Genetics (non-medical) Books

Book SynopsisThe chromosome complement (karyotype) often differs between related mammalian species (including humans vs chimpanzees), such that evolutionary biologists muse whether chromosomal difference is a cause or a consequence of speciation. The common shrew is an excellent model to investigate this problem because of its many geographical races (potential species) differing chromosomally, and its several sibling species (recently speciated forms) that are also chromosomally different. This system is an exceptional opportunity to investigate the role of chromosomes in speciation and this volume reflects detailed research following these approaches. Highlights include the demonstration that chromosomal re-arrangements can be associated with complete loss of gene flow and thus speciation and that selection within species hybrid zones may lead to de-speciation rather than speciation. This book represents an extraordinarily detailed consideration of the role of chromosomes in speciation in one astTrade Review'I found Shrews, Chromosomes and Speciation fascinating, and an enjoyable read. This volume will be a welcome addition to the library of any evolutionary biologist or graduate student interested in how the interactions of chromosomes and the genome shape diversity.' Sally Potter, The Quarterly Review of BiologyTable of Contents1. Milestones in common shrew chromosomal research Jan Zima and Jeremy B. Searle; 2. Introducing the common shrew Nikolay A. Shchipanov, Jan Zima and Sara Churchfield; 3. Morphology and genetics of the common shrew: general features Alina Mishta and Jeremy B. Searle; 4. Phylogeography Susan Thaw, Thomas A. White, Anna A. Bannikova and Jeremy B. Searle; 5. Chromosomal differentiation in the common shrew and related species Nina S. Bulatova, Larisa S. Biltueva, Svetlana V. Pavlova, Natalia S. Zhdanova and Jan Zima; 6. Phylogenetic relationships of chromosomal races Thomas A. White, Jan M. Wojcik and Jeremy B. Searle; 7. Meiosis and fertility associated with chromosomal heterozygosity Pavel M. Borodin, Stanisław Fedyk, Włodzimierz Chętnicki, Anna A. Torgasheva, Svetlana V. Pavlova and Jeremy B. Searle; 8. Chromosomal hybrid zones Stanisław Fedyk, Svetlana V. Pavlova, Włodzimierz Chętnicki and Jeremy B. Searle; 9. Gene flow between chromosomal races and species Glenn Yannic, Patrick Basset, Agnès Horn and Jacques Hausser; 10. Geometric morphometric tests for phenotypic divergence between chromosomal races P. David Polly and Jan M. Wojcik; 11. Is it really the chromosomes? Patrick Basset, Glenn Yannic and Jacques Hausser; 12. Further divergence: the role of ecology and behaviour Boris I. Sheftel, Natalia V. Moraleva and Jacques Hausser; 13. Climate, diversification and refugia in the common shrew: evidence from the fossil record P. David Polly; 14. Shrews, chromosomes and speciation Jeremy B. Searle, Jan Zima and P. David Polly.

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Book SynopsisWhereas genetic studies have traditionally focused on explaining heritance of single traits and their phenotypes, recent technological advances have made it possible to comprehensively dissect the genetic architecture of complex traits and quantify how genes interact to shape phenotypes. This exciting new area has been termed systems genetics and is born out of a synthesis of multiple fields, integrating a range of approaches and exploiting our increased ability to obtain quantitative and detailed measurements on a broad spectrum of phenotypes. Gathering the contributions of leading scientists, both computational and experimental, this book shows how experimental perturbations can help us to understand the link between genotype and phenotype. A snapshot of current research activity and state-of-the-art approaches to systems genetics are provided, including work from model organisms such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Drosophila melanogaster, as well as from human studies.Trade Review'Since the completion of the Human Genome Project we hold the 'book of life' in our hands, but for the most part, we do not understand how to interpret it. We lack an understanding of the grammar that it is written in. With this book the authors put together an impressive collection of chapters that provide insights into our current efforts to understand how genetic information is integrated, coordinated and ultimately assembled into biological systems. If you are interested in how to decipher the grammar of life this is a must read!' Frank Buchholz, Technische Universität Dresden, GermanyTable of ContentsList of contributors; 1. An introduction to systems genetics Florian Markowetz and Michael Boutros; 2. Computational paradigms for analyzing genetic interaction networks Carles Pons, Michael Costanzo, Charles Boone and Chad L. Myers; 3. Mapping genetic interactions across many phenotypes in metazoan cells Christina Laufer, Maximilian Billmann and Michael Boutros; 4. Genetic interactions and network reliability Edgar Delgado-Eckert and Niko Beerenwinkel; 5. Synthetic lethality and chemoresistance in cancer Kimberly Maxfield and Angelique Whitehurst; 6. Joining the dots: network analysis of gene perturbation data Xin Wang, Ke Yuan and Florian Markowetz; 7. High content screening in infectious diseases: new drugs against bugs André P. Mäurer, Peter R. Braun, Kate Holden-Dye and Thomas F. Meyer; 8. Inferring genetic architecture from systems genetics studies Xiaoyun Sun, Stephanie Mohr, Arunachalam Vinayagam, Pengyu Hong and Norbert Perrimon; 9. Bayesian inference for model selection: an application to aberrant signalling pathways in chronic myeloid leukaemia Lisa E. M. Hopcroft, Ben Calderhead, Paolo Gallipoli, Tessa L. Holyoake and Mark A. Girolami; 10. Dynamic network models of protein complexes Yongjin Park and Joel S. Bader; 11. Phenotype state spaces and strategies for exploring them Andreas Hadjiprocopis and Rune Linding; 12. Automated behavioural fingerprinting of C. elegans mutants André E. X. Brown and William R. Schafer; Index.

