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Atmospheric aerosols are solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in the Earth's atmosphere. They can be either natural or anthropogenic. Atmospheric aerosols like sulphuric acid droplets, desert dust, human-made sulphate aerosols, etc. have a negative impact on the climate, as well as human health. Aerosols have a significant presence in urban ecosystems in the form of dust, smoke, soot, fumes, etc. Detection of hazardous aerosols is achieved by in-situ measurements and remote-sensing techniques. This book discusses the fundamentals as well as modern approaches to the understanding of the properties, characterizations and climatic impacts of atmospheric aerosols. The various studies that are constantly contributing towards advancing technologies and evolution of the field are examined in detail. Scientists and students actively engaged in this area will find this book full of crucial and unexplored concepts.
Enzymes are biological catalysts, which help in accelerating chemical reactions in the cells and thereby helps in sustaining life. Microorganisms are a primary source for deriving enzymes. Bacteria, fungi and yeast are some of the commonly used microorganisms used to extract enzymes for diverse industries such as pharmaceuticals, food, textiles, animal feed, etc. Microbes can be genetically modified which makes them a better source of enzymes. Such selected concepts that redefine this field of study have been presented in this book. The various advancements in microbial enzymes are glanced at and their applications as well as ramifications are looked at in detail. For all readers who are interested in this field, the case studies included in this book will serve as an excellent guide to develop a comprehensive understanding.
Applied geophysics is concerned with the implementation of geophysical theories and concepts to practical problems and tasks of civil engineering such as groundwater mapping, ore and mineral prospecting, etc. It studies physical phenomena like magnetism, electricity, radioactivity, etc. It also encompasses geological concepts to understand and analyze dynamics of plate tectonics, volcanism, rock formation, Earth's gravitational and magnetic fields, etc. The principles of applied geophysics are also significant to a number of prominent disciplines such as Earth systems science, climatology, earthquake research, etc. This book is compiled to provide in-depth knowledge about the theory and practice of geophysics. It strives to provide a fair idea about this discipline and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within this field. The content included herein is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.
Atmospheric science studies the Earth's atmosphere, its processes and the influence of other systems on the atmosphere and vice versa. The study of the weather and the climate is integral to the study of atmospheric science. Meteorology is concerned with weather forecasting and studies short-term weather systems that last up to a few weeks. Meteorological phenomena are quantified by atmospheric variables of air pressure, temperature, mass flow and water vapor. Climatology studies the periodicity of weather events occurring over years to millennia, and long-term weather patterns and changes. It studies climate at local, regional and global levels as well as human-induced or natural factors contributing to climate change. Some of the experimental instruments used in atmospheric sciences are rocketsondes, weather balloons, satellites, radiosondes and lasers. This book brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the unexplored aspects of atmospheric science. The ever-growing need of advanced technology is the reason that has fueled the research in this field in recent times. Researchers and students in this field will be assisted by this book.
The study of the universe, its origin, evolution and future is under the scope of cosmology. Astronomy is the science concerned with celestial objects such as stars, galaxies, planets, gamma ray bursts, etc. and their associated phenomena, origin and evolution. Cosmology deals with the universe as a whole, while astronomy studies individual celestial objects of the universe. Astrophysics is a branch of astronomy, which integrates the principles of physics and chemistry for the study of the nature of astronomical objects. The objects studied in astrophysics are stars, extrasolar planets, galaxies, cosmic microwave background and the interstellar medium. The studies of these are approached from both theoretical and observational astrophysics. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the fields of cosmology, astrophysics and astronomy. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies in these fields have been included in this book. It is meant for students who are looking for an elaborate reference text on these domains.
Biotechnology is a broad area of biology concerned with the development or manufacture of products using living organisms, biological systems and their derivatives. It integrates the principles of biological sciences such as biochemistry, cell biology, embryology, microbiology, etc. It overlaps with the fields of bio-engineering, molecular biology, biomanufacturing, biomedical engineering, etc. It has applications in the domains of food production, medicine and agriculture. The production of antibiotics and vaccines, production of wine, cheese and beer through fermentation processes, management and reduction of waste, etc. are some applications of biotechnology that are aided by microbes. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the field of microbial biotechnology. It presents this complex subject in the most comprehensible and easy to understand language. 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.
