Microbial Biotechnology: An Interdisciplinary Approach covers all aspects of microbial biotechnology, whilst bringing the field of functional foods and microbial bioremediation to the fore. Recounting the interdisciplinary scope of biotechnology and its discoveries, this text presents innovative ideas in the field of emerging biotechnology providing the scientific community with a much needed new resource. Acting as an important means of information for researchers working in interdisciplinary areas of research, this text: Envisages the recent ideas of novel findings in microbiology Provides insight into the various interdisciplinary research avenues Uniquely covers a diverse range of topics Presents groundbreaking new findings in key areas of modern biotechnology Enhanced and straight forward descriptions cater to the needs of researchers working in areas of bacterial exopolysaccharides, microalgal proteomics, applications of Microbial L-asparaginases, novel aspects of bioremediation, Probiotics and their impact on society, and microbial community analysis in waste water treatment techniques. It will also prove crucial reading for senior undergraduate and graduate students and professionals working in areas of modern biotechnology.

In the past decade there has been a rapid increase in waterborne outbreaks of disease associated with viral and protozoan agents, normally in drinking waters that were found to be microbially safe using the Coliform Index. For nearly a quarter of a century indicator organisms, in particular the coliform group, have been used to ensure the microbial quality of drinking water. Currently, world wide legislation to protect consumers is based on these outdated and unreliable tests and while there is considerable concern among scientists over their use, the water industry and regulators continue to place near total reliance on the Coliform Index. This book provides: * the first full account of the nature and applications of the Coliform Index * coverage of new and proposed water quality legislation: * details of emerging pathogens in water: * an evaluation of the role of the "coliform count" in future water quality analysis. It will be an essential tool for water companies at all levels, microbiologists, environmental health inspectors, environmental scientists and water engineers in industry whether working in developed countries or developing countries. Postgraduate students specialising in microbiology, civil and environmental engineering, environmental sciences and environmental health will find it a useful reference work as will undergraduates in these disciplines.

Offers comprehensive coverage of the latest developments in both biochemical and physiological approaches to fungal systematics. Incorporates recent advances in molecular biology into systematics methods that can revolutionize taxonomic schemes.

Over the last three decades, interest in Infrared (IR) technology as a medium to convey information has grown considerably. This is reflected by the increasing number of devices such as laptops, PDAs, and mobile phones that incorporate optical wireless transceivers and also by the increasing number of optical wireless links available for indoor and outdoor use. The popularity of IR is based on the advantages it has over radio including unregulated bandwidth, immunity to radio interference, and inherent security. Optical Wireless Communications examines some of the most important features of optical wireless communication systems. It considers the benefits and limitations of IR as a medium conveying information wirelessly and compares the advantages and disadvantages of infrared to microwave and other radio systems. It also details the evolution of IR communication systems and describes atmospheric and other types of data transmission limitations. The book presents design fundamentals of optical concentrators, as well as a review of some of the most important receiver optical front-ends (containing imaging or non-imaging concentrators and optical filters), including an explanation of the different sources of infrared noise and an introduction to eye safety. It also describes optical wireless transmitter and receiver design issues, typical modulation, coding, and multiple access techniques, and introduces IrDA protocols and wireless IR networking.

Presents the latest advances in the study of the intracellular fate and transport of metal ions in fungi, emphasizing the mechanisms that regulate cellular concentration. The book explains the expanding relationship between molecular genetics and inorganic biochemistry.

Antimicrobials: Synthetic and Natural Compounds summarizes the latest research regarding the possibilities of the most important natural antimicrobial compounds derived from various plant sources containing a wide variety of secondary metabolites. With collected contributions from international subject experts, it focuses primarily on natural products as a source of bioactive compounds that may be active against multidrug-resistant pathogens, providing an alternative to established antibiotics in controlling infectious diseases. Covering a wide range of marine, microbial, and plant-origin antimicrobials, the book examines the usefulness of plant products containing antimicrobial molecules against bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses. It also reports on unusual sources of antimicrobials such as animal fecal actinomycetes, actinobacteria, and cyanobacteria and discusses synthetic chemical compounds and biogenic nanoparticles. The number of drug-resistant bacteria is increasing, posing a major problem to modern medicine. This book explores an important topic: finding and applying alternative means of pathogenic control and treatment via natural sources. It is an important source of information for microbiologists, biotechnologists, biochemists, pharmacologists, botanists, marine biologists, and others involved in research on natural and synthetic antimicrobial compounds. It is also a useful resource for scholars, scientists, academics, and students in various science disciplines.