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive overview of Bayesian approaches to phylogenetics using Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods, offering theoretical insight, pragmatic advice and tools to develop further models. This title is a one-stop reference to applying the latest phylogenetic models in BEAST 2, interpreting the analyses and extending these models further.Trade Review'Want to construct a phylogeny, add in calibrated time points or work out the past history of an epidemic? The open source package BEAST has established itself as the industry standard for all this and more. This definitive book, explaining what is under the hood, how the user can customize extensions and, most critically, a simple 'how to' users guide, is necessary reading for beginners and specialists alike.' Laurence D. Hurst, University of Bath'In concert with the dramatic improvements to DNA sequencing technology, Bayesian inference has revolutionized population genetics, phylogenetics, and divergence time estimation. A similar impact on epidemiology appears imminent via a suite of new Bayesian methods that incorporate host and pathogen DNA sequence data into established mathematical frameworks. This book is an accessible and thorough introduction to these Bayesian procedures. However, the book does far more than explain the theory. It also includes clear guides on how to use the BEAST 2 software for performing Bayesian analyses, and how to visualize the results. Because the software is designed to be extensible, the book instructs users to write their own code to supplement the diverse methods that are already implemented in BEAST 2. This book is timely and is written by two of the leaders of the field. I highly recommend it.' Jeff Thorne, North Carolina State UniversityTable of ContentsPreface; Acknowledgements; Part I. Theory: 1. Introduction; 2. Evolutionary trees; 3. Substitution and site models; 4. The molecular clock; 5. Structured trees and phylogeography; Part II. Practice: 6. Bayesian evolutionary analysis by sampling trees; 7. Setting up and running a phylogenetic analysis; 8. Estimating species trees from multilocus data; 9. Advanced analysis; 10. Posterior analysis and post-processing; 11. Exploring phylogenetic tree space; Part III. Programming: 12. Getting started with BEAST; 13. BEAST XML; 14. Coding and design patterns; 15. Putting it all together; Bibliography; List of authors; List of subjects.

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Book SynopsisSurveying the last sixty years of research, this book describes the physical properties of DNA in the context of its biological functioning. It is designed to enable both students and researchers of molecular biology, biochemistry and physics to better understand the biophysics of DNA, addressing key questions and facilitating further research. The chapters integrate theoretical and experimental approaches, emphasising throughout the importance of a quantitative knowledge of physical properties in building and analysing models of DNA functioning. For example, the book shows how the relationship between DNA mechanical properties and the sequence specificity of DNA-protein binding can be analyzed quantitatively by using our current knowledge of the physical and structural properties of DNA. Theoretical models and experimental methods in the field are critically considered to enable the reader to engage effectively with the current scientific literature on the physical properties of DNA.Table of ContentsPreface; 1. DNA structures; 2. Conformational transitions; 3. Equilibrium large-scale conformational properties of DNA; 4. DNA dynamics; 5. DNA-protein interaction; 6. Circular DNA; Index.

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Book SynopsisThe birthplace of modern humans, Africa, has the highest genetic diversity in the world, yet it remains vastly understudied. With biomedical research increasingly focused on human variation, studying the large population size and number of mutations in African genomes could unravel the complexity of phenotypic traits underlying the biology of our species and hold huge potential for scientific and medical advances. An initial chapter ''conceptualizes Africa'', providing relevant terminology. The first section covers genetic history and population structure. The next section looks at the genetic basis of common infectious diseases, such as leishmaniasis, malaria and tuberculosis, with a final part considering common non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, heart disease and cancer. Gene environment interaction under globalization and the burden of diseases of lifestyle are included. For researchers and graduate students in biological anthropology, genetic anthrTrade Review'The Genetics of African Populations in Health and Disease makes great strides to remedy this knowledge gap … this excellent volume is likely to be of interest to a broad range of geneticists and medical professionals.' Joseph Lachance, The Quarterly Review of Biology'The scope of the contributions varies widely, from studies of single diseases (e.g., breast cancer, visceral leishmaniasis) to broad surveys (e.g., orphan diseases of North Africa, evolution of disease resistance). The first and final essays review the state and development of genetics research and medicine in Africa. Common themes include public health infrastructure, transition from agrarian to urban lifestyles, pharmacogenomics, genetic diversity, and the dearth of research on African populations.' R. M. Denome, ChoiceTable of Contents1. Reflections on conceptualizing Africa for biological studies with a historical component: a small essay Shomarka Omar Y. Keita; 2. History and genetics in Africa: multidisciplinary efforts Shomarka Omar Y. Keita and Muntaser E. Ibrahim; 3. Disease, selection, and evolution in the African landscape Muntaser Ibrahim and Endashaw Bekele; 4. Genetic susceptibility to visceral leishmaniasis Hiba S. Mohamed, Muntaser E. Ibrahim and Jenefer M. Blackwell; 5. Genetics of infection in Sub-Saharan Africa: what can the study of Mendelian immunodeficiency disorders contribute? Melanie Newport; 6. Pharmacogenomics and infectious diseases in Africa: an evolutionary perspective Jennifer L. Baker, Daniel Shriner, Amy R. Bentley and Charles N. Rotimi; 7. A glimpse into pharmacogenomics in Africa Collet Dandara and Alice Matimba; 8. Genomics of cardiometabolic disorders in Sub-Saharan Africa Sally N. Adebamowo, Fasil Tekola-Ayele, Adebowale A. Adeyemo and Charles N. Rotimi; 9. Breast cancer in African populations Konduru S. Sastry and Lotfi Chouchane; 10. Socio-biological transition and cancer: prospects for Africa Sulma Mahmoud, Khalid O. Alfarouk, Ahmed M. Elhassan, Kamal Hamad and Muntaser E. Ibrahim; 11. The genetic epidemiology of orphan diseases in North Africa Lilia Romdhane, Olfa Messaoud, Rym Kefi, Afaf Tiar, Ahlem Amouri, Mourad Mokni, Neji Tebib, Mohamed Zghal, Abdelhamid Barakat, Ahmed Houmeida, Mariem Bozguiya, Mohamed Othman, Ghada El Qameh and Sonia Abdelhak; 12. Birth defects and genetic disease in Sub-Saharan Africa Ambroise Wonkam; 13. Neurogenetic disorders in Africa: hereditary spastic paraplegia: a case study Liena E. O. Elsayed, Ammar E. M. Ahmed and Giovanni Stevanin.

