Sperm-mediated gene transfer (SMGT) represents a novel set of technologies for animal (or in the future, human) genetic modification using the sperm as a vector, as opposed to more traditional established routes such as fertilized eggs or embryonic stem cells. Studies of sperm-mediated gene transfer (SMGT) indicate that sperm cells possess the ability to be utilized as carriers of exogenous genetic sequences, offering the potential of a novel cost-effective route for germline genetic modification. The fate of transgenes borne by sperm cells has been inconsistent, and analysis of offspring from SMGT experiments has shown a mixed picture in terms of genomic integration of the transgene, suggesting an episomal mode of inheritance. Various distinct steps in transgene uptake by the sperm cell have been described or proposed, including a model based upon endogenous reverse transcriptase activity. Although mature sperm cells are naturally protected against uptake of foreign nucleic acid molecules, certain environmental conditions, for example at key times within the reproductive tract, may reduce this protection, suggesting that SMGT may occasionally take place in nature. If correct, this carries profound implications for evolution and human genetic health. This e-book brings together theoretical and empirical reviews from experts in SMGT, providing comprehensive coverage of the major trends, developments and controversies in this novel field. This e-book is intended as a reference for professional researchers in the field of animal genetic modification (transgenesis) as well as teachers, scientists and physicians interested in medical genetics in general and gene therapy in particular.

Spatial Ecology elucidates processes and mechanisms which structure dynamics of real world systems; these include lakes, ponds, forests and rivers. Readers are introduced to contemporary models in ecological literature based on the author’s research experience. The e-book starts by presenting an introduction to basic mechanisms of ecological processes. This is followed by chapters explaining these processes responsible for generating observed spatial patterns in detail. The e-book concludes with a chapter on water quality management and its relevance to the spatial setting in a wetland area. This text in spatial ecology is a welcome resource for readers interested in models, methods and methodologies best suited for the study of advanced ecology courses and topics related to ecosystem structure, function and habitat fragmentation.

Biodiversity and Livelihood: Lessons from Community Research in India Is a compilation of research articles on the ecological biodiversity and local conservation efforts of selected regions in India, and among local communities throughout the county. 18 chapters have been contributed by experts in ecology, sustainability and ethnic studies in India. The chapters provide information on a wide range of tops which cover local communities, their agricultural practices and the ecological relationships between their community and the species on which their livelihood depends. Contributions emphasize different aspects of these topics, such as observational ecological information about the aforementioned regions and communities, the local biodiversity, tribal customs of ethnic communities that are linked to conservation, specific programs which are aimed at the conservation of specific plant and animal species endemic to the region, the benefits shared by the communities involved with conservation programs and recommendations shared by the authors for sustainable management of the regional ecosystem and its resources. Readers will find a wealth of information about biodiversity conservation in different regions in India (most notably the western and eastern ghats and provinces such as Kerala and Andhra Pradesh), from a basic and applied perspective. The book is, therefore, an informative reference for conservationists, ecologists, environmentalists and ethnologists who are studying the biodiversity and conservation of India. Readers involved in sustainable development programs in the region will also find the content valuable to their knowledge.

Bioencapsulation (or microencapsulation) of cells and their implantation into a body of immunoprotected cells allows researchers to revive a missing or defective function in the cells. Microencapsulated cells have reached the clinic where they have been shown to be safe and efficacious in numerous clinical trials. Cell types that have been encapsulated for therapeutic purposes include hybridomas, islet cells, "platform" cell lines e.g. HEK293 and CHO cells as well as an increasing focus on the encapsulation of stem cells. This e-book explains the different methods used for achieving cell bioencapsulation based on different polymers e.g. alginate, cellulose sulphate and agarose. Other chapters in this book subsequently describe the use of cell encapsulation in cancer therapy to improve on existing chemotherapies by reducing doses and thus side effects while increasing efficacy for long term in vivo production of (i) tumoricidal or virus neutralising antibodies, (ii) insulin to achieve a self regulating treatment for diabetes and (iii) neuron nurturing factors to treat CNS diseases such as epilepsy, disorders like Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease and pathologies caused by trauma and/or ischemic processes. The book also includes a chapter reviewing the genetic engineering of cells to allow controlled production of biotherapeutics from encapsulated cells. This is a unique and timely book which brings together contributions from some of the leading researchers in the field of cell encapsulation. Interested readers are provided an overview of the exciting developments and clinical experiences of researchers with cell bioencapsulation.

Individuals with Angelman Syndrome (AS) present many unique challenges to professionals, parents and others who are committed to maximizing individuals’ competence while ensuring them the best possible quality of life. Angelman Syndrome: Communication, Educational, and Related Considerations is a unique, exhaustive compilation of existing material related to understanding the nature of AS and how individuals’ communication and related skills can be fostered most effectively. It provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the background of Angelman Syndrome along with an in-depth exploration of communication (with a focus on augmentative and alternative communication), educational, and related issues that should be addressed when attempting to meet the needs of individuals with AS at home, school, work, and elsewhere in the community. Key features of the book include: • Extensive background information about medical and related factors behind AS and how they influence individuals’ learning • A series of prologues written by the parents of individuals with AS • Contributions from internationally recognized experts on AS, communication disorders, psychology and education • Numerous practical, evidence-based strategies for conducting assessments and carrying out interventions among AS affected individuals Speech-language pathologists, allied healthcare providers and educators providing support to affected individuals should benefit from the information provided in the book by being able to identify appropriate communication, behavioral and educational goals. Laypersons, particularly parents, will also find the information highly useful in advocating for best practices for their children (which is partly fostered by the series of parental prologues). Angelman Syndrome: Communication, Educational, and Related Considerations will not only serve as a valuable reference for improving the learning experience for AS affected individuals but will also embolden both professionals and parents to maintain higher expectations for them.

