This text is an essential study guide for undergraduates studying microbiology modules on degree courses in pharmacy and the pharmaceutical sciences. Written by two pharmacists each with over 30 years experience of teaching, research and publishing in pharmaceutical microbiology, it distills the subject down into the essential elements that pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists need to know in order to practice their profession, and it covers all the microbiology components of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society's indicative syllabus that is at the heart of every UK pharmacy degree.

Much of the applied microbiology that a pharmacist or pharmaceutical scientist needs to know is unique: topics like the manufacture of microbiologically sterile medicines and their subsequent protection against microbial contamination and spoilage, the detection of hazardous microorganisms in medicines and antibiotics' manufacture and assay are all covered here. Essential Microbiology for Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science Students displays material in an easy to-digest format and concepts are explained using diagrams, tables and pictures wherever possible. The book contains an extensive self-assessment section that includes typical multiple choice, short answer and essay-style examination questions, and a companion website to further test your knowledge from a selection of questions along with further links to relevant sites.

Consumers favour foods with fewer synthetic additives, but products must also be safe to eat and have a sufficiently long shelf-life. Biopreservation, the use of a product's natural microflora and its antibacterial products for protection against pathogens and spoilage, is a method of growing interest for the safe production of high quality minimally-processed foods. This book provides an essential overview of key topics in this area. Initial chapters review central aspects in food biopreservation, including the identification of new protective cultures and antimicrobial culture components, existing commercial fermentates including nisin and natamycin and the potential of novel fermentates and bacteriophages to improve food safety. Part II concentrates on the use of protective cultures, bacteriocins and bacteriophages to control the carriage of pathogenic microorganisms in food animals and to modulate human gut microflora. Chapters in the final section of the book review biopreservation of different types of foods, including milk and dairy products, fermented meats, fresh seafood and fruit. A review of active packaging for food biopreservation completes the volume. Edited by a leading expert, Protective cultures, antimicrobial metabolites and bacteriophages for food and beverage biopreservation is a fundamental reference for researchers and food industry professionals working to ensure the safety of the food supply.

Eukaryotic Microbes presents chapters hand-selected by the editor of the Encyclopedia of Microbiology, updated whenever possible by their original authors to include key developments made since their initial publication. The book provides an overview of the main groups of eukaryotic microbes and presents classic and cutting-edge research on content relating to fungi and protists, including chapters on yeasts, algal blooms, lichens, and intestinal protozoa. This concise and affordable book is an essential reference for students and researchers in microbiology, mycology, immunology, environmental sciences, and biotechnology.

The Zebrafish: Cellular and Developmental Biology, Part B Developmental Biology, the second volume on the topic in the Methods in Cell Biology series, looks at methods for analyzing cellular and developmental biology of zebrafish. Chapters cover such topics as cell biology and developmental and neural biology.

The Zebrafish: Cellular and Developmental Biology, Part A Cellular Biology, is the latest edition in the Methods in Cell Biology series that looks at methods for analyzing cellular and developmental biology of zebrafish. Chapters cover such topics as cell biology and developmental and neural biology.

This book reviews the current concepts in biofilm formation and its implications in human health and disease. The initial chapters introduce the mechanisms of biofilm formation and its composition. Subsequently, the chapters discuss the role of biofilm in acute and chronic infections. It also explores the pivotal role of both innate and adaptive immunity on the course of biofilm infection. In addition, the book elucidates the bacterial biofilm formation on implantable devices and the current approaches to its treatment and prevention. It analyzes the possible relationship between antimicrobial resistance and biofilm formation. Finally, the book also summarizes the current state-of-the-art therapeutic approaches for preventing and treating biofilms. This book is a useful resource for researchers in the field of microbiology, clinical microbiology, and also medical practitioners.

Advances in Applied Microbiology continues to be one of the most widely read and authoritative review sources in microbiology, containing comprehensive reviews of the most current research in applied microbiology. Users will find invaluable references and information on a variety of areas, including protozoan grazing of freshwater biofilms, metals in yeast fermentation processes, the interpretation of host-pathogen dialogue through microarrays, and the role of polyamines in bacterial growth and biofilm formation. Eclectic volumes are supplemented by thematic volumes on various topics, including Archaea and sick building syndrome.