The study of the animal kingdom that comprises of an analysis of the structure, evolution, embryology, classification, habits and distribution of animals is under the scope of animal biology or zoology. It incorporates the disciplines of comparative anatomy, animal physiology, taxonomy, zoography, vertebrate and invertebrate zoology, etc. Animals are classified into distinct groups based on shared characteristics. The branch of science concerned with the identification, description, nomenclature and classification of animals is known as taxonomy. Anatomy deals with the structural organization of all animals. The focus of physiology is to understand how the different structures of the organism such as cells, biomolecules, organs and organ systems execute the various physical and chemical functions essential to the organism. This book provides comprehensive insights into the field of animal biology. It unfolds the innovative aspects of the study of taxonomy, anatomy and physiology, which will be crucial for the progress of this field in the future. It will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and post graduate students as well as experts.
Plant genetics is the science of studying genes, variation and heredity in plants. Plants display distinct characteristics such as their ability to self-fertilize and adaptability to polyploidy. The study of these aspects of plants has an economic significance. Staple crops can be engineered to develop traits of increased yields, better nutritional value, disease resistance, etc. The genetic engineering of plants is possible with the use of techniques such as, electroporation, microinjection, gene guns and agrobacterium. Introducing a new gene into a plant involves the presence of a promoter in the area where the new gene is required to be introduced. Such genetic manipulation can be transgenic, cisgenic or subgenic. This book contains some path-breaking studies in the area of plant genetics. It outlines the principles and practices of genetic engineering of plants in detail. This book is a complete source of knowledge on the present status of this important field.
Integrated pest management (IPM) is an innovative approach to the economic control of pests. Reducing pest populations below the economic injury level is the chief objective of IPM. It involves various pest control techniques that besides keeping pest populations in check also keep pesticides and other pest management interventions to economically justifiable levels and reduce the risk to human health and the environment. IPM lays emphasis on natural pest control mechanisms with minimum disruption to agro-ecosystems. It has applications in agriculture, horticulture, preventive conservation, turf pest management, ornamental pest management and preventive conservation, besides others. This book elucidates the concepts and innovative models around prospective developments with respect to integrated pest management. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of this field. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make this book an invaluable source of knowledge.
Earth science is the scientific study of the physical constitution of the Earth and the four spheres of the Earth, namely the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere and the biosphere. It also encompasses the study of the physical characteristics and processes that occur in the Earth such as earthquakes, volcanoes, hurricanes or floods. Some of the important branches of Earth science are physical geography, geology, soil science, geophysics, hydrology, ecology, etc. This textbook is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex theories and principles in the field of earth science. It attempts to understand the multiple branches that fall under this discipline and how such concepts have practical applications. It aims to serve as a resource guide for students and experts alike and contribute to the growth of the discipline.
Sustainability in agriculture is achieved with due consideration to ecological processes such as nutrient cycling, nitrogen fixation, soil regeneration and implementation of practices that are environment-friendly. Organic farming relies on using organic fertilizers like bone meal, compost and green manure for agricultural productivity. It also lays emphasis on the implementation of techniques like crop rotation and companion planting. This method of farming opposes the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, genetically modified organisms, growth regulators and hormones in the farming process. Naturally occurring pesticides such as rotenone and pyrethrin are used in organic farming. Weed management in organic farms involves mulching, tillage, flame weeding, mowing and cutting. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the field of organic farming. It will serve as a reference to agriculturists, horticulturists, agro-economists, agroecologists and other experts involved in this area of study.
The branch of biology, which encompasses a comprehensive study of the animal kingdom and explores the structure, classification, embryology, evolution and distribution of animals, is referred to as zoology. In the Linnaean classification system, animals are grouped into the classes of Mammalia, Amphibia, Insecta, Pisces, Aves and Vermes. Some of the major sub-disciplines of zoology are animal physiology, invertebrate zoology, vertebrate zoology, behavioral ecology, etc. This textbook provides comprehensive insights into the field of zoology. Some of the diverse topics covered in this book address the varied branches that fall under this category. It is a complete source of knowledge on the present status of this important field.
