Modjaji Books
Modjaji Books is a small, independent, feminist publishing company, that started in 2007 in Cape Town.
View Rights PortalModjaji Books is a small, independent, feminist publishing company, that started in 2007 in Cape Town.
View Rights PortalThe effects of climate change on food production and security are many and varied and represent one of the biggest challenges facing humanity today. As the human population increases there is increasing pressure on land availability and water resources. In many staple crops, warming temperatures have caused decreases in overall yields but at the same time the demand for cheaper and more sustainable food has increased. This edited volume examines the effects of climate change on all aspects of food production and how this is affecting food security in many parts of the world. The book presents a series of chapters which describe new technologies aimed at mitigating these effects via, for example, genetic modification, microbial science, and the introduction of new crops. · Information is presented in a very accessible and logical format. · The book focuses on sustainable food security and safety, illustrated with case studies. · The chapters cover the latest thinking on food security via sustainable livestock and agricultural production. · The book describes the social issues related to food safety, regulatory frameworks, and policies in the light of climate change.
Gene expression in cells follows a prescribed pathway that conforms to the Central Dogma; where the genetic information stored in DNA is transcribed into RNA and then expressed into proteins, which influences most plant traits. Plant salt tolerance research is directed towards identifying nucleotide variants that could contribute to tolerant phenotypes. This book comprehensively presents the current state of knowledge on plant salt tolerance through meticulous analysis of the processes operating across the Central Dogma. It provides a detailed account of modulation of gene expression through genome editing systems to achieve crop improvement against salt stress. It also provides state-of-the-art information on advances in breeding technologies of genome selection and accelerated de novo domestication for rapidly improving the salt tolerance of plants for global food security. This book: 1.Provides a comprehensive coverage of plant salt tolerance mechanisms. 2.Spotlights various factors functioning along the Central Dogma pathway and their regulation in response to salinity. 3.Examines how these factors function to protect the plants from high salinity. 4.Highlights advances in cutting-edge breeding technologies for improving salt tolerance. The book will be of particular value to students and researchers of plant genetics, molecular biology and physiology and those with an interest in salinity and salt tolerance.
The genetic modification of crops continues to be the subject of intense debate, and opinions are often strongly polarised. Environmental Impact of Genetically Modified Crops addresses the major concerns of scientists, policy makers, environmental lobby groups and the general public regarding this controversial issue, from an editorially neutral standpoint. While the main focus is on environmental impact, food safety issues, for both humans and animals are also considered. The book concludes with a discussion on the future of agricultural biotechnology in the context of sustainability, natural resource management and future global population and food supply.
The prediction of producing desirable traits in offspring such as increased growth rate, or superior meat, milk and wool production, is a vital economic tool to the animal scientist. Covering the fundamental principles of the application of linear models for the prediction of genetic merit in livestock, this new edition is fully updated to incorporate recent advances in methods of genomic prediction for pure and cross-bred animals. It provides models for the analysis of main production traits as well as functional traits, and includes numerous worked examples. The book covers: - models of survival analysis, social interaction and sire and dam models; - advancements in the use of SNPs in the computation of genomic breeding values; - single step approaches to genomics; - genomic non-additive models; - temporal and genomic analysis of genetic change. Suitable for postgraduate students, researchers and lecturers of animal breeding, genetics and genomics, this established textbook provides a thorough grounding in both the basics and new developments of linear models and animal genetics.
Since the middle of the twentieth century the world has witnessed a succession of political and social disruptions. Globalisation, technological advancement, climate change, human migration, war and conflict - all have caused major worldwide upheavals. In this light, it's unsurprising that conservation of rare breed animals has been neglected. Yet the preservation of these genetic resources - this biological diversity - is an essential ingredient of sustainable life on Earth, and not something we can afford to lose. This book, straight from the 'horse's mouth' Lawrence Alderson CBE, challenges often repeated 'facts' about livestock farming and argues for a reasoned and evidence-based approach from political and public circles. Correcting misconceptions as he goes, he recounts the creation and development of the rare breed conservation movement, addresses extinctions and genetic safe-guarding measures, and considers where we go from here. Challenged as we are by climate change, sustainability and feeding the world, perhaps it is these endangered animals that hold the answer - perhaps with them, we can adapt to our changing environment and see a way forward to a more certain future.
