands of years; and in the soil of Easter Island, the key to eternal youth. Jellyfish Age Backwards is a love letter to the immense power of nature, and what the immortal lives of many of earth's animals and plants can teach us about the secret to longevity.

Life Ascending: The Ten Great Inventions of Evolution

Nick Lane

Where does DNA come from? What is consciousness? How did the eye evolve? Drawing on a treasure trove of new scientific knowledge, Nick Lane expertly reconstructs evolution’s history by describing its ten greatest inventions—from sex and warmth to death—resulting in a stunning account of nature’s ingenuity.

Handbook of Molecular Biotechnology

Dongyou Liu

With a history that likely dates back to the dawn of human civilization more than 10,000 years ago, and a record that includes the domestication and selective breeding of plants and animals, the harnessing of fermentation process for bread, cheese and brewage production, and the development of vaccines against infectious diseases, biotechnology has acquired a molecular focus during the 20th century, particularly following the resolution of DNA double helix in 1953, and the publication of DNA cloning protocol in 1973, and transformed our concepts and practices in disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention, pharmaceutical and industrial manufacturing, animal and plant industry, and food processing. While molecular biotechnology offers unlimited opportunities for improving human health and wellbeing, animal welfare, agricultural innovation and environmental conservation, a dearth of high quality books that have the clarity of laboratory manuals without distractive procedural details and the thoroughness of well-conversed textbooks appears to damp the enthusiasm of aspiring students. In attempt to fill this glaring gap, Handbook of Molecular Biotechnology includes four sections, with the first three presenting in-depth coverage on DNA, RNA and protein technologies, and the fourth highlighting their utility in biotechnology. Recognizing the importance of logical reasoning and experimental verification over direct observation and simple description in biotechnological research and development, the introductory provides pertinent discussions on key strategies (i.e., be first, be better, and be different), effective thinking (lateral, parallel, causal, reverse and random), and experimental execution, which have proven invaluable in helping advance research projects, evaluate and prepare research reports, and enhance other scientific endeavors. Key features · Presents state of art reviews on DNA, RNA and protein technologies and their biotechnological application · Discusses key strategies, effective thinking, and experimental execution for scientific research and development · Fills the gap left by detailed-ridden laboratory manuals and insight-lacking standard textbooks · Includes expert contributions from international scientists at the forefront of molecular biotechnology research and development Written by international scientists at the forefront of molecular biotechnology research and development, chapters in this volume cover the histories, principles and applications of individual techniques/technologies, and constitute standalone, yet interlinked lectures that strive to educate as well as to entertain. Besides providing an informative textbook for tertiary students in molecular biotechnology and related fields, this volume serves an indispensable roadmap for novice scientists in their efforts to acquire innovative skills and establish solid track records in molecular biotechnology, and offers a contemporary reference for scholars, educators and policy makers wishing to keep in touch with recent developments in molecular biotechnology.

Neurobiology For Dummies

Frank Amthor

The approachable, comprehensive guide to neurobiology Neurobiology rolls the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the nervous system into one complex area of study. Neurobiology For Dummies breaks down the specifics of the topic in a fun, easy-to-understand manner. The book is perfect for students in a variety of scientific fields ranging from neuroscience and biology to pharmacology, health science, and more. With a complete overview of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of the nervous system, this complete resource makes short work of the ins and outs of neurobiology so you can understand the details quickly.Dive into this fascinating guide to an even more fascinating subject, which takes a step-by-step approach that naturally builds an understanding of how the nervous system ties into the very essence of human beings, and what that means for those working and studying in the field of neuroscience. The book includes a complete introduction to the subject of neurobiology.Gives you an overview of the human nervous system, along with a discussion of how it's similar to that of other animals Discusses various neurological disorders, such as strokes, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia Leads you through a point-by-point approach to describe the science of perception, including how we think, learn, and remember Neurobiology For Dummies is your key to mastering this complex topic, and will propel you to a greater understanding that can form the basis of your academic and career success.

