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      • Trusted Partner
        Science & Mathematics
        September 2020

        Butterfly Biology Systems

        Connections and Interactions in Life History and Behaviour

        by Roger L H Dennis, Ali Thompson

        Butterflies, among key animals for assessing environmental changes have consequently also become prominent model organisms for the study of trade-offs in life history and behavioural traits. Examples include factors affecting the size of egg batches, fast or slow larval growth, waiting or searching for mates, migrating or staying put in the habitat, roosting alone or together in aggregations, and the development of different defence mechanisms. The book focusses on the factors and trade-offs leading to the development and evolution of distinct traits emerging in the life cycle of butterflies within their habitats. In this book the reader is taken systematically through research findings in each life history stage, on the links identified between different aspects of butterfly biology that have been discovered, and introduced to novel ideas emerging from taking an integrative view of butterfly life history and behaviour. The book is divided into four sections: A: Language and concepts of system's theory, B: Perspectives on butterfly biology, C: Butterfly life history - basic trade-offs in reproduction, development and survival, and D: Butterfly behaviour - interactive adjustments in the habitat. The first section deals with the study of relationships in biological systems. The second is an introduction to key aspects of butterfly biology, such as broad issues in taxonomy, the fossil record, variation in space-time, habitat and niche, and the butterfly body frame. The last two longer sections deal directly with the key puzzles in life history and behaviour. The book has been composed primarily for students and researchers in butterfly biology, but it should be of interest to all those who enjoy observing butterflies. For the researcher into butterfly biology it is supported by an extensive glossary and bibliography and, to encourage incentives for ideas, it is liberally illustrated with diagrams for exploring in greater depth the relationships in butterfly biology.

      • Trusted Partner
        December 2023

        Biology and Management of the Formosan Subterranean Termite and Related Species

        by Nan-Yao Su, Chow-Yang Lee, Lauren Davies, Thomas Chouvenc, J. Kenneth Grace, Claudia Husseneder, Shuji Itakura, Hou-Feng Li, Nathan Lo, Kok-Boon Neoh, Wakako Ohmura, Faith M. Oi, Rudolf H. Scheffrahn, Qian Sun, Gaku Tokuda, Edward L. Vargo, Chia-Chien Wu, Koichi Yamamoto

        The Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus, is the most destructive and invasive termite species globally. It is also the only termite species listed in the world's 100 worst invasive alien species of the Global Invasive Species Database. Annually, its infestation costs more than $4 billion in control and damage repairs in the USA alone. This book is the first comprehensive resource drawing on all the literature on C. formosanus since Tokuichi Shiraki first described the species in 1909. The book covers the worldwide distribution of this species, its biogeography, and how it has dispersed from its native range in southern China and Taiwan to different parts of the world. It describes its present taxonomic status and discusses the species' biology, ecology, foraging behavior, physiology, chemical ecology and its association with symbionts. From a practical standpoint, the authors address all of the various management options for this species, such as baits, soil termiticides, wood preservatives, inspection and detection technologies, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches. Lastly, there are chapters dedicated to another important destructive species, Coptotermes gestroi (the Asian subterranean termite), and the recently discovered C. formosanus/C. gestroi hybrids. This important book is an essential and valuable reference for researchers, graduate students, pest management professionals, chemical manufacturer personnel, building and property managers, and others. It provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the biology and management of the Formosan subterranean termite and the Asian subterranean termite.