This is a concise guide to the combined use of classical and molecular methods for the genetic analysis and breeding of fungi. It presents basic concepts and experimental designs, and demonstrates the power of fungal genetics for applied research in biotechnology and phytopathology. Case studies of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, Neurospora crassa, Podospora anserina, Phytophthora infestans and others are included.

Handbook of Methods in Aquatic Microbial Ecology is the first comprehensive compilation of 85 fundamental methods in modern aquatic microbial ecology. Each method is presented in a detailed, step-by-step format that allows readers to adopt new methods with little difficulty. The methods represent the state of the art, and many have become standard procedures in microbial research and environmental assessment. The book also presents practical advice on how to apply the methods. It will be an indispensable reference for marine and freshwater research laboratories, environmental assessment laboratories, and industrial research labs concerned with microbial measurements in water.

Antimicrobial Dressings: The Wound Care Applications explores the literature surrounding the catalytic behavior of proteolytic enzymes immobilized together with nanoparticles. As numerous applications using proteolytic enzymes for debridement, silver as antibiotic and nanoparticles for enzyme immobilization were developed in the last years, this book explores interdisciplinary information combining nanotechnology, biotechnology and medicine and how it's still in early stages. The book adopts a holistic approach in a lifecycle context to evaluate their final feasibility, including industrial exploitability without disregard of the potential risks of enzymes and nanomaterials to human health and the environment.

Groundbreaking studies have shown that an absence of certain of microbes in children may be at the root of some of the most prevalent childhood ailments. Written by two experts in the field, this book takes on our oversanitized culture, from pregnancy to birth to early childhood, and explains how we can have a healthier relationship with our microbes.

This handbook is devoted to the mass production of microalgae, and in my part, is based on some 10 years of experience in growing and studying microalgal cultures maintained at high polulation densities under laboratory conditions and in outdoor ponds

Handbook of Microbial Iron Chelates emphasizes the various microbial compounds and synthetic analogues functioning as siderophores in microbes and as potential drugs in human iron metabolism. There are chapters describing the isolation, chemical characterization, synthesis and physicochemical properties of microbial iron chelates. Other chapters deal with the physiology and genetics of transport and receptors involved in iron uptake. Chemists, biologists, biochemists, pharmacologists, and medical doctors interested in the general aspects of iron metabolism, siderophores, receptors, and iron complex formation should consider this book a rich information source.

This text presents a new technique for detecting microorganisms, specifically bacteria found in all levels of the biosphere. It also discusses methods for enzymatic release of these microbes as well as their interactions in all ecosystems. Drawings and micrographs help to illustrate this concept. Part one is devoted to the mechanisms of adherence. The second part discusses microbial ecology and the bacterial population of tissues as well as both land and aquatic microbiocenoses in general. Part three specifically covers technique. What is known about the mechanisms of adherence justifies the choice of techniques suggested. Applications in areas such as nature, medicine, environmental hygiene and the food industry are discussed. The explanation of useful techniques, the author's research results, and practical application methods make this volume an essential reference tool for researchers, technicians and practitioners.

Microbial Inoculants: Recent Progress and Applications fulfills the need to explore and learn about an efficient delivery mechanism, selection of microbial strain as inoculants, and related technological advances for the efficient and productive use of microbial inoculants. Moreover, factors like methods of formulation, interaction between host plant and microbe, impact of inoculation on the metabolomics of plants, the effect of microbial inoculants on soil dynamics, proteomics approach of plant-microbe interaction, as well as the registration and regulation process of bio inoculants for commercial production are described by leading academicians and researchers from different parts of the world in this comprehensive book. In the recent past, beneficial microorganisms have been sustainably used in agriculture as a safe, economic and effective alternative to chemical fertilizers or pesticides. These beneficial microbes, including bacteria, actinomycetes, and yeast were efficiently applied in soil, seeds, fruits, or plants as inoculants, to achieve the optimum agricultural yield. An efficient delivery method or enhanced shelf life of microbial inoculants in the soil or seed is still a matter of concern.

