Search

This book serves as a comprehensive summary of the priority program SPP 1934, which focused on understanding the dispersity, structure, and phase changes of proteins and bio-agglomerates in biotechnological processes. Through contributions from various research groups, the program explored how sensitive proteins and bio-agglomerates are affected by the process environment during fermentation, downstream processing, and formulation. It investigated these effects across three size scales: microscale, encompassing single proteins, clusters, crystals, and virus-like particles; mesoscale, focusing on cells and cell clusters; and macroscale, examining overall process dynamics. The main objective was to enhance biotechnological process chains by elucidating the mechanical, thermal, and chemical stresses that impact protein and bio-agglomerate structures. By gaining insights into these stressors, the program aimed to enable precise control measures to mitigate denaturation and unfavorable growth of proteins and cells. This compilation seeks to contribute to the optimization of biotechnological processes, facilitating advancements in various industries.

This book encompasses the structure, physical properties, production method, and bio degradability analysis of polylactic acid. A discourse of factors influencing the fabrication of polylactic acid-based composites and their characterization is discussed. The effects of reinforcements in the polylactic acid composites and their possible reasons is included. The potential biomedical applications of polylactic acid is covered.

This book is an extensive collection of new research on nanoscience and nanomaterials by experts working in the fields of nanoscience, material science, energy, agriculture, computer science and engineering, atmospheric nanoscience, medicine, and nanobiotechnology.

With the agricultural sector facing mounting pressure to reduce their carbon footprint, greater emphasis has been placed on improving existing components and practices, such as soil health and biodiversity, which have since emerged as key components to achieving regenerative agriculture.Sensors provide the opportunity to measure crop and soil health at unparalleled scales and resolution. Key developments in sensor technology will help improve our current understanding and optimisation of the complex agricultural systems that make up our global ecosystem.Advances in sensor technology for sustainable crop production provides a comprehensive review of the wealth of research on key developments in sensor technology to improve monitoring and management of crop health, soil health, weeds and diseases. This collection also reviews advances in proximal and remote sensing techniques to monitor soil health, such as spectroscopy and radiometrics, as well as how sensor technology can be optimised for more targeted irrigation, site-specific nutrient and weed management.

This thesis presents research on novel X-ray imaging methods that improve the study of specimens with small density differences, revealing their inner structure and density distribution. Exploiting the phase shift of X-rays in a material can significantly increase the image contrast compared to conventional absorption imaging. This thesis provides a practical guide to X-ray phase-contrast imaging with a strong focus on X-ray speckle-based imaging, the most recently developed phase-sensitive method. X-ray speckle-based imaging only requires a piece of abrasive paper in addition to the standard X-ray imaging setup. Its simplicity and robustness combined with the compatibility with laboratory X-ray sources, make it an ideal candidate for wide user uptake in a range of fields. An in-depth overview of the state of the art of X-ray speckle-based imaging and its latest developments is given in this thesis. It, furthermore, explores a broad range of applications, from X-ray optics characterisation, to biomedical imaging for 3D virtual histology and geological studies of volcanic rocks, demonstrating is promising potential. Moreover, the speckle-based technique is placed in the context of other phase-sensitive X-ray imaging methods to assist in the choice of a suitable method, hence serving as a guide and reference work for future users.

The first comprehensive reference to invertebrate histology Invertebrate Histology is a groundbreaking text that offers a comprehensive review of histology in invertebrates. Designed for use by anyone studying, diagnosing, or researching invertebrates, the book covers all major taxonomic groups with details of the histologic features, with color photographs and drawings that clearly demonstrate gross anatomy and histology. The authors, who are each experts in the histology of their respective taxa, bring together the most recent information on the topic into a single, complete volume. An accessible resource, each chapter focuses on a single taxonomic group with salient gross and histologic features that are clearly described in the text and augmented with color photographs and greyscale line drawings. The histologic images are from mostly hematoxylin and eosin stained microscopic slides showing various organ systems at high and low magnification. In addition, each chapter provides helpful tips for invertebrate dissection and information on how to process invertebrates for histology. This important book: Presents detailed information on histology of all major groups of invertebrates Offers a user-friendly text that is organized by taxonomic group for easy reference Features high-quality color photographs and drawings, with slides showing histology and gross photographs to demonstrate anatomy Provides details on invertebrate dissection and processing invertebrates for histology Written for veterinary pathologists, biologists, zoologists, students, and other scientists studying these species, Invertebrate Histology offers the most updated information on the topic written by over 20 experts in the field.