This handbook focuses on the use of antibiotic alternatives in poultry and fish feed. Chapters in the book cover a range of natural ingredients in feed and the impacts of these natural feed additives on growth, production, reproduction and health status of poultry and fish. All chapters give a holistic approach to how organic feed additives (herbal plants and their extracts, probiotics, peptides, etc.) can positively impact animal health and production. Key Features: - presents 13 chapters contributed by 38 experts and scientists of animal, poultry and fish nutrition, poultry and fish physiology, toxicology, pharmacology, and pathology - highlights the significance of herbal plants and their extracts and derivatives, cold-pressed and essential oils and fruits by-products - covers the effects of special ingredients such as immunomodulators, antimicrobial peptides, and probiotics - provides the reader an updated perspective on the use of additives in poultry and fish industry as growth promoters and their role in developing bacterial resistance to antibiotics - covers the main poultry species, egg-laying hens, quails, geese, ducks, turkey, and commercial fish - includes references for advanced readers This book will be useful for poultry and fish keepers and researchers in animal nutrition, pharmacology, and veterinary sciences. Professionals involved in the poultry and fish feed industry will also find the information useful for product development.

Bentham Briefs in Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy brings new trends and techniques in pharmacology and medical biochemistry to the forefront through unique volumes. Each volume provides a brief review of selected topics, written by scientific experts. The book series is essential reading for graduate students and researchers in pharmacology and life sciences as well as medical professionals seeking knowledge for research oriented projects. The first volume, Oxidative Stress and Natural Antioxidants, is a compilation of articles about free radicals (which are extremely reactive, short-lived molecules with unpaired electron valency), and antioxidants (which are stabilizing agents of free radicals in the body). The volume presents 17 chapters on the biochemistry of free radicals and antioxidants, with contributions from over 60 scientists. Readers will understand the basic and clinical aspects of free radical biomedicine, the role of antioxidants in neutralizing free radicals through physiological homeostasis, as well as the range of natural compounds which can be used to combat oxidative stress. The chapters also cover special topics such as recent advances in preparation methods of antioxidants, and industrial applications of antioxidants. The range of topics in this volume provide a consolidated reference for a broad set of readers on the subject.

Better Life and Business: Cell, Brain, Mind and Sex Universal Laws is an e-book that defines the fascinating new discipline: BRAINLIFEBIZ . BRAINLIFEBIZ combines new discoveries in neurobiology, behavior and medicine with novel concepts related to conscious software programming, automation, system adaptation, module selection , self -organization and automatic discovery. In other words, BRAINLIFEBIZ is a science of the consciousness, bio quantum / random chaos computations, self-organized event trains and processes with several conditions (continuous and discrete; without leadership and central control etc.). The goal of BRAINLIFEBIZ is to create a perfect computer model that simulates animal and human behavior in a computerized experimental setting. This volume presents simulations of the firefly, cricket, katydid, frog, bird and human prefrontal cortex. The book breaks across the lines that separate scientific disciplines. It explains the global nature of the specific intelligent systems outlined above. These intelligent systems features include learning, self- organization, fuzzy logic, high speed signal processing and process control. These features are employed to generate an intelligence map. The map presents figures and equations, curves and data for major ‘Elementary Processes’: aggression, mimicry, chaos , trains, pile up, attractions, courting, mating, emotion, reasoning and consciousness . ‘Elementary Processes’ are then simulated to interact with each other and form millions of complex processes explained by universal laws behind the cell, brain, mind, sex. These laws explain, in a new way, natural selection and reproductive success in the local and global society and business. These laws can be applied in a variety of situations - from everyday stress-free life, to intelligent business decision making, but with a solid biomedical and scientific foundation. The theory behind intelligent systems can be viewed as a complement to the genetic DNA code. The brain generates various brain event trains which allow it to store information in dispersed neural networks (biologically speaking, in 25 billions of neurons some of which with thousands of synapses dispersed over the cortex). The book explains the fast, precise and clear neural diagnostic processas well as the extremely flexible powerful leader mind. Better Life and Business: Cell, Brain, Mind and Sex Universal Laws is, therefore, a valuable reference for researchers to the fascinating world of natural and man -made intelligent systems and their applications in business situations and personal lives.

Aluminium is a chemical element present in earth’s crust and it is a known environmental toxin which has been found to be associated with various neurological disorders. Aluminium has been found to be a very strong risk factor for the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Biochemical Mechanisms of Aluminium Induced Neurological Disorders explains the association of aluminium with neurological disorders. The book introduces the reader to sources of aluminium exposure, followed by an explanation of pharmacokinetics of aluminium and the different biochemical pathways that cause neurological effects. Chapters cover the typical mechanisms associated with aluminium neurotoxicity such as synaptic impairment as well as recent topics of interest such as the role of aluminum in impairing blood-brain barrier functions. Separate chapters which cover clinical evidence of aluminium toxicity and its management are also included in the book. Biochemical Mechanisms of Aluminium Induced Neurological Disorders is a concise, yet informative reference on the subject of aluminium neurotoxicity for all readers, whether they are students of biochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology, clinical neurologists, environmentalists interested in metal pollution or general readers who want to learn about the toxic effects of aluminium in humans.