Bøger udgivet af Callisto Reference

A cropping system refers to the order in which the crops are grown or cultivated on a piece of land over a fixed period of time. Modern agricultural practices are based on the concept of sustainability. Sustainable cropping systems are a group of agricultural practices that aim to fulfill the increasing demands of agricultural products for the growing population. At the same time, it also seeks to reduce the adverse effects of crop production on environment. There are three main types of cropping systems, namely, monoculture, rotation cropping, and multiple cropping. Crop rotation is a system of growing different types of crops on the same land in recurrent succession. Nitrogen management is another sustainable cropping system that seeks to achieve the dual goals of increasing crop and animal productivity, and decreasing nitrogen losses to acceptable levels in order to reduce air and water pollution. Some other sustainable cropping systems or methods include residue management, cover crops, crop management, and organic management. The book studies, analyzes, and upholds the pillars of sustainable cropping systems and their utmost significance in modern times. It aims to equip students and experts with the advanced topics and upcoming concepts in this area of study.

Plants produce hormones naturally, which affects various processes such as gene expression and transcription levels, cellular division, and growth. When these hormones are synthesized artificially, these are called as plant growth regulators (PGRs). They can be used to positively affect plant growth. There are different types of PGRs including auxins, cytokinins, and gibberellins. that regulate the growth of a plant. They function as chemical messengers for intercellular communication. These plant regulators play a cardinal role in plant signaling networks as they are involved in the plant developmental process and a wide range of biotic and abiotic stress responses. Plant growth regulators can be extensively used within agricultural production for various purposes such as influencing reproductive development, vegetative growth and aging, along with preservation after harvesting. This book outlines the role of plant regulators in increasing agricultural productivity in detail. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. The book will prove immensely beneficial to professionals and students involved in this area of agriculture science at various levels.

Animal production refers to the process of raising animals for profit. This includes housing, feeding, marketing and breeding. Proper nutrition provides the animals with the necessary energy to develop and breed, as well as the immunity to combat infections. Animal nutrition is essential for livestock production, as feeding has a direct effect on the production capacity, growth rate and overall health of animals. The reproductive capability of male animals is also dependent on nutrition. Animal health plays a crucial role in sustainable livestock farming because it balances the three essential components which include social acceptability, environmental responsibility and economic feasibility. Animal feed safety has an impact on animal productivity, health and welfare, which in turn affects the livelihood of farmers and safety of human food. This book provides significant information to help develop a good understanding of animal welfare, feeding and sustainability. It presents researches and studies performed on animal production by experts across the globe. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

Animals use venoms primarily for killing or capturing the prey and for deterring the predator. Animal venoms are a rich source of complex biologically active molecules, which have various molecular functions and targets. There are two ways of classifying animal venoms, first by origin such as spider venoms, snake venoms, and scorpion venoms, and second by their effects on the body, such as hemotoxic and neurotoxic venoms. Animal venoms can lead to serious illnesses in humans and even death in severe cases. They can also cause significant dysfunction of the cardiovascular, muscular and nervous systems. Venoms of several animals are rich sources of compounds, including peptides, proteins, and neurotransmitters, which can damage the prey's body. However, animal venoms also hold therapeutic potential for treating conditions of thrombosis, arthritis, and some cancers. This book unfolds innovative insights on venomous animals and their venoms. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. The book will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and postgraduate students.

One health (OH) is a concept which states that the health of human beings is intrinsically related to the health of animals and the environment. It involves developing and implementing policies, programs and laws in which various sectors collaborate and cooperate for improving public health outcomes. OH issues encompass environmental contamination, antimicrobial resistance, vector-borne diseases, zoonotic diseases, food security and safety, along with other health concerns that affect the environment, humans and animals. Effective prevention and management of zoonotic disease require strategies based on OH that involve experts in human health, animal health, and environmental health. The aim of these strategies is to monitor and control public health threats, and learn about the spread of diseases among people, animals, plants and the environment. The disease-centered approach to zoonoses is replaced with a system-based strategy under the concept of one health. This book is a vital tool for all researching or studying the concept of one health. Its extensive content provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

Tsunami refers to a natural disaster that is characterized by a set of long waves brought on by an abrupt movement of the ocean, which is typically caused by an earthquake near or beneath the ocean's surface. This force generates waves that travel in all directions away from the source, occasionally spanning entire basins in the ocean. The devastation caused by tsunamis on both human and natural life is immense. The long-term effects of a tsunami include disease, destruction, and death. It also has significant environmental impacts on human beings and wild life. Unique buoys can be left in the sea for detecting tsunami waves early, which gives coastal areas enough time to evacuate. Furthermore, satellites, weather equipment, and radar are also used to gather information and make forecasts about impending tsunamis. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to the long-term effects and mitigation of tsunamis. It will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