The scientific study of diseases in plants falls under the domain of plant pathology. Diseases can be caused by pathogens and due to environmental conditions. Plant disease management is an important aspect of plant pathology. It involves the study of pathogen identification, disease cycles, pathosystem genetics, etc. Control of plant diseases is vital for the production of food and reduction in agricultural use of water, land and fuel. It is achieved by cultivating plants that have been bred with high resistance to diseases. Other approaches of disease management include crop rotation, use of pathogen-free seed, control of field moisture, appropriate pesticide use, etc. The book studies, analyzes and upholds the pillars of plant disease management and its utmost significance in modern times. It strives to provide a fair idea about this discipline and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within this field. This book will assist researchers and students in this field.
Alternative medicine refers to the medical practices, products and treatments, which are born from culture, tradition and pseudoscience. It includes treatments like acupuncture, Ayurveda, naturopathy, homeopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, etc. Many complementary therapies are used in the management of chronic pain and in palliative care. Meditation, yoga, massage, counseling stress therapies and hypnotherapy are some of the bodywork therapies of alternative medicine. The understanding of the safety and efficacy of such medicine, interactions with conventional pharmaceuticals and side effects are vital concerns regarding the practice of alternative medicine and natural therapies. This book traces the progress in the fields of alternative medicine and natural therapies, and highlights some of their key concepts and techniques. It brings forth some of the most innovative practices and elucidates the unexplored aspects of alternative medicine. It will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and postgraduate students, as well as for experts.
Vegetables play a significant role in human nutrition. Most vegetables have low fat content but are replete with essential vitamins, minerals and dietary fibers. Vegetable production includes all agricultural practices of soil preparation, weed removal, irrigation, harvesting and storage. Different soil types are suitable for different vegetables. Vegetable production is also affected by seasons, rainfall, temperature, etc. In modern times, cultivation is witnessing increased mechanization to reduce human labor and increase productivity. Raised bed gardening and hydroponics are some of the modern technologies of increasing vegetable production significantly. This book aims to provide detailed information about some advanced concepts and theories related to vegetable production. It also aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects and the recent researches in this field. Agriculturists, horticulturists and students actively engaged in this area of study will immensely benefit from this book.
Fisheries science, a branch of aquatic ecology, undertakes the scientific study of fisheries. Fisheries are harvested for commercial purposes. The fish harvested can be marine, freshwater, wild or farmed. The oceans and seas contribute nearly 90% of the total fishery catches. An understanding of aquatic ecology is essential for continued sustenance of fisheries. Some of the factors that are crucial for the sustainability of aquatic ecosystems are water depth, nutrient levels, salinity, temperature, flow, etc. Any activity that results in a change in any of these parameters results in a stress on the aquatic ecosystem. This book covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around fisheries and aquatic ecology. Different approaches, methodologies and advanced studies on these domains have been included in this book. It is meant to assist students and experts who want to broaden their knowledge in these fields.
Aquaculture is the rearing and breeding of freshwater and saltwater aquatic organisms in controlled conditions. Aquatic organisms include fish, molluscs, crustaceans and aquatic plants. To enhance production, various intervention strategies like regular stocking, feeding, protection from predators, etc. are implemented. Various environmental concerns can arise due to unregulated aquaculture practices. Some of these potential damages include the introduction of invasive organisms in an aquatic ecosystem, the competition between wild and farmed species, antibiotic side-effects, etc. This book provides comprehensive insights into the field of aquaculture. Most of the topics introduced herein cover new techniques and their applications in a comprehensive manner. It is appropriate for students, researchers and experts seeking detailed information in this area.