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Book SynopsisComputational thinking is increasingly gaining importance in modern biology, due to the unprecedented scale at which data is nowadays produced. Bridging the cultural gap between the biological and computational sciences, this book serves as an accessible introduction to computational concepts for students in the life sciences. It focuses on teaching algorithmic and logical thinking, rather than just the use of existing bioinformatics tools or programming. Topics are presented from a biological point of view, to demonstrate how computational approaches can be used to solve problems in biology such as biological image processing, regulatory networks, and sequence analysis. The book contains a range of pedagogical features to aid understanding, including real-world examples, in-text exercises, end-of-chapter problems, colour-coded Python code, and ''code explained'' boxes. User-friendly throughout, Computational Thinking for Life Scientists promotes the thinking skills and self-efficacy rTrade Review'An excellent and very gentle introduction to bioinformatics for biologists. In contrast to books that focus on algorithms and ignore programming or focus on programming without explaining algorithms, this book is a perfect blend of both algorithms and programming!' Pavel Pevzner, Ronald R. Taylor Chair and Distinguished Professor of Computer Science, University of California at San Diego'The ability to extract quantitative information from data is an essential skill for the modern biologist. In order to maximize the benefit of programming, use of existing computational tools and effective collaboration with computational scientists, biologists must be able to 'think computationally' by gaining a more algorithmic and logical thinking. In their book, Benny Chor and Amir Rubinstein introduce fundamental computational concepts to life sciences students. Each chapter covers a distinct computational idea motivated by a concrete biological challenge. Questions embedded throughout each chapter and code examples provide hands-on practice. Similarly to the way in which chemistry is perceived as being essential to the biology curriculum, computational thinking should also be considered a part of the modern biologist's basic training. This excellent book is essential reading for undergraduate life sciences students.' Assaf Zaritsky, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, IsraelTable of ContentsIntroduction; Part I. Programming in Python: 1. Crash introduction to python; 2. Efficiency matters – gentle intro to complexity; Part II. Sequences: 3. Sets dictionaries and hashing; 4. Regular expressions and biological patterns; Part III. Networks: 5. Basic notions in graph theory; 6. Shortest paths and breadth first search; 7. Simulation of regulatory networks; Part IV. Images: 8. Digital images representation; 9. Image processing; Part V. Limitations of Computing: 10. Mission impossible; 11. Mission infeasible; Index.

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Book SynopsisThe increased and widespread availability of large network data resources in recent years has resulted in a growing need for effective methods for their analysis. The challenge is to detect patterns that provide a better understanding of the data. However, this is not a straightforward task because of the size of the data sets and the computer power required for the analysis. The solution is to devise methods for approximately answering the questions posed, and these methods will vary depending on the data sets under scrutiny. This cutting-edge text introduces biological concepts and biotechnologies producing the data, graph and network theory, cluster analysis and machine learning, before discussing the thought processes and creativity involved in the analysis of large-scale biological and medical data sets, using a wide range of real-life examples. Bringing together leading experts, this text provides an ideal introduction to and insight into the interdisciplinary field of network daTable of Contents1. From genetic data to medicine: from DNA samples to disease risk prediction in personalized genetic tests Luis Leal, Rok Košir and Nataša Pržulj; 2. Epigenetic data and disease Rodrigo González-Barrios, Marisol Salgado-Albarrán, Nicolás Alcaraz, Cristian Arriaga-Canon, Lissania Guerra-Calderas, Laura Contreras-Espinoza and Ernesto Soto-Reyes; 3. Introduction to graph and network theory Thomas Gaudelet and Nataša Pržulj; 4. Protein-protein interaction data, their quality, and major public databases Anne-Christin Hauschild, Chiara Pastrello, Max Kotlyar and Igor Jurisica; 5. Graphlets in network science and computational biology Khalique Newaz and Tijana Milenković; 6. Cluster analysis Richard Röttger; 7. Machine learning for data integration in cancer precision medicine: matrix factorization approaches Noël Malod-Dognin, Sam Windels and Nataša Pržulj; 8. Machine learning for biomarker discovery: significant pattern mining F. Llinares-Lopez and K. Borgwardt; 9. Network alignment Noël Malod-Dogning and Nataša Pržulj; 10. Network medicine Pisanu Buphamalai, Michael Caldera, Felix Müller and Jörg Menche; 11. Elucidating genotype-to-phenotype relationships via analyzes of human tissue interactomes Idan Hekselman, Moran Sharon, Omer Basha and Esti Yeger-Lotem; 12. Network neuroscience Alberto Cacciola, Alessandro Muscoloni and Carlo Vittorio Cannistraci; 13. Cytoscape: tool for analyzing and visualizing network data John H. Morris; 14. Analysis of the signatures of cancer stem cells in malignant tumours using protein interactomes and STRING database Krešimir Pavelić, Marko Klobučar, Dolores Kuzelj, Nataša Pržulj and Sandra Kraljević Pavelić.

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Book SynopsisWho was the scientific progenitor of eugenic thought? Amir Teicher challenges the preoccupation with Darwin''s eugenic legacy by uncovering the extent to which Gregor Mendel''s theory of heredity became crucial in the formation - and radicalization - of eugenic ideas. Through a compelling analysis of the entrenchment of genetic thinking in the social and political policies in Germany between 1900 and 1948, Teicher exposes how Mendelian heredity became saturated with cultural meaning, fed racial anxieties, reshaped the ideal of the purification of the German national body and ultimately defined eugenic programs. Drawing on scientific manuscripts and memoirs, bureaucratic correspondence, court records, school notebooks and Hitler''s table talk as well as popular plays and films, Social Mendelism presents a new paradigm for understanding links between genetics and racism, and between biological and social thought.Trade Review'Amir Teicher's wide-ranging and provocative history of Mendelism in the German-speaking world will bust the myth that it was Darwinian selectionism alone that provided scientific justifications for right-wing ideologies of racial purification.' Staffan Müller-Wille, University of Cambridge'Amir Teicher's lucid study demonstrates that, similar to the way in which Darwin's work gave rise to Social Darwinism, the research method based on Gregor Mendel's experiments became transformed into a general interpretive framework - which Teicher calls 'Social Mendelism' - that exerted a powerful influence on the German biosciences in the first half of the twentieth century.' Richard F. Wetzell, German Historical Institute Washington'Revelatory.' Gregory Radick, Times Literary Supplement'This ambitious and thoroughly researched book seeks to achieve nothing less than a major rethink of the intellectual background to Nazism.' Dan Stone, German Studies Review'Teicher's seminal study shows how Mendelism played an essential role in the rise, development and radicalization of German racial hygiene. What has long been known in relation to Darwinism, Teicher elaborates in a differentiated argument for Mendelism: he provided a reservoir of images, metaphors and arguments from which National Socialists drew in order to scientifically legitimize their racial and sterilization policies. Teicher's narrative does not follow a straight path; no 'from Mendel to Hitler'. Rather, he repeatedly emphasizes the contradictions, polyvalences, and contingencies that determined the political use of Mendelism. It is precisely in this way that Teicher's study sharpens our view of the ambivalent and historically changing entanglements between science and ideology. (in German)' Pascal German, RezensionsredakteurTable of ContentsIntroduction; 1. Mendel's laws and their application to humans, 1865–1913; 2. Mendelism maturing: from experimental to interpretative framework, 1913–1933; 3. Mendelism, purity and national renewal; 4. Annihilating defective genes: Mendelian consciousness and the sterilization campaign; 5. Mendelizing racial antisemitism; Epilogue: social Mendelism beyond the Nazis.