Measurement Uncertainties: Error Propagation, Probabilistic Modelling, Statistical Methods

Michael Krystek

Semiclassical Nonadiabatic Molecular Dynamics: Theory and Simulation with and without Classical Trajectories

Chaoyuan Zhu

Organic Chemistry

William B. Tucker

With a focus on organic chemistry students at all levels, problems are incorporated into the body of the text in an effort to engage students more directly in chemistry. Arrowless mechanisms seek to help students develop their electron-pushing skills and intuition through repeated practice. By design this volume is more actively engaging than a traditional textbook. In addition, the historical development of ideas is presented to help frame and center these concepts for the reader. Primary and summative sources are given for all topics covered. The sources provide definitive information for the reader and ensure that all information is supported by peer-reviewed, experimental sources. The development of key ideas is presented in their historical context. All information presented is supported through citations to chemical literature Problems are incorporated into the body of the text, including arrowless mechanisms which encourage students to engage more actively and to develop their electron-pushing skills and intuition. International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry style and technical guidelines are followed throughout the text. The problems, text, and presentation are based on years of classroom refinement of teaching pedagogy.

Biosafety and Biosecurity

Jonathan Jaime G. Guerrero, Rohani Cena-Navarro, Raul V. Destura, Marian P. De Leon, Kin Israel Notarte, Mark Angelo O. Balendres

The Promise and Peril of CRISPR

Neal Baer

A timely collection of essays on the pressing possibilities and risks of gene-editing technology. Scientists and genetic engineers are becoming increasingly adept at editing the human genome. How far can—and should—they go in editing future generations? In The Promise and Peril of CRISPR, editor Neal Baer brings together a timely collection of essays by influential bioethicists, philosophers, and geneticists to explore the moral, ethical, and policy challenges posed by CRISPR technology. We are at a technological and ethical crossroads in grappling with the impacts of genetic editing. Gene-editing technology holds the promise of curing more than 7,000 known genetic diseases. Yet with that promise comes the peril of using CRISPR to edit the human genome, which could not only lead to manipulating human evolution, but also to creating and releasing pathogens capable of wreaking havoc on human, animal, and plant life. Although CRISPR has already cured several genetic diseases, it could also be used to design biological weapons or to edit the embryos of people who can afford to purchase genetic "enhancements" for their children. What role can and should the public play in discussing the far-reaching implications of gene editing? What oversights should be put in place to prevent a rogue scientist from engineering another baby – as was recently done with twins in China? Essay contributors offer informed predictions and guidelines for how the uses of CRISPR today will affect life in the future. Decisions we make now may have unpredictable consequences for future generations. For anyone concerned about the uses and potential abuses of gene editing, these essays provide a critical and comprehensive discussion of the central issues surrounding CRISPR technology. Florence Ashley, R. Alta Charo, Marcy Darnovsky, Kevin Doxzen, Rosemarie Garland-Thomson, Gigi Kwik Gronvall, Jodi Halpern, Katie Hasson, Andrew C. Heinrich, Jacqueline Humphries, J. Benjamin Hurlbut, Ellen D. Jorgensen, Peter F. R. Mills, Carol Padden, Marcus Schultz-Bergin, Robert Sparrow, Sandra Sufian, Krystal Tsosie, Ethan Weiss, Rachel M. West

Wood Density: Functional Trait in Plants

Jose Kallarackal, Fernando Ramirez

Recent research has shed light on the crucial role of wood density, a fundamental physical property, as a functional trait. This means wood density isn't just about how much a piece of wood weighs, but how it influences a plant's entire strategy for survival and growth. While variations exist between individual species, a surprising trend has the majority of this variation can be traced back to a plant's genus or even family. This strong phylogenetic signal indicates that wood density is a deeply ingrained characteristic, shaped by a plant's evolutionary history. This newfound understanding allows us to leverage wood density as a taxon-based functional trait. By considering the typical wood density of a plant group (like a genus or family), we can improve models and predictions related to various ecological and functional aspects in forests and plantations. Over the past couple of decades, scientists have been actively exploring the connections between wood density and a wide range of plant functions. Denser wood is often linked to slower growth rates, delayed reproduction, and increased mechanical strength. It also influences a plant's ability to transport water, resist death (mortality rate), and manage internal water balance (water potential). Additionally, wood density is closely tied to physiological aspects such as gas exchange and xylem hydraulic conductance, which are crucial for nutrient and water movement. Wood density is also an important parameter to determine the carbon sequestration capacity of a tree or vegetation, thus important in climate change research. This proposed book will delve into these fascinating connections, highlighting how wood density acts as a key player in shaping the lives of plants and the overall health of forest ecosystems.

