Bioluminescence is everywhere on earth—most of all in the ocean, from angler fish in the depths to the flashing of dinoflagellates at the surface. Here, Thérèse Wilson and Woody Hastings explore the natural history, evolution, and biochemistry of the diverse array of organisms that emit light. While some bacteria, mushrooms, and invertebrates, as well as fish, are bioluminescent, other vertebrates and plants are not. The sporadic distribution and paucity of luminous forms calls for explanation, as does the fact that unrelated groups evolved completely different biochemical pathways to luminescence. The authors explore the hypothesis that many different luciferase systems arose in the early evolution of life because of their ability to remove oxygen, which was toxic to life when it first appeared on earth. As oxygen became abundant and bioluminescence was no longer adequate for oxygen removal, other antioxidant mechanisms evolved and most luminous species became extinct. Those light-emitting species that avoided extinction evolved uses with survival value for the light itself. Today’s luminous organisms use bioluminescence for defense from predators, for their own predatory purposes, or for communication in sexual courtship. Bioluminescence was earlier viewed as a fascinating feature of the living world, but one whose study seemed unlikely to contribute in any practical way. Today, bioluminescence is no longer an esoteric area of research. Applications are numerous, ranging from the rapid detection of microbial contamination in beef and water, to finding the location of cancer cells, to working out circuitry in the brain.

Did you know that there are more than 2,000 kinds of fireflies in the world? Find out what makes them flash and how they go from eggs to adults in this Backyard Bugs book.

‘Leonard Cohen said that, when you read poetry, you look for someone to illuminate a landscape that you thought you alone walked on. Avani illuminates this in this captivating book of verse, Living Lights. The language is rich and textured, bringing us into the folds of Avani’s thought process. The language captures elusive moments of insight, often profound in their effect. Avani proves to be a diligent thinker as well as an assiduous and clear communicator about topics that might just spark change within. The process Avani has gone through to write this work seems to have been a healing one. For this reason, she inspires us to take a similar look at our own lives. By the end of the collection, I could feel her strength in getting out all that she had to say. She knows what her poems are about, and she knows how they should be told. This work is an ode to a vibrant creativity, a poet who has given into an innate desire to create and watched as her role in the world, and the world itself, came pouring out of it. Her words put a welcome, authentic voice to this most universal collection of emotions. For those who are searching for some self-awareness, self-care, and some kindness, Living Lights is a gift that can show you the way.’ Caroline Stewart – Director of Vocational Qualifications, leading Sixth Form College, UK

Open this book and become shining stars in areas such as family, finances, education, and much more. Jesus said Christians are the "lights of the world"; Paul said they are to "shine like stars in the universe." These bright metaphors are a bold contrast to the ever-increasing darkness of evil that fills our world. Can Christians change the world as we have always believed? Can we turn the tide for good in our society? With inspiring messages from Joni Eareckson Tada, Dr. H. Norman Wright, Mother Theresa, Dr. Ronald Sider, and others, Dr. M. Norvel Young reveals ten practical and inspirational ways you can become the "living lights" Christ called you to be.

Elaborate on the concept of energy using this science inquiry card and lesson. Using vibrant, engaging images for science exploration allows all students to make connections and relate science concepts to new situations.

A comprehensive guide to Jewish spiritual practices, with explanations based on Talmudic and Midrashic texts as well as Hasidic and mystical stories, includes a survey of daily prayers, Shabbat rituals, holidays, Torah study, Jewish meditation, and more.

Young readers will enjoy this three-book collection that is a part of the Living Lights™ series of Berenstain Bears books. Children will learn biblical values, and how to be respectful and kind to others. Included in the timeless collection you’ll find The Berenstain Bears The Forgiving Tree, The Berenstain Bears Gossip Gang, and The Berenstain Bears Show Some Respect. The Berenstain Bears Treat Others Kindly—part of the popular Zonderkidz Living Lights series of books—is perfect for: Early readers ages 4-8 Reading out loud in classrooms, during story time, and at home or bedtime Birthday gifts, Easter, holiday gift giving, or as a new addition to your e-library Sparking intentional conversations about forgiveness, respect, and honesty The Berenstain Bears Treat Others Kindly is an addition to the Living Lights™ series that: Features the hand-drawn artwork of the Berenstain family Continues in the much-loved footsteps of Stan and Jan Berenstain in this Berenstain Bears series of books Is part of one of the bestselling children’s book series ever created, with more than 250 books published and nearly 300 million copies sold to date