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Book SynopsisCovering a range of metaphors from a diverse field of sciences, from cell and molecular biology to evolution, ecology, and biomedicine, Understanding Metaphors in the Life Sciences explores the positive and negative implications of the widespread use of metaphors in the biological and life sciences. From genetic codes, programs, and blueprints, to cell factories, survival of the fittest, the tree of life, selfish genes, and ecological niches, to genome editing with CRISPR''s molecular scissors, metaphors are ubiquitous and vital components of the modern life sciences. But how exactly do metaphors help scientists to understand the objects they study? How can they mislead both scientists and laypeople alike? And what should we all understand about the implications of science''s reliance on metaphorical speech and thought for objective knowledge and adequate public policy informed by science? This book will literally help you to better understand the metaphorical dimensions of science.Trade Review'What a timely book this is! It is precisely because biology has made such striking advances in recent years that its stock of metaphors is due for a clinical check-up. Reynolds offers a reliable and perceptive diagnosis of the framing narratives of the life sciences, sympathetically examining their strengths and weaknesses. This book should be an essential accompaniment to any study course in the biological sciences.' Philip Ball, science writer and author of How to Grow a Human'In this beautifully written, highly accessible, and captivating work, Reynolds reveals the incredible extent to which scientific methods and descriptions in biology, the life sciences, and medicine are infused with metaphors. Interweaving the rich history and philosophy of the uses of these metaphors over time, their many implications for scientific reasoning, understanding, and the ethical and political dimensions of science itself are perceptively explored, with wonderful clarity and across an encyclopedic range of examples. Metaphors afford telling insight, opening doors to further inquiry and closing others. Is your genome software? Are enzymes molecular machines? Does nature select some traits over others, thereby constructing the tree of life? The fascinating world of metaphors in science comes to life on every page.' Anjan Chakravartty, University of Miami, USA'I read Lakoff and Johnson's book Metaphors We Live By in the 1980s, and it was eye opening. Andrew Reynolds' book, which should be called Metaphors Science Lives By, is equally eye opening. Metaphors shape the way we live in the world. In science, they shape the way we understand the world. This can have huge implications for our lives, for better or for worse. How does this process of understanding work, especially in the life sciences? This book deals with the essential role of metaphors in this process. Written in an admirably clear style, Reynolds makes us aware of the power of metaphor, but also its dangers and pitfalls. It is an essential read for everybody interested in understanding how science and science communication work with and through metaphors. Importantly, it also dispels some common misunderstandings about the role of metaphors in science.' Brigitte Nerlich, University of Nottingham, UK'Understanding Metaphors in the Life Sciences takes us from genes to cells, and up to the vast evolutionary tree of life, showing how science depends overwhelmingly on metaphor for understanding, for advance, for communication. A very important book.' Michael Ruse, Florida State University, USA'Philosophically illuminating and richly informative on genetics, evolution and ecology, it should be obligatory reading for students in both the humanities and the sciences.' Jane O'Grady, Literary Review'Clear and concise, the book has an immense didactic value and will serve as a precious teaching aid in history and philosophy classes. However, despite being intended as an entry-level text, the book is more than a synthetic introduction to the subject. Beyond the analysis and evaluation of some of the most iconic metaphors in the life sciences, Reynolds provides a unique perspective on their function and use.' Bartlomiej Swiatczak, Metascience'Philosophically illuminating and richly informative on genetics, evolution and ecology, it should be obligatory reading for students in both the humanities and the sciences.' Jane O'Grady, Literary ReviewTable of Contents1. Metaphors and science; 2. Background metaphors: agents, machines, and information; 3. Genes and genomes: agents, codes, programs, blueprints, and books; 4. Proteins: machines, messengers, and team players; 5. Cells: factories, computers, and social organisms; 6. Evolution: natural selection, the tree of life, and selfish genes; 7. Ecology: the balance of nature, niches, ecosystem health, and gaia; 8. Biomedicine: genetic engineering, genome editing, and cell reprogramming.

