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Nanotechnology and Nanomaterials for Energy
by Pierre-Camille Lacaze Jean-Christophe LacroixThe major topical and societal issues of energy transition and environmental conservation have benefited from the contribution of nanotechnologies and nanomaterials. Nanomaterials, including carbon-based newcomers, have helped to improve in particular the performance of energy storage and conversion devices. Some of these nanomaterials, including fullerenes, carbon nanotubes, nanodiamonds and carbon dots, were discovered well before the 2000s. Others are more recent, including graphene (the leading material of the 21st century) as well as many mineral materials developed at the nano scale: atomic clusters, metal or semiconductor nanoparticles, two-dimensional inorganic materials, metal-organic frameworks (MOF) and luminescent quantum dots. All of these are involved in the realization of devices for energy purposes. Nanotechnology and Nanomaterials for Energy provides a critical analysis of the latest work in the fields of batteries, photovoltaics, fuel cells and catalysis as well as lighting, with the advent of light-emitting diodes.
Nanotechnology and Neuroscience: Nano-electronic, Photonic and Mechanical Neuronal Interfacing
by Massimo De Vittorio Luigi Martiradonna John AssadThis book describes the use of modern micro- and nanofabrication technologies to develop improved tools for stimulating and recording electrical activity in neuronal networks. It provides an overview of the different ways in which the "nano-world" can be beneficial for neuroscientists, including improvement of mechanical adhesion of cells on electrodes, tight-sealed extracellular recordings or intracellular approaches with strongly reduced invasiveness and tools for localized electrical or optical stimulation in optogenetics experiments. Specific discussion of fabrication strategies is included, to provide a comprehensive guide to develop micro and nanostructured tools for biological applications. A perspective on integrating these devices with state-of-the-art technologies for large-scale in vitro and in vivo experiments completes the picture of neuronal interfacing with micro- and nanostructures.
Nanotechnology and Plant Sciences
by Manzer H. Siddiqui Mohamed H. Al-Whaibi Firoz MohammadThis book presents a holistic view of the complex and dynamic responses of plants to nanoparticles, the signal transduction mechanisms involved, and the regulation of gene expression. Further, it addresses the phytosynthesis of nanoparticles, the role of nanoparticles in the antioxidant systems of plants and agriculture, the beneficial and harmful effects of nanoparticles on plants, and the application of nanoparticles and nanotubes to mass spectrometry, aiming ultimately at an analysis of the metabolomics of plants. The growing numbers of inventions in the field of nanotechnology are producing novel applications in the fields of biotechnology and agriculture. Nanoparticles have received much attention because of the unique physico-chemical properties of these compounds. In the life sciences, nanoparticles are used as "smart" delivery systems, prompting the Nobel Prize winner P. Ehrlich to refer to these compounds as "magic bullets. " Nanoparticles also play an important role in agriculture as compound fertilizers and nano-pesticides, acting as chemical delivery agents that target molecules to specific cellular organelles in plants. The influence of nanoparticles on plant growth and development, however, remains to be investigated. Lastly, this book reveals the research gaps that must be bridged in the years to come in order to achieve larger goals concerning the applications of nanotechnology in the plants sciences. In the 21st century, nanotechnology has become a rapidly emerging branch of science. In the world of physical sciences, nanotechnological tools have been exploited for a broad range of applications. In recent years, nanoparticles have also proven useful in several branches of the life sciences. In particular, nanotechnology has been employed in drug delivery and related applications in medicine.
Nanotechnology and Scientific Communication: Ways of Talking about Emerging Technologies and Their Impact on Society (2004-2008)
by Deborah R. BassettThis study examines findings from a 4-year-long ethnography of communication among a research university’s community of scientists and engineers working in nanoscience and nanotechnology. It includes analysis of 20 in-depth interviews with scientists and engineers from 18 different disciplines self-identified as working in nanoscale science and engineering. Using multiple methods of inquiry, including fieldwork, interviews, and textual analysis, elements of a shared speech code are presented, each of which indicate culturally distinctive understandings of psychology, sociology and rhetoric. In particular, the interview data addresses questions such as “What kind of person is a scientist?” “What is the role of science in society?” and “What is the role of communication in science?” This book will appeal to readers interested in science and society, scientific communication, and ethnography of communication.