      • Trusted Partner
        Geography & the Environment
        January 2021

        Key Questions in Applied Ecology and Conservation

        A Study and Revision Guide

        by Paul Rees

        An understanding of applied ecology and conservation is an important requirement of a wide range of programmes of study including applied biology, ecology, environmental science and wildlife conservation.This book is a study and revision guide for students following such programmes. It contains 600 multiple-choice questions (and answers) set at three levels - foundation, intermediate and advanced - and grouped into 10 major topic areas:History and foundations of applied ecology and conservationEnvironmental pollution and perturbationsWildlife and conservation biologyRestoration biology and habitat managementAgriculture, forestry and fisheries managementPest, weed and disease managementUrban ecology and waste managementGlobal environmental change and biodiversity lossEnvironmental and wildlife law and policyEnvironmental assessment, monitoring and modellingThe book has been produced in a convenient format so that it can be used at any time in any place. It allows the reader to learn and revise the meaning of terms used in applied ecology and conservation, study the effects of pollution on ecosystems, the management, conservation and restoration of wildlife populations and habitats, urban ecology, global environmental change, environment law and much more. The structure of the book allows the study of one topic area at a time, progressing through simple questions to those that are more demanding. Many of the questions require students to use their knowledge to interpret information provided in the form of graphs, data or photographs.

      • Trusted Partner
        Humanities & Social Sciences
        November 2023

        Critical theory and human rights

        From compassion to coercion

        by David McGrogan

        This book describes how human rights have given rise to a vision of benevolent governance that, if fully realised, would be antithetical to individual freedom. It describes human rights' evolution into a grand but nebulous project, rooted in compassion, with the overarching aim of improving universal welfare by defining the conditions of human well-being and imposing obligations on the state and other actors to realise them. This gives rise to a form of managerialism, preoccupied with measuring and improving the 'human rights performance' of the state, businesses and so on. The ultimate result is the 'governmentalisation' of a pastoral form of global human rights governance, in which power is exercised for the general good, moulded by a complex regulatory sphere which shapes the field of action for the individual at every turn. This, unsurprisingly, does not appeal to rights-holders themselves.

      • Trusted Partner
        November 2023

        Tourism, heritage and commodification of non-human animals

        a post-humanist reflection

        by Álvaro López-López, Gino Jafet Quintero Venegas, Carol Kline, Tomas Arias, Jean Azcatl Pineda, Alicia Mariana Penélope Castro Pérez, Bobbie Chew Bigby, Émilie Crossley, Johan Edelheim, Georgina Flores, Carolin Funck, Leonardo Garavito-González, Yulei Guo, Jes Hooper, Brenda Martínez Velasco, Alejandro Morales, Gustavo Ortiz-Millán, Mateo Nicolás Rico Medina, Jorge Iván Ruiz Barrera, Javed Salim, Estephania Sepúlveda Perdomo, Rie Usui, David A. Varela-Trejo, Nusrat Yasmeen

        Heritage is a social construction rooted in modern and contemporary societies. It is commonly a positive assessment of many elements of the physical and human environment (e.g. ecosystems and landscapes, monuments, customs, gender norms, religious practices, gastronomy, and livelihoods). Heritage and tourism are strongly related to each other in that heritage gives rise to tourist attractions and activities, and tourism enhances the designation of heritage sites. Non-human animals (hereafter 'animals') are present as implicit or explicit heritage elements through multiple tourist environments: animals may be themselves the heritage focus of tourist interest (visual arts, gastronomy, as charismatic and distinguished beings, as part of festivities or rituals), or it may be that animals are agents involved in heritage tourist environments such as working animals or in recreational activities. A post-humanist perspective the moral valuation of equality between humans and other animals demands that both are sentient beings and self-aware of their pain and pleasure. Thus, the involvement of animals as heritage elements by themselves or as an element of tourist consumption in heritage sites implies their commodification and lack of agency. As such, these practices are usually unethical, since they threaten the animals' primary interests: not to suffer, not to feel pain and to be able to live their freedom. This book contains chapters that reveal both the unethical interactions between humans and animals within heritage tourism, and those that show experiences in which efforts are made to minimize damage within the commercialization of animals involved as heritage themselves. It will be of interest to postgraduate students, academics, NGOs and tourism planners.