A satellite altimeter calculates the time taken by a short electromagnetic pulse for completing a round trip. This electromagnetic pulse is emitted from an orbiting spacecraft towards the planetary body and is reflected-off its surface. This instrument also measures the height of the satellite from the surface of the planet. Satellite altimetry can be used to obtain useful data related to ocean science. It also provides novel insights into plate tectonics, marine geodesy, ice sheet movements, high-resolution bathymetry for unmapped areas of the Earth's surface, and essential data on large-scale features of oceans. The data from satellite altimetry can be utilized to calculate the gravitational field of the Earth over oceans. This book unfolds the innovative aspects of satellite altimetry and its applications in Earth sciences, which will be crucial for the progress of this field in the future. It presents researches that have transformed this discipline and have aided its advancement. Researchers and students in the field of Earth sciences will be assisted by this book.

Earth sciences refers to the branch of science that deals with the physical, chemical and biological complex constitutions and synergistic linkages of Earth's four spheres, namely, biosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere and geosphere. A geographic information system (GIS) is a type of computer system that captures, stores, verifies and presents information about different locations and conditions that exist on the surface of the Earth. It facilitates geospatial data analysis, scientific communication, data gathering, collaborative research and visualization. GIS can display a wide range of data on a single map, including plants, streets and buildings. It allows the evaluation and comprehension of relationships and patterns easily. GIS is essential in the field of Earth sciences since it offers an effective way of viewing the world, and serves as a tool for tackling challenging issues such as identifying the drought area, managing oil spills and disaster management. This book elucidates the concepts and innovative models around prospective developments with respect to the applications of geographic information system in Earth sciences. Scientists and students actively engaged in the field of Earth sciences will find it full of crucial and unexplored concepts.

Ocean optics refers to the study of the interaction sunlight with water and the substances found in water. The research in this area includes the study of sea, lakes, coastal waters, rivers, large ocean basins, and inland waters. Knowledge of ocean optics is required in aquatic remote sensing research for comprehending the information which can be derived from the color of the water, as seen by satellite sensors in space. Ocean optics has been used to investigate topics such as zooplanktons, warming of the upper ocean, and shallow-water habitats (such as coral reefs and seagrass beds). Furthermore, it is applied to study the ocean biological pump as well as marine biogeochemistry. It also uses optical tools for measuring the size spectrum of particles in the ocean. This book contains some path-breaking studies on various topics related to ocean optics. It consists of contributions made by international experts. Students, researchers, experts, and all associated with the study of this field will benefit alike from this book.

Marine engineering is a field of study that deals with the innovation, design, construction and maintenance of navigation equipment and seagoing vessels. It is mainly concerned with the development and manufacture of internal systems for submarines, boats and ships. Marine engineering is intrinsically related to other fields such as oceanographic engineering, naval architecture, nautical sciences, and automotive and mechanical engineering. Recent advances and trends in marine engineering involve the utilization of wind and solar power as well as the usage of robots in ship manufacturing and port management. Recent developments in offshore marine engineering are focused on addressing issues such as fuel scarcity and environmental degradation. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the emerging developments, challenges and applications of marine engineering. It will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and postgraduate students.

A gemstone refers to a cut and polished piece of mineral crystal that can be utilized to create jewelry or other adornments. Gemstones are created underneath the surface of the Earth and may contain traces of other minerals known as inclusions. The majority of gemstones are found in alluvial gravels and igneous rocks but metamorphic and sedimentary rocks can also contain gem materials. Gemstones are classified into different species and groups on the basis of chemical composition and crystal structure. The most significant gemstone species include corundum, quartz, beryl, tourmaline and garnet. The majority of gemstones are hard but some soft minerals are also utilized in jewelry due to their luster or other physical qualities which hold aesthetic value. This book unravels the recent studies on the geology and mineralogy of gemstones. With its detailed analyses and data, it will prove immensely beneficial to professionals and students involved in the study of gemstones at various levels.

Remote sensing is the science of obtaining information about objects or areas from a distance, usually from satellites and aircrafts. It has diverse applications in a number of fields including hazard assessment and natural resource management. Remote sensing data plays a crucial role in global environmental analysis and contributes towards economic development. However, there are some challenges in real life applications of remote sensing including object detection, image classification, image correction, image segmentation, and change detection. Research is underway for developing advanced techniques for interpreting and integrating remote sensing images. Statistical computing methods and machine learning techniques such as graphical models, deep learning, kernel machines, and sparse coding are used to analyze remote sensing data. This data can be combined with other layers of information by using GIS. This book provides significant information to help develop a good understanding of remote sensing image analysis and integration. Through it, we attempt to further enlighten the readers about the new concepts in this area of study.

