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Advances in Materials Science and Implant Orthopedic Surgery (NATO Science Series E: #294)
by R. Kossowsky Nir KossovskyAdvances in Materials Science and Implant Orthopedic Surgery brings together experts from major university hospitals, materials scientists specializing in bio-materials, and development engineers working for implant manufacturers to address such issues as: mechanisms of fixation; foreign-body immune response; generation and consequences of ionic and wear debris; materials selection, design and manufacturing schemes; and surgical techniques to maximize the safety and efficacy of the devices.
Advances in Maternal-Fetal Biomedicine: Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Pregnancy Pathologies (Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology #1428)
by Marcelo Gonzalez-OrtizThis edited volumeaims to describe physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms that underlie human maternal-fetal interactions. The book emphasizes the structure and development of the fetoplacental unit, the endocrine and nutritional regulation of fetal development, nitric oxide signalling, solute carriers function and ion channels regulation in healthy pregnancies and diseases, like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and maternal obesity, among others. Also, we highlight novel mechanisms associated with language impairment in children, the use of serotonin inhibitors or cannabis during pregnancy, and maternal conditions' potential impact on cerebrovascular development in newborns and infants. The cellular and molecular understanding of maternal-fetal physiology and pathophysiology will allow the readers to understand the impact of diseases or conditions that are highly prevalent in pregnant women.
Advances in Mathematical Fluid Mechanics: Dedicated to Giovanni Paolo Galdi on the Occasion of his 60th Birthday
by Rolf Rannacher Adélia SequeiraThe present volume celebrates the 60th birthday of Professor Giovanni Paolo Galdi and honors his remarkable contributions to research in the ?eld of Mathematical Fluid Mechanics. The book contains a collection of 35 peer reviewed papers, with authors from 20 countries, re?ecting the worldwide impact and great inspiration by his work over the years. These papers were selected from invited lectures and contributed talks presented at the International Conference on Mathematical Fluid Mechanics held in Estoril, Portugal, May 21–25, 2007 and organized on the oc- sion of Professor Galdi’s 60th birthday. We express our gratitude to all the authors and reviewers for their important contributions. Professor Galdi devotes his career to research on the mathematical analysis of the Navier-Stokes equations and non-Newtonian ?ow problems, with special emphasis on hydrodynamic stability and ?uid-particle interactions, impressing the worldwide mathematical communities with his results. His numerous contributions have laid down signi?cant milestones in these ?elds, with a great in?uence on interdis- plinary research communities. He has advanced the careers of numerous young researchers through his generosity and encouragement, some directly through int- lectual guidance and others indirectly by pairing them with well chosen senior c- laborators. A brief review of Professor Galdi’s activities and some impressions by colleagues and friends are included here.
Advances in Mechanism and Machine Science: Proceedings of the 16th IFToMM World Congress 2023—Volume 1 (Mechanisms and Machine Science #147)
by Masafumi OkadaThis book gathers the proceedings of the 16th IFToMM World Congress, which was held in Tokyo, Japan, on November 5–10, 2023. Having been organized every four years since 1965, the Congress represents the world’s largest scientific event on mechanism and machine science (MMS). The contributions cover an extremely diverse range of topics, including biomechanical engineering, computational kinematics, design methodologies, dynamics of machinery, multibody dynamics, gearing and transmissions, history of MMS, linkage and mechanical controls, robotics and mechatronics, micro-mechanisms, reliability of machines and mechanisms, rotor dynamics, standardization of terminology, sustainable energy systems, transportation machinery, tribology and vibration. Selected by means of a rigorous international peer-review process, they highlight numerous exciting advances and ideas that will spur novel research directions and foster new multidisciplinary collaborations.
Advances in Mechanism and Machine Science: Proceedings of the 16th IFToMM World Congress 2023—Volume 2 (Mechanisms and Machine Science #148)
by Masafumi OkadaThis book gathers the proceedings of the 16th IFToMM World Congress, which was held in Tokyo, Japan, on November 5–10, 2023. Having been organized every four years since 1965, the Congress represents the world’s largest scientific event on mechanism and machine science (MMS). The contributions cover an extremely diverse range of topics, including biomechanical engineering, computational kinematics, design methodologies, dynamics of machinery, multibody dynamics, gearing and transmissions, history of MMS, linkage and mechanical controls, robotics and mechatronics, micro-mechanisms, reliability of machines and mechanisms, rotor dynamics, standardization of terminology, sustainable energy systems, transportation machinery, tribology and vibration. Selected by means of a rigorous international peer-review process, they highlight numerous exciting advances and ideas that will spur novel research directions and foster new multidisciplinary collaborations.Chapter “The Motion Suspension System – MSS: A Cable-Driven System for On-Ground Tests of Space Robots” is available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com.
Advances in Medical and Surgical Cornea: From Diagnosis to Procedure (Essentials in Ophthalmology)
by Bennie H. JengThis book presents up-to-date information on the diagnosis and management of the spectrum of medical and