      • Trusted Partner
        Science & Mathematics
        February 2024

        Biology and Integrated Management of Turfgrass Diseases

        by Gary W. Beehag, Nathan R. Walker, Percy T.W. Wong, Jyri Kaapro

        Cultivated turfgrass is an assemblage of mown, perennial grasses or prostrate-growing forb plants and a suite of microbes all competing with each other in a common environment. This book approaches turfgrass diseases from an ecological perspective and explains with examples how wild plants and microbes have co-evolved. It addresses the identification, biology and integrated management of both common turfgrass diseases and newly emergent diseases. It includes the common and lesser-known turfgrass species, their surrounding environment and the range of beneficial and pathogenic microbes which in combination explain why disease occurs. For disease identification purposes, fungal diseases are arranged according to their predominantly cool season and warm season occurrence. Turfgrass bacterial and viral diseases, and plant parasitic nematodes are also covered. Written by a team of international authors, it combines technical expertise and practical experience. Essential for anyone involved in managing turfgrass, this book provides the know-how to identify the early warning signs of diseases, in order to manipulate the environment and minimise the damage.

      • Trusted Partner
        October 2023

        Algal Biotechnology

        by Qiang Wang

        Algae are sunlight-driven cell factories, and can efficiently absorb CO2 and convert light energy to chemical energy such as lipid, starch and other carbohydrates and release O2. Algal feedstock is a promising resource for bioproduct production, given its high photosynthetic efficiency for producing biomass compared to conventional crops. Microalgae can be used for flue-gas and wastewater bioremediation. This book highlights recent breakthroughs in the multidisciplinary areas of algal biotechnology and the chapters feature recent developments from cyanobacteria to eukaryotic algae, from theoretical biology to applied biology. It also includes the latest advancements in algal-based synthetic biology, including metabolic engineering, artificial biological system construction and green chemicals production. With contributions by leading authorities in algal biotechnology research, it is a valuable resource for graduate students and researchers in the field, and those involved in the study of photosynthesis and green-cell factories.

      • Trusted Partner
        Insecticide & herbicide technology
        September 2001

        Biology of Terrestrial Molluscs

        by Edited by Gary M Barker

        With an estimated 35,000 species, terrestrial molluscs are one of the most successful and diverse animal groups in land-based ecosystems. These animals have long been of importance to human societies as food, medicine, crop pests, vectors of parasites, and as tools, personal ornamentation and currency in trade. This book presents a synthesis of current knowledge and research on the biology of terrestrial molluscs.

      • Trusted Partner
        Insects (entomology)
        June 2007

        Insect Conservation Biology

        by Edited by Alan J A Stewart, Timothy R New, Owen T Lewis

        In an age of unprecedented human impact on the environment, insect conservation biology is of increasing importance. Due to their abundance, diversity and rapid response to environmental changes, insects are also valuable indicators of wider biodiversity, and make excellent models for conservation research and monitoring. Over 50 international experts have contributed to this authoritative and up-to-date compendium, covering many topics including climate change, habitat management, ecosystem processes, conservation genetics, impact of GM technology, and the integration of insects into wider conservation agendas.

      • Trusted Partner
        Medical parasitology
        October 2002

        Lyme Borreliosis: Biology, Epidemiology and Control

        by Edited by Jeremy S Gray, Olaf Kahl, Robert S Lane, Gerold Stanek

        Lyme borreliosis commonly known as lyme disease is now acknowledged as the most highly prevalent arthropod-borne human disease in northern temperate regions of the world. This book describes the basic characteristics of the disease, the biology of the pathogens in their vectors and vertebrate hosts, their ecology in different regions of the world and the global epidemiology of the disease. The final chapters address the prevention and control measures that have resulted from this knowledge.

