COVID-19 has spread like wildfire across the globe since the start of the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak, hampering quality of life at multiple levels and causing many deaths. Many aspects of the human experience have been affected, with a body of research being published on its effects on psychological and physical well being, loss of jobs, pay cuts, education, and unpaid caregiving. New findings on these aspects are still emerging as we learn more about the consequences of the pandemic. This book is intended as a simple summary of recent findings about COVID-19 for academicians and students from science, humanities and commerce backgrounds to understand the pandemic from a microscopic view and how it has touched our lives at different levels. A collection of topics is presented and explored through chapters dedicated to niche topics on COVID-19. Each chapter is authored by expert scientists, academicians and scholars from leading institutions in India. The key features of this book set are: - Interdisciplinary content, making it useful for readers from different academic streams - A blend of basic and applied research in biology, medicine and social science - A focus on findings from India - Updated References for advanced readers This collection of topics is invaluable for researchers and working professionals in industry and academia as well as general readers who want a broad, insightful perspective on COVID-19.

Recent Trends and the Future of Antimicrobial Agents provides a significantly expanded overview of the topic with updated research in a broader context on the development of alternative approaches against microbial infections. This part primarily describes the use of probiotics, chemically synthesized compounds and nanomaterials as antimicrobial agents. The first chapter describes the potential of probiotics for the restoration of gut microbiomes. Amongst various antimicrobial agents, the use of antibodies has recently been investigated as a potential remedy. A chapter on antibody-based therapy as an alternative to antibiotics has been included. Chemical synthesis has eased the development of target-based prospective drug molecules against microorganisms. Chemically synthesized cationic amphiphiles and amphiphilic nanocarriers as antimicrobial agents have been discussed with sufficient detail in two different chapters. Research and progress in Schiff Base-Metal Complexes and Metal-Organic Frameworks for their antimicrobial applications have also been described in two separate chapters. Independent chapters discussing the design, synthesis and antimicrobial applications of biogenic metal or metalloid nanoparticles, bactericidal QDs and MoS2-based antibacterial nanocomposites have fulfilled the aim of incorporating cutting-edge research in the areas of alternative antimicrobials. Also, a new-age approach to combat microbes, antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT), is discussed in the final chapter of the edited volume. This part intends to provide the readers with an updated and broad view of research and development in alternative remedial approaches against microbial infections. The contents cater to the information needs of professionals and learners in academia, industry and health services who aim to learn the most significant experimental and practical approaches towards finding alternatives to existing antimicrobial therapies.

While the world is grappling with the growing problem of antibiotic resistance, marine organisms offer a promising solution with their diverse repertoire of bioactive compounds. This thematic volume explores the untapped potential of marine organisms in the fight against microbial threats. The focus of the 17 featured chapters lies in highlighting the vast array of antimicrobial agents that can be found within marine environments. The chapters provide in-depth knowledge about the latest discoveries, advancements and future needs in antimicrobial research. Readers will learn about astonishing discoveries of natural compounds with remarkable antimicrobial properties and sources. The list of agents covered in the book includes synthetic derivatives, bioactive polysaccharides and marine viruses. The book also includes chapters that cover various stages of the antimicrobial drug development process, providing an overview of recent antimicrobial agents derived from marine organisms, preclinical studies and the identification of patented drugs sourced from the ocean. Furthermore, the book sheds light on the diverse applications of these marine-derived compounds, spanning the fields of medicine, agriculture, and industry. Professionals in the fields of microbiology, marine biology, pharmaceutical sciences, and drug development will gain valuable insights into the use of marine organisms as a source of antimicrobial agents.

In the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic, the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies has played a pivotal role in reshaping public health and healthcare delivery. Interconnected devices have demonstrated their capacity to collect, transmit, and analyze data, significantly impacting various aspects of pandemic management. COVID-19 Monitoring with IoT Devices is a comprehensive guide to measuring the impact of COVID-19 infection and monitoring outbreak metrics. Beginning with an introduction to SARS-CoV-2 and its symptoms, the book presents chapters on machine learning (supervised and unsupervised algorithms) and techniques to predict COVID-19 outcomes. The book concludes with the role of IoT technology in detecting COVID-19 infections within a community, showcasing different computing models applicable to specific use-cases. Key Features: Explores the pivotal role of IoT technology in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Covers a data-driven approach to COVID-19 monitoring by explaining methods for data collection, prediction, and analysis. Includes specific recommendations for machine learning algorithms designed for COVID-19 monitoring. Easy-to-read structured chapters suitable for novices in computer science and biomedical engineering. COVID-19 Monitoring with IoT Devices provides a valuable resource for understanding the role of IoT technology in managing and mitigating the impact of COVID-19, and developing adequate infection control policies. It also showcases the potential of IoT for future research and applications in the healthcare sector. This book is intended for a diverse readership, including academicians, industry professionals, researchers, and healthcare practitioners.