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Book SynopsisUnlock the family secrets in your DNA! Discover the answers to your family history mysteries using the most cutting edge tool available. This plain-English guide (newly updated and expanded to include th latest DNA developments) will teach you what DNA tests are available; the pros and cons of the major testing companies; and how to choose the right test to answer your specific genealogy questions.  And once you''ve taken a DNA test, this guide will help you use your often-overwhelming results, with tips for understanding ethnicity estimates, navigating suggested cousin matches, and using third-party tools like GEDmatch to further analyze your data. The book features: ·         Colorful diagrams and expert definitions that explain key DNA terms and concepts such as haplogroups and DNA inheritance patterns ·         Detailed guides to each of the ma

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Book SynopsisThis book opens with a discussion on the clinical applications of comet assay. Comet assay is rapid, simple method which able to assess DNA damage in different samples like blood, cells and tissues. Following this, the authors examine comet assay usage in occupational toxicology studies. Isolated lymphocytes were the most used cell line in these studies, but exfoliated cells such as nasal and buccal cell, liver, kidney and sperm cells may be used. Comet assay may also be used to detect nanoparticles-associated DNA damage. As such, this compilation assesses potential limitations due to the interaction of the nanoparticles with the method. Next, to shed light on the mechanisms of the DNA track formation, the authors apply an original approach based on the kinetic measurements in the comet assay, arguing that in neutral conditions at low levels of DNA damages, the comet tail is formed by extended DNA loops. New applications of the comet assay are described for the detection of aberrant DNA methylation, which is a promising marker in cancer diagnosis and follow-up. The authors go on to describe and analyse the results of in vitro treatment of lymphocytes with insecticide using comet assay under alkaline and neutral conditions, testing the commercial product Calypso® 480SC and its active agent thiacloprid at concentrations of 30; 60; 120; 240 and 480 �g.ml-1. In one study, Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seedlings were irrigated with Hoagland solution containing different concentrations of AlCl3. Morphological parameters such as germination rate and stoma number are evaluated. Additionally, the genotoxic effects of endosulfan pesticide at different times and in different concentrations in wheat leaf samples are analyzed in two-week old wheat seedlings in an effort to demonstrate that endosulfan is a genotoxic agent causing DNA breaks in wheat. In the closing chapter, the correlation between the comet assay parameters, cell viability, and hydroquinone concentration is explored. The relationship between comet assay and remaining hydroquinone after fungal treatment is also investigated in order to evaluate its biodegradation efficiency.Table of ContentsPrefaceClinical Applications of Comet AssayComet Assay in Occupational Toxicology StudiesThe Comet Assay as a Tool to Detect the Genotoxic Potential of NanomaterialsKinetic Approach in Comet Assay: An Opportunity to Investigate DNA LoopsEvaluation of Global DNA Methylation Status of Single Cells by the Comet Assay: A Promising Approach in Cancer Diagnosis and Follow-UpComet Assay: A Suitable Method for in Vitro Genotoxicity Assessment Using Animal LymphocytesDetermination of Aluminum-Induced Oxidative and Genotoxic Effects in Sunflower LeavesDetermination of Genotoxic Effects of Organochlorine Pesticides in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) by Comet AssayInvestigation of Genotoxic Effects of Organophosphorus Pesticides in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)Genotoxicity of Hydroquinone and Fungal Detoxification: Correlation with Hydroquinone Concentration and Cell ViabilityIndex.

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Book SynopsisIn Chapter One, the authors discuss the gene silencing tool RNA interference, or RNAi, which functions at both transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. In Chapter Two, the authors study the origins of genome engineering, including its adaptation from prokaryotic to eukaryotic systems and applications. In Chapter Three, the authors discuss the utilisation of different biotechnologies for insect pest management in plants, as well as give insight into recently developed approaches of genome editing for high through-put pest management. Closing the book with Chapter Four, the authors discuss how vital genetic resources, such as the ability to withstand scarcity of nutrients and water as well as to withstand pests and diseases, may be secured for future use in order to improve crops.

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Book SynopsisThis 8 volume encyclopedia set presents important research on genetics. Some of the topics discussed herein include the speciation of Arabian gazelles, tau alternative splicing in Alzheimer's disease, Cornelia de Lange syndrome and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease.Table of ContentsFor more information, please visit our website at:Print: https://www.novapublishers.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=65602E-Book: https://www.novapublishers.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=65603

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Book SynopsisA biomarker is a biochemical, cellular, physiological or behavioral variation that can be measured in tissue or body fluid samples or at the level of whole organisms that provides evidence of exposure to and/or effects of one or more chemical pollutants or radiations. Based on the facts related to the existence of contaminant stressors, an understanding of chemical modes of toxicity can be incorporated with diagnostic markers of aquatic animal physiology to help understand the health status of aquatic organisms in the field. New approaches in functional genomics and bioinformatics can help discriminate individual chemicals, or groups of chemicals among complex mixtures that may contribute to adverse biological effects. By using these recent methodologies, it could be useful to shed light on the molecular evolution of the biomarkers, and which role and functionality can be better understood based on exploring the relative evolution pathways in several aquatic organisms. PhD students and scientists with interests on physiology, ecotoxicology, biochemistry, molecular biology, molecular evolution and aquatic science disciplines will find this book very useful, based on the concepts and the relative biomarkers study cases, analyzed from the evolutionary point of view.Table of ContentsFor more information, please visit our website at:https://novapublishers.com/shop/molecular-evolution-of-aquatic-organisms-biomarkers/

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Book SynopsisDeoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA, is the fundamental building block for an individual''s entire genetic makeup. DNA is a powerful tool for law enforcement investigations because each person''s DNA is different from that of every other individual (except for identical twins). As early as the 1980s, states began enacting laws that required the collection of DNA samples from offenders convicted of certain sexual and other violent crimes. Chapter 1 provides an overview of how DNA is used to investigate crimes and help protect the innocent. Chapters 2 and 3 report on the establishment of a system for integration of Rapid DNA instruments for use by law enforcement to reduce violent crime and reduce the current DNA analysis backlog. Chapter 4 examines what is known about the amount of backlogged DNA evidence at state and local government labs; the extent to which OJP measures CEBR grant performance; and the extent to which OJP has designed controls to identify conflicts of interest related to CEBR grants. Chapter 5 reviews the level of crime scene DNA evidence backlogs among CEBR grantees and the factors that contribute to such backlogs; the extent to which DOJ has clearly defined goals for CEBR; and the extent to which OJP has controls for CEBR related to federal conflicts of interest and lobbying requirements. In 2016, about 323,000 individuals age 12 or older were reported victims of sexual assault, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics. Studies have shown that exams performed by sexual assault forensic examiners -- medical providers trained in collecting and preserving forensic evidence -- may result in better physical and mental health care for victims, better evidence collection, and higher prosecution rates. Chapter 6 describes what was known in 2016 about the availability of sexual assault forensic examiners nationally and in selected states and the challenges selected states faced in maintaining a supply of sexual assault forensic examiners.