Antibiotics: Therapeutic Spectrum and Limitations provides up-to-date information on managing microbial infections, the development and types of antibiotics, the rationale for utilizing antibiotics, toxicity considerations, and the control of antibiotic resistance in one single resource. This book also aims to provide comprehensive insights and current trends on antibiotic therapies to treat microbial infections, their mechanisms of action, and the role of modern drug delivery in improving their efficacy. Written by leading experts from around the globe, the chapters in the book covers important aspects of microbial infections including hospital acquired infections and community acquired infections and adult sepsis, examines the various types of antibiotics with different mechanisms and therapeutic uses, the global challenge of antibiotic resistance, and clinical trials, regulatory considerations, and market overview of antibiotics. Furthermore, the chapters include updated literature reviews of the relevant key topics, high-quality illustrations, chemical structures, flowcharts, and well-organized tables, all of which enable better understanding by the readers.

Microbiome research has focused on microorganisms that live within the human body and their effects on health. During the last few years, the quantification of microbiome composition in different environments has been facilitated by the advent of high throughput sequencing technologies. The statistical challenges include computational difficulties due to the high volume of data; normalization and quantification of metabolic abundances, relative taxa and bacterial genes; high-dimensionality; multivariate analysis; the inherently compositional nature of the data; and the proper utilization of complementary phylogenetic information. This has resulted in an explosion of statistical approaches aimed at tackling the unique opportunities and challenges presented by microbiome data. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the state of the art in statistical and informatics technologies for microbiome research. In addition to reviewing demonstrably successful cutting-edge methods, particular emphasis is placed on examples in R that rely on available statistical packages for microbiome data. With its wide-ranging approach, the book benefits not only trained statisticians in academia and industry involved in microbiome research, but also other scientists working in microbiomics and in related fields.

A compilation of up to date reviews of topics in biotechnology and the medical field.

"Introductory Immunology" quickly acquaints readers with natural immune responses manifesting in diseases and disorders. The book presents a complete picture of natural defenses to infectious agents, as well as the mechanisms that lead to autoimmune dysfunction. In addition, it examines immunologically based diseases, giving the reader sufficient knowledge to make sound clinical decisions leading to better treatment outcomes.

"Introductory Immunology" is aimed at researchers, postgraduates, or any scientifically inclined reader interested in immunology. No prior expertise in medical, biochemical, or cellular science is needed to benefit from the clear presentation of immunology concepts in this book.
Quick, concise introduction to immunological conceptsBreaks down all of immunology into manageable, logically digestible building blocksGeared toward readers without medical, biochemical, or cellular expertise

Fully covers the biology, biochemistry, genetics, and genomics of Medicago truncatula Model plant species are valuable not only because they lead to discoveries in basic biology, but also because they provide resources that facilitate translational biology to improve crops of economic importance. Plant scientists are drawn to models because of their ease of manipulation, simple genome organization, rapid life cycles, and the availability of multiple genetic and genomic tools. This reference provides comprehensive coverage of the Model Legume Medicago truncatula. It features review chapters as well as research chapters describing experiments carried out by the authors with clear materials and methods. Most of the chapters utilize advanced molecular techniques and biochemical analyses to approach a variety of aspects of the Model. The Model Legume Medicago truncatula starts with an examination of M. truncatula plant development; biosynthesis of natural products; stress and M. truncatula; and the M. truncatula-Sinorhizobium meliloti symbiosis. Symbiosis of Medicago truncatula with arbuscular mycorrhiza comes next, followed by chapters on the common symbiotic signaling pathway (CSSP or SYM) and infection events in the Rhizobium-legume symbiosis. Other sections look at hormones and the rhizobial and mycorrhizal symbioses; autoregulation of nodule numbers (AON) in M. truncatula; Medicago truncatula databases and computer programs; and more. Contains reviews, original research chapters, and methods Covers most aspects of the M. truncatula Model System, including basic biology, biochemistry, genetics, and genomics of this system Offers molecular techniques and advanced biochemical analyses for approaching a variety of aspects of the Model Legume Medicago truncatula Includes introductions by the editor to each section, presenting the summary of selected chapters in the section Features an extensive index, to facilitate the search for key terms The Model Legume Medicago truncatula is an excellent book for researchers and upper level graduate students in microbial ecology, environmental microbiology, plant genetics and biochemistry. It will also benefit legume biologists, plant molecular biologists, agrobiologists, plant breeders, bioinformaticians, and evolutionary biologists.

Indian mycologists have extensively studied various groups of fungi such as soil fungi, aquatic fungi, marine fungi, endophytic fungi, fungi associated with man and animals. Though several books on various aspects of fungi are published, this is the first account of the history and developments in mycology in India. It discusses at length various stages of development of mycology including both classical and biotechnological aspects. It begins with a historical account of Indian mycology, followed by a description of research on fossil fungi. Further chapters cover the latest updates on different taxonomic groups of fungi. A dedicated section describes the roles and applications of fungal endophytes. The book also includes research in other important areas such as mushrooms and wood rotting fungi. Different chapters are written by leading mycologists. This book is useful to students, teachers and researchers in botany, microbiology, biotechnology and life sciences, agriculture and industries using fungi to produce various valuable products.