The Arabian Seas Marine Region encompasses marine areas from Djibouti to Pakistan, including the northern part of Somalia, the Red Sea, the Arabian/Persian Gulf, and parts of the Arabian Sea. Human pressures on the coastal and marine environments are evident throughout the region, and have resulted in harmful environmental effects. Oil and domestic, urban and industrial pollutants in several areas of this part of the world have caused local habitat degradation, eutrophication and algal blooms. Further, coastal landfill, dredging, and sedimentation, as well as nutrient and sediment runoff from phosphate mining, agriculture and grazing, and reduction in freshwater seepage due to groundwater extraction are all contributing to the degradation of coastal environments. This book discusses aspects not covered in other books on the region, which largely focus on marine biodiversity, and examines several environmental challenges that are often ignored, but which have a significant impact on the environment. Evaluating the status quo, it also recommends conservation measures and examines the abiotic factors that play a major main role in the environmental changes. Lastly, the book addresses the biodiversity of the area, providing a general context for the conservation and management measures discussed.

The most up-to-date book on invertebrates, providing a new framework for understanding their place in the tree of lifeIn The Invertebrate Tree of Life, Gonzalo Giribet and Gregory Edgecombe, leading authorities on invertebrate biology and paleontology, utilize phylogenetics to trace the evolution of animals from their origins in the Proterozoic to today. Phylogenetic relationships between and within the major animal groups are based on the latest molecular analyses, which are increasingly genomic in scale and draw on the soundest methods of tree reconstruction.Giribet and Edgecombe evaluate the evolution of animal organ systems, exploring how current debates about phylogenetic relationships affect the ways in which aspects of invertebrate nervous systems, reproductive biology, and other key features are inferred to have developed. The authors review the systematics, natural history, anatomy, development, and fossil records of all major animal groups, employing seminal historical works and cutting-edge research in evolutionary developmental biology, genomics, and advanced imaging techniques. Overall, they provide a synthetic treatment of all animal phyla and discuss their relationships via an integrative approach to invertebrate systematics, anatomy, paleontology, and genomics.With numerous detailed illustrations and phylogenetic trees, The Invertebrate Tree of Life is a must-have reference for biologists and anyone interested in invertebrates, and will be an ideal text for courses in invertebrate biology.A must-have and up-to-date book on invertebrate biologyIdeal as both a textbook and referenceSuitable for courses in invertebrate biologyRichly illustrated with black-and-white and color images and abundant tree diagramsWritten by authorities on invertebrate evolution and phylogenyFactors in the latest understanding of animal genomics and original fossil material

Sea Urchins: Biology and Ecology, Fourth Edition, Volume 43 expands its coverage to include the entire class of Echinoidea, making this new edition an authoritative reference of the entire class of species. This is a valuable resource that will help readers gain a deep understanding of the basic characteristics of sea urchins, the basis of the great variation that exists in sea urchins, and how sea urchins are important components of marine ecosystems. Updated coverage includes sections on reproduction, metabolism, endocrinology, larval ecology, growth, digestion, carotenoids and disease. - Includes pertinent tables and graphs within chapters to visually summarize information - Provides case studies with research applications to provide potential solutions - Includes the entire class of Echinoidea and the effect of climate change on the biology and ecology of the species

Silk: Materials, Processes, and Applications addresses the latest research on the structure and properties of silk fibers, properties of silk-based materials, and cutting edge-related industrial practices. It pays particular attention to mulberry silk, but unconventional silks such as spider silk and marine silk fibers are also covered. Although silk is one of the oldest known fibers, new research continues to shed light on its properties, leading it to be applied in new contexts particularly in the medical field, and new non-textile areas. In addition to structural and mechanical qualities, this book also includes a great deal of new research on the chemical modifications of silk fibers, and other processing methods. With a focus on practical methodologies, this is the most readable and readily applicable book on silk so far, making it a perfect guide for readers with a range of backgrounds. - Addresses the fundamental differences between mulberry, spider, and wild silks - Describes silk fiber and non-fiber forms, including hydrogels and films - In-depth coverage of silk-processing methods provides the perfect starting point for biotechnologists interested in the use of silk for non-textile applications