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Book SynopsisThis book opens with a description of the insulin-like growth factor system, with focus on the insulin-like growth factor receptors and functions associated with them. The data on membrane proteins, their N-glycome and oxidation status id related to the authors'' findings on the receptors in different physiological and pathological conditions, such as normal and abnormal tissue growth and development. Next, a review of the current methods used to prepare and study membrane proteins is presented, with focus on large scale simulations and special emphasis on scalable parallel methods. In closing, commandments surrounding integral membrane protein expression and purification, integral membrane protein biochemistry, integral membrane protein functionality studies and integral membrane protein high-resolution structures are described.

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Book SynopsisMedical Genetics is the application of genetics to medicine. Medical genetics is broad and varied and encompasses many different individual fields, including clinical genetics, biochemical genetics, cytogenetics, molecular genetics, the genetics of common diseases (such as neural tube defects), and genetic counselling. Each of the individual fields within medical genetics is a hybrid. Clinical genetics is a hybrid of clinical medicine with genetics. Biochemical genetics is a hybrid of biochemistry, mainly the biochemistry of amino acids and proteins, with genetics. Molecular genetics is a hybrid of the biochemistry of DNA and RNA with genetics. Cytogenetics is a hybrid of cytology and genetics; it involves the study of chromosomes under the microscope. And genetic counselling is a hybrid of genetics with non-directional counselling. This book presents leading-edge research on medical genetics as well as on Down''s syndrome.

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Book SynopsisGenetic inheritance patterns deal with the different ways genes and their alleles interact during the transmission of genetic traits that effect the outcome of gene expression. This book presents new and important research in the field from around the world.

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Book SynopsisThis book presents the latest research on DNA damage, which due to environmental factors and normal metabolic processes inside the cell, occurs at a rate of 1,000 to 1,000,000 molecular lesions per cell per day. While this constitutes only 0.000165% of the human genome''s approximately 6 billion bases (3 billion base pairs), unrepaired lesions in critical genes (such as tumour suppresser genes) can impede a cell''s ability to carry out its function and appreciably increase the likelihood of tumour formation. The vast majority of DNA damage affects the primary structure of the double helix; that is, the bases themselves are chemically modified. These modifications can in turn disrupt the molecules'' regular helical structure by introducing non-native chemical bonds or bulky adducts that do not fit in the standard double helix. Unlike proteins and RNA, DNA usually lacks tertiary structure and therefore damage or disturbance does not occur at that level. DNA is, however, supercoiled and wound around "packaging" proteins called histones (in eukaryotes), and both superstructures are vulnerable to the effects of DNA damage.

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Book SynopsisThis book presents important research from around the world in the field of Antisense molecules which interact with complementary strands of nucleic acids, modifying expression of genes. Some regions within a double strand of DNA code for genes, which are usually instructions specifying the order of amino acids in a protein along with regulatory sequences, splicing sites, non-coding introns and other complicating details. For a cell to use this information, one strand of the DNA serves as a template for the synthesis of a complementary strand of RNA. The template DNA strand is called the transcribed strand with antisense sequence and the mRNA transcript is said to be sense sequence (the complement of antisense). Because the DNA is double-stranded, the strand complementary to the antisense sequence is called non-transcribed strand and has the same sense sequence as the mRNA transcript (though T bases in DNA are substituted with U bases in RNA). Many forms of antisense have been developed and can be broadly categorised into enzyme-dependent antisense or steric blocking antisense.

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Book SynopsisNumerous physical and chemical stress factors, endogenous or exogenous, challenge living organisms. Metabolisation processes generate highly reactive intermediates which can covalently bind to DNA, resulting in bulky addition products called "adducts." DNA adduct formation appears to be a general response of plants to organic chemical exposure, whether in controlled conditions or in the field. In particular, common carcinogenic pollutants and pesticides promote the formation of DNA adducts in plants. The authors of this book examine the development of DNA adducts, as well as the ways in which they can be eliminated due to DNA repair pathways. In this book, the data from in vivo transgenic assays is also examined, which can help to clarify specific pre-mutagenic adducts, DNA repair functions and mutational events that may be involved in the mutagenicity of human carcinogens. Other chapters in this book identify and discuss novel anthracyclines capable of forming DNA adducts, the role of DNA adducts as early biomarkers in the screening and development of marine anticancer drugs, the genotoxicity, such as DNA adduct formation, of air pollutants and its assessment by in vivo mutagenesis and a discussion of oxidative DNA damage, which can play an important role in the carcinogenic processes of PAHs and aromatic amines, in addition to bulky-DNA adducts formation.

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Book SynopsisIn addition to supplementing existing analysis techniques in serious crime cases, trace DNA can allow investigation of volume crime cases such as burglary or vehicle theft, where previously DNA evidence was not considered usable. However, despite the widespread use of trace DNA, at present there are very few specific validated methods. This has lead to controversy in the use of trace DNA, and particularly the low copy number amplification technique. It has been established that the use of existing methodology (developed for high-copy number samples) leads to significant levels of artefacts with trace DNA, including allele drop-out and drop-in, stutter, and allelic/locus imbalance. To minimise these, there are numerous modifications that can be made to existed methods to increase the success of trace DNA analysis. This book presents advances in the field of DNA research as an aid in Forensic studies and Genetics.

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Book SynopsisStem cells are cells found in all multi cellular organisms. They are characterised by the ability to renew themselves through mitotic cell division and differentiate into a diverse range of specialised cell types. This book presents and discusses current research in the study of stem cell research, including cancer and prostate stem cells; neural stem cells and taurine; interactions between transplanted neural stem cells and host tissue; retrovirus vector silencing in stem cells and moral and scientific consideration in embryonic stem cell research.

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Book SynopsisThis book introduces a discrete optimisation technique in four applications: classic Traveller Salesperson Problem (TSP), Multilocus Genetic Mapping, Multilocus Consensus Genetic Mapping, and Physical Mapping. Each of the four sections contains the problem formulation, description of the algorithm, and experimental results. The foregoing problems are solved on the basis of Guided Evolution Strategy (GES) algorithm. The algorithm was implemented in MultiPoint package (http://multiqtl.com). The developed analytical tools were applied in many genome mapping projects.