A Complete Guidebook on Biofilm Study has emphasized the biofilm-related issues in the present context related to research and development. For this purpose, experimental design and relevant experimental protocols for the biofilm studies have been highlighted here. In addition to that, inhibitors from natural or synthetic sources against microbial biofilm development have been addressed. This approach has been further substantiated by bioinformatics as well as nanotechnology-based reports. Both, the image processing related to biofilm study and the characters of substratum associated with biofilm development have also been included for a better understanding of the beginners in this field. Further, how biofilm helps and/or hampers in food processing and waste management system, that discussion has been considered in this book. Similarly, human benefits from biofilm and reverse of it have also been included considering host-pathogen interaction, immunity aspects, and others.

This book provides an account of the biogenic synthesis of nanomaterials by using different microorganisms. The chapters are focused on the biosynthesis of various metal and metal oxide nanosized materials by using bacteria, actinomycetes, fungi, and algae, including mechanisms of microbial synthesis. Other chapters summarize recent developments of microbial-based nanostructures for the management of food-borne pathogens, plant pathogenic fungi, as nutrients, and biomedical applications. Microorganisms are discussed not only as biofactories for the synthesis of nanomaterials but also as removal agents of toxic metals from the environment. Exposure sources and ecotoxicity of microbially synthesized nanoparticles are also discussed.

BIOS Instant Notes in Microbiology, Fourth Edition, is the perfect text for undergraduates looking for a concise introduction to the subject, or a study guide to use before examinations. Each topic begins with a summary of essential facts-an ideal revision checklist-followed by a description of the subject that focuses on core information, with clear, simple diagrams that are easy for students to understand and recall in essays and exams. BIOS Instant Notes in Microbiology, Fourth Edition, is fully up-to-date and covers: * The Microbial World * Systematics * Microbiology * Microbial Growth * Microbial Metabolism * Prokaryotic DNA and RNA Metabolism * Industrial Microbiology * Eukaryotic Microbes: An Overview * The Fungi and Related Phyla * Archaeplastida, Excavata, Chromalveolata and Amoebozoa * The Viruses

An Indispensable Roadmap for Nucleic Acid Preparation Although Friedrich Miescher described the first isolation of nucleic acid in 1869, it was not until 1953 that James Watson and Francis Crick successfully deciphered the structural basis of DNA duplex. Needless to say, in the years since, enormous advances have been made in the study of nucleic acids, and these have become a cornerstone for all branches of modern biological sciences. The Handbook of Nucleic Acid Purification provides researchers and students with an all-encompassing volume on nucleic acid extraction strategies. Due to the complexities within prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, purification of the nucleic acids often forms a vital first step in the study of molecular biology of living organisms as well as in the evolutionary/phylogenetic analysis of ancient specimens. Bringing together contributions from leading researchers, the handbook presents a comprehensive catalog of nucleic acid isolation methods. It includes dedicated sections on strategies for viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, insects, mammals, and plants, as well as for ancient samples, with an additional emphasis on sample preparation methods for direct molecular applications. Each chapter in this handbook: Explores the biological background important to understanding specific organisms and specimens Reviews principles and current techniques for efficient isolation Discusses challenges and future trends relating to improved recovery of nucleic acids Besides providing an updated, reliable reference for anyone with an interest in molecular biology, this book offers a practical guide for clinical, forensic, and research scientists involved in molecular analysis of biological specimens. It also constitutes a convenient resource for students in other areas of biological sciences, and an indispensable roadmap for both new and experienced researchers wishing to acquire or sharpen their skills in nucleic acid preparation.

A ubiquitous tool in mathematical biology and chemical engineering, the chemostat often produces instabilities that pose safety hazards and adversely affect the optimization of bioreactive systems. Singularity theory and bifurcation diagrams together offer a useful framework for addressing these issues. Based on the authors' extensive work in this field, Dynamics of the Chemostat: A Bifurcation Theory Approach explores the use of bifurcation theory to analyze the static and dynamic behavior of the chemostat. IntroductionThe authors first survey the major work that has been carried out on the stability of continuous bioreactors. They next present the modeling approaches used for bioreactive systems, the different kinetic expressions for growth rates, and tools, such as multiplicity, bifurcation, and singularity theory, for analyzing nonlinear systems. ApplicationThe text moves on to the static and dynamic behavior of the basic unstructured model of the chemostat for constant and variable yield coefficients as well as in the presence of wall attachment. It then covers the dynamics of interacting species, including pure and simple microbial competition, biodegradation of mixed substrates, dynamics of plasmid-bearing and plasmid-free recombinant cultures, and dynamics of predator-prey interactions. The authors also examine dynamics of the chemostat with product formation for various growth models, provide examples of bifurcation theory for studying the operability and dynamics of continuous bioreactor models, and apply elementary concepts of bifurcation theory to analyze the dynamics of a periodically forced bioreactor. Using singularity theory and bifurcation techniques, this book presents a cohesive mathematical framework for analyzing and modeling the macro- and microscopic interactions occurring in chemostats. The text includes models that describe the intracellular and operating elements of the bioreactive system. It also explains the mathematical theory behind the models.