Over the past 25 years, terms like genetic modification, genetic engineering, recombinant DNA technology, and biotechnology have become commonplace in the news and in the public vocabulary. But biotechnology has in fact been practiced for thousands of years, with the aim of harnessing organisms for processing food and making useful products. Since the 1980s, however, recombinant DNA technology has given us the ability to modify organisms in the most fundamental way. The modification of plants by these new techniques has unleashed a storm of public controversy worldwide. Plant Biotechnology, Second Edition brings perspective to the discussion. Tracing the history of biotechnology, from its origins in antiquity through its foundations as a science in the work of Louis Pasteur to the birth of modern genetic engineering, this eBook describes traditional uses for plants, reveals how they are genetically engineered, and explains how new technology compares with conventional ways of generating new food plants. Readers will find that this accessible introduction dispels some of the myths surrounding genetic engineering, clearly presents the current impact and future potential of genetically modified plants, and provides a balanced look at the risks and benefits of biotechnology.
After only 200 years, the field of genetics is young compared to how long plants and animals have inhabited the earth. What was once the scientific study of inherited traits has come to include the study of everything related to genes, the "building blocks of life," including their functions, structures, interactions, and sequences. Plant Genetics, Second Edition gives a detailed look at the genetics of plants through historical scientific achievements, discussions of genetic diversity, agricultural practices, and comparisons to animal and human genetics. A brief history provides a sketch of two genetic pioneers, Gregor Mendel and Barbara McClintock, who have left everlasting impressions on the field of plant genetics. A technical overview explains basic genetic terminology and fundamental processes. Details of some widely used methods in biotechnology are also included in an attempt to demystify certain aspects of genetic engineering. This reference is a vital tool for students and teachers.
In the context of the "Xiaoxiang Family Letters" activity carried out across the province, the organizing committee extensively collected family letters and selected 100 family letters to show the spirit of the people in the new era. The main content of the letter includes the gratifying changes in the fight against poverty in Sanxiang, the affectionate concern of the wandering children and the fathers and elders in the hometown, the home and country feelings of heroes and the most beautiful people, and the silent persistence of various industries in specific positions, and so on. The structure of each chapter of the book is divided into two parts: introduction (mainly including the information of the writer and recipient, refer to "Anti-epidemic") and the main text. The structure of the whole book includes the preface, table of contents, main text, and postscript. Further reading or content links. The structure is characterized by conciseness, conciseness and conciseness.
The manuscript is composed of 20 papers. It mainly discusses the time when the book of Confucian Classics was written and the variation of the text in the process of inheritance. It was first proposed in the history of the Book of Confucius that the book was written in the late Eastern Han Dynasty or the early Western Jin Dynasty. Wang Suzhu of "Classic Interpretations" and "Yaodian" proposed that Wang Zhu had been artificially modified by the Tang and Song people, which eventually led to Wang Su's ancient script "Shangshu" being completely unrecognizable; the demonstration of Chinese culture from Han and Tang to Ming and Qing has been maintained Strong positive output situation, wide radiation area, great influence; emphasized the current value and modern significance of studying the literature of the Book of Learning, advocated the national strategy of serving the spread of Chinese culture outside the domain, and must use the literature of the Book of Learning outside the domain Ancient Chinese literature established the right to speak Chinese culture and found the correct way and effective method for the spread of Chinese culture outside the region. The manuscript also analyzes the types of foreign texts in Dunhuang's Shangshu and its characteristics.
One day, mom brought back a little boy. From then on, all the family took focus on the baby. The boy’s sister thought parents didn’t love her any longer, so she hided in a cave alone and changed into a donkey. For looking after her, grandpa changed into a donkey too. Did other members of the family change into donkey?
