bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resveratrol inhibits basic fibroblast growth factor-induced macrophage colony-stimulating factor synthesis via the PI3-kinase/Akt pathway in osteoblasts
Authors: Kuroyanagi Gen , Hioki Tomoyuki , Tachi Junko , Matsushima-Nishiwaki Rie , Iida Hiroki , Tokuda Haruhiko , Kozawa Osamu
Published: September 2023

Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol found in grapes and beneficial for human health. Resveratrol regulates basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)-induced osteoprotegerin synthesis through Akt pathway in osteoblast-like MC3T3-E1 cells. In this study, we investigated resveratrol effects on bFGF-induced macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) synthesis in MC3T3-E1 cells. bFGF significantly stimulated release and mRNA expression of M-CSF, which was reduced by resveratrol and SRT1720, sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) activator. Inauhzin, SIRT1 inhibitor, reversed inhibitory effects of resveratrol on bFGF-induced mRNA expression of M-CSF. Deguelin, Akt inhibitor, and LY294002, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-kinase) inhibitor, reduced bFGF-induced M-CSF synthesis. Inauhzin reversed inhibitory effects of resveratrol on bFGF-induced Akt phosphorylation. Suppressive effect of resveratrol on bFGF-induced osteoprotegerin mRNA expression was confirmed in the identical samples using in experiment of M-CSF mRNA expression. Therefore, resveratrol reduces bFGF-induced M-CSF synthesis in addition to osteoprotegerin synthesis by inhibiting PI3-kinase/Akt pathway and suppressive effects are mediated through SIRT1 activation in osteoblasts.
Between incursions and appropriations: digital technologies and pluriversal modernities in the Global South
Authors: Nemmani Sreedhar , Rodriguez Clemencia
Published: September 2023

Based on a recent body of scholarship that addresses the epistemologies of the South, our goal is to incite a shift in how we conceptualize technology adoption in the Global South. We interrogate the notion that the role of digital technologies in these regions follows a linear model of progress from traditional lifeways toward industrial modernity. Joining a recent shift toward decolonizing the study of the flow of digital technologies in the Global South, this article calls for a new approach that prioritizes specific historical, cultural, and epistemological contexts in the Global South and acknowledges the fragmentation left behind by colonization and divergent economic policies. We argue that communities appropriate digital communication technologies in complex ways and weave them into their existing ancestral epistemologies.
Counter-documentation tactics: participatory, visual, and walking research with undocumented migrants
Authors: Smets Kevin , Ahenkona Lisa
Published: September 2023

The mediation of migration has inspired ample scholarship in the past decades for understanding global power dynamics and the role of communication processes in maintaining, questioning, and reverting those very dynamics. This article sheds light on the experiences of migrants and their tactics for creating more humane, inclusive, and authentic media representations. It reports on one year of participatory action research (PAR) with six undocumented migrants living in Brussels, Belgium, which included participatory video-making and a combination of walking interviews and visual artefact production. The findings revolve around three counter-documentation tactics developed during the study to oppose hegemonic ways of representing (undocumented) migrants. The article aims to make a methodological contribution by reflecting on ethics and the pragmatic combination of different participatory methods while offering a conceptual vocabulary for approaching mediation, migration, and alterity from the perspective of progressive social change.
Incidence, management, and prognostic impact of arrhythmias in patients with Takotsubo syndrome: a nationwide retrospective cohort study
Authors: Isogai Toshiaki , Matsui Hiroki , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Makito Kanako , Fushimi Kiyohide , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: September 2023

Aims

Arrhythmia is a major complication of Takotsubo syndrome (TTS). However, its incidence, management, and prognostic impact remain to be elucidated in a large cohort.

Methods and results

We retrospectively identified 16 713 patients hospitalized for TTS between July 2010 and March 2021 from the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database. Serious arrhythmias were defined as ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation (VT/VF), 2nd-/3rd-degree atrioventricular block (AVB), sick sinus syndrome (SSS), or unspecified arrhythmias requiring device treatment. Patient characteristics and outcomes were compared based on the occurrence of serious arrhythmias. The overall incidence proportion of serious arrhythmias was 6.2% (n = 1036; 449 VT/VF, 283 2nd-/3rd-degree AVB, 133 SSS, 55 multiple arrhythmias, 116 others), which remained stable over 11 years. The arrhythmia group was younger, more often male, and exhibited greater impairment in activities of daily living (ADLs) and consciousness than the non-arrhythmia group. Although crude in-hospital mortality was higher in the arrhythmia group (9.6% vs. 5.0%, P < 0.001), the significant association between arrhythmias and mortality disappeared after adjustment for confounders (odds ratio = 1.15, 95% confidence interval = 0.90–1.49). Meanwhile, age, sex, ADLs, consciousness level, and Charlson comorbidity index were significantly associated with mortality. In the arrhythmia group, 254 (24.5%) patients received pacemakers (18.4%) or defibrillators (6.1%), which were implanted at a median of 8 and 19 days after admission, respectively.