The rare earth elements are a group of nearly indistinguishable and lustrous silvery-white soft heavy metals. They react slowly with cold water to form hydroxides and ignite at high temperatures. These elements are used in the production of highly efficient magnets, glasses, alloys and electronics. They are also used in the manufacture of fuel cells, mobile phones, computers, optical fiber cables, hybrid cells, and LEDs. In the agricultural sector, rare earth elements are used to increase the growth of the plants, increase crop yield, and improve stress resistance in plants. Some of the rare earth elements are scandium, yttrium, cerium, promethium, europium, dysprosium and ytterbium. This book provides significant information to help develop a good understanding of the rare earth elements. A number of latest researches have been included to keep the readers up-to-date with the global concepts in this area of study. The book aims to serve as a resource guide for students and experts alike and contribute to the growth of research on these elements.

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) belong to a category of polymers that comprise a group of natural biodegradable polyesters which are synthesized by microorganisms. The vital properties of PHAs such as biodegradability, biocompatibility and non-toxicity make them appropriate for applications as biomaterials. PHAs are used in the field of tissue engineering as bone graft substitutes. They are extensively being used for developing new stents for nerve repair, cartilage repair and cardiovascular patches. In implantology, PHAs have been used as sutures and valves. They have also been used as drug carriers for drug delivery systems because the breakdown products are not hazardous for the body due their biodegradability. The mechanical properties of PHAs can be modified by the process of blending to obtain better polymeric properties. This book includes some of the vital pieces of works being conducted across the world with respect to kinetics, bioengineering and industrial aspects of polyhydroxyalkanoates. It will also provide interesting topics for research, which interested readers can take up.

Yeasts are a type of eukaryotic unicellular microfungi that are found abundantly in nature. They do not belong to any single phylogenetic or taxonomic group. Yeasts are used primarily in the production of alcoholic beverages and in baking. Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a species of yeast, which is widely utilized in the food industry. It is an extensively studied eukaryotic microorganism and serves as a key model organism in contemporary cell biology research. It has the capability to reproduce sexually by fusing with the cells of opposite mating types and asexually by budding. It is also known as baker's yeast, and has facilitated the invention of effective manufacturing techniques for biopharmaceuticals, ethanol, antibiotics, biofuels, and technical enzymes. This book contains some path-breaking studies on yeast. It explores all the important biotechnological applications of yeast in the present day scenario. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

Proteins are large and intricate molecules that perform a variety of vital functions in the human body. They are crucial for the structure, control and function of the body's organs and tissues, while carrying out the majority of the work inside the cells. They are composed of a large number of smaller components known as amino acids that are linked with each other in lengthy chains. The search for novel protein molecules can be time consuming in case of certain proteins, such as enzymes, anticancer peptides, cytokines, G protein-coupled receptors, cell-penetrating peptides and cancerlectins. Understanding the function of proteins requires the computational identification of special protein molecules. Bioinformatics is a vital part of protein analysis, including structure analysis, sequence analysis and evolution analysis. This book contains some path-breaking studies on proteins. It aims to shed light on the computational approaches and bioinformatics analysis of proteins. As this field is emerging at a rapid pace, the contents of this book will help the readers understand the modern concepts and applications of the subject.

Microbial communities are the groups of microorganisms that live together in a given environment. The microbial populations that make up these communities interact in a variety of ways, such as symbiosis, competition and predation. The diversity of microbial communities encompasses the abundance and quantity distribution of various kinds of organisms in a particular ecosystem. These communities consist of a wide range of biodiversity existing on the Earth. They play an important role in ecosystem functioning, including xenobiotic degradation, decomposition of organic matter and biogeochemical cycling of nutrients. Computational models of interacting microbes are used for understanding the functioning and dynamics of microbial communities. Modeling also plays an integral role in connecting biogeochemical processes to specific microbial metabolic pathways. This book unfolds the innovative aspects of microbial community modeling which will be crucial for the prediction of microbial interactions in the future. It aims to equip students and experts with the advanced topics and upcoming concepts in this area of study.