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Book SynopsisMetagenomics is the study of microbial communities sampled directly from their natural environment, without prior culturing. DNA sequencing (or alternatively, an assay of functional properties) is applied to the culture-independent analyses of complex and diverse ("meta") populations of microbes. The rapid growth of metagenomics entails an expanded focus on microbes in a wide range of basic and applied research fields, ranging from microbiology to agriculture, biomedicine to bioenergy, and from veterinary to clinical medicine. This book is an insightful and inclusive study on metagenomics and its applications.

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Book Synopsis"Advances in Genetics Research" presents original research results on the leading edge of genetics discovery. Each article has been carefully selected in an attempt to present substantial research results across a broad spectrum. In this continuing series compilation, the authors present and discuss varied topical data such as cytogenic mapping of animal genomes; somatic cell counts in cow''s milk and implications for dairy cow breeding; mutations and the carcinogenic process; genetic mapping projects and functional genomics.

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Book SynopsisMicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs involved in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Thousands of miRNAs have been identified in different organisms including viruses, insects, plants and animals. MiRNAs has emerged as key regulators of important biological processes. The differential expression of miRNAs in various human diseases has made them potential candidates for developing novel therapies and personalized medicines. This book is focused on microRNA let-7, the second miRNA discovered in the year 2000 and one of the most studied miRNA. This book discusses various aspects of miRNA let-7 starting from its discovery, biogenesis, transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulation to its crucial role in various fundamental cellular processes such as development, stem cell maintenance and differentiation, regulation of signalling pathways in cancer, drug resistance and therapeutic potential in different human diseases.

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Book SynopsisGenetic diversity plays a very important role in survival and adaptability of a species because when a species''s environment changes, slight gene variations are necessary to produce changes in the organisms'' anatomy that enables it to adapt and survive. A species that has a large degree of genetic diversity among its population will have more variations from which to choose the most fit alleles. In this book, the authors discuss topics that include genetic diversity of human and animal papilloma viruses; conservation genetics of the lion; genetic diversity for quality traits in wild and ancient wheats; the genetic history of Morocco; different approaches to assess structure and genetic diversity in forest species; new genetic provisions for the reinstatement of ginseng natural populations; genetic and epigenetic variations in disease and drug response; genetic diversity and genetic rescue within wildlife populations; and genetic variability and advances in taxonomy.

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Book SynopsisProline might be the most studied amino acid in nature. Many authors have reviewed its many functions in cell homoeostasis. Not only it is essential in primary metabolism, but it is also involved in cell defence response to a variety of stresses. This book presents topical research data in the study of pro-line functions, including role of pro-line in plant subject to salinity, pro-line cycle and its role in secondary metabolite accumulation, role of pro-line in catalysing the asymmetric reaction, studies of polyproline peptides, structural characteristics and transition mechanisms of proline-rich peptides, functions of proline in behaviour of neonatal chicks and tumour suppressor activities of proline oxidase.

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Book SynopsisThe neotropical ecoregion consisting of South America, Central America, Southern Mexico, the Caribbean Islands, and Southern Florida, has long been considered an area rich in mammalian diversity and one that contains some of the world''s iconic carnivores such as the Jaguar and Puma. These, and other carnivores represent the highest trophic levels within neotropical areas and as keystone species, can markedly alter omnivore and herbivore mammalian communities and indirectly, plant communities. Unfortunately, due to human population pressures, many neotropical areas and the mammals within them are increasingly at risk. This problem is compounded by the lack of current genetics, evolutionary biology and conservation data of these critical carnivores available to conservation biologists at the forefront of trying to preserve and protect these imperiled geographical areas. This book helps to meet these shortcomings by providing contributions from 60 of the world''s leading scientists in the area of neotropical carnivores. The first section of the book covers molecular population genetics and phylogeography of diverse neotropical carnivores such as otters, coatis and other Mustelidae and Procyonidae, wild cats (jaguar, puma, ocelot, jaguarondi, Pampas cat, and Andean cat) and the Andean bear. Significant sections of the book are also devoted to the topics of reproduction, geometric morphometrics of wild canids and a complete paleontological view of the evolution of all neotropical carnivore groups. Furthermore, the book contains several chapters on the conservation details and varying cultural perspectives regarding the two larger and more mythical neotropical carnivores, the jaguar and the Andean bear, which together, are the paradigm for the conservation programs in Central and South America.

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Book Synopsis"Advances in Genetics Research" presents original research results on the leading edge of genetics discovery. Each article has been carefully selected in an attempt to present substantial research results across a broad spectrum. In this continuing series compilation, the authors present and discuss varied topical data such as the role of IL-1 in the cytokine network of the body; genetic manipulation of leishmania parasites facilitating the exploration of polyamine biosynthetic pathways as potential therapeutic targets; RNA interference-mediated cell camouflage; identification of RNA in analysis of body fluids stains for forensic purposes; cationic lipid-based nanoparticles for siRNA delivery; Interleukin-1 in osteoarthritis; fungal genetic manipulation using RNA silencing; microglial cathespin B-dependent IL-1B production; role of miRNAs in early embryonic development of drosophila melanogaster; and pHg/pSILBAy vector system for RNA silencing in mycorrhiza via agrobacterium-mediated transformation.

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Book SynopsisThis book presents current research in the study of new technologies, developments and applications of microRNA and non-coding RNA. Topics include the role of microRNA and short interfering RNAs in plants; microRNAs, major affective disorders and suicidal behavior; microRNA in endoparasites; the functional roles of non-coding RNAs in glioma and their clinical implications; identifying miRNA function in innate immunity; and how multiple IsomiRs and diversity of miRNA sequences unveil evolutionary roles and functional relationships across animals.