This book describes the most commonly methods used for the study of the internal anatomy of teeth and provides a complete review of the literature concerning the current state of research employing contemporary imaging tools such as micro-CT and CBCT, which offer greater accuracy whether using qualitative or quantitative approaches. In order to facilitate the management of complex anatomic anomalies, specific clinical protocols and valuable practical tips are suggested. In addition, supplementary material consisting in high-quality videos and images of different anatomies obtained using micro-CT technology is made available to the reader. The book was planned and developed in collaboration with an international team comprising world-recognized researchers and experienced clinicians with expertise in the field. It will provide the readers with a thorough understanding of canal morphology and its variations in all groups of teeth, which is a basic prerequisite for the success of endodontic therapy.

This is the first volume of proceedings including selected papers from the International Conference on IT Convergence and Security (ICITCS) 2017, presenting a snapshot of the latest issues encountered in this field. It explores how IT convergence and security issues are core to most current research, and industrial and commercial activities. It consists of contributions covering topics such as machine learning & deep learning, communication and signal processing, computer vision and applications, future network technology, artificial intelligence and robotics. ICITCS 2017 is the latest in a series of highly successful International Conferences on IT Convergence and Security, previously held in Prague, Czech Republic(2016), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (2015) Beijing, China (2014), Macau, China (2013), Pyeong Chang, Korea (2012), and Suwon, Korea (2011).

This collection features papers presented at the 147th Annual Meeting & Exhibition of The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society.

Echinoderms, including feather stars, seastars, brittle stars, sea urchins and sea cucumbers, are some of the most beautiful and interesting animals in the sea. They play an important ecological role and several species of sea urchins and sea cucumbers form the basis of important fisheries. Over 1000 species live in Australian waters, from the shoreline to the depths of the abyssal plain and the tropics to Antarctic waters. Australian Echinoderms is an authoritative account of Australia's 110 families of echinoderms. It brings together in a single volume comprehensive information on the identification, biology, evolution, ecology and management of these animals for the first time. Richly illustrated with beautiful photographs and written in an accessible style, Australian Echinoderms suits the needs of marine enthusiasts, academics and fisheries managers both in Australia and other geographical areas where echinoderms are studied. Winner of the 2018 Whitley Medal

Nacre, mother-of-pearl, is an exception from the rule that strength and toughness are generally mutually exclusive in materials. It possesses a unique set of mechanical properties which has been attributed to nacre's special brick-and-mortar-like microstructure. Consequently, mimicry of this microstructure for similar reinforcement in synthetic materials has been the goal of many researchers so far with excellent results in the area of thin films – but hardly any serviceable outcome in bulk dimensions. This thesis provides a way to fill this gap in processing of bulk-sized nacre-inspired composites. The approach is founded on sedimentation processes that can be rated as more facile, economically more efficient, and geometrically less limited than other methods. Eventually, it results in composites that mimic up to four structural design features of nacre, acting as examples for novel materials that could be applicable in fields ranging from ballistic protection to filtering technologies.

Characterization of Polymeric Biomaterials presents a comprehensive introduction on the topic before discussing the morphology and surface characterization of biomedical polymers. The structural, mechanical, and biological characterization is described in detail, followed by invaluable case studies of polymer biomaterial implants. With comprehensive coverage of both theoretical and experimental information, this title will provide scientists with an essential guide on the topic of these materials which are regularly used for clinical applications, such as implants and drug delivery devices. However, a range of novel polymers and the development and modification of existing medical polymers means that there is an ongoing need to satisfy particular design requirements. This book explains the critical and fundamentals methods to characterize polymer materials for biomedical applications. - Presents a self-contained reference on the characterization of polymeric biomaterials - Provides comprehensive information on how to characterize biomedical polymers in order to improve design and synthesis - Includes useful case studies that demonstrate the characterization of biomaterial implants

This thesis discusses potential pathways and driving forces for lipid transport through crystalline fat suspensions such as chocolate. Observation of macroscopic migration indicated that structure plays a major role. Microtomography images of chocolates confirmed the presence of voids, which might act as preferred pathway. Small angle X-ray scattering manifested that lipids migrate through pores in the short-term and the fat phase in the long-term. Migration rates were approximated with a model based on viscous flow driven by capillary pressure. More information on material properties is needed to verify that model. Diese Arbeit diskutiert potentielle Wege und Ursachen für den Transport von Lipiden durch Fettsuspensionen wie Schokolade. Makroskopische Untersuchungen zeigten, dass die Struktur den Transport stark beeinflusst. Mikrotomografieaufnahmen und Kleinwinkelstreuung bestätigten ein Vorhandensein von Hohlräumen in Schokolade und deren Komponenten, die bevorzugte Wege für den Lipidtransport sein könnten. Migrationsgeschwindigkeiten wurden mit einem Modell basierend auf der Darcy und Lucas-Washburn-Gleichung berechnet. Genaue Kenntnisse zu den Materialeigenschaften sind essenziell, um dieses Modell zu bestätigen.