Microbial Resolution: Visualization and Security in the War against Emerging Microbes

Gloria Chan-Sook Kim

Why the global health project to avert emerging microbes continually fails   In 1989, a group of U.S. government scientists met to discuss some surprising new diseases were appearing around the world, and viruses that they thought long vanquished were resurfacing. Their appearance heralded a future perpetually threatened by unforeseeable biological risks, sparking a new concept of the “emerging microbe.” With the Cold War nearing its end, American scientists and security experts turned to confront this new “enemy,” redirecting national security against its risky horizons. In order to be fought, emerging microbes first needed to be made perceptible; but how could something immaterial, unknowable, and ever mutating be coaxed into visibility, knowability, and operability?   Microbial Resolution charts the U.S.-led war on the emerging microbe to show how their uncertain futures were transformed into objects of global science and security. Moving beyond familiar accounts that link scientific knowledge production to optical practices of visualizing the invisible, Gloria Chan-Sook Kim develops a theory of “microbial resolution” to analyze the complex problematic that arises when dealing with these what can be seen when there is nothing to see? Through a syncretic analysis of data mining, animal-tracking technologies, media networks, computer-modeled futures, and global ecologies and infrastructures, she shows how a visual impasse—the impossibility of seeing microbial futures—forms the basis for new modes of perceiving, knowing, and governing in the present.   Timely and thought provoking, Microbial Resolution opens up the rich paradoxes, irreconcilabilities, and failures inherent in this project and demonstrates how these tensions profoundly animate twenty-first-century epistemologies, aesthetics, affects, and ecologies.

Functional Fluorescent Materials

Vivek Mishra, Syed Sibtay Razi, Ajit Kumar

Peeing and Pooping in Space: A 100% Factual Illustrated History

Kiona N. Smith

There Are No Bathroom Stops on the Way to the Moon ​ Space travel is a pinnacle of human ambition and a marvel of engineering. But someone had to figure out how our brave astronauts would go to the bathroom. And like any scientific endeavor, it took a lot of trial and error. Explore the little-seen history of the inventions and advancements that allowed astronauts to boldly go where they've never gone before. From pre-flight rituals to the first person to pee on the moon and zero-gravity toilets to farting etiquette, Peeing and Pooping in Space shares everything you never imagined you'd want to know humorously detailed in smart, easily digestible, and illustrated entries.

Rare Genetic Disorders: Advancements in Diagnosis and Treatment

Muhammad Umair, Misbahuddin Rafeeq, Qamre Alam

This book introduces different Rare Genetic Disorders (RGDs), and challenges in their diagnosis. The chapters of the book discuss the emerging research and clinical approaches for the diagnosis of rare genetic disorders. It further reviews the future of genetic therapies for the treatment of rare genetic diseases and examine the recent advancements in the field of genetic testing for the diagnosis of these diseases. The book also covers the role of variants in the genome (genetic modifiers) that alleviate (suppress) or exacerbate (enhance) the severity of the disease, resulting in the variability of phenotypic outcomes. Further, the book examines different animal models for critical understanding of disease mechanisms, and the opportunity to evaluate the effect of therapeutic compounds in pre-clinical studies. The subsequent chapters present the state-of-the-art drug discovery strategies and biological approaches for the treatment of rare genetic disorders. Towards the end, the book reviews the current challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of the patients of rare genetic disorders and future opportunities. This book is useful for clinical geneticists, molecular and biochemical geneticists, researchers working in gene therapy and genome editing.