Genomics is the science that studies the structural, functional and evolutionary aspects of the entire set of genes of an organism. The interdisciplinary study of genetics and genomics investigates the interrelationship between genotypes and phenotypes, and between genes and diseases. It also strives to understand the different genetic variations created by the processes of mutation, natural selection and evolution. The application areas of these fields are spread across a range of industries like pharmaceuticals, crop production, pest control, etc. The various fields and subfields of gene studies along with the recent technological advances have been covered in exhaustive details in this book. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on genetics and genomics have been included. Geneticists, students and researchers working in this domain will find it a valuable source of reference.
The study of the nature of food, effects of nutrients, causes of deterioration and improvement is dealt by the sciences of nutrition and food science. Nutrition refers to the scientific study of nutrients and their functional role in the growth and development of a human being. Food science covers physical, chemical and biochemical study of food as well as processing techniques. Food science and nutrition are interrelated fields which directly impact the health of living organisms. Malnutrition often results in obesity, cardiovascular disease, fatigue, etc. Food science focuses on maintaining the nutritional value of packaged foods and preventing them from contamination. This book discusses the essential aspects of food science and explores the recent studies contributing to the progress of the field. It attempts to understand the multiple branches that fall under food science and nutrition and how such concepts have practical applications. It will be immensely beneficial to all students and researchers involved at various levels in this area of study.
The study of genes, variation and heredity explored under the fields of genetics and genomics has wide applications in crop science. Crop breeding is used for improving the quality of food for humans and animals. It is accomplished using techniques of classical plant breeding and complex molecular techniques. New varieties of crops that are more productive, have higher climatic adaptability and disease resistance are being developed to optimize agricultural productivity. Modern biotechnological tools of marker-assisted selection, double haploids, reverse breeding and genetic modification are evolving methodologies of crop breeding. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the science of crop breeding, especially from the perspective of genetic and genomic studies. Multiple approaches, evaluations and methodologies have been included in this book to cover the recent advances in this field. It will be beneficial to experts and students seeking detailed information in this domain.
Aquatic ecosystems are vast reserves of water biodiversity, essential for the maintenance of ecological balance in the environment. Aquatic ecosystems are primarily of two types- marine and freshwater. All water bodies are part of the aquatic ecosystem. They are essential for recycling of nutrients, purification of water, flood attenuation, recharge of groundwater and provision of habitat for different species of animals and plants. The health of an aquatic ecosystem is affected by the physical, chemical or biological changes in the environment. Overfishing, water pollution, climate change and coastal land encroachment have significant negative consequences on the aquatic ecosystem. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the field of aquatic ecosystem. Some of the diverse topics covered in this book address the varied branches that fall under this category. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts in this field, this book targets marine biologists, oceanographers, limnologists, aquatic ecologists as well as students and researchers associated with this domain.
Plant growth occurs in a plant throughout its lifespan. Its growth involves the stages of embryogenesis, organogenesis and cell elongation. Plant growth and development are facilitated by certain plant growth regulators and hormones. The directional growth of plants arises as a result of a plant's response to certain stimuli such as gravity, light, water and physical contact. Plant age, dormancy, temperature, drought and other environmental conditions influence the hormone levels of a plant. Such aspects of plant development and variation are studied under the science of plant biotechnology. It focuses on modifying plants to exhibit desirable characteristics. Such breeding is necessary for ensuring disease resistance, higher yields, drought tolerance or increased adaptability in plants. This book discusses the fundamentals as well as modern understanding of plant development. It unfolds the innovative aspects of plant biotechnology, which will be crucial for the progress of this field in the future. This book is a vital tool for all researching or studying these fields as it gives incredible insights into emerging trends and concepts.
The focus of our sources of energy is shifting from non-renewable to renewable resources because of the hazardous effects of conventional energy sources on the environment. Bioenergy is a renewable source of energy that is produced from woodwaste, straw and animal waste. Bioenergy is stored in biomass in the form of chemical energy. This book delves into the fundamental concepts and theories related to the field of bioenergy while also discussing a number of modern techniques and methods that have been developed due to the rapid technological advancement. This book, with its detailed analyses and data, will prove immensely beneficial to professionals and students involved in this area at various levels.