      • Trusted Partner
        Insects (entomology)
        December 1998

        Tsetse Biology and Ecology

        Their Role in the Epidemiology and Control of Trypanosomosis

        by Stephen G A Leak

        Domestic livestock in Africa are of importance not only as a source of milk and meat but also as a source of animal traction enabling farmers to cultivate larger areas, with crops providing the staple foods. Trypanosomosis, a parasitic disease transmitted cyclically by the tsetse fly (Glossina spp.), is arguably still the main constraint to livestock production on the continent, preventing full use of the land to feed the rapidly increasing human population. Sleeping sickness, the disease caused in humans by species of Trypanosoma, is an important and neglected disease posing a threat to millions of people in tsetse-infested areas. Often wrongly thought of as a disease of the past, the prevalence of human sleeping sickness is increasing in many areas.Although alternative methods to control the disease are being investigated, such as immunological approaches, use of chemotherapy or exploitation of the trypanotolerance trait, it is only control or eradication of the tsetse fly vector which will remove the threat of the disease rather than providing a better means of ‘living’ with it. As a result of the economic impact of tsetse-transmitted Trypanosomosis, a large amount of research literature has been produced. This book provides a comprehensive review of this literature. The text is divided into four parts: tsetse biology and ecology, epidemiology, vector control and control of trypanosomosis. The book is invaluable for medical and veterinary entomologists, parasitologists and epidemiologists.

      • Trusted Partner
        October 2020

        Turning Men into Pigs and Staying Safe from Such Trickery

        A Scientific Foray into the World of Ancient Greek Legends

        by Monika Niehaus, Michael Wink

        The adventures of Odysseus are not just a classic literary epic but also shine a light on intriguing questions for geography, archaeology and biology. Phenomena like the Cyclops and magic potions were only understood in recent decades thanks to phytochemical and pharmacological research that enabled new insights into the effect of plant substances on the mind and body. Monika Niehaus and Michael Wink embark on an enjoyable excursion in their book on a scientific foray for knowledge – from ancient myths to medieval drug excesses and the world of comics.

      • Trusted Partner
        2022

        A Workbook of Chemistry for Students of Medicine and Biology

        Introduction to the material covered in standard examinations

        by Dirk Röbke and Udo Wolfgramm

        Rote learning is one way to pass examinations, but really understanding the subject is even better. Most textbooks are limited to presenting facts without helping the reader review and practice. This workbook fills the gap with more than 1,000 sample examination questions from general, inorganic and organic chemistry. With it, students can practice and deepen what they have learned from textbooks. The problems can be solved without aids, and solutions are provided with detailed explanations. The workbook enjoys great popularity after helping countless students study successfully. From the contents: atomic structure and chemical bonds: noble gas configuration, electronegativity, hybridization, intermolecular interactions | nomenclature and structural formulas of inorganic and organic compounds | chemical equations: double transformations, acid-base reactions, complexes | quantities and concentrations of substance: gravimetry, titrations, percent by mass and by volume | law of mass action | acids, bases and salts: calculating pH value, titration curves, buffers, solubility product | redox reactions and oxidation numbers, Nernst equation | complex compounds | configurational and conformational isomerism | inductive and mesomeric effects | substitution, addition, elimination | aromatic compounds: reactions and second substitution | natural products: carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, peptides | carbonyl reactions: carboxylic acids, aldehydes, ketones

      • Trusted Partner
        Medicine
        April 2018

        Bovine Tuberculosis

        by Mark Chambers, Stephen Gordon, Francisco Olea-Popelka, Paul Barrow

        This book is contemporary, topical and global in its approach, and provides an essential, comprehensive treatise on bovine tuberculosis and the bacterium that causes it, Mycobacterium bovis. Bovine tuberculosis remains a major cause of economic loss in cattle industries worldwide, exacerbated in some countries by the presence of a substantial wildlife reservoir. It is a major zoonosis, causing human infection through consumption of unpasteurised milk or by close contact with infected animals. Following a systematic approach, expert international authors cover epidemiology and the global situation; microbial virulence and pathogenesis; host responses to the pathogen; and diagnosis and control of the disease. Aimed at researchers and practising veterinarians, this book is essential for those needing comprehensive information on the pathogen and disease, and offers a summary of key information learned from human tuberculosis research. It will be useful to those studying the infection and for those responsible for controlling the disease.