Microorganisms living in the marine environment produce marine enzymes. These microorganisms live in environments characterized by extreme salinity, extreme pressure, or extreme temperature. Marine enzymes have concomitant properties, such as halostability or thermostability that have practical applications. Microbes isolated from harsh marine habitats produce enzymes such as gelatinase, caseinase, DNases, amylase, and lipase. These enzymes are thermostable and resistant to harsh conditions and a wide range of pH, making them appropriate for industrial applications. They can also be utilized in the food industry due to their mild operational conditions, amenableness in harsh conditions and specificity. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the field of marine enzyme biotechnology. It will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and postgraduate students.

Human genomics is the area of study which focuses on human genes and chromosomes. The entire deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) found in human beings is known as the human genome. It is composed of DNA found in mitochondria and chromosomes, which holds the genetic information. The human genome contains twenty three pairs of chromosomes, containing both protein-coding DNA sequences and different forms of non-coding DNA sequences. It is made up of long DNA polymers, similar to genomes of other living organisms. In each human cell, these polymers are kept in duplicate copies and encode the sequence of their constituent bases, which form the corresponding organism. The sequencing of the human genome has implications for a wide range of fields, including human evolution and molecular medicine. This book unfolds new insights in human genomics. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to the human genome. This book is a resource guide for experts as well as students.

Enzymes are proteins that act as biological catalysts, which accelerate the rate of biochemical reactions taking place inside a living organism. Biological processes such as respiration, digestion, excretion, and metabolic processes that take place within the cells are performed with the help of enzymes necessary for sustaining life. Enzymes are affected by various environmental factors such as pH level and temperature. There are six types of enzymes, namely, oxidoreductases, hydrolases, lyases, transferases, isomeras, and ligases. Enzymes are used in various fields. They are specifically used in the field of biotechnology. Enzymes are used as industrial catalysts, therapeutic agents, manipulative tools, and analytic reagents. In medicine, they are used in making cultures and developing medicines. This book provides significant information on enzymes and their biotechnological applications. A number of latest researches have been included to keep the readers updated with the global concepts in this area of study. Researchers and students in the field of biotechnology will be assisted by this book.

Chemical biology primarily focuses on the examination and manipulation of biological systems by using natural or synthetic chemical entities. Chemicals including natural small molecules like metals, lipids and carbohydrates, as well as non-natural probes or medication molecules are used to acquire mechanistic insights into biological issues. It aims to improve understanding of the manipulation of ecological and environmental biosystems. It is also applied in human biology and medicine, plant biology, and veterinary science. The compounds and substances found in nature are known as natural products. They have a structural diversity and distinctive biological or pharmacological activities as a result of natural selection and evolutionary processes. Research on natural products in chemical biology involves the study of chemical properties, biosynthesis and biological functions of secondary metabolites. This book aims to shed light on the use of natural products in chemical biology. It will also provide interesting topics for research, which interested readers can take up. Through this book, we attempt to further enlighten the readers about the new concepts in this area of study.

A phage or bacteriophage is a virus that infects and replicates within bacteria and archaea. The diversity and abundance of phages in the biosphere makes them prime model organisms for studying the principles of evolution and ecology. Some major areas of research related to phages include the study of phages as promoters of bacterial evolution, novel therapeutic agents, and sources of genetic and diagnostic tools. There are various biotechnological applications of phages and phage-derived proteins in industries such as health, food science and safety, and agriculture. A major therapeutic application of phage is phage therapy, which is seen as a potential therapy for treating pathogenic bacterial infections. In the food industry, phages are extensively used for securing food products and preventing food spoilage caused by bacteria. This book outlines the applications of bacteriophages in the field of biotechnology. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. The book will prove to be immensely beneficial to students and researchers in this field.

A metal ion refers to a type of atom compound that possesses an electric charge. These ions are essential components for the maintenance of human beings, plants and animals. Their absence may result in serious malfunction, developmental disorders, carcinogenesis or death. Metal ions such as Mg2+, Ca2+ and Na1+ are essential cofactors in numerous cellular processes including cell proliferation, respiration, growth and immune function. They are also essential for the function of a large number of enzymes as structural or catalytic cofactors. Metal ions are extensively present in biological systems and take part in a variety of critical biochemical processes including energy conversion, metabolic regulation, material transportation and information transmission, which makes them an essential substance in the human body. This book aims to shed light on the role of metal ions in biological systems. A number of latest researches have been included to keep the readers up-to-date with the global concepts in this area of study.

