This volume focuses on those instances when benign and even beneficial relationships between microbes and their hosts opportunistically change and become detrimental toward the host. It examines the triggering events which can factor into these changes, such as reduction in the host's capacity for mounting an effective defensive response due to nutritional deprivation, coinfections and seemingly subtle environmental influences like the amounts of sunlight, temperature, and either water or air quality. The effects of environmental changes can be compounded when they necessitate a physical relocation of species, in turn changing the probability of encounter between microbe and host. The change also can result when pathogens, including virus species, either have modified the opportunist or attacked the host's protective natural microflora. The authors discuss these opportunistic interactions and assess their outcomes in both aquatic as well as terrestrial ecosystems, highlighting the impact on plant, invertebrate and vertebrate hosts.

In the last quarter century, advances in mass spectrometry (MS) have been at the forefront of efforts to map complex biological systems including the human metabolome, proteome, and microbiome. All of these developments have allowed MS to become a well-established molecular level technology for microorganism characterization. MS has demonstrated its considerable advantage as a rapid, accurate, and cost-effective method for microorganism identification, compared to conventional phenotypic techniques. In the last several years, applications of MS for microorganism characterization in research, clinical microbiology, counter-bioterrorism, food safety, and environmental monitoring have been documented in thousands of publications. Regulatory bodies in Europe, the US, and elsewhere have approved MS-based assays for infectious disease diagnostics. As of mid-2015, more than 3300 commercial MS systems for microorganism identification have been deployed worldwide in hospitals and clinical labs. While previous work has covered broader approaches in using MS to characterize microorganisms at the species level or above, this book focuses on strain-level and subtyping applications. In twelve individual chapters, innovators, leaders and practitioners in the field from around the world have contributed to a comprehensive overview of current and next-generation approaches for MS-based microbial characterization at the subspecies and strain levels. Chapters include up-to-date reference lists as well as web-links to databases, recommended software, and other useful tools. The emergence of new, antibiotic-resistant strains of human or animal pathogens is of extraordinary concern not only to the scientific and medical communities, but to the general public as well. Developments of novel MS-based assays for rapid identification of strains of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms are reviewed in the book as well. Microbiologists, bioanalytical scientists, infectious disease specialists, clinical laboratory and public health practitioners as well as researchers in universities, hospitals, government labs, and the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries will find this book to be a timely and valuable resource.

This volume covers microbiological, clinical and patophysiological aspects of sepsis and also provides general overview chapters with every chapter discussing the real clinical impact of the discussed diagnostic approaches. Sepsis is a major clinical problem that takes an inordinate toll on human lives and economical resources. It is widely recognized that inappropriate treatment is associated with a dramatic increase in mortality, especially within the first hours, therefore clinical and microbiological diagnosis are of pivotal importance in the management of septic patients. Written in the successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols, and notes on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and easily accessible, Sepsis: Diagnostic Methods and Protocols seeks to serve both professionals and novices with its well-honed methodologies in an effort to further our knowledge of this life-threatening illness.

This volume summarizes recent advances in environmental microbiology by providing fascinating insights into the diversity of microbial life that exists on our planet. The first two chapters present theoretical perspectives that help to consolidate our understanding of evolution as an adaptive process by which the niche and habitat of each species develop in a manner that interconnects individual components of an ecosystem. This results in communities that function by simultaneously coordinating their metabolic and physiologic actions. The third contribution addresses the fossil record of microorganisms, and the subsequent chapters then introduce the microbial life that currently exists in various terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Coverage of the geosphere addresses endolithic organisms, life in caves and the deep continental biosphere, including how subsurface microbial life may impact spent nuclear fuel repositories. The discussion of the hydrosphere includes hypersaline environments and arctic food chains. By better understanding examples from the micro biosphere, we can elucidate the many ways in which the niches of different species, both large and small, interconnect within the overlapping habitats of this world, which is governed by its microorganisms.

This book provides in-depth information on all key aspects of geminivirus biology, e.g. the genetics and evolution, global diversity and spread of these plant pathogens, as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying their virulence. Geminiviridae is one of the largest viral families, comprising numerous plant-infecting viruses that cause diseases in crops and weeds. These diseases have been reported from nearly all continents, in particular Asia, Europe, Africa and America. The book summarizes the current state of knowledge on the interactions between plant host and virus. In addition, it discusses advances regarding the trans-replication of satellite molecules and its effect on geminiviral pathogenesis, as well as pest management strategies to combat these diseases in the field. Given its scope, the book is a must-read reference guide for all researchers and advanced students working in virology, agriculture and plant biotechnology..