Microsporidia: Pathogens of Opportunity provides a systematic overview of the biology of this important pathogen. Written by leading experts in the field, the book combines background and basic information on microsporidia with descriptive methods and resources for working with the pathogen.Newly revised and updated for its second edition, Microsporidia will continue to be the standard text reference for these pathogenic protists, and is an indispensable research resource for biologists, physicians and parasitologists. The first edition of this book was published in 1999 and was the first systematic review of information that had accumulated on these pathogens since the publication of a 2 monograph series in Comparative Pathobiology in 1977. In the last decade there have been tremendous strides in our understanding of the biology of the Microsporidia. This has included the development of new information on genomics and proteomics of this organism as well as a new understanding of the population biology and genetic diversity of this organism. The new edition of this publication will provide systematic reviews of the biology of this pathogen by leading experts in the field. This will be combined with descriptions of the methods and resources for working with this pathogen.

Microbial biosurfactant compounds are a group of structurally diverse molecules produced by microorganisms, and are mainly categorized according to their chemical structure. The diversity of microbial biosurfactants makes them versatile and means that they offer a range of capabilities, while at the same time being economically sustainable. As such, they have potential applications in environmental processes, as well as in food, biomedicine and other industries. This book discusses innovative approaches and cutting-edge research that utilize the various properties of biosurfactants. Drawing on research from around the globe, it provides an up-to-date review of biosurfactant applications and their importance in fields such as medicine, gene therapy, immunotherapy, antimicrobial bioremediation and agriculture. It also discusses their anti-adhesive properties. The book will appeal to academics and researchers in the field of microbiology, as well as policymakers. It also serves as additional reading material for undergraduate and graduate students of agriculture, ecology, soil science, and environmental sciences.

Procedures to Investigate Foodborne Illness is designed to guide public health personnel or teams in any country that investigates reports of alleged foodborne illnesses. The manual is based on epidemiologic principles and investigative techniques that have been found effective in determining causal factors of disease incidence. The guidelines are presented in the sequence usually followed during investigations and are organized so that an investigator can easily find the information needed in any phase of an investigation. Included are descriptions of the following procedures: * Plan, prepare, investigate and respond to intentional contamination of food * Handle illness alerts and food-related complaints that may be related to illness * Interview ill persons, those at risk, and controls * Develop a case definition * Collect and ship specimens and food samples * Conduct hazard analysis (environmental assessments) at sites where foods responsible for outbreaks were produced, processed, or prepared * Trace sources of contamination * Identify factors responsible for contamination, survival of pathogenic microorganisms or toxic substances, and/or propagation of pathogens * Collate and interpret collected data * Report information about the outbreak This edition also contains extensively updated and more user-friendly keys to assist investigators in identifying the contributing factors that may lead to the contamination, proliferation or survival of agents of foodborne disease.

Hazardous and Trace Materials in Soil and Plants: Sources, Effects and Management explores the latest advancements in reducing, avoiding and eliminating soil contaminants that challenge the health and safety of agricultural plants. With a focus on minimizing the production of those hazardous substances, controlling their distribution and ensuring safe utilization, the book explores each contributing area and provides insights toward improved, sustainable and secure production. This is an excellent reference resource on both current research and future directions from laboratory research to field applications. The combined impacts of climate change and industrialization have led to increased and diversified threats to the health of the soil in which our food crops are grown, as well as in the plants themselves. This dual-hazard scenario is increasingly recognized as a threat to not just the environment, but to global food security as agricultural soils contaminated with pollutants alter plant metabolism, thus resulting in reduced crop quality and production quantity.

Although most public health and environmental engineers are aware of the importance of microbial activity, many civil engineers do not appreciate the part microbiological process play in, for example, biodeterioration of concrete and other construction materials, alteration of soil and rock properties, clogging of boreholes, distribution and irrigation systems, and biofouling in embankment dams. There is a need for greater interaction between scientists and engineers in this respect. Recent advances in applied microbiology and biochemistry could usefully be extrapolated to fields of civil engineering. Indeed an understanding of microbiological activity in what is often thought of as purely physical and/or chemical processes and an awareness of what to look for is becoming increasingly important for civil engineers in their design of a variety of systems and structures. This book forms the Proceedings of the International Conference held at Cranfield Institute of Technology, UK, in September 1990.