A Window into the Ocean Twilight Zone: Twenty-Four Days of Science at Sea

Michelle Cusolito

Want a front-row seat to cutting-edge ocean twilight zone technology? Climb aboard for twenty-four days of photo-illustrated science at sea! A fascinating middle-grade STEM book. Join scientists from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) and international partner organizations on a research trip to study the ocean twilight zone using the newest technologies. Science writer Michelle Cusolito takes you along for the voyage of a lifetime. From moving onto the ship and unpacking equipment to facing massive storms while in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, this book details the fascinating equipment used to study the deep ocean as well as day-to-day details such as what you eat on a Spanish research ship. Meet people and animals and learn more at sea than you ever imagined! “From word one, Cusolito puts the reader smack into the action. Captivating creatures abound, coupled with important insights that impact our understanding of the ocean’s role in our planet’s sustainability. Perfectly titled, this book throws a window wide open, giving us an intimate look into the twilight zone.” — Tanya Lee Stone, Sibert Medalist & NAACP Image Award Winner “Michelle Cusolito captures the essence of high-seas research in A Window Into the Ocean Twilight Zone. She skillfully guides the reader through what it’s like to be a scientist at sea—the anticipation of departure, the challenges of heavy weather, and the thrill of discovery in one of the ocean’s most remote and mysterious regions. In the process, she underscores the urgency behind advancing knowledge of Earth’s last frontier—the ocean.” — Peter de Menocal, President and Director of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Advanced Technologies for Protein Complex Production and Characterization: Volume II

M. Cristina Vega, FRANCISCO JOSE Fernandez

This edited volume discusses the identification, discovery, characterization, structure determination and modeling of multicomponent macromolecular complexes, and as such, it fully complements the first volume (ISBN 978-3-319-27214-6), which targeted methods of recombinant production of protein complexes. This book is divided in 8 sections offering a selection of technologies widely used in the characterization of protein and protein-nucleic acid complexes for different purposes and at different scales. From native electrophoresis methods, that are accessible to any reasonably well-equipped laboratory, to the sophisticated setup required for structure determination by cryo-electron microscopy or X-ray crystallography, this book contains a wide variety of clearly explained analytic and preparative approaches, connected with the production techniques developed on the previous volume.   The readers will find an integral connection between this book and the first volume, which ensures a comprehensive and updated discussion of the main topics of the discipline. Taken together, these volumes constitute a cohesive and authoritative source of the research on multicomponent macromolecular complexes. In here, we focus on characterization of protein complexes in the broadest sense, which is not typically covered in other sources. Moreover, all chapters are carefully written by world renowned scientists and active researchers, making this volume ideal, not only as a reference source, but also as a companion book for the daily laboratory work.   This book is aimed for a wide range of scientists, from science students to experienced researchers, working on protein and protein-nucleic acid complexes, who need a thorough understanding of protein production and complex characterization.

Biology of Forensically Important Invertebrates

Shyamasree Ghosh, Dhriti Banerjee

This book emphasizes the important role of invertebrates in forensic sciences in the detection of crimes, determining the time and place of death, estimating the minimum Post-Mortem Interval (PMI), and determining the cause of death. The initial chapter discusses the forensically essential invertebrates, especially flies under Order Diptera. Further, the book highlights the importance, biology, taxonomy, and biodiversity of flies under Order Diptera with forensic importance. It also discusses the Cuticular HydroCarbons (CHC) and spectrometry-based studies reported from flies and larvae of forensic importance. It further reviews the importance of DNA barcoding in molecular taxonomy-based studies on forensic flies through understanding, identification, and grouping the organisms. Towards the end, this book presents the applications and limitations of forensic entomology in cases of animal cruelty to a veterinary professional. ​

Your SENSE-ational Human Body: A Sensational Guide to Your 32 Senses

John Devolle

The Wonders of Marine Plankton

Albert Calbet

Marine plankton, despite their tiny size, are crucial for the functioning of marine food webs. It is not just about one organism eating another; when this happens, it helps release the nutrients accumulated within living matter, making them available again for microalgae. Plankton are present in freshwater and in all the seas and oceans on the planet. Moreover, they are responsible for supporting life on Earth and has provided us (on geological timescales) with a significant portion of the oxygen we breathe. In just a small spoonful of seawater, we can find around fifty million viruses, five million bacteria, hundreds of thousands of small unicellular flagellates, thousands of microscopic algae, five heterotrophic ciliates or dinoflagellates, and, with some luck, a small crustacean like copepods. This book aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and the general public, offering a captivating exploration of the fascinating world of marine plankton. Through engaging narratives and visually compelling illustrations, readers will gain insights into the importance of plankton in marine ecosystems, their diverse forms, and the crucial role they play in maintaining our planet's health.