Mineralogy refers to the systematic study of all minerals, including their description, physical environment, crystallography and chemical characteristics. Applied mineralogy is focused on inorganic non-metal materials, and their sampling, analysis, synthesis, preparation, evaluation and property identification. Process mineralogy is a type of applied mineralogy that concentrates on solving issues related to ore processing. The goal of process mineralogy is to recognize, diagnose and forecast the mineralogically affected or regulated processing properties of an ore. They are also used as essential components of building materials like marble, plaster, granite, limestone, glass, cement and gravel. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to applied mineralogy. It will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and postgraduate students. Most of the topics introduced in this book cover new techniques and the applications of this field.

Biofouling refers to the buildup of plants, microorganisms, small animals or algae on surfaces like the hulls of submarines and ships, and parts of grates, water inlets and pipework. The degradation caused by biofouling compromises an item's ability to perform its primary function. A variety of ultraviolet equipment can be used that can detect and prevent accumulation of biofouling. The different strategies and methods for preventing and controlling biofouling include antifouling, coatings, ultrasonic antifouling and energy methods. Anti-fouling refers to the capability of especially designed materials, like biocides and non-toxic paints to prevent or eliminate biofouling. Biodispersants can be used in industrial processes to control the buildup of biofouling. Nontoxic strategies which prevent biofouling include usage of zwitterions and nano-engineered superhydrophobic surfaces for creating an ultra-low fouling surface. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the detection, prevention and control of biofouling. It will serve as a valuable source of reference for those interested in this area of study.

Genetically engineered organisms or genetically modified organisms (GMO) are animals, plants or microorganisms whose DNA has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. They can be classified into categories such as genetically modified crops, genetically modified medicines and genetically modified animals. Genetically modified crops are the crops whose genes have been modified. They are also called transgenic crops. The main objective of developing these crops is to increase the yield and to produce disease-resistant crops. These crops have entered the markets and have become a part of the global food supply chain. However, genetically modified animals are mainly restricted for research purposes. This book outlines the environmental and economic risks and benefits associated with genetically engineered organisms. Some of the diverse topics covered herein address the varied organisms that fall under this category. The book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.

Conservation biology refers to the study of the conservation of nature and the preservation of biodiversity on the Earth. Its goal is to safeguard species, their habitats and ecosystems from extinction, and protect biotic interactions from erosion. Conservation biology aims to understand the origins and effects of extinction catastrophe as well as the deterioration of Earth's biodiversity. It involves creating systems of protected areas to conserve indigenous species and natural ecosystems. Conservation biology focuses on the processes affecting the loss, maintenance and restoration of biodiversity. It also studies the negative effect which the loss of biodiversity has on the capacity of humans to sustain their well-being. This book unfolds a detailed explanation of the various fundamentals of conservation biology. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make it an invaluable source of knowledge.

Conservation biology refers to the study of the conservation of nature and the preservation of biodiversity on the Earth. Its goal is to safeguard species, their habitats and ecosystems from extinction, and protect biotic interactions from erosion. Conservation biology aims to understand the origins and effects of extinction catastrophe as well as the deterioration of Earth's biodiversity. It involves creating systems of protected areas to conserve indigenous species and natural ecosystems. Conservation biology focuses on the processes affecting the loss, maintenance and restoration of biodiversity. It also studies the negative effect which the loss of biodiversity has on the capacity of humans to sustain their well-being. This book unfolds a detailed explanation of the various fundamentals of conservation biology. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make it an invaluable source of knowledge.

Conservation biology refers to the study of the conservation of nature and the preservation of biodiversity on the Earth. Its goal is to safeguard species, their habitats and ecosystems from extinction, and protect biotic interactions from erosion. Conservation biology aims to understand the origins and effects of extinction catastrophe as well as the deterioration of Earth's biodiversity. It involves creating systems of protected areas to conserve indigenous species and natural ecosystems. Conservation biology focuses on the processes affecting the loss, maintenance and restoration of biodiversity. It also studies the negative effect which the loss of biodiversity has on the capacity of humans to sustain their well-being. This book unfolds a detailed explanation of the various fundamentals of conservation biology. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make it an invaluable source of knowledge.

Plastics refer to a broad category of synthetic or semi-synthetic materials that contain polymers as their primary component. They can be extruded, molded or pressed into solid objects of diverse shapes due to their plasticity. They are accumulated extensively in natural ecosystems due to their durability, improper waste management and irresponsible use. They do not degrade naturally and pollute natural ecosystems, such as oceans and rivers. Plastics of all sizes, shapes as well as origins are widespread in the marine environment a negative have an impact on a variety of marine species that ingest or become entangled in plastics. This book provides significant information of this subject to help develop a good understanding of the current status and challenges related to the management of plastics in the aquatic environment. It presents the complex subject in the most comprehensible and easy to understand language. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.