This volume reviews the current metabolic engineering tools and technologies from a practical point of view, and guides researchers as they overcome challenges at various stages of organism and bioprocess development. Microbes have been engineered to produce a variety of industrial products such as fuels, basic chemicals, fine chemicals, nutritional supplements, and pharmaceutical intermediates, and new tools such as gene synthesis, advanced cloning techniques, 'omics' analysis, and mathematical modeling have greatly accelerated the pace of innovation in the field. Written by leading experts in the field from both academia and industry, key topics include synthetic biology, pathway engineering, metabolic flux manipulation, adaptive evolution, and fermentation process scale-up. It is suitable for non-specialists, and is a valuable resource for anyone embarking on the exciting path to harnessing the metabolic potential of microorganisms.

The second part of an updated edition of the classic "Methods in Cell Biology, "Volume 48, this book emphasizes diverse methods and technologies needed to investigate "C. elegans," both as an integrated organism and as a model system for research inquiries in cell, developmental, and molecular biology, as well as in genetics and pharmacology. By directing its audience to tried-and-true and cutting-edge recipes for research, this comprehensive collection is intended to guide investigators of "C. elegans" for years to come.
Diverse, up-to-date techniques covered will be useful to the broadening community of "C. elegans" researchers for years to comeChapters written by leaders in the fieldTried and true methods deliver busy researchers a one-stop compendium of essential protocols

Flagella-dependent motility is widespread throughout prokaryotes and is advantageous when nutrients are limited as a mechanism to migrate to more favorable environments and to compete with other micro-organisms. Flagella systems can also play an important role in additional processes, such as adhesion to substrates, biofilm formation, and host invasion in pathogenic bacteria. A variety of different classes of pili are found in prokaryotes and these structures also possess a diverse array of functions. Pili are essential for host colonization, virulence, and pathogenesis for many bacteria and, in the case of type IV pili, can also be employed for motility across solid surfaces. This book brings together some of the top scientists in the field and describes the current knowledge and latest research on prokaryotic pili and flagella. The emphasis is on the molecular biology, genetics, structure, assembly, and function of these structures. Topics include: biogenesis, structure, and function of various pili in Gram-negative and Gram-positive organisms * flagellar gene expression, structure, and assembly * the flagella motor * posttranslational modifications of flagella systems * lateral flagella systems * the origin and evolution of flagella * applications of flagella as a surface display and expression system * the flagella and pili of Archaea.

Topics in Ecological and Environmental Microbiology provides an overview of ecological aspects of the metabolism and behavior of microbes, microbial habitats, biogeochemical cycles, and biotechnology. This essential reference was designed by selecting relevant chapters from the authoritative and comprehensive Encyclopedia of Microbiology," " 3rd edn., and inviting the original authors to update their material to include key developments and advances in the field. This concise and affordable book is an essential reference for students and researchers in microbiology, mycology, immunology, environmental sciences, and biotechnology.
Written by recognized authorities in the fieldIncludes topics such as air quality, marine habitats, food webs, and microbial adhesionProvides a thematic mix of both classic and cutting -edge reviews, with suggested further reading in each chapter

An updated edition of the classic "Methods in Cell Biology" volume 48, this book emphasizes diverse methods and technologies needed to investigate "C. elegans," both as an integrated organism and as a model system for research inquiries in cell, developmental, and molecular biology, as well as in genetics and pharmacology. By directing its audience to tried-and-true and cutting-edge recipes for research, this comprehensive collection is intended to guide investigators of "C. elegans" for years to come.

*Diverse, up-to-date techniques covered will be useful to the broadening community of "C. elegans" researchers for years to come * Chapters written by leaders in the field * Tried and true methods deliver busy researchers a one-stop compendium of essential protocols

"Taxonomy of Prokaryotes," edited by two leading experts in the field, presents the most appropriate up-to-date experimental approaches in the detail required for modern microbiological research. Focusing on the methods most useful for the microbiologist interested in this specialty, this volume will be essential reading for all researchers working in microbiology, immunology, virology, mycology and parasitology. Methods in Microbiology is the most prestigious series devoted to techniques and methodology in the field. Established for over 30 years, Methods in Microbiology will continue to provide you with tried and tested, cutting-edge protocols to directly benefit your research.

Published since 1953, "Advances in Virus Research" covers a diverse range of in-depth reviews providing a valuable overview of the current field of virology. The impact factor for 2009 is 5.522placing it2nd in the highly competitive category of virology.