The Regulatory Landscape in the EU for Dairy Products Derived from Precision Fermentation: An Analysis on the Example of Cheese

Federica Ronchetti, Laura Springer, Kai P. Purnhagen

Design of Crystal Structures Using Hydrogen Bonds on Molecular-Layered Cocrystals and Proton–Electron Mixed Conductor

Masaki Donoshita

This thesis addresses the design of crystal structures using hydrogen bonds. In particular, it focuses on the design of functionalities and the control over the packing of molecular assemblies, based on molecular designs. Firstly, the synthesis and evaluation of a proton–electron mixed conducting charge transfer salt is reported. Focusing on the difference in the strength of hydrogen bonds and weaker intermolecular interactions, a system was rationally designed and constructed where electron-conducting molecular wires were encapsulated within a proton-conducting matrix. Next, the investigation of structural phase transitions in a cocrystal consisting of hydrogen-bonded two-dimensional molecular assemblies is reported. Drastic rearrangements of hydrogen-bonded molecular assemblies in the cocrystal led to single-crystal-to-single-crystal phase transitions, resulting in anisotropic changes in the crystal shape. Furthermore, chemical modification of a component molecule in the cocrystal is reported. The modification afforded control over the stacking patterns of the two-dimensional molecular assemblies, i.e., sheets, and the mechanism was discussed considering the intersheet intermolecular interactions and molecular motion. It is suggested that hydrogen bonds are beneficial to construct molecular assemblies in molecular crystals because of their strength and well-defined directionality, and the consideration of coexisting weaker intermolecular interactions can lead to the design of whole crystal structures and, hence, functionalities. This thesis benefits students and researchers working on solid-state chemistry by presenting various methods for characterizing and evaluating the properties of molecular solids.

Curious Future Insight: Science for a Better Tomorrow

Ulrich A.K. Betz

This book follows up the debate on the future of science and technology at the Curious2022 – Future Insight Conference, the second event in this conference series initiated on the occasion of Merck’s 350 th anniversary. In the chapters, some of the world’s top scientists, managers and entrepreneurs explore breakthrough technologies and how they can be applied to make a better world for humanity. The book begins with an introduction to the vision of the conference “United by science for a better tomorrow” and the impacts caused by the pandemic, highlighting the importance of gathering like-minded people to discuss and support the advancement of science and technology for the benefit of humanity. In the first part of the book, readers will also find a chapter written by the Executive Board of Merck KGaA discussing the importance of curiosity for innovation and an overview of the company’s contribution in the areas of life sciences, healthcare and electronics forward-moving the scientific discovery. The second part of the book offers insights of some of the scientific topics discussed at the conference, and particular attention is given to new therapies and sustainability. In the final part of the book, readers will find some thoughts on ethical principles guiding our application of science and technology to create a bright future for humanity, and diverse perspectives on topics such as health, life sciences, nutrition, material sciences, digitalization, AI, energy, mobility, space flight, robotics, the secrets of the human mind and new ways of working together. Given its interdisciplinary appeal, the book will inspire curiosity in a wide readership, from scholars and researchers to professionals with an interest in exploring the future of science and technology, solving the problems of today, and paving the way for a better tomorrow. Chapters 1 and 2 are available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com

Cold Breath of Dormant Volcanoes: The Unknown World of CO2 Mofettes

Hardy Pfanz

This work, written in an understandable way for the interested layperson, introduces into the unknown world of the CO 2 gas volcanoes, the so-called mofettes . A little explored world that lets animals die in the middle of Europe, changes the flora, influences soils and the atmosphere and can provide clues for upcoming volcanic eruptions. With the help of the botanical bioindication, such degassing points can also be found in the field and even used economically, e.g. in mineral water and fire extinguishers, for the preservation of food and for the healing of heart and skin diseases. In this biological-geological mofette guide, Prof. Hardy Pfanz explains where such phenomena can be found in Germany, but also worldwide, and what they tell us. He also reveals - with a wink - one or the other extraordinary and legendary thing about mofettes.