Remote sensing techniques are used in acquisition of real-time data from all accessible and inaccessible locations mapped over time and space. The use of remote sensing technology for the topographical mapping of wildlife populations, natural resources, vulnerable ecosystems and pollution provides valuable data for environmental management and monitoring. Remote sensing has also been incorporated in the study of fields like forestry, climatology, glaciology, hydrology and geology. This book explores the applications of remote sensing in environmental studies and conservation efforts. It also presents the effective techniques of incorporating sensor data to make the studies more relevant and informative. It will benefit researchers and students alike.
Irrigation refers to the controlled application of water to agricultural crops and plants to ensure healthy growth and production. A soil is considered ideal for agriculture if it can sustain and yield crops of high quality. To ensure this, the soil must be sufficiently irrigated and provided the essential nutrients required for plant growth. Ensuring suitable soil pH, internal drainage, thriving population of a range of microbes that support growth are some other considerations of a good agricultural practice. These can be achieved by strategic use of nutrients in the form of fertilizers, organic matter and the judicious use of water. This book presents the recent developments in this domain with an emphasis on irrigation water management and good agricultural practices to improve crop health and soil fertility. From theories to research to practical applications, studies related to all contemporary topics of relevance to this field have been included in this book. It will prove to be immensely beneficial to professionals and students in this field.
Biofuel is a source of energy manufactured from renewable organic materials like agricultural or human waste, decayed forest waste, etc. through intensive biological processes. Some examples of biofuels are bioethanol, biodiesel, biomass, etc. Research in biofuels cover investigations into better biofuels derived from Jatropha, fungi, animal gut bacteria, etc. Chapters compiled in this book present numerous researches in a comprehensive form in order to equip the reader with extensive knowledge related to this field of study. Topics covered herein present upcoming theories and concepts while also presenting the practical applications. As this field is emerging at a fast pace, this book will help engineers, ecologists, environmentalists, academicians and students associated with the field of biofuels and energy production.
Earthquakes are caused by propagation of seismic waves that are triggered by the sudden release of energy from the Earth's lithosphere. Such large wave propagations are generated through fracturing of geological faults and can cause immeasurable damage to life and property. Seismology and earthquake research strives to predict and forecast earthquakes to minimize the impacts on human life, property and the environment. This is done by strategies that combine statistical models with geological data. This book aims to provide detailed information about earthquakes and the current methodologies in this field of study. It covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around this discipline. The content included herein is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.
Plant ecology is a sub-discipline of ecology that studies the relationship between plants with reference to the environment. Comparative studies of plant morphology, evolutionary history and population biology are used to create a comprehensive understanding of plant groups and sub-groups. Plant ecology also extends to soil studies and helps agriculturists study and understand the influence of biotic and abiotic factors on various components of the plant ecosystem. Some of the diverse topics covered in this book address the processes and applications of plant ecology. It is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in this field. This book aims to equip students and experts with the advanced topics and studies in the field of plant ecology.
Solar and wind energy are renewable sources of energy. The field of renewable energy has shown remarkable growth over the years due to the improvement in the study of energy conservation and management. While solar energy is obtained by converting sunlight into usable energy, wind energy is harnessed by utilizing the power of air flow through wind turbines. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the field of solar and wind energy. From theories to research to practical applications, studies related to all contemporary topics of relevance to this field have been included herein. It aims to equip students and experts with advanced concepts and upcoming topics in this area. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will also be greatly assisted by it.
Geoscience refers to the study of the planet Earth. It encompasses all phenomena and physical characteristics of Earth. It uses other fields of science as research tools for developing scientific models related to the study of large scale geosystems. Geoscience delves into a detailed analysis of the lithosphere, atmosphere, biosphere and hydrosphere. This book traces the progress of this field and highlights some of its key concepts and applications. The extensive content herein also presents researches that have transformed this discipline and aided its advancement. Scientists and students actively engaged in this field will find this book full of crucial and unexplored concepts. For all readers who are interested in geoscience and geosystems, the case studies included in this book will serve as an excellent guide to develop a comprehensive understanding.
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