Technology for modifying the genotypes and phenotypes of insects and other arthropods has steadily progressed by development of more precise and powerful methods, most prominently transgenic modification. There is now almost unlimited ability to modify phenotypes to benefit human health and agriculture. Precise DNA modifications and gene drive particularly have the power to make wild-type populations less harmful in ways that could never be performed with previous transgenic approaches. This transition from primarily laboratory science to greater prominence for field applications has also necessitated a greater development of modelling, ethical considerations and regulatory oversight. The 2nd edition of Transgenic Insects contains chapters contributed by experts in the field that cover the technology and applications that are now possible. These include an increased emphasis on acceptance issues that will be necessary for application of many technologies.
Climate change is a reality that affects all aspects of agriculture, and is also impacted by agriculture. This collection of articles looks at a range of topics including: Impact on pollinators, key crops, farming systems, animal welfare and on humans, role of farmer organisations in extending use of climate-smart practices, genetic resources able to cope with climate change, including wild relatives and breeding for improved tolerance, how rhizobacteria can improve resilience, mitigation of livestock greenhouse gas emissions and the push for climate neutrality in the dairy industry and carbon storage in grasslands and seaweed. These articles have been published in the journal CABI Reviews.
Genome editing offers a powerful tool to significantly accelerate crop-breeding programs in order to develop new and improved varieties. It allows precise modification of an organism's DNA sequence, often by creating targeted double-strand breaks at specific locations. The CRISPR-Cas system has emerged as the preferred method of gene editing and offers a powerful technology for crop improvement. The use of CRISPR in plant research has led to significant improvements in crop performance in terms of yield, nutrition, stress tolerance and resistance against agricultural pests and diseases. This book explores the cutting-edge field of genome editing, its applications and potential to revolutionize the genetic improvement of crops. It includes: Foundational concepts and historical context of genome editing (GE). Structure and mechanisms of various genome editing techniques. Application of GE for trait improvements in plants. Regulatory, biosafety, and ethical considerations. This is a valuable resource for researchers in crop genetic improvement, graduate and postgraduate students in molecular biology and biotechnology programs, and professionals in the field.
Since the first edition of this book was published in 2002, the field of quantitative genetics, genomics and breeding has changed markedly. To meet this challenge, this new edition has only five updated chapters; the remaining 17 chapters are entirely new. This book presents state-of-the-art, authoritative chapters on 1) Genomics, Quantitative Trait Loci and Molecular Breeding (11 chapters) and 2) Multi-environment Trials and Plant Breeding (11 chapters). These chapters emphasise the application of genomics and genome editing techniques in the context of plant breeding, and the latest in examining genotype X environment interactions in the field through applying quantitative genetics techniques. There is a particular focus on using genomic information to help evaluate traits that can combat abiotic stresses, genome-wide association mapping, high-throughput phenotyping, bioinformatics and the use of big data and gene editing techniques. Chapters describe breeding approaches that help make use of alien germplasm and enable biofortification, and the intergration of statistical techniques. Examples are taken from across crop science and a very wide geographical base.
Conservation in protected areas has focused on preserving biodiversity of ecosystems and species, whereas conserving the genetic diversity contained within species has historically often been ignored. However, maintaining genetic diversity is fundamental to food security and the provision of raw materials and it is best preserved within plants' natural habitats. This is particularly true for wild plants that are directly related to crop species and can play a key role in providing beneficial traits, such as pest or disease resistance and yield improvement. These wild relatives are presently threatened due to processes of habitat destruction and change and methodologies have been adapted to provide in-situ conservation through the establishment of genetic reserves within the existing network of protected areas.Providing a long-awaited synthesis of these new methodologies, this book presents a practical set of management guidelines that can be used for the conservation of plant genetic diversity of crop wild relatives in protected areas.