Current Status of Fresh Water Microbiology

Ravindra Soni, Deep Chandra Suyal, Lourdes Morales-Oyervides, Jaspal Sungh Chauhan

This contributed volume deals with the various aspects of freshwater microbiology including diverse habitats, associated microorganisms, their ecological interactions, and industrial applications. Freshwater ecosystems are dynamic natural resources, providing sources of potable water, food, animal habitats, and recreation. Perspectives of microbial dynamics in freshwater bodies, covered in this title, provide a comprehensive and systematic analysis of microbial ecology in these ecosystems. These microbes are at the hub of biogeochemical cycles (carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other elements). Moreover, they are an integral part of the aquatic food web and control the quality of freshwater bodies. Chapters in this title also discuss the issue of pollution in freshwater bodies and put forward available strategies for eco-friendly solutions. The book is a perfect documentation of primary and secondary data-based information on the latest research findings, case studies, experiences, and innovations in the field of freshwater microbiology. The book is of great use to students, researchers, and professionals studying aquatic sciences.

Microbiome of Finfish and Shellfish

Arvind Diwan, Sanjay Harke, Archana Panche

This book helps us to understand the importance of the microbiome associated with finfish and shellfish inhabiting different locations and varied environmental and biological situations. It covers modern molecular tools for identifying microbiome composition and their precise identification at the species level. The book also covers the molecular structural composition of individual microbes, metabolite resources from microbiome species, their functional properties, and production aspects. Notable, the book covers the microbiome applications in the gut systems of finfish and shellfish to the digestion, nutrition, growth, reproduction, immune system, and vulnerability of the host to diseases. It also reviews diversity and functional properties, relationships with diseases, health status, data on species-specific metagenomics, and probiotic research. It highlights the relevance of microbial communities for the development of new and innovative bio-products to build bio and pharmaceutical industries, including aquaculture. This book is an invaluable source for researchers and professionals involved in fishery science, fisheries and aquaculture, fish biotechnology, and fish microbiology and pathology

Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of India Vol. 2

Akos Mathe, Irfan Ali Khan

This book is the 9th volume in the series Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of the World. India being one of the countries with the longest and richest past/present/future of Medicinal and Aromatic Plant (MAP) production and utilization has accumulated more than sufficient knowledge to fill two volumes. This is shown by the vivid interest of Indian colleagues to contribute. Similar to the previous volumes, this one deals with the various important aspects (from botanical through phytochemical to pharmacological) of MAPs', famous or simply known of India. Scientific and technological achievements will be equally presented. In addition to the first volume, India V1, this volume is aimed to look carefully at our present knowledge of this vas interdisciplinary domain with an Indian focus. In the era of global climate change and pandemics, building on the huge Indian traditions, this book is expected to make an important contribution to the better knowledge and understanding of MAPs.

Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum): Production, Processing and Properties

Mohamed Fawzy Ramadan

Cardamom [ Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton is recognized for its unique taste and aroma. As the third most expensive spice after saffron and vanilla, Cardamom has been used as a spice and flavoring ingredient in food and is rich in bioactive constituents including minerals, carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, essential oils, terpenoids, flavonoids and carotenoids. Cardamom essential oil (CEO) and other bioactive compounds accumulated in cardamom capsules contribute to their characteristic aroma and utility as a novel food and nutraceutical. CEO from capsules possesses monoterpene constituents such as α-terpineol, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, linalyl acetate, linalool, and nerolidol as well as the ester of α-terpinyl acetate. Flavonoids, anthocyanins, terpenoids, alkaloids, and other cardamom phenolics have shown high MIC values against Campylobacter species and reduced Bacillus subtilis spore. CEO loses its flavor rapidly upon storing under a normal environment. The change in the aroma or flavor could also cause changes in the constituents of its phytochemicals. Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum): Production, Processing & Properties aims to create a multidisciplinary forum of discussion on E. cardamomum , emphasizing its botany, ethnobotanical, cultivation, horticultural practices, post-harvest, marketability, phytochemistry, extraction protocols, biochemistry, nutritional value, functionality, ethnomedicinal applications and and processing specifics. The book discusses the botanical distribution, phytochemical constituents, food applications and biological activities of cardamom capsule extracts and essential oil. Also, the text discusses the potential applications of E. cardamomum in food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. This book is the first of its kind, a full research work dedicated specifically to cardamom applications and benefits that will be of value for researchers from multiple fields.