Microbes bear a great potential for their biotechnological applications. Without microbes biotechnology would be a limited science. In recent years, the scope of application and significance of microbiology has enlarged manifold. They are being employed since several decades for large-scale production of a variety of biochemicals ranging from alcohols to organic chemicals, antibiotics, enzymes and in processing of foods and feeds, etc. The book MICROBIAL BIOTECHNOLOGY: Methods and Applications covers an amazing range of topics from microbiology and their biotechnological applications in the field of industry, agriculture, food, pharmaceutics, medicine, environment etc. contributed by eminent subject experts, academicians, researchers and scientists from India and Abroad. This book would cater to the need of the graduate and post graduate students pursuing their study in any branch of life-sciences, researchers and scientists working in the laboratories and industries involved in the study and research in the field of microbes and their biotechnological applications. Preface / Production of Pyruvic Acid, 2-keto Acids and Chiral 2-hydroxy Acids using Glycolate Oxidase and Catalase Co-expressed in Pichia pastoris / Application of Immobilized Microbial Cells for Enzyme Production with Special Reference to Tannase / Utilization of Algal Biomass as Biofuels / Microbial Degradation of Caffeine, Methylxanthines and Its Biotechnological Applications / Bacillus thuringiensis: Biodiversity to Biotechnology / Agrobacterium tumefaciens: A Powerful Tool for Transkingdom Transfer of Genetic Materials / An Overview on Microbial Biocontrol for a Sustainable Horticultural Practice / Mushroom Glucan as Biological Response Modifier in Therapy / In silico Identification of Potential Therapeutic Targets in Pathogens An Overview / Microbial Studies to Establish Possible Biocompatible Coatings of Ferrofluids, Synthesized Biomimetically, for Biomedical Applica

Imagine that we had some way to look directly at the molecules in a living organism. An x-ray microscope would do the trick, or since we re dreaming, perhaps an Asimov-style nanosubmarine (unfortunately, neither is currently feasible). Think of the wonders we could witness firsthand: antibodies atta- ing a virus, electrical signals racing down nerve fibers, proteins building new strands of DNA. Many of the questions puzzling the current cadre of sci- tists would be answered at a glance. But the nanoscale world of molecules is separated from our everyday world of experience by a daunting million-fold difference in size, so the world of molecules is completely invisible. I created the illustrations in this book to help bridge this gulf and allow us to see the molecular structure of cells, if not directly, then in an artistic rendition. I have included two types of illustrations with this goal in mind: watercolor paintings which magnify a small portion of a living cell by one million times, showing the arrangement of molecules inside, and comput- generated pictures, which show the atomic details of individual molecules. In this second edition of The Machinery of Life, these illustrations are presented in full color, and they incorporate many of the exciting scientific advances of the 15 years since the first edition."

Microbial Biofilms: Omics Biology, Antimicrobials and Clinical Implications is a comprehensive survey of microbial biofilms and their role in human health and disease with contributions from world renowned experts in molecular microbiology, proteomics, genomics, metabolomics and infectious diseases. The book is intended to serve as a guide for students, as well as a reference for researchers, clinicians and industry professionals. The chapters cover bacterial and fungal microbiomes, and the latest omics techniques organized in a clear and up-to-date manner. One of the highlights of this book is the comprehensive information on "omics of microbial biofilms". The chapters dedicated to metagenomics, proteomics and metabolomics are designed to provide a simple and holistic review of the current knowledge and, the applications of these techniques in the field of microbial biofilms. In addition to introductory chapters on microbial biofilms and their clinical implications, subsequent chapters delve into oral biofilms, their composition, and metagenomic diversity. Thereafter, mechanisms of drug resistance in microbial biofilms are reviewed, as well as the proteomic and metabolomic characterization of this resistance. The book includes a comprehensive discussion of persister cells and host-microbial interactions on mucosal surfaces. Finally, the book concludes with a summary of novel therapeutic approaches for biofilms such as synbiotics and biogenics.