Conclusion

Arrhythmias are not uncommon in TTS. Patients’ background characteristics, rather than arrhythmia itself, may be associated with in-hospital mortality. Given the reversibility of cardiac dysfunction in TTS, there may be unnecessary device implantations for arrhythmias occurring as sequelae to TTS, warranting further investigations.
Germline founder variant c.1998delinsTTCT in the RET oncogene: a cohort study in 15 Belgian families
Authors: Vuylsteke Axelle , Hannes Laurens , Brems Hilde , Devis Koen , Renard Marleen , Uyttebroeck Anne , Legius Eric , Decallonne Brigitte
Published: September 2023

Objective

The c.1998delinsTTCT variant in the RET gene (codon 666) is linked to medullary thyroid carcinoma in Belgium. We aimed to study the clinical phenotype and the age-dependent penetrance in predictive variant carriers.

Design

Retrospective study of index patients and predictive variant carriers, identified through familial cascade testing between 2001 and 2020.

Results

The total cohort comprised 119 patients: 15 index patients, 102 heterozygous, and 2 homozygous predictive variant carriers. Among heterozygous carriers, high suspicion of clinical disease was present in 25 patients at initial evaluation and in 3 patients during follow-up. No high suspicion of clinical disease was observed during surveillance in 56 patients, and 18 patients did not proceed to screening for clinical disease. Compared to index patients, surgically treated heterozygous predictive variant carriers had a lower presurgical basal calcitonin, a lower disease stage, less need for adjuvant therapy, and higher chances of remission. In heterozygous carriers, median age at developing high suspicion of disease is 52 years (range 7-75), with a predicted penetrance of 62% (9% SE) at the age of 70 years. Two patients were identified with pheochromocytoma and 1 patient with primary hyperparathyroidism. The 2 homozygous predictive variant carriers presented with higher disease severity at first clinical evaluation.

Conclusion

The c.1998delinsTTCT variant in the RET gene is pathogenic and associated with a moderate risk for medullary thyroid carcinoma and rarely with other multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A (MEN2A) manifestations. Active surveillance is a possible option in heterozygous gene carriers with a negative first clinical evaluation.
Unmasking the Term 'Dual Use' in EU Spyware Export Control
Authors: Riecke Lena
Published: September 2023

Spyware has been heralded as an essential tool for law enforcement and intelligence operations. However, examples abound of states that use it in a manner that violates human rights as well as undermines democracy and the rule of law. Against this backdrop, the European Union (EU) Dual-use Regulation was recast in 2021. It now makes an effort to control the export of cyber surveillance technologies, including spyware, which it defines as dual use. What narrative is created by framing spyware as ‘dual use’? This article illustrates how the term 'dual use' roots in a distinction between ‘peaceful’ and ‘non-peaceful’, or ‘civil’ and ‘military’ uses, and has gradually become associated with a broader dichotomy between ‘legitimate’ and ‘illegitimate’ purposes. Historically, this duality served not only to articulate the risks posed by certain technologies and indicate the rationale for their export control but also to justify their trade. Yet recourse by EU actors to dual use tilts the EU discourse on spyware export control towards state-centric security considerations and commercial interests over human rights. Unmasking how the term transposes a conceptually flawed, deceptive and empty duality to the spyware context, this article shows that the very concept of dual use may undermine human rights safeguards in spyware export control.
Characterization of novel recombinant mycobacteriophages derived from homologous recombination between two temperate phages
Authors: Mohammed Hamidu T , Mageeney Catherine , Korenberg Jamie , Graham Lee , Ware Vassie C
Published: September 2023

Comparative analyses of mycobacteriophage genomes reveals extensive genetic diversity in genome organization and gene content, contributing to widespread mosaicism. We previously reported that the prophage of mycobacteriophage Butters (cluster N) provides defense against infection by Island3 (subcluster I1). To explore the anti-Island3 defense mechanism, we attempted to isolate Island3 defense escape mutants on a Butters lysogen, but only uncovered phages with recombinant genomes comprised of regions of Butters and Island3 arranged from left arm to right arm as Butters-Island3-Butters (BIBs). Recombination occurs within two distinct homologous regions that encompass lysin A, lysin B, and holin genes in one segment, and RecE and RecT genes in the other. Structural genes of mosaic BIB genomes are contributed by Butters while the immunity cassette is derived from Island3. Consequently, BIBs are morphologically identical to Butters (as shown by transmission electron microscopy) but are homoimmune with Island3. Recombinant phages overcome antiphage defense and silencing of the lytic cycle. We leverage this observation to propose a stratagem to generate novel phages for potential therapeutic use.
Biochemistry
Authors: McKee Trudy , McKee James R.
Published: September 2023

Biochemistry begins with an introduction to the topic. Discussions covered include living cells, the importance of water to life, energy, and amino acids, peptides, and proteins. The book also contains chapters on carbohydrates, carbohydrate metabolism, aerobic metabolism, and lipids and membranes. The text goes on to examine photosynthesis, nitrogen metabolism, nucleic acids, and genes. Finally, it looks at protein synthesis.
Research Methods Using R
Authors: Baker Daniel H.
Published: September 2023