Biophysical Characterization of Functional Peptides

Vibin Ramakrishnan

This protocol book presents reproducible and step-by-step procedures for the peptide synthesis, their characterization and applications. The volume includes an introductory section on in silico modelling of new peptide molecules, Molecular Dynamics Simulations, Docking, Electrostatic fingerprinting of peptides, and other modelling tools for peptide designing and optimization. Further, it covers protocols for the solid phase peptide synthesis, chromatographic and mass spectrometric characterization of peptides. Importantly, it covers methods for biophysical characterizations of peptides for their potential applications as drug delivery vehicles, peptide nano-assembly, bionanocatalysis, protein aggregation diseases, and peptide-based anti-bacterial. ​

Multifunctional Microbial Biosurfactants

Pankaj Kumar, Ramesh Chandra Dubey

This book provides an overview of biosurfactants as biobased compounds, and highlights novel applications in several industries, including biotech, food processing, cosmetic, oil recovery/petroleum, pharmaceutical, detergent and textile. In the past few decades, biosurfactants have emerged as promising alternative surface-active agents to chemical surfactants due to their high biodegradability, low toxicity, multi-functionality under extreme pH and temperature conditions, long-term physicochemical stability, and their production from renewable sources. This book presents the fundamental aspects (classification, structure, genetics, and properties) of biosurfactants and how their features contribute to the global bioeconomy. Chapters from expert contributors discuss the latest screening, purification and characterization methods of new biosurfactants and biosurfactant-producing fungi and bacteria, including extremophiles. Particular attention is given to the role of biosurfactants in the formulation of sustainable agrochemicals, and their application as eco-friendly mosquitocidal agents, and biopesticides. Readers will discover a perspective on the antiviral activity of biosurfactants, in which the latest in vitro and in silico studies are discussed. Readers will also find more about the foremost therapeutic attributes of biosurfactant-mediated nanoparticles as next-generation drug delivery systems. Given its breadth, this book appeals to a wide readership, from students and academic researchers to scientists and professionals from industry, interested in the study and application of microbial surfactants.

Polymer Chemistry

Sebastian Koltzenburg, Michael Maskos, Oskar Nuyken, Stephen D. Pask

Awarded the Literature Prize of the VCI This comprehensive textbook describes the synthesis, characterization and technical and engineering applications of polymers. Polymers are unique molecules and have properties different from any other class of materials.  We encounter them in everyday life, not only in the form of the well-known, large-volume plastics such as PE or PP or the many other special polymers, some of which are very specifically modified but also in nature as polymeric biomolecules, such as DNA. Our life, as we know it, would not only be completely different without macromolecules but it would also be biologically impossible. This textbook provides a broad knowledge of the basic concepts of macromolecular chemistry and the unique properties of this class of materials. Environmentally relevant topics, such as biopolymers and microplastic, which should not be missing in a contemporary textbook are also covered. Building on basic knowledge oforganic chemistry and thermodynamics, the book presents an easy-to-understand yet in-depth picture of this very dynamic and increasingly important interdisciplinary science that involves elements of chemistry, physics, engineering, and the life sciences. Readers of this work can confirm their understanding of the text at the end of each chapter by working through a selection of exercises. In writing the book, great importance was attached to good readability despite the necessary depth of detail. It is a book that is just as suitable for students of chemistry and related courses as it is for the applied scientist in an industrial environment. The first edition of this work is so far the only textbook on polymer chemistry to be awarded the Literature Prize of the Fund of the German Chemical Industry Association in 2015.