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

Parasites threaten the health of animals and humans alike. Especially in times of increasing globalization and global warming, parasites can enlarge their "kingdom" by spreading. At the same time many of the existing medical products have become ineffective. As these products have been used for many decades, parasites have developed resistances, so that they have progressed in their fight for survival. Therefore it is obvious that humans must develop new methods to face these dangers. Thus parasitological knowledge increases daily and must be formulated to be accessible for as many parasitologists (veterinarians, physicians, biologists) as possible. Therefore it is necessary that reviews reflecting the present status of the progress in many fields of research be published. Therefore this book, published on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the German Society of Parasitology, compiles 18 reviews on recent "hot topics," including a new vaccine against malarial parasites; severe diseases with poor chances of treatment (cryptosporidiosis, coccidiosis, theileriosis); vectors (mosquitoes, ticks) and their transmission activities; and fish parasites, including molecular insights into the sex of parasites with a focus on the survival abilities that made them so dangerous. These chapters provide detailed information for researchers, as well as for teachers and students in parasitology.

This volume focuses on the developmental areas of biopesticides: production, formulation, application and field efficacy. Chapters guide readers through methods and techniques on environmental, mammalian, safety, and registration. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Microbial-Based Biopesticides aims to ensure successful results in the further study of this vital field.

Parasitoids are parasitic insects that kill their insect hosts in immature pre-reproductive stages. Parasitoids are employed in biological control programs worldwide to kill insect pests and are environmentally safe and benign alternatives to chemical pesticides. As resistance to chemical pesticides continues to escalate in many pest populations, attention is now refocusing on biologically-based strategies to control pest species in agriculture and forestry as well as insect vector populations that transmit human and animal diseases. Parasitoids are an economically critical element in this equation and integrated pest management.

Viruses have evolved intimate associations with parasitoids, and this book features sections on both symbiotic viruses that are integrated into the wasp s chromosomal DNA (polydnaviruses) that play critical roles in suppressing host immunity during parasitism. A separate section with additional chapters on viral pathogens that infect parasitoids to cause disease and act as detrimental agents that limit effectiveness of wasp species employed in biological control of pests is also featured. A third component is a section on parasitoid venoms, which are of interest to the pharmaceutical and medical communities as well as insect-oriented biologists.
Sections focus on both virus evolution and genomics as well as proteomics and functional roles of polydnavirus-encoded gene productsInternational researchers and emerging leaders in their fields provide readers with syntheses of the latest researchIncludes content on both symbiotic viruses and pathogenic viruses, plus new research on parasitoid venomsCutting-edge section on future directions in the field covers the impacts of polydnavirus research on medicine, human health, bioengineering and the economy, increasing the value for researchers and practitioners who need to stay on top of the research in this swiftly moving field"

The rapid advancement of sequencing techniques, coupled with the new methodologies of bioinformatics to handle large-scale data analysis, are providing exciting opportunities for us to understand microbial communities from a variety of environments beyond previous imagination. This book provides up-to-date and detailed information on various aspects of bioinformatics data analysis with applications to microbiology.

Published since 1953, "Advances in Virus Research" covers a diverse range of in-depth reviews providing a valuable overview of the current field of virology. The impact factor for 2009 is 5.522, placing it 2nd in the highly competitive category of virology.

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

Written by specialists in the different fields, this book presents new perspectives and insights into strategies and weapons to fight microbial infections. It also reviews the "state of the art" of alternative treatment approaches and new therapeutic agents to deal with infections caused by multidrug-resistant microorganisms. In an era of accumulated resistance to current antibiotics, it is vital that this is undertaken without further delay. Aspects discussed include the control of RNA synthesis, the use of bacteriocins or enzybiotics (bacteriophages or purified lysins), the specific control of pathogenic clostridia, the design of new drugs affecting DNA synthesis in bacteria, the use of fecal-matter transplant strategies, the specific control of quorum sensing responses in bacteria, the use of new peptides as antibiotics and new ways to control bacteria that cause cancer, such as Helicobacter pylori cancers.