Research Methods Using R provides advanced data analysis for the biological sciences. It starts off with an introduction to the topic. The text then moves on to look at the R environment in more detail. The third chapter considers cleaning and preparing data for analysis, which is a very important part of the process. There follows a chapter on statistical tests as linear models. The text moves on to consider power analysis and meta-analysis. Models are considered next with a chapter on mixed-effect models. There is detail on stochastic methods and non-linear curve fitting. Towards the middle of the book, the text looks at Fourier analysis and multivariate t-tests. There follows a chapter on multidimensional scaling and k-means clustering. The text also describes correcting for multiple comparisons. Towards the end of the text, there are chapters on signal detection theory, Bayesian statistics, and plotting graphs and data visualisation. Finally, the last chapter covers reproducible data analysis.
Animal Physiology
Authors: Hill Richard W. , Cavanaugh Daniel J. , Anderson Margaret
Published: September 2023

Animal Physiology is composed of six parts. Part I looks at the fundamentals of physiology including animal, environment, molecules, cells, genomics, proteomics, physiological development, and transport of solids and water. Part II covers food, energy, and temperature. It looks at topics such as nutrition, feeding, digestion, energy metabolism, aerobic and anaerobic forms of metabolism, thermal relations, and food. The next part looks at integrating systems: neurons, synapses, sensory processes, nervous system organization, biological clocks, endocrine and neuroendocrine physiology, reproduction, and integrating systems in action. The next part covers movement and muscle. Part V is about oxygen, carbon dioxide, and internal transport. The final part of the book looks into water, salts, and excretion.
Coping with Environmental Variation: Energy
Authors: Bowman William D. , Hacker Sally D.
Published: September 2023

Key Concepts

CONCEPT 5.1 Organisms obtain energy from sunlight, from inorganic chemical compounds, or through the consumption of organic compounds.

CONCEPT 5.2 Radiant and chemical energy captured by autotrophs is converted into stored energy in carbon–carbon bonds.

CONCEPT 5.3 Environmental constraints have resulted in...
Life History
Authors: Bowman William D. , Hacker Sally D.
Published: September 2023

Key Concepts

CONCEPT 7.1 Life history patterns vary within and among species.

CONCEPT 7.2 There are trade-offs between life history traits.

CONCEPT 7.3 Organisms face different selection pressures at different life cycle stages.

CONCEPT 7.4 Life history patterns can be classified along several continua....
Behavioral Ecology
Authors: Bowman William D. , Hacker Sally D.
Published: September 2023

Key Concepts

CONCEPT 8.1 Evolution is the basis for adaptive behavior.

CONCEPT 8.2 Animals make behavioral choices that enhance their energy gain and reduce their risk of becoming prey.

CONCEPT 8.3 Mating behaviors reflect the costs and benefits of parental investment and mate defense....

CONCEPT...
Parasitism
Authors: Bowman William D. , Hacker Sally D.
Published: September 2023

Key Concepts

CONCEPT 13.1 Parasites typically feed on only one or a few host species, but host species have multiple parasite species.

CONCEPT 13.2 Hosts have mechanisms for defending themselves against parasites, and parasites have mechanisms for overcoming host defenses.

CONCEPT 13.3 Host and...
Biogeography
Authors: Bowman William D. , Hacker Sally D.
Published: September 2023

Key Concepts

CONCEPT 18.1 Patterns of species diversity and distribution vary at global, regional, and local spatial scales.

CONCEPT 18.2 Global patterns of species diversity and composition are influenced by geographic area and isolation, evolutionary history, and global climate.

CONCEPT 18.3 Regional differences in...
Nutrient Supply and Cycling
Authors: Bowman William D. , Hacker Sally D.
Published: September 2023

Key Concepts

CONCEPT 22.1 Nutrients enter ecosystems through the chemical breakdown of minerals in rocks or through fixation of atmospheric gases.

CONCEPT 22.2 Chemical and biological transformations in ecosystems alter the chemical form and supply of nutrients.

CONCEPT 22.3 Nutrients cycle repeatedly through the...
Landscape Ecology and Ecosystem Management
Authors: Bowman William D. , Hacker Sally D.
Published: September 2023

Key Concepts

CONCEPT 24.1 Landscape ecology examines spatial patterns and their relationship to ecological processes.

CONCEPT 24.2 Habitat loss and fragmentation decrease habitat area, isolate populations, and alter conditions at habitat edges.

CONCEPT 24.3 Biodiversity can best be sustained by large reserves connected across...
Plant Physiology and Development
Authors: Taiz Lincoln , Møller Ian Max , Murphy Angus , Zeiger Eduardo
Published: September 2023

Plant Physiology and Development firstly introduces the topic by looking at plant and cell architecture and genome structure and gene expression. The second group of chapters in this book contains detail about the transport and translocation of water and solutes. The third section covers biochemistry and metabolism with chapters about photosynthesis, the respiration system and lipid metabolism, and stomatal biology. The book then looks at growth and development and includes chapters on cell walls, signals, embryogenesis, pollination, plant senescence, cell death, and abiotic stress.
Top Drugs
Authors: Saunders John
Published: September 2023

Top Drugs looks at contemporary popular selling drugs. Today’s top-selling drugs have been uncovered from two major sources: natural products and laboratory synthesis. Those synthesised directly by medicinal chemists usually have been the result of a protracted discovery programme using a natural product (e.g. a hormone or an enzyme substrate) or a screening lead as a starting point. Many of the major categories of human disease-cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, central nervous system, inflammatory, and infectious diseases are included. After a short introduction to the discovery and mechanism of action of each drug, the syntheses of the best-selling drugs are reviewed. Where the information exists in the literature, the original research method to each drug is compared with more recent approaches which aim either at improving the route or at validating newer methodologies or reagents in the context of drug synthesis. Since, for many drugs, the marketed product was originally prepared as a racemic mixture, perhaps the most important comparison is between that route and alternatives which involve some element of asymmetric synthesis.
The f Elements
Authors: Kaltsoyannis Nikolas , Scott Peter
Published: September 2023