      • Trusted Partner
        Agricultural science
        June 1996

        Biology of Grasses

        by Edited by Geoffrey P Chapman

        Grasses are put to a multitude of uses by those involved in agriculture and recreation. They are also of importance to environmental biologists, for example those involved in restorative ecology. In this book the biology of grasses is illustrated by many different grass genera and species, drawn from both temperate and tropical zones. Beginning with a discussion of the role of grasses in a changing world, the author provides a thorough treatment of such topics as the generation and dispersal of grasses, their diversity, history, contrasting life styles, ecology and domestication. The text is supported by the inclusion of high quality line drawings and black and white photographs. There is also a thorough glossary of the terminology associated with grass science. This book bridges the gap between introductory textbooks and research and technical papers. It is an advanced level reference text for students and teachers of agriculture, plant biology and ecology. It is of particular importance to all those studying and researching the genetics, physiology and taxonomy of grasses.

      • Trusted Partner
        2022

        aporello: Human Parasites

        by Christine Bender-Leitzig, Dr. Reiner Pospischil

        Infestation with parasites usually causes revulsion in those affected and many infections are kept secret through shame. In recent times there has also been a rise in non-native parasites, which often remain undetected. This book gives an overview of the most significant human parasites as well as their - prevalence - symptoms - treatment possibilities. The text is accompanied by illustrations that help when giving everyday advice. Practical icons show at a glance when, for example, the authorities must be notified and what special things need to be considered. Highly concentrated knowledge in an instant? That’s aporello!

      • Trusted Partner
        Science & Mathematics
        March 2022

        Key Questions in Animal Behaviour and Welfare

        A Study and Revision Guide

        by Paul A. Rees

        An understanding of animal behaviour and welfare is an important requirement of a wide range of programmes of study including biology, zoology, animal welfare, animal behaviour, psychology and zoo biology. This book is intended as a study and revision guide for students following programmes of study in which animal behaviour and welfare are an important component. It contains 600 multiple-choice questions (and answers) set at three levels - foundation, intermediate and advanced - and grouped into 10 major topic areas: 1. Foundations and history of animal behaviour and welfare 2. Basic concepts and mechanisms in behaviour 3. Biological basis of behaviour 4. Learning, memory and training 5. Territoriality, navigation and migration 6 Animal cognition and communication 7. Behavioural ecology and social behaviour 8. Measuring, recording and analysing behaviour and welfare 9. Animal exploitation and welfare 10 Animal rights, ethics and law The book has been produced in a convenient format so that it can be used at any time in any place. It allows the reader to learn and revise the meaning of terms used in the study of animal behaviour and welfare, methods of recording behaviour and assessing welfare, the physiology of behaviour, learning, memory, cognition, behavioural ecology, animal rights and much more. Many of the questions require students to use their knowledge to interpret information provided in the form of graphs, data or photographs.

      • Trusted Partner
        Science & Mathematics
        August 2021

        Key Questions in Zoo and Aquarium Studies

        A Study and Revision Guide

        by Paul Rees

        An understanding of the work of zoos and aquariums is central to many programmes of study in wildlife conservation and more specialised programmes in zoo and aquarium science and management. This book is intended as a study and revision guide for students following these programmes. It contains 600 multiple-choice questions (and answers) set at three levels - foundation, intermediate and advanced - and grouped into 10 major topic areas: 1. History of zoos and aquariums 2. Zoo and exhibit design 3. Aquariums and Aquatic exhibits 4 Visitor studies, zoo education and zoo research 5. Nutrition and food presentation 6 Reproductive biology and genetics 7. Conservation breeding and assisted reproductive technologies 8. Behaviour, training and environmental enrichment 9. Animal welfare and conservation medicine 10. Zoo organisation and regulation The book has been produced in a convenient format so that it can be used at any time in any place. It allows the reader to learn and revise the meaning of terms used in zoo and aquarium biology, the principles of animal husbandry and enclosure design, the behaviour of zoo visitors, the operation of captive breeding programmes, the international organisation of zoos, their legal regulation and much more.

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