Retaining its proven concept, the second edition of this ready reference specifically addresses the need of materials engineers for reliable, detailed information on modern material characterization methods. As such, it provides a systematic overview of the increasingly important field of characterization of engineering materials with the help of neutrons and synchrotron radiation. The first part introduces readers to the fundamentals of structure-property relationships in materials and the radiation sources suitable for materials characterization. The second part then focuses on such characterization techniques as diffraction and scattering methods, as well as direct imaging and tomography. The third part presents new and emerging methods of materials characterization in the field of 3D characterization techniques like three-dimensional X-ray diffraction microscopy. The fourth and final part is a collection of examples that demonstrate the application of the methods introduced in the first parts to problems in materials science. With thoroughly revised and updated chapters and now containing about 20% new material, this is the must-have, in-depth resource on this highly relevant topic.

Willi Hennig (1913–76), founder of phylogenetic systematics, revolutionised our understanding of the relationships among species and their natural classification. An expert on Diptera and fossil insects, Hennig's ideas were applicable to all organisms. He wrote about the science of taxonomy or systematics, refining and promoting discussion of the precise meaning of the term'relationship', the nature of systematic evidence, and how those matters impinge on a precise understanding of monophyly, paraphyly, and polyphyly. Hennig's contributions are relevant today and are a platform for the future. This book focuses on the intellectual aspects of Hennig's work and gives dimension to the future of the subject in relation to Hennig's foundational contributions to the field of phylogenetic systematics. Suitable for graduate students and academic researchers, this book will also appeal to philosophers and historians interested in the legacy of Willi Hennig.

In this thesis a versatile process route for the fabrication of novel bulk composite materials is developed, which is based on the spouted bed spray granulation process. The granulation process is used to assemble different kinds and sizes of ceramic particles and polymers into granules. In this process a liquid, which contains organic (and sometimes inorganic) components, is sprayed onto fluidized particles. The key advantages of the spouted bed spray granulation process are analyzed with respect to the fabrication of novel composite materials, and several process routes for different types of polymers and different target properties are developed. The granules are further processed to dense composites, which are then analyzed with respect to their morphology and mechanical properties. It is also shown that this process route can be combined with other processes to fabricate composites with a genuine hierarchical structure. The inner structure and the mechanical properties of the final composites are analyzed and simulated with the Discrete-Element-Method (DEM). It is shown that the DEM is a very useful and adequate simulation tool for the fabricated composites, particularly for composites with a high filling degree, as it allows a direct three-dimensional representation of the composite.

The fourth edition of Soil Microbiology, Ecology and Biochemistry updates this widely used reference as the study and understanding of soil biota, their function, and the dynamics of soil organic matter has been revolutionized by molecular and instrumental techniques, and information technology. Knowledge of soil microbiology, ecology and biochemistry is central to our understanding of organisms and their processes and interactions with their environment. In a time of great global change and increased emphasis on biodiversity and food security, soil microbiology and ecology has become an increasingly important topic. Revised by a group of world-renowned authors in many institutions and disciplines, this work relates the breakthroughs in knowledge in this important field to its history as well as future applications. The new edition provides readable, practical, impactful information for its many applied and fundamental disciplines. Professionals turn to this text as a reference for fundamental knowledge in their field or to inform management practices. New section on'Methods in Studying Soil Organic Matter Formation and Nutrient Dynamics'to balance the two successful chapters on microbial and physiological methodologyIncludes expanded information on soil interactions with organisms involved in human and plant diseaseImproved readability and integration for an ever-widening audience in his fieldIntegrated concepts related to soil biota, diversity, and function allow readers in multiple disciplines to understand the complex soil biota and their function

High-resolution x-ray diffraction and scattering is a key tool for structure analysis not only in bulk materials but also at surfaces and buried interfaces from the sub-nanometer range to micrometers. This book offers an overview of diffraction and scattering methods currently available at modern synchrotron sources and illustrates bulk and interface investigations of solid and liquid matter with up-to-date research examples. It presents important characteristics of the sources, experimental set-up, and new detector developments. The book also considers future exploitation of x-ray free electron lasers for diffraction applications.