The f Elements covers much of the fundamental chemistry of the lanthanide and actinide elements, including coordination chemistry, solid state compounds, organometallic chemistry, electronic spectroscopy, and magnetism. Many comparisons are made between the chemistry of the lanthanides and actinides and that of the transition elements. The book uses the chemistry of the f elements as a vehicle for the communication of several important chemical concepts, for example the chemical consequences of relativity and the lanthanide and actinide contractions. Many important modern applications of f element chemistry, for example, the use of actinides in nuclear power generation and of the lanthanides in magnetic resonance imaging and catalytic converters in motor vehicle exhausts, are also discussed in depth.
Aqueous Acid-Base Equilibria and Titrations
Authors: de Levie Robert
Published: September 2023

Aqueous Acid-Base Equilibria and Titrations uses new theoretical developments which have led to more generalized approaches to equilibrium problems; these approaches are often simpler than the approximations which they replace. Acid-base problems are readily addressed in terms of the proton condition, a convenient amalgam of the mass and charge constraints of the chemical system considered. The graphical approach of Bjerrum, Hȩgg, and Sillén is used to illustrate the orders of magnitude of the concentrations of the various species involved in chemical equilibria. Based on these concentrations, the proton condition can usually be simplified, often leading directly to the value of the pH. In the description of acid-base titrations, a general master equation is developed. The text provides a continuous and complete description of the entire titration curve, which can then be used for computer-based comparison with experimental data. Graphical estimates of the steepness of titration curves are also developed, from which the practicality of a given titration can be anticipated. Activity effects are described in detail, including their effect on titration curves. The discussion emphasizes the distinction between equilibrium constants and electrometric pH measurements, which are subject to activity corrections, and balance equations and spectroscopic pH measurements, which are not. Finally, an entire chapter is devoted to what the pH meter measures, and to the experimental and theoretical uncertainties involved.
Reactive Intermediates
Authors: Moody Christopher J. , Whitham Gordon H.
Published: September 2023

Reactive Intermediates introduces this topic that sits within the broader subject of organic chemistry. Neutral reactive intermediates — radicals, carbenes, nitrenes, and arynes — have an interesting place within the history of organic chemistry. Once regarded as curiosities, then intensively studied from the mechanistic point of view by physical organic chemists, they now play a key role in synthetic chemistry. This text concentrates on the last aspect of reactive intermediate chemistry; the important reactions of these electron-deficient species are laid out clearly with accompanying chosen examples illustrating their use in organic synthesis. Each chapter includes a few problems as well as suggestions for further reading and provides a summary.
Chemical Aspects of Biosynthesis
Authors: Mann John
Published: September 2023

Chemical Aspects of Biosynthesis provides a straightforward introduction to the chemistry involved in the biosynthesis of natural products. The first chapter explains the connections between primary and secondary metabolites, outlines the chemistry mediated by the major enzyme cofactors, and describes the methods for the elucidation of biosynthetic pathways. The different classes of secondary metabolites are then discussed, with emphasis placed on the pharmacological and toxicological significance of the various compounds. The final chapter offers an insight into the ecological significance of a wide variety of natural products. Suggestions for further reading are provided.
Atomic Spectra
Authors: Softley T. P.
Published: September 2023

Atomic Spectra starts off by looking at quantum mechanics and the relationship of quantum mechanics with light. The next chapter considers the structure and spectrum of the hydrogen atoms. The text also covers the spectrum of the helium atom. Finally, the text examines the spectra of many-electron atoms.
Chemical Instrumentation
Authors: Wayne Richard R
Published: September 2023

Chemical Instrumentation introduces chemists to some of the building blocks and devices that make up the most important instruments used in industry and research. Instrumentation, often of a highly sophisticated kind, lies behind many of the most interesting aspects of contemporary chemistry. Some techniques—such as NMR—owe their existence to electronic instrumentation; others have been made simpler, more reliable, and more precise. Yet undergraduates reading chemistry often have only the most rudimentary understanding to be performed. Simple measuring devices are discussed before the introduction of the constituent elements of more complex devices, and emphasis is given to the enhancement of signal-to-noise ratios, which often lies at the heart of some of the most demanding measurements in the chemical sciences.
Mechanisms of Organic Reactions
Authors: Maskill Howard
Published: September 2023

Mechanisms of Organic Reactions begins with the modern concepts of organic chemical reactivity, then presents an up-to-date account of the mechanisms of major reactions of simple organic compounds. Each chapter leads from the experimental evidence to the mechanistic deductions, and ends with problems and a short bibliography. Chapter 1 presents a description and investigation of organic reaction mechanisms. The next chapter looks at nucleophilic substitution at saturated carbon. There follows a chapter on the elimination reactions to give alkenes. The fourth chapter covers reactions of nucleophiles with carbonyl compounds. The final chapter examines additions to carbon-carbon multiple bonds.
Carbohydrate Chemistry
Authors: Davis Benjamin G. , Fairbanks Antony J.
Published: September 2023