Problem behaviours are often the result of how an animal thinks and feels, genetics, and environmental influences. Steering away from just description diagnoses and focusing instead on emotional and cognitive causes, this book provides a practical approach to diagnosing, treating, and managing behaviour pathologies in dogs and cats. Beginning by addressing cases in the first opinion practice, this book then considers physical disorders that may lead to or exacerbate abnormal behavior. From there, the focus shifts to mental and emotional health, from an assessment of normal behavior and giving juveniles an optimal start in life, to diagnosing mental and emotional disorders, addressing emotions such as anxiety and frustration, and how to manage these issues - by modifying behavior, managing the animal's environment, training, and, when necessary, the use of medications. The second half of the book then addresses owner concerns, including management problems, aggression, affective disorder, elimination disorder, abnormal and repetitive behaviours and ageing-related problems. With an emphasis on helping first line veterinarians identify common presentations and offer help to owners, this book: - Addresses both normal and abnormal behaviour in cats and dogs from an emotion and cognition perspective; - Provides behaviour modification protocols, and drug doses and indications; - Includes handouts to be used both within the practice and with clients to help the veterinary surgeon manage the case. Written by international experts, the book translates their insights and experience into approaches taken in behavioural medicine. Also including the most up-to-date drugs, it is an important resource for both small animal veterinarians and students of veterinary medicine or animal behaviour.
Is fidelity an agreement with an expiration date?Does infidelity always involve heartbreak and conflict?After we discovered an infidelity, is it possible to repair and restore trust?Living a committed and loving relationship is a deeply human longing. The issue ofinfidelity (a frequent love conflict) must be addressed by integrating thecontradictions and ambivalences of human nature, particularly on the topic oflove. Infidelity is a very complex phenomenon that is characterized by theexistence of a “villain” and a “victim”. Many times it is explained in a moralistic wayand that prevents exploring the motivations that drive it, the beliefs that supportit and the procedures that complicate it. Love requires commitment andcertainties, while erotic desire opens different paths within the same territory oflove. The correct management of these two forces is key to understanding andovercoming infidelity.
Genetic epidemiology plays a key role in discovering genetic factors influencing health and disease, and in understanding how genes and environmental risk factors interact. There is growing interest in this field within public health, with the goal of translating the results into promoting health and preventing disease in both families and populations. This textbook provides graduate students with a working knowledge of genetic epidemiology research methods. Following an overview of the field, the book reviews key genetic concepts, provides an update on relevant genomic technology, including genome-wide chips and DNA sequencing, and describes methods for assessing the magnitude of genetic influences on diseases and risk factors. The book focuses on research study designs for discovering disease susceptibility genes, including family-based linkage analysis, candidate gene and genome-side association studies, assessing gene-environment interactions and epistasis, studies of Non-Mendelian inheritance, and statistical analyses of data from these studies. Specific applications of each research method are illustrated using a variety of diseases and risk factors relevant to public health, and useful web-based genetic analysis software, human reference panels, and repositories, that can greatly facilitate this work, are described. Concluding with a review of ethical issues and a framework for translating human genomics research to clinical practice and public health benefit, this textbook is an essential new resource for graduate students in epidemiology and public health genetics.
From children's book author Emily House comes a wonderful story that re-connects us with our planet. A modern fable inspired by recent events, Earth Takes a Break is a touching picture book jam-packed with fun illustrations and woven together with a message of hope. When Earth feels unwell, she goes to the doctor to ask for help. What the doctor prescribes seems impossible to Earth, until she wakes the next day to find a surprising change!
The cacao (Theobroma cacao) plant is an important Neo-Tropical species whose natural habitat is the Amazon basin. Over the last 30 years there has been a considerable geographical expansion in the availability of cacao genetic resources. As a result the plant has a rich genetic diversity that exists at two levels: that of the primitive populations in the area of original distribution of the species, and that of the derived cultivated populations. This book provides a comprehensive review of our current knowledge of the diversity of the species. It starts by examining the diversity and inheritance of the characteristics of primitive populations in the Amazonian and Caribbean regions. It then looks at the evolution of diversity within cultivated populations first in South America and around the Caribbean, and then beyond the Americas. The book describes the inter-relationships between populations based on morphological and molecular markers. It also examines the conservation of genetic resources and how these genetic resources can be utilized to produce new cultivars.