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Book SynopsisQuantum biology is a wide area of research closely connected with almost all parts of biology. It is based on experimental data of biological sciences and the fundamental laws of physics (de Broglie law of corpuscular-wave dualism of the matter, the conservation laws, including the laws of thermodynamics). At this time, our knowledge in this area is fragmentary. The usual corpuscular biology studies only one plane of living matter organisation, the structure and function of which is determined by the DNA-particle. That is why the theory often does not agree with experience, the physics laws don''t work. It leads to frequent changes of concepts. Many phenomena (division of living matter into cells, restoration and loss of totipotency of cell systems, etc.) do not find an explanation within the corpuscular theory framework. This book includes nine chapters. In Chapter 1 the insight of a cell as a quantum-mechanical system, an equilibrium system, an open and closed system; the notion of biological harmonic oscillator, as an elementary and indivisible unity of the wave properties of a living matter; the principle and regimes of oscillator work in plants; two internal energy sources and their physical nature; the role of DNA-particles and DNA-wave at different hierarchical levels of living matter organisation are discussed. In Chapter 2 the changes of DNA particles, DNA-waves, the cell physical state, its basic components and physiological functions are analysed during cell cycle of proliferating plant cell. In Chapter 3 seven types of cell division (mitosis, differentiative mitosis, free-nucleus mitosis, meiosis, endomitosis, crushing and promitosis) are described. The dependence of the principle of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell development from its condition is shown in Chapter 4. In Chapter 5 physical models of gamete sexual differentiation and fertilisation are considered. The manifestation of the low of total impulse conservation in evolution processes is examined in Chapter 6. In Chapter 7 the mechanisms and manners of biological protection and the reasons for their change during evolution are discussed. How and why a DNA-particle and a DNA-wave change during reproductive development of future plant initial cells is described on Pinus sylvestris L. example in Chapter 8. In Chapter 9 a short overview of quantum biology tasks and problems is given.

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Book SynopsisMetagenomics is the study of microbial communities sampled directly from their natural environment, without prior culturing. DNA sequencing (or alternatively, an assay of functional properties) is applied to the culture-independent analyses of complex and diverse ("meta") populations of microbes. The rapid growth of metagenomics entails an expanded focus on microbes in a wide range of basic and applied research fields, ranging from microbiology to agriculture, biomedicine to bioenergy, and from veterinary to clinical medicine. This book is an insightful and inclusive study on metagenomics and its applications.

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Book SynopsisThe human genome is the complete set of human genetic information, stored as DNA sequences within the 23 chromosome pairs of the cell nucleus and in a small DNA molecule within the mitochondrion. In this publication, the authors present topical research in the study of the components, structural and functional disorders; and ethical issues of the human genome. Topics discussed include critical events in the pathobiology of cancer and the compilation of major biomarkers enabling improved diagnosis; and the evolution of human genome analysis and its impact on disease diagnosis and molecular diagnostics.

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Book SynopsisIn this book, the authors present current research in the study of the evolutionary perspectives, mating strategies and long-term effects on genetic variation of sexual selection. Topics discussed in this compilation include sexual dimorphism in insect longevity; evidence of natural and sexual selection shaping the size of nuptial gifts among a single bush-cricket genus; mate choice copying in both sexes of the guppy; and sexual selection under parental choice.

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Book Synopsis"Advances in Genetics Research" presents original research results on the leading edge of genetics discovery. Each article has been carefully selected in an attempt to present substantial research results across a broad spectrum. In this continuing series compilation, the authors present and discuss varied topical data such as late diagnosis in multiple X and Y chromosome disorders; the design and cloning strategies of recombinant allergens for diagnosis and specific immunotherapy; the advances in molecular cloning directing the production of plant proteins and their applications in pathogens control; the genetic basis of congenital heart disease; the large-scale evolution by generating new genes; characteristics of MX gene that shows resistance to vesicular stomatitis virus; the vertebrate fatty acid and retinoid binding protein and proteins; and the clonal evolution and cytogenetic changes in chronic myeloid leukaemia.

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Book SynopsisOver the course of less than a decade, whole genome sequencing has progressed from being one of our nations boldest scientific aspirations to becoming a readily available technique for determining the complete sequence of an individuals deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) -- that persons unique genetic blueprint. This book focuses on the privacy and progress in whole genome sequencing; and provides a scientific background for policymakers in genetic testing.

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Book SynopsisFingerprints have provided a valuable method of personal identification in forensic science and criminal investigations for over 100 years. Fingerprints left at crime scenes generally are latent prints -- unintentional reproductions of the arrangement of ridges on the skin made by the transfer of materials (such as amino acids, proteins, polypeptides, and salts) to a surface. Palms and the soles of feet also have friction ridge skin that can leave latent prints. The examination of a latent print consists of a series of steps involving a comparison of the latent print to a known (or exemplar) print. Courts have accepted latent print evidence for the past century. However, several high-profile cases in the United States and abroad have highlighted the fact that human errors can occur, and litigation and expressions of concern over the evidentiary reliability of latent print examinations and other forensic identification procedures has increased in the last decade. This book discusses latent print examinations in detail, and provides methods to improving the practice through a systems approach.

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Book Synopsis"Advances in Genetics Research" presents original research results on the leading edge of genetics discovery. Each article has been carefully selected in an attempt to present substantial research results across a broad spectrum. In this continuing series compilation, the authors present and discuss varied topical data such as the "s" allele of the serotonin transporter and its lack of association with major depression in veterans; effects of regular versus special school placement in students with Down Syndrome; the biology of telomeres in multipotential stromal cells; genetic diversity of human and animal papillomaviruses; telomere length in lymphoid malignancies; telomerase and telomere maintenance in the blight fungus ustilago maydis; roles of mirnas in cancers; and genetic programming for music.

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Book Synopsis"Advances in Genetics Research" presents original research results on the leading edge of genetics discovery. Each article has been carefully selected in an attempt to present substantial research results across a broad spectrum. In this continuing series compilation, the authors present and discuss the development of multifunctional plasmids for diverse biotechnological applications; fragile x syndrome-associated language phenotypes; study of the fmr1 gene structure among women with ovarian dysfunction from the Basque country; chromatin structure and epigenetics; the evolution of mammalian x chromosomes and x chromosome inactivation; modifying effect of smoking on the association between SLE and the genetic polymorphisms involved in ROS production; therapeutic approaches to fragile x syndrome; genetic diversity and phylogeny of wild specie teosinte within genera Zea.

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