Carbohydrate Chemistry argues that carbohydrates are a vital part not only of metabolism, but are implicated as key coding molecules in a host of subtle biological events. The exploration of the role and the manipulation of this wonderful class of molecules is an exciting and ever-changing field. This text aims to remove some of the mystery that often surrounds carbohydrate chemistry, by highlighting and summarizing some of the central principles and ideas and by illustrating them with both classical and state-of-the-art examples.
Chemical Bonding
Authors: Winter Mark J.
Published: September 2023

Chemical Bonding starts off with a chapter on simple bonding schemes. The next chapter considers atomic structure. The third chapter looks at diatomic molecules. There is also a chapter on molecular geometry. The last two chapters cover hybrid orbital bonding and the molecular orbital approach and polyatomic molecules.
Exchange and Evolution
Authors: Meneely Philip , Hoang Rachel Dawes , Hoang Rachel Dawes , Okeke Iruka N. , Heston Katherine
Published: September 2023

This chapter introduces the process of horizontal gene transfer that is originally found among bacteria, but now known to occur in other types of organisms. It describes horizontal gene transfer, which is a process wherein organisms acquire DNA from other individuals over the course of their lifetime. It also highlights the importance of horizontal gene acquisition in shaping the content and structure of genomes that occurs within and across all kingdoms of life. The chapter looks at instances of extensive horizontal gene transfer that challenge the traditional view of evolutionary lineages as ‘branching trees’, although limited horizontal gene transfer has profound evolutionary consequences. It talks about cells that reproduce asexually, which can have new combinations of alleles and polymorphisms or even entirely new genes, as DNA has been acquired from another cell in the population or from the environment.
Marine Ecology: Processes, Systems, and Impacts
Authors: Kaiser Michel J. , Attrill Martin J. , Jennings Simon , Thomas David N. , Barnes David K. A. , Brierley Andrew S. , Graham Nicholas A. J. , Hiddink Jan Geert , Howell Kerry L. , Kaartokallio Hermanni
Published: September 2023

Marine Ecology introduces key processes and systems that form the marine environment and considers the issues and challenges that surround its future. After providing a general overview of marine ecology, it delves into the diverse systems that compose the marine environment, such as seabeds and the polar regions, and case studies. The book starts by looking at patterns in the marine environment before considering primary production processes. It also looks at microbial production and the decomposition of organic material, secondary production, estuaries, and rocky and sandy shores. After that, the text moves on to consider pelagic ecosystems, the continental shelf seabed, the deep sea, and mangrove forests and seagrass meadows. Coral reefs, polar regions, and fisheries are also covered. The text also considers aquaculture, pollution, disturbance, and environmental monitoring. Finally, the text finishes with a discussion on conservation, climate change, and sea and society.
Research Methods for the Biosciences
Authors: Holmes Debbie , Moody Peter , Dine Diana , Trueman Laurence
Published: September 2023

Research Methods for the Biosciences starts off by describing the process of planning an experiment. It asks where the student should begin. It looks into the use of questionnaires, focus groups, and interviews. It also considers research and the law. The next section is about how to handle data. It starts by asking what the student should do with raw data. It introduces hypothesis testing and then goes deeper into the subject by looking at whether the data fit the expected ratio, associations and relationships, parametric data, and non-parametric data. The final section is about reporting results and research.
Organic Chemistry
Authors: Cook Michael , Cranwell Philippa
Published: September 2023

Workbook in Organic Chemistry begins with a look at the foundations of this subject. It then looks in more detail at isomerism, nucleophilic substitution, elimination reactions, and the reactions of unsaturated compounds. The text then moves on to focus on aromatic chemistry before examining carbonyl chemistry.
The somatosensory system
Authors: Pocock Gillian , Richards Christopher D. , Richards David A.
Published: September 2023

This chapter explains that skin is the interface between the body and the outside world. Skin is not uniformly sensitive over its surface. The chapter analyses the punctate distribution of various sensations: specific points of the skin are sensitive to touch, others are sensitive to cooling, warming, or noxious stimuli. The muscles and joints possess sensory receptors that provide information concerning the disposition and movement of the limbs, which is relayed to the spinal cord and brain by the afferent nerves of the somatosensory system. The chapter talks about nerve endings and encapsulated receptors. This prompts three key questions. Why are there so many different kinds of receptor? What are their functions? How do the various receptors convert the different kinds of stimuli into nerve impulses? To answer these questions, it is necessary to examine the responses of particular receptors to specific stimuli.
Behavioral Neurobiology
Authors: Zupanc Günther K. H.
Published: September 2023

Behavioral Neurobiology starts off with an introduction. The next chapter presents the fundamentals of neurobiology. The text also gives a brief history on the study of animal behavior and its neural basis, and examines orienting movements. Other topics covered include active orientation and localization, the neuronal control of motor output, the neuronal processing of sensory information, and sensorimotor integration. The text then goes on to consider neuromodulation and the accommodation of motivational changes in behavior, circadian rhythms and biological clocks, and large-scale navigation in terms of migration and homing, communication, and cellular mechanisms of learning and memory.
Making the Transition to University Chemistry
Authors: Clugston Michael , Stewart Malcolm , Birembaut Fabrice
Published: September 2023