This book provides a detailed description and analysis of the reduction and metabolism of metals and metalloids by sulfate reducing bacteria. The molecular mechanisms of bacterial resistance to copper are examined as well as extracellular electron transfer and bacterial metal oxide respiration. Furthermore, in this book enrichment, isolation, and physiology of magnetotactic bacteria are discussed. The interactions of bacteria with metals in natural environments and their role in metal cycling have been studied for decades. Advances in studies of bacteria-metal interactions identified numerous important aspects of these interactions, such as bioremediation of metal-contaminated environments, the role of metals in redox reactions and other cellular functions, as well as the role of metals in toxicity and infection. Microbiologists, environmental scientists, and students interested in microbe interactions with metals and their effect on the environment and their application in biotechnology will be interested in the topics discussed in the book.

Due to various special physiological features and a genome that greatly differs in structure, gene content and organization from other yeasts, Y. lipolytica is widely used as a host system. With its characteristics, such as the ability to grow on lipids or grease, to accumulate oil and the high capacity for secretion of proteases and lipases, the yeast is of great interest for biotechnological applications. The main topics covered in this Microbiology Monograph are: expression and secretion of heterologous proteins; acid and alkaline extracellular proteases; genetics, production, biochemical characterization and biotechnological application of lipases; production and secretion of several organic acids and flagrances; as well as the functional expression of P450 systems and its use in steroid biotransformation.

This volume summarizes recent advances in our understanding of the mechanisms that produce successful symbiotic partnerships involving microorganisms. It begins with a basic introduction to the nature of and mechanistic benefits derived from symbiotic associations. Taking that background knowledge as the starting point, the next sections include chapters that examine representative examples of coevolutionary associations that have developed between species of microbes, as well as associations between microbes and plants. The authors conclude with a section covering a broad range of associations between microbes and invertebrate animals, in which they discuss the spectrum of hosts, with examples ranging from bryozoans and corals to nematodes, arthropods, and cephalopods. Join the authors on this journey of understanding!

This book provides information about microbial mats, from early fossils to modern mats located in marine and terrestrial environments. Microbial mats layered biofilms containing different types of cells are most complex systems in which representatives of various groups of organisms are found together. Among them are cyanobacteria and eukaryotic phototrophs, aerobic heterotrophic and chemoautotrophic bacteria, protozoa, anoxygenic photosynthetic bacteria, and other types of microorganisms.

These mats are perfect models for biogeochemical processes, such as the cycles of chemical elements, in which a variety of microorganisms cooperate and interact in complex ways. They are often found under extreme conditions and their study contributes to our understanding of extremophilic life. Moreover, microbial mats are models for Precambrian stromatolites; the study of modern microbial mats may provide information on the processes that may have occurred on Earth when prokaryotic life began to spread."

Cytometry is one of the most rapidly growing methodologies available for basic cell and molecular biology, cytogenetics, immunology, oncology, environmental sciences and also various fields of clinical medicine. Thisnew edition, split into 2 Parts, is an almost completely new book, with nearly all of the chapters devoted to new topics. Like the previous volumes on cytometry published as part of the Methods in Cell Biology series, it provides a comprehensive description of particular cytometric methods and reviews their applications. Chapters present the theoretical foundations of the described methods, their applicability in experimental laboratory and clinical settings, and describes common traps and pitfalls such as problems with data interpretation, comparison with alternative assays, and choosing the optimal assay.
* Comprehensive presentation of cytometric methods covering theoretical applications, applicability, potential pitfalls, and comparisions to alternative assays
* Discusses many new assays developed since the previous edition
* Presents recent developments in cytometric intrumentation/technology"

Commercially, D-xylitol is produced by chemical reactions that are tailored to the requirements of various sectors. However, due to the rising interest in sustainable development and ecologically benign practices, microbial transformation processes are generally preferred over the conventional chemical conversion process. The former have multiple advantages, including less chemical load on the environment, higher efficiency, and the ability to dilute multiple downstream transformation attempts while maintaining product yield and recovery.

This book aims to disseminate the most current advances in the biotechnological production of D-xylitol and its applications in medical and health care. It is a unique collection of 15 book chapters split into 5 sections and written by experts in their respective fields, who present critical insights into several topics, review current research, and discuss future progress in this area. This book also provides essential information on hemicellulose hydrolysis to recover D-xylose, detoxification of hemicellulose hydrolysates, and improved fermentation methods for increased D-xylitol production. The highlights of strain improvement to increase the D-xylitol titers and downstream recovery of D-xylitol are also discussed in several sections. The current applications of D-xylitol in medical and health care have been used to justify the cost incurred for setting up the demonstration plant for D-xylitol production in the market. Apart from researchers and post-graduate students in the field of microbial biotechnology, this book will assist those in the business community who deal with the economic analysis of bio-based products and their marketing.