Published since 1959, "Advances in Applied Microbiology" continues to be one of the most widely read and authoritative review sources in microbiology. The series contains comprehensive reviews of the most current research in applied microbiology. Recent areas covered include bacterial diversity in the human gut, protozoan grazing of freshwater biofilms, metals in yeast fermentation processes and the interpretation of host-pathogen dialogue through microarrays. Eclectic volumes are supplemented by thematic volumes on various topics, including Archaea and sick building syndrome. Impact factor for 2011: 5.233.

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Key features:

* Contributions from leading authorities * Informs and updates on all the latest developments in the field

Whisky and Other Spirits: Technology, Production and Marketing, Third Edition continues to provide details from raw materials to the finished product, including production, packaging and marketing. It focuses on the science and technology of the process as well as the environment in which it is produced. Today, environmental concerns and sustainability of products has taken on a new level of importance. Traditional ways of packaging and marketing have also changed dramatically in recent years as the technology of packaging has moved from a staid bottle industry to spirit products that cross traditional beverage categories and packaging. This new edition provides the latest changes in industry and the beverages market. All chapters are updated, with new chapters added to help improve research and development, and to increase production of not only whiskey but other spirits such as gin and rum and white spirits. This new edition also discusses trendy reduced alcohol and no alcohol products.

Biotechnology for Beginners, Third Edition presents the latest developments in the evolving field of biotechnology which has grown to such an extent over the past few years that increasing numbers of professional's work in areas that are directly impacted by the science. This book offers an exciting and colorful overview of biotechnology for professionals and students in a wide array of the life sciences, including genetics, immunology, biochemistry, agronomy and animal science. This book will also appeals to lay readers who do not have a scientific background but are interested in an entertaining and informative introduction to the key aspects of biotechnology. Authors Renneberg and Loroch discuss the opportunities and risks of individual technologies and provide historical data in easy-to-reference boxes, highlighting key topics. The book covers all major aspects of the field, from food biotechnology to enzymes, genetic engineering, viruses, antibodies, and vaccines, to environmental biotechnology, transgenic animals, analytical biotechnology, and the human genome.

Essential Microbiology and Hygiene for Food Professionals is an accessible and practical introduction, providing the basic science relating to microorganisms in food. Assuming no prior knowledge of microbiology, chapters take a fresh and modern approach in helping you to appreciate the importance of microbiology and hygiene in assuring food safety and quality, and demonstrate the application of key principles relating to the presence, detection and control of microorganisms in foods. *Accessible and practical introduction to food microbiology and food hygiene *Assumes no prior knowledge of microbiology *Highly illustrated including colour photographs, charts, diagrams and cartoons to aid learning and retention *Student-focused with quizzes and exercises throughout, summary boxes, vignettes and a glossary of technical terms *Weblinks to further information on the Internet Written in a user-friendly style, this book is an invaluable text for all those studying microbiology and hygiene on courses in the food professions, including food science, food technology, culinary arts, catering and hospitality, nutrition, dietetics, environmental health and public health.

Advanced Microbial Techniques in Agriculture, Environment, and Health Management provides current perspectives on the fields of agriculture, the environment and health. This important reference presents recent advancements in applied microbial technology, compiling it in a comprehensive manner and transferring applied microbial technology from laboratory conditions to field level. In 20 chapters, the book focuses on microbial interventions for all-inclusive, cost-effective environmental management tactics while also linking the cumulative microbial services involved in the up-gradation of agriculture, environment and health. In addition, the book offers detailed information on emerging environmental issues and proposes ways of controlling their consequences using different approaches to treatment.

Problem-based Learning Approach in Microbiology, is an organ-based study of microbiology and infectious diseases using real patient problems (cases) and cases edited for educational purposes. This approach uses case studies to stimulate interactive learning and to facilitate basic knowledge for clinical training. In seven sections, each problem in each section begins with a clinical case scenario and is followed by the learning objectives of the case. The "Question-and-answer" section facilitates student-tutor interaction, thereby resulting in a problem-solving approach. The etiological agent is then described in complete detail comprising the epidemiology and pathogenicity of the agent, and the host immune response, clinical manifestations, diagnostic, and therapeutic measures. This book includes a wide-spectrum of commonly encountered infectious diseases, emerging infectious diseases, and immunological diseases. This book caters to the need for fundamental knowledge through an alternative approach achieved by dividing the book into sections. This book facilitates a more effective learning process thereby ensuring better information retention, correlation with real-life scenarios, and better applicability of the concepts.