Making the transition to university chemistry aims to help students make the significant step from school to university, setting them up to be confident and successful in their chemistry studies. The book begins by looking at the basic atomic structure, bonding, and molecular shape. There is a chapter on moles. The text turns to the different states of matter after that. There are also chapters on thermochemistry, chemical equilibrium, and acid-base equilibrium. The middle of the book moves on to look at redox reactions, spontaneous change, entropy, and Gibbs energy. The periodic table is also examined, as are the halogens and transition metals. Hydrocarbons are considered. Towards the end, the text moves on to aldehydes and ketones, carboxylic acids and their derivatives, polymers, and instrumental analysis.
Pharmaceutical Chemistry
Authors: Rostron Chris , Barber Jill
Published: September 2023

Pharmaceutical Chemistry opens with an examination of the importance of pharmaceutical chemistry. It then turns to organic structure and bonding and stereochemistry and drug action. The next chapter looks at aliphatic hydrocarbons. There follows a chapter on alcohols, phenols, ethers, organic halogen compounds, and amines. Other topics covered include the carbonyl group, aromatic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, nucleic acids, and proteins and enzymes.
Mobile DNA
Authors: Craig Nancy L , Green Rachel , Greider Carol , Storz Gisela , Wolberger Cynthia , Cohen-Fix Orna
Published: September 2023

This chapter evaluates two ways by which discrete segments of DNA can move from one region of the genome to another—by transposition, whereby transposable elements can insert in many different sites around the genome; and by conservative site-specific recombination (CSSR), whereby recombination occurs between pairs of specific, related DNA sites to rearrange sequences bound by those specific sites. These recombination systems are widespread and have a profound impact on chromosome structure and function. Virtually all organisms contain transposable elements, and their mobility is a significant contributor to genetic variation. CSSR systems are found mostly in bacteria where they play important roles in bacterial chromosome segregation and in the interactions of viruses and plasmids with their hosts. The chapter begins with an overview of transposition before considering in more detail the mechanisms of action employed by different elements and the strategies used to regulate these processes. It then explores CSSR.
Tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: McCullagh James , Oldham Neil
Published: September 2023

This chapter highlights the basic principles of ion fragmentation in a mass spectrometer and examines the methods used to induce dissociation. It describes the common tandem mass spectrometer designs and explains the experiments they make possible. It also mentions electron ionization (EI) as one of the methods of ionization that impart sufficient internal energy into the newly formed molecular ion to promote a significant amount of fragmentation. The chapter reviews cases wherein ions are isolated inside tandem mass spectrometers according to their m/z and are dissociated to enable examination of the resulting products. It shows how an MS/MS spectrum can be generated by isolation and activation of an ion from the corresponding MS spectrum.
Medical Microbiology
Authors: Ford Michael
Published: September 2023

Medical Microbiology covers a range of key laboratory techniques used in the diagnosis of human diseases caused by microorganisms, with case studies throughout to highlight the clinical relevance of the techniques being described. The text is written from the point of view of a laboratory biomedical scientist. Topics include whole genome sequencing; MALDI-TOF, air sampling, and food microbiology; congenital infections, syphilis, human papillomavirus infection, and sample processing; the detection of antimicrobial resistance by molecular methods; and progressive cognitive disease, high-level resistance, and faecal transplantation.
Conservation: A people-centred approach
Authors: Gilbert Francis , Gilbert Hilary
Published: September 2023

Conservation starts off by looking at conservation, ecology, and science and describing how they relate to each other. It then examines populations and how they may change in relationship to movement and the size of suitable habitat available, covering also processes that lead to extinction. Other topics include interactions among different species and the processes through which ecological communities are created. Ecosystems are treated next with a look at their relationship to human wellbeing. Finally, the text examines different human attitudes towards nature, including those of indigenous people, and different conservation strategies.
Drugs acting on the adrenergic nervous system
Authors: Patrick Graham L.
Published: September 2023

This chapter talks about sympathetic nerves innervating smooth muscle and cardiac muscle that release noradrenaline. It explores different types and subtypes of adrenoceptor. These predominate in different tissues. The chapter looks at how drugs that show receptor selectivity show tissue selectivity. It also mentions the major use of adrenergic agonists in the treatment of asthma, while the major use of adrenergic antagonists is in cardiovascular medicine. The chapter reviews how noradrenaline is synthesized in presynaptic neurons and packaged in vesicles prior to release. It details the metabolism of early β2-agonists by catechol O-methyltransferase, which replaced the susceptible phenol group with a hydroxymethylene group and prevented metabolism while retaining receptor interactions.
Communication Skills for the Biosciences
Authors: Aysha Divan
Published: September 2023

Communication Skills for the Biosciences looks first at essential communication skills useful for the sciences. It examines recording and managing information and ethics in communication. It provides an introduction to the scientific literature available, how to conduct effective literature searches, and reviewing the literature. The text shows the reader how to write a literature review, a research proposal, a research paper, and an abstract. It also explains in detail how to prepare tables and figures, as this is one of the essential skills required for writing about biosciences. The text looks at beyond degree level and gives some tips on how to develop a Masters dissertation or a PhD thesis, and how to deliver an effective presentation or introduce a research poster. The last chapter of the book talks about networking.
Why chemical reactions happen
Authors: Keeler James , Wothers Peter
Published: September 2023