Advances in geomicrobiology have progressed at an accelerated pace in recent years. Ehrlich's Geomicrobiology, Sixth Edition surveys various aspects of the field, including the microbial role in elemental cycling and in the formation and degradation of minerals and fossil fuels. Unlike the fifth edition, the sixth includes many expert contributors besides the editors, providing added depth to each topic and broadening this edition's overall insight into geomicrobiology. The Sixth Edition Includes: Extensive revisions and updates to most chapters from the fifth edition A new chapter on terrestrial subsurface ecosystems A new chapter summarizing important principles of geomicrobiology New discussions and references on the latest findings and theories in geomicrobiology Through revisions, updates, and the introduction of new authors who are specialists on the topics covered, this new edition is the most in-depth and current overview of geomicrobiology. The research presented has applications in agriculture, forestry, aquaculture, marine science, the metals industry, and more. The new breadth and scope as well as the current and developing applications which this book addresses make it a must-have source in geomicrobiology.

This new edition of Fungi in Ecosystem Processes continues the unique approach of examining the roles of fungi from the perspective of ecosystem functions. It explores how fungi have adapted to survive within particular constraints, how they help to maintain homeostasis in ecosystems, how they facilitate resistance to perturbations, and how they influence the communities of other organisms. Updated and revised, the second edition Expands the section on plant pathogens, invasive species, and insect-fungal interactions Provides more extensive coverage on insect-fungal interactions, including entomopathogens, the links between entomopathogens and endophytes, and symbiotic and mutualistic interactions Adds a new section on fungi in the built environment Presents new material on below-ground to above-ground interactions mediated through fungi, such as mycorrhizal signaling systems for herbivory defense The book also includes expanded coverage of the role of fungi in suppressive soils, aquatic and marine fungi, modern methods of following food chains in fungal-invertebrate trophic interactions, and the physiology of nutrient uptake by mycorrhizae. A necessary update and expansion to previous material, this book provides an essential reference on the current understanding of fungal roles in ecosystem processes. It also identifies directions for future study, including an emphasis on the need for further research on fungi in built environments.

Get a solid understanding of the major concepts in microbiology with a textbook that offers cutting-edge research findings, powerful tools, and visuals. Brock Biology of Microorganisms, Global Edition, 16th Edition is the latest version of the most authoritative textbook in the field, offering powerful, accurate, yet accessible content surrounding the basic concepts of microbiology. The text guides you through the six major themes of microbiology - Evolution, Cell Structure and Function, Metabolic Pathways, Information Flow and Genetics, Microbial Systems, and the Impact of Microorganisms - as outlined by the American Society for Microbiology Conference on Undergraduate Education (ASMCUE). Following a modern robust approach, the book supports your knowledge of the genomics and other "omics" maze - concepts that are fundamental to the field and have transformed and revolutionised microbiology. Furthermore, it provides concrete examples of how powerful tools have allowed microbiologists to probe deeper and further into the microbial world than ever before. Besides offering an overview of the essential principles surrounding the microbial world that all students need to master, this edition brings the most basic relevant concepts to life by further expanding on art programs, ensuring you experience microbiology as a visual science. With each chapter focusing on a specific scientific theme, the text allows you to connect and engage with the latest, most exciting real-world topics. Check out the preface for a complete list of features and what is new in this edition. Personalise your learning experience and improve results with Mastering (R) Microbiology. Mastering provides access to trusted content using customisable tools, features, and assessments built for today's digital learners. If you would like to purchase both the physical text and Mastering Biology, search for: 9781292405230 Brock Biology of Microorganisms, Global Edition, 16th Edition with Mastering Biology The bundle consists of: 9781292404790 Brock Biology of Microorganisms, Global Edition, 16th Edition 9781292405001 Pearson Mastering Microbiology - Instant Access - for Brock Biology of Microorganisms, Global Edition 9781292404950 Pearson Mastering Microbiology with Pearson eText - Instant Access - for Brock Biology of Microorganisms, Global Edition Pearson Mastering (R) Microbiology is not included Students, if Mastering Microbiology is a recommended/mandatory component of the course, please ask your instructor for the correct ISBN and course ID. Mastering Microbiology should only be purchased when required by an instructor. Instructors, contact your Pearson rep for more information. This title is a Pearson Global Edition. The Editorial team at Pearson has worked closely with educators around the world to include content, which is especially relevant to students outside the United States.