A comprehensive overview of the possibilities and potential of X-ray scattering using nanofocused beams for probing matter at the nanoscale, including guidance on the design of nanobeam experiments. The monograph discusses various sources, including free electron lasers, synchrotron radiation and other portable and non-portable X-ray sources. For scientists using synchrotron radiation or students and scientists with a background in X-ray scattering methods in general.

Written by an international team of experts from the Tara Oceans Marine Biology Imaging Platform (TAOMI), this is the first and only compendium on marine imaging technologies, and includes all known underwater as well as on-land techniques. TAOMI is imaging the largest collection of marine organisms in recent history, ranging from viruses to corals, and is duplicated on land to perform high throughput confocal analysis of plankton, X-ray tomography as well as cryo-electron microscopy. This unique platform combines underwater imaging with cytometry, stereomicroscopy, fluorescence microscopy and 3D microscopy - all of which are covered in this practical book, along with remote sensing, MRI, and optical projection tomography. The definitive resource for every marine biologist who is planning to image marine species, whether underwater or on land.

This fully revised and expanded edition of Sea Urchins provides a wide-ranging understanding of the biology and ecology of this key component of the world's oceans. Coverage includes reproduction, metabolism, endocrinology, larval ecology, growth, digestion, carotenoids, disease and nutrition. Other chapters consider the ecology of individual species that are of major importance ecologically and economically, including species from Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Europe, North America, South America and Africa. In addition, six new contributions in areas such as immunology, digestive systems and community ecology inform readers on key recent developments and insights from the literature.Sea urchins are ecologically important and often greatly affect marine communities. Because they have an excellent fossil record, they are also of interest to paleontologists. Research on sea urchins has increased in recent years, stimulated first by recognition of their ecological importance and subsequently their economic importance. Scientists around the world are actively investigating their potential for aquaculture and fisheries, and their value as model systems for investigations in developmental biology continues to increase. - Continues the series'Developments in Aquaculture and Fisheries Science'with a newly revised volume - Collects and synthesizes the state of knowledge of sea urchin biology and ecology - Expanded from previous edition to include non-edible species, providing the needed basis for broader evolutionary understanding of sea urchins

As one of the most important classes of soft materials, supramolecular materials are of a mixture of networks of molecular chains/fibrils and a liquid. These self-assembled fibrous/ molecular architectures exhibit various functionalities, ie. superhydrophobicity or superior mechanical strength, etc. and consist of the controllable structures. They can be functioned via micro/nano engineering, to have some particular added functions, ie. emission materials, tissue engineering scaffolds, bio imaging and sensing materials etc. They have therefore found broad applications in photography, cosmetics, food and petroleum industries and not the least in the biomedical sector where there is strong interest in these materials as drug delivery agents.The book covers the most important soft functional materials, including small molecule physical gels, silkworm silk and spider silk fibers and functional fibers, with respect both to the fundamentals and to development and engineering methods. It provides the reader with the necessary knowledge on the chemical and physical formation mechanisms of these materials and demonstrates that one can rationally design and tune the fibrillar networks so that the resulting materials exhibit the desired functionalities.This work is a must-have for all Materials Scientists, Polymer Chemists, Condensed Matter Physicists, and Biotechnologists working in this interdisciplinary field.

Bryozoa are a colonial animal phylum with a long evolutionary history, having existed from the early Ordovician (480 My) onward and still flourishing today. Several mass extinctions in earth history shaped and triggered bryozoan evolution through drastic turnover of faunas and new evolutionary lineages. Bryozoa are widespread across all latitudes from Equator to Polar Regions and occur in marine and freshwater environments. They are shaping benthic ecosystems and recording ambient environmental conditions in their skeletons. The book provides a synthesis of the current main topics of research in the field of Bryozoology including combined research on both extant, and extinct taxa. Fields or current research span molecular genetics and phylogeny, life history, reproduction and anatomy, biodiversity and evolutionary patterns in time and space, taxonomy, zoogeography, ecology, sediment interactions, and climate response.