Why Chemical Reactions Happen provides all the tools and concepts needed to think like a chemist. The text takes a unified approach to the subject, aiming to help with the development of a real overview of chemical processes, by avoiding the traditional divisions of physical, inorganic, and organic chemistry. To understand how chemical reactions happen we need to know about the bonding in molecules, how molecules interact, what determines whether an interaction is favourable or not, and what the outcome will be. Answering these questions requires an understanding of topics from quantum mechanics, through thermodynamics, to ‘curly arrows’.
N-Linked glycosylation
Authors: Taylor Maureen E. , Drickamer Kurt
Published: September 2023

This chapter discusses N-linked glycosylation. N-linked glycans, and the biosynthetic pathways that generate them, act as the cornerstone of our understanding of mammalian glycobiology. In spite of their diversity, all N-linked glycans on glycoproteins are generated through a common pathway, which starts in the endoplasmic reticulum with the transfer of a preformed oligosaccharide to an asparagine residue in the sequence Asn-X-Ser/Thr within a nascent polypeptide chain. The three major classes of N-linked oligosaccharides (high mannose, complex, and hybrid) result from the differential action of glycosidases and glycosyltransferases in the Golgi apparatus. The restricted specificities of these glycosidases and glycosyltransferases require that they act in a defined order. The structures found on a particular glycoprotein depend primarily on the glycosyltransferases being expressed in the cell type in which the glycoprotein is synthesized. Many glycoproteins are heterogeneous because a variety of different oligosaccharides can be attached to a particular asparagine residue.
Interfacial Science
Authors: Barnes Geoffrey , Gentle Ian
Published: September 2023

Interfacial Science starts off by introducing the topic. It moves on to consider capillarity and the mechanics of surfaces, the absorption and the thermodynamics of surfaces, and the gas-liquid interface in terms of absorption, films and foams, and aerosols. It then looks at insoluble monolayers and Langmuir-Blodgett films, the liquid-liquid interface in terms of emulsions and membranes, and the surfaces of solids. Next, it moves on to the gas-solid interface in terms of adsorption and catalysis, the liquid-solid interface in terms of adsorption and colloids, and the biological interface.
Origins of Biodiversity
Authors: Bromham Lindell , Cardillo Marcel
Published: September 2023

Origins of Biodiversity begins by asking two connected questions: What is macroevolution? And, what is macroecology? It looks at the origins of evolution and asks whether evolution necessarily makes things ‘bigger and better’, or not. It considers the issue of the explosion of evolution and the case of the dinosaurs, and asks whether sexual reproduction is good for survival. It also poses the question of why most species are so small. A question not often asked also relates to the existence of so many kinds of beetles. What is the purpose of that? Finally, it looks to the future of biodiversity.
Clinical Biochemistry
Authors: Ahmed Nessar
Published: September 2023

Clinical Biochemistry
covers the core topics in the field of biochemistry, placing it in the context of human disease. Throughout the text, the theory is continually related to laboratory practice through the use of examples and case studies. Topics covered include biochemical investigations and quality control, automation, kidney disease, hyperuricaemia, gout, and fluid and electrolyte disorders. The text also looks at acid-based disorders, liver function, lipid metabolism, and other disorders such as disorders of calcium, phosphate, and magnesium homeostasis. Thyroid disease is covered. Cancer biochemistry is an important topic here and the text also examines tumour markers. There is a chapter on newborn screening and inherited metabolic disorders. Finally, the text considers chemical toxicology.
Thrive in Cell Biology
Authors: Wang Qiuyu , Smith Chris , Davis Emma
Published: September 2023

Thrive in Cell Biology first of all introduces cell biology. It then looks at methods of studying cell biology and biological membranes. After that, it turns to the structure and activities of prokaryotic cells and the molecular biology of the prokaryotes. The nucleus is also considered, as is the cytosol and cytoskeleton. After that, the text looks at the endoplasmic reticulum and the golgi apparatus. Other chapters examine chloroplast, photosynthesis, mitochondria, hydrogenosomes, and mitosomes. The second part of the book is about the cellular environment, and chapters in this part look at eukaryotic cell walls and extracellular matrix and connective tissues. The next part of the book is about cell integration and the life cycle. This part considers cell signalling, the eukaryotic cell cycle, mitosis and meiosis, and cell death. The last part of the book is about viruses.
Fundamentals of Plant Physiology
Authors: Taiz Lincoln , Zeiger Eduardo , Møller Ian Max , Murphy Angus
Published: September 2023

Fundamentals of Plant Physiology is a distillation of the most important principles and empirical findings of plant physiology. First, the book covers plant and cell architecture. Then, it focuses on water and plant cells, water balance of plants, mineral nutrition, assimilation of inorganic nutrients, and solute transport. The text also looks at photosynthesis, translocation in the phloem, respiration and lipid metabolism, signals and signal transduction, signals from sunlight, and embryogenesis. Towards the end of the book, there are chapters that cover seed democracy, germination, seedling establishment, vegetative growth and senescence, flowering, fruit, biotic interactions, and abiotic stress.
The Ecology of Plants
Authors: Gurevitch Jessica , Scheiner Samuel M. , Fox Gordon A.
Published: September 2023