Nanotechnology and Sustainable Development (Routledge Studies in Technology, Work and Organizations)
by Claire AuplatPublic institutions, academic researchers and financial analysts among others hail nanotechnologies as one of the most promising sectors of social and economic development. Calculations predict that it will become a trillion euro industry by 2015 and that it will bring about economic change of at least the same magnitude as the industrial revolution. Nanotechnology is recent, younger by some thirty years than biotechnology, but it appears at a point in time in human history where there is a convergence between the globalization of access to information and increasing awareness of the importance of sustainable development. Nanotechnology and Sustainable Development explores the ways in which this convergence leads to a change in the management of innovation – and ultimately a reshaping of technological democracy. The scope of the study is global, with a particular focus on Europe and the United States, utilizing several case studies of stakeholders including entrepreneurs, commentators, end users, scientists, and policy makers.
Nanotechnology and the Challenges of Equity, Equality and Development
by Susan E. Cozzens Jameson WetmoreNanotechnology is enabling applications in materials, microelectronics, health, and agriculture, which are projected to create the next big shift in production, comparable to the industrial revolution. Such major shifts always co-evolve with social relationships. This book focuses on how nanotechnologies might affect equity/equality in global society. Nanotechnologies are likely to open gaps by gender, ethnicity, race, and ability status, as well as between developed and developing countries, unless steps are taken now to create a different outcome. Organizations need to change their practices, and cultural ideas must be broadened if currently disadvantaged groups are to have a more equal position in nano-society rather than a more disadvantaged one. Economic structures are likely to shift in the nano-revolution, requiring policymakers and participatory processes to invent new institutions for social welfare, better suited to the new economic order than those of the past.
Nanotechnology and the Generation of Sustainable Hydrogen (Green Energy and Technology)
by Sarah Farrukh Xianfeng Fan Kiran Mustafa Arshad Hussain Muhammad Ayoub Mohammad YounasThis book explains the aspiring vision of a sustainable hydrogen generating system which employs nanotechnology one way or the other and presents a detailed update on research activities, achievements and challenges. It explores how nanotechnology is reshaping science in general and how this can be applied to the generation and storage of hydrogen energy. This book begins by highlighting the importance of hydrogen a source of sustainable energy and its impact on the technical advances of fuel cells, internal combustion engines, batteries and power plants. The book depicts the role of nanotechnology in the development of sustainable hydrogen. Comprehensive studies on various nanotechnologies involved in hydrogen generation are discussed in separate chapters, representing a complete picture of hydrogen generation utilizing nanotechnology. This book serves as a useful research tool for academics and practitioners looking towards new ways to develop and consume energy, without conceding our environment. Providing the advantages and disadvantages of each technology discussed, this book shows the benefits of utilizing nanotechnology in this field.
Nanotechnology and the Public: Risk Perception and Risk Communication (Perspectives in Nanotechnology)
by Susanna Hornig PriestFrom nuclear power to gene therapy to the automobile, history shows that it is useful to encourage and facilitate public discussion about new technologies and their potential dangers. Part of the series Perspectives in Nanotechnology, Nanotechnology and the Public: Risk Perception and Risk Communication assesses results from focus groups, interviews, and other resources to provide a more nuanced understanding of how non-experts perceive nanotechnology and what they expect from it. Includes a series of special essays by social scientists and humanities scholars who have studied nanotechnology and society from different perspectives Assessing how "ordinary" people form opinions about new technologies and their adoption, this book addresses the role of media messages and pre-existing values in this process, as well as how risks can become either amplified or weakened along the way as a result of social mechanisms. Using solid theory and research to back presented concepts on risk perception and communication, the author discusses the potential for using informed consent, labels, and other types of consumer warnings that have proved to be effective in areas other than nano. An in-depth investigation into the concept of mass communication practices, this book explores the paradox of why, despite its appeal and promise, public engagement has had only limited success in the dialogue on nanotechnology. Aimed at finding solutions, the book’s resulting conclusions are considered in the context of broader issues. These include how society makes up its collective mind about technology adoption and all the profound questions this raises, in terms of democratic theory.
Nanotechnology Applications for Solar Energy Systems
by Mohsen SheikholeslamiNanotechnology Applications for Solar Energy Systems Understand the latest developments in solar nanotechnology with this comprehensive guide Solar energy has never seemed a more critical component of humanity’s future. As global researchers and industries work to develop sustainable technologies and energy sources worldwide, the need to increase efficiency and decrease costs becomes paramount. Nanotechnology has the potential to play a considerable role in meeting these challenges, leading to the development of solar energy systems that overcome the limitations of existing technologies. Nanotechnology Applications for Solar Energy Systems is a comprehensive guide to the latest technological advancements and applications of nanotechnology in the field of solar energy. It analyzes nanotechnology applications across a full range of solar energy systems, reviewing feasible technological advancements for enhanced performance of solar energy devices, and discussing emerging nanomaterials such as graphene and graphene derivatives. Nanotechnology Applications for Solar Energy Systems readers will also find: Detailed treatment of nanotechnology applications in systems including solar concentrating collectors, linear Fresnel reflectors, parabolic trough collectors, and more Coverage of methods to enhance the performance of solar energy devices including solar ponds and solar steam generators A comprehensive review of nanomaterials classification and the properties of nanomaterials in heat transfer and efficiency enhancement Nanotechnology Applications for Solar Energy Systems is critical for researchers in fields related to solar energy, engineers and industry professionals developing solar technology, and academics working in related fields such as chemistry, physics, materials science, and electrical engineering.
Nanotechnology Applications in Health and Environmental Sciences (Nanotechnology in the Life Sciences)
by Necdet Saglam Feza Korkusuz Ram PrasadNanoscience and nanotechnologies are leading to a major point to our understanding of nature. Nanotechnology can be generally defined as creation and use of nano-sized systems, devices, and structures which have special functions or properties because of their small size. This volume on Nanotechnology Applications in Health and Environmental Sciences focuses on biotechnological and environmental applications of nanomaterials. It covers popular and various nanomedical topics such as oncology, genetics, and reconstructive medicine. Additionally, many chapters give leading-edge information on nano-sensor applications and usage in specific disciplines. Also, two chapters on novel subjects have been included on Lantibiotics and microbiota. This book should be useful for nanotechnologists, microbiologists, and researchers interested in nanomedicine and nano-biotechnology, as well as environmental nanotechnology.
Nanotechnology Applications in the Food Industry
by V Ravishankar Rai Jamuna A BaiNanotechnology is increasingly used in the food industry in the production, processing, packaging, and preservation of foods. It is also used to enhance flavor and color, nutrient delivery, and bioavailability, and to improve food safety and in quality management. Nanotechnology Applications in the Food Industry is a comprehensive reference book containing exhaustive information on nanotechnology and the scope of its applications in the food industry. The book has five sections delving on all aspects of nanotechnology and its key role in food industry in the present scenario. Part I on Introduction to Nanotechnology in Food Sector covers the technological basis for its application in food industry and in agriculture. The use of nanosized foods and nanomaterials in food, the safety issues pertaining to its applications in foods and on market analysis and consumer perception of food nanotechnology has been discussed in the section. Part II on Nanotechnology in Food Packaging reviews the use of nanopolymers, nanocomposites and nanostructured coatings in food packaging. Part III on Nanosensors for Safe and Quality Foods provides an overview on nanotechnology in the development of biosensors for pathogen and food contaminant detections, and in sampling and food quality management. Part IV on Nanotechnology for Nutrient Delivery in Foods deals with the use of nanotechnology in foods for controlled and effective release of nutrients. Part V on Safety Assessment for Use of Nanomaterials in Food and Food Production deliberates on the benefits and risks associated with the extensive and long term applications of nanotechnology in food sector.
Nanotechnology: Applications to Space Exploration (Synthesis Lectures on Engineering, Science, and Technology)
by Deb NewberryThe convergence of 1) the intensification of space exploration and 2) the increasing understanding of the world at the atomic and molecular level, nanotechnology, has resulted in a synergy of discoveries and innovations. The result of this synergy may result in leaps in the exploration beyond the surface of the earth but also improve life on our home planet. The content describes the challenge of escaping the earth’s surface, remaining in orbits around our planet, and landing and surviving on worlds away. The associated space environments and variables are covered in general terms and not in an encyclopedic manner. Discoveries in the nanotechnology arena as they can be applied to space exploration are also covered in an understandable manner. This book is a must for people who are working in the “space” industry who need to know not only more about the many aspects of their industry but also must understand nano-scale implications for the future. Likewise, participants in the nanotechnology arena who want to understand the challenges of space exploration will find critical information in this text.
Nanotechnology-Based Additive Manufacturing: Product Design, Properties, and Applications
by Kalim DeshmukhNanotechnology-Based Additive Manufacturing State-of-the-art overview of additive manufacturing techniques with an emphasis on processes, product designs and applications This book offers a thorough overview of additive manufacturing technologies, including manufacturing requirements, product design, optimization of processes and product parameters to reduce manufacturing costs. It provides a comprehensive and state-of-the-art review on various additive manufacturing technologies, their advantages, shortcomings, potential applications and future directions. Sample topics discussed by the three well-qualified editors on the topic of additive manufacturing include: Areas of application in the fields of electronics, aerospace, construction, automobile, sports and biomedicine Material considerations, the requirement of specific design, fabrication and processing methods Advantages and disadvantages of various 3D printing techniques for the respectively intended applications This book is an immensely valuable resource for researchers working in the field of additive manufacturing or 3D printing, or for developers dealing with the processing and manufacturing of materials and products for advanced technologies.
Nanotechnology Based Advanced Medical Textiles and Biotextiles for Healthcare
by Vivek Dave Prashansa Sharma Devsuni Singh Suman PantThis book provides systematic coverage of research into medical and biotextiles based on nanomaterials as applicable in healthcare. Divided into three sections, it explains manufacturing, properties, types, and recent developments in nanotechnology based medical textiles backed by case studies. It includes a wide range of different clinical applications of biotextiles for healthcare including nanotextile scaffolds, nano-based artificial organs, surgical sutures, enzymatic assisted enhanced biotextiles, tissue engineering or drug delivery system via nanofibers, and so forth.Features: Provides strong and broad overview of medical applications in the field of nano and biotextiles. Highlights different approaches, recent research, and emerging innovations. Covers designing or developing nanomaterials based antiviral surface disinfectants with self-cleaning property. Reviews different applications of nano based medical textiles such as deodorizing or pH control clothing for hygiene maintenance. Includes the real-life applications based descriptive case studies that offer a diverse range of perspectives. This book is aimed at researchers and graduate students in textile technology and engineering, and medical textiles.
Nanotechnology Based Delivery of Phytoconstituents and Cosmeceuticals
by Deep Pooja Hitesh KulhariThis book explores the role of nanotechnology in the delivery of natural phytoconstituents and cosmeceuticals. It presents polymeric nanocarriers, lipid-based nanocarriers, metal/metal oxide nanocarriers, protein nanocarriers, and dendrimers for the delivery of phytoconstituents. Further, it focuses on the usage of phytocompounds in various cosmeceutical products and nano delivery technologies used in the delivery of various cosmeceuticals. Finally, the book reviews the toxicity issues of nanoparticles in the delivery of phytoconstituents and cosmeceuticals and regulatory aspects for clinical applications of nano phytomedicines. This book is helpful for academicians and researchers working in pharmaceutical sciences, nano science, material science, plant science, and cosmetic science.
Nanotechnology-Based Industrial Applications of Ionic Liquids (Nanotechnology in the Life Sciences)
by Inamuddin Abdullah M. AsiriNumerous solvents used in chemical processes have poisonous and unsafe properties that pose significant ecological concerns ranging from atmospheric emissions to the contamination of water effluents. To combat these ecological threats, over the course of the past two decades, the field of green chemistry has grown to develop more natural reaction processes and techniques involving the use of nonconventional solvents to diminish waste solvent production and thus decrease negative impact on the environment. Ionic liquids in particular are more environmentally friendly substitutes to conventional solvents, and as such, have seen more widespread use in the past decade. They have been used in such processes as extraction, separation, purification of organic, inorganic, and bioinorganic compounds, reaction media in biochemical and chemical catalysis, green organic and drug synthesis, among other industrial applications. Thus, in proving themselves a suitable greener media for economic viability in chemical processes, ionic liquids are leading to more sustainable development. This edition explores the application of ionic liquids as a green solvent. It contains a state-of-the-art overview on ionic liquids as green solvents for chemical processes and techniques, as well as some of their useful industrial applications.
Nanotechnology-Based Precision Tools for the Detection and Treatment of Cancer
by Chad A. Mirkin Thomas J. Meade Sarah Hurst Petrosko Alexander H. SteghThis book discusses emerging nanotechnology-based tools that have the potential to dramatically impact cancer research, diagnostics, and treatment. Cancer is a complex, devastating, and debilitating disease and, although much progress has been made, novel, more effective diagnostic and treatment options are still needed, especially for advanced cancers. The ultimate goal is to detect cancer early and non-invasively and to provide efficacious and targeted precision treatments that cause fewer harmful side effects. This book explains how nanotechnology can exploit the size-, shape-, and composition-dependent properties of nanomaterials to provide novel tools for precision cancer medicine. It will be of interest to researchers and professionals working in the fields of chemistry, biology, materials science and engineering, and medicine who want to learn more about this fascinating and fast-paced area of research.
Nanotechnology Based Strategies for Combating Antimicrobial Resistance
by Mohmmad Younus Wani Irshad Ahmad Wani Akhilesh RaiThis book provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in nanotechnology as an alternative strategy for addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Examining nanotechnology-based methods such as nanoencapsulation, drug delivery, and conjugation, the text highlights their successful application in treating microbial infections with reduced resistance and off-target toxicity. The introductory section outlines AMR and explores diverse mechanisms of microbial resistance, emphasizing the potential of nanotechnology to surmount these challenges. Subsequent chapters investigate the role of specific nanomaterials—metal nanoparticles, metal oxide nanoparticles, functionalized quantum dots, magnetic nanoparticles, bimetallic nanoparticles, nanocomposites, carbon nanomaterials, and polymer-based nanomaterials—in overcoming antimicrobial resistance. Several chapters focus on the efficacy of nanoemulsions as an antimicrobial delivery method, underscoring their inherent antimicrobial properties, capacity to enhance drug solubility, stability, bioavailability, and targeting potential at the organ and cellular levels. The concluding section provides a detailed review of liposomes, dendrimers-based nanoparticles, and micelles as drug delivery vehicles in the context of combating pathogens resistant to antimicrobials.
The Nanotechnology Challenge
by David A. DanaNanotechnology is the wave of the future, and has already been incorporated into everything from toothpaste to socks to military equipment. The safety of nanotechnology for human health and the environment is a great unknown, however, and no legal system in the world has yet devised a way to reasonably address the uncertain risks of nanotechnology. To do so will require creating new legal institutions. This volume of essays by leading law scholars and social and physical scientists offers a range of views as to how such institutions should be formed. It is essential reading for anyone who may wonder how we can continue to innovate technologically in a way that both delivers the benefits and sustains human health and the environment.
Nanotechnology Characterization Tools for Biosensing and Medical Diagnosis
by Challa S.S.R. KumarEighth volume of a 40 volume series on nanoscience and nanotechnology, edited by the renowned scientist Challa S.S.R. Kumar. This handbook gives a comprehensive overview about Nanotechnology Characterization Tools for Biosensing and Medical Diagnosis. Modern applications and state-of-the-art techniques are covered and make this volume an essential reading for research scientists in academia and industry.
Nanotechnology Characterization Tools for Environment, Health, and Safety
by Challa S. S. R. KumarTenth volume of a 40 volume series on nanoscience and nanotechnology, edited by the renowned scientist Challa S.S.R. Kumar. This handbook gives a comprehensive overview about Nanotechnology Characterization Tools for Environment, Health, and Safety. Modern applications and state-of-the-art techniques are covered and make this volume an essential reading for research scientists in academia and industry.
Nanotechnology Characterization Tools for Tissue Engineering and Medical Therapy
by Challa S. S. R. KumarNinth volume of a 40 volume series on nanoscience and nanotechnology, edited by the renowned scientist Challa S.S.R. Kumar. This handbook gives a comprehensive overview about Nanotechnology Characterization Tools for Tissue Engineering and Medical Therapy. Modern applications and state-of-the-art techniques are covered and make this volume an essential reading for research scientists in academia and industry.
Nanotechnology Commercialization: Manufacturing Processes and Products
by Thomas O. Mensah Ben Wang Geoffrey Bothun Jessica Winter Virginia DavisA fascinating and informative look at state-of-the-art nanotechnology research, worldwide, and its vast commercial potential Nanotechnology Commercialization: Manufacturing Processes and Products presents a detailed look at the state of the art in nanotechnology and explores key issues that must still be addressed in order to successfully commercialize that vital technology. Written by a team of distinguished experts in the field, it covers a range of applications notably: military, space, and commercial transport applications, as well as applications for missiles, aircraft, aerospace, and commercial transport systems. The drive to advance the frontiers of nanotechnology has become a major global initiative with profound economic, military, and environmental implications. Nanotechnology has tremendous commercial and economic implications with a projected $ 1.2 trillion-dollar global market. This book describes current research in the field and details its commercial potential—from work bench to market. Examines the state of the art in nanotechnology and explores key issues surrounding its commercialization Takes a real-world approach, with chapters written from a practical viewpoint, detailing the latest research and considering its potential commercial and defense applications Presents the current research and proposed applications of nanotechnology in such a way as to stimulate further research and development of new applications Written by an all-star team of experts, including pioneer patent-holders and award-winning researchers in nanotechnology The major challenge currently faced by researchers in nanotechnology is successfully transitioning laboratory research into viable commercial products for the 21st century. Written for professionals across an array of research and engineering disciplines, Nanotechnology Commercialization: Manufacturing Processes and Products does much to help them bridge the gap between lab and marketplace.
Nanotechnology-COVID-19 Interface (SpringerBriefs in Applied Sciences and Technology)
by Devasena T.This book highlights the role of nanotechnology concepts in the management of COVID-19 pandemic. The book covers different aspects of the causative agent SARS CoV2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2) and the COVID-19 pandemic with a special emphasis on nanotechnology. It discusses the origin and history of SARS CoV2 and the outbreak of COVID-19 and highlights the geographical mutations in the SARS CoV2 virus genome, providing information about the structural features, antigenicity and the life cycle of SARS CoV2. The book provides an insight into nanotechnology–virology interface and explains how nanomaterials link the gap between the vital phases of SARS CoV2 life cycle and the four modalities of COVID-19 management viz sensing/diagnosis, therapy, prevention and self-protection. Further, the existing and promising diagnostic tools for detection of COVID-19 are discussed with an emphasis on nano PCR, nanoimmunosensors, biobarcode assay and point of care approach and also describe the nanoparticles involved in the CT imaging of lungs and SFHI (Spatial Frequency Hetrodyne Imaging) for diagnosis of SARS COV2 infection. The book concludes with details about translational medicine and explains the types of SARS CoV2 vaccines, stages of COVID-19 vaccine development and possible nanovaccines for COVID-19, followed by the description on biopharmaceutical companies involved in the production of SARS CoV2 vaccines.
The Nanotechnology Driven Agriculture: The Future Ahead
by Swarnendu Roy and Akbar HossainNanotechnology is believed to accelerate our fight to sustain and enhance crop productivity for the ever-increasing world population. It has been reckoned as one of the safest and most cost-efficient techniques to boost crop productivity in the future. The ever-increasing state-of-the-art availability of various nanomaterials has allowed us to pursue their beneficial properties in agronomy. Nanotechnology will help minimize the dependency on chemical fertilizers and existing crop production techniques that have already been exploited to their maximum potential. Therefore, in the present context, it could well be realized that agriculture will be driven by nanotechnology in the future.This book focuses on the application of nanotechnology for enhancing crop production through the application of nanofertilizers or nanocomposites. Several avenues of nanotechnology are beneficial in improving crop productivity in a sustainable manner, which has been presented in a comprehensive way. The book also delves into the mechanistic view of nanoparticle functioning and its role in stress alleviation. In addition, the book presents some recent insights into the application of nanotechnology for post-harvest management, stress tolerance and usage as nanobiosensors.Broadly, the book will encompass the following advances in the field, distinguishing it from other published volumes. The salient features include:· Role of nanoparticles in improving abiotic stress tolerance in plants.· Role of nanoparticles in protection against pathogens and pests.· Mechanism of nanoparticle-induced plant responses.· Synthesis and modification of nanoparticles to enhance their biological efficacy.· Prospects of nanofertilizers, nanoformulations, nanopesticides, etc., and their beneficial attributes.This book, therefore, presents this emerging topic and the most recent innovations in this field for postgraduate students, researchers and faculty members working in the fields of plant science, microbiology, biotechnology, agricultural sciences, etc.