The Ecology of Plants provides contemporary coverage of plant ecology. The text incorporates current scientific developments and includes photographs, illustrations, and references. The book covers a range of current and historical ecological topics, presented in an evolutionary context, with the focus on the interactions between plants and their environments over a range of scales. Some of the subjects covered are unique to plants, such as photosynthesis and the ecology of plant-soil interactions; other topics, such as resource and mate acquisition, emphasize the distinctive ways plants (in contrast to animals) deal with their environments. The book emphasizes the importance of evolutionary and other historical ecological processes, as well as human environmental influences.
The high-quality sequencing of the Brassica rapa ‘XiangQingCai’ genome and exploration of genome evolution and genes related to volatile aroma
Authors: Liu Zhaokun , Fu Yanhong , Wang Huan , Zhang Yanping , Han Jianjun , Wang Yingying , Shen Shaoqin , Li Chunjin , Jiang Mingmin , Yang Xuemei , Song Xiaoming
Published: September 2023

‘Vanilla’ (XQC, brassica variety chinensis) is an important vegetable crop in the Brassica family, named for its strong volatile fragrance. In this study, we report the high-quality chromosome-level genome sequence of XQC. The assembled genome length was determined as 466.11 Mb, with an N50 scaffold of 46.20 Mb. A total of 59.50% repetitive sequences were detected in the XQC genome, including 47 570 genes. Among all examined Brassicaceae species, XQC had the closest relationship with B. rapa QGC (‘QingGengCai’) and B. rapa Pakchoi. Two whole-genome duplication (WGD) events and one recent whole-genome triplication (WGT) event occurred in the XQC genome in addition to an ancient WGT event. The recent WGT was observed to occur during 21.59–24.40 Mya (after evolution rate corrections). Our findings indicate that XQC experienced gene losses and chromosome rearrangements during the genome evolution of XQC. The results of the integrated genomic and transcriptomic analyses revealed critical genes involved in the terpenoid biosynthesis pathway and terpene synthase (TPS) family genes. In summary, we determined a chromosome-level genome of B. rapa XQC and identified the key candidate genes involved in volatile fragrance synthesis. This work can act as a basis for the comparative and functional genomic analysis and molecular breeding of B. rapa in the future.
Evaluation of a novel phytase derived from Citrobacter braakii and expressed in Aspergillis oryzae on growth performance and bone mineralization indicators in nursery pigs
Authors: Reeb Macie E , Woodworth Jason C , Goodband Robert D , Tokach Mike D , DeRouchey Joel M , Gebhardt Jordan T , Bergstrom Jon R
Published: September 2023

A total of 297 pigs (DNA 241 × 600; initially 8.64 ± 0.181 kg) were used in a 21-d trial to determine the efficacy of a novel phytase derived from Citrobacter braakii and expressed in Aspergillis oryzae (HiPhorius; DSM Nutritional Products, Animal Nutrition & Health, Parsippany, NJ) on pig growth and bone mineralization indicators. Pens of pigs were assigned to 1 of 5 dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design with 5 pigs per pen and 12 pens per treatment. The trial was initiated 14-d after weaning. The first three treatments were formulated to contain 0.09% aP; without added phytase (control), or the control diet with 600 or 1,000 FYT/kg of added phytase (considering a release of 0.15% or 0.18% aP, respectively). The remaining two treatments were formulated to contain 0.27% aP, one without added phytase and the other with 1,000 FYT/kg. From days 0 to 21, pigs fed increasing phytase in diets containing 0.09% aP had increased (linear, P ≤ 0.002) ADG, ADFI, and G:F, but added phytase in the 0.27% aP diet did not impact growth performance. Increasing phytase in diets containing 0.09% aP increased percentage bone ash in metacarpals and 10th ribs (linear, P < 0.001; quadratic, P = 0.004, respectively), and increased grams of Ca and P in metacarpals, 10th ribs, and fibulas (linear, P ≤ 0.027). Adding 1,000 FYT/kg phytase in diets with 0.27% aP increased (P ≤ 0.05) percentage bone ash and grams of Ca and P in fibulas and 10th ribs compared with pigs fed 0.27% aP without added phytase. Increasing aP from 0.09% to 0.27% in diets without added phytase increased (P < 0.001) ADG, ADFI, and G:F. Increasing aP from 0.09% to 0.27% in diets without added phytase increased bone density (P ≤ 0.002) in fibulas and metacarpals, percentage bone ash in all bones (P ≤ 0.074), and increased (P < 0.05) grams of Ca and P in fibulas and 10th ribs. Pigs fed diets containing 0.09 or 0.27% aP, both with 1,000 FYT added phytase, had increased (P < 0.05) bone density in fibulas and metacarpals, percentage bone ash in all bones, and increased grams of Ca and P in fibulas and 10th ribs. For growth performance (average of ADG and G:F), aP release was calculated to be 0.170% for 600 FYT/kg and 0.206% for 1,000 FYT/kg. For the average of all bone measurements (average of 3 bones for both bone density and percentage bone ash), aP release was calculated to be 0.120% and 0.125% for 600 and 1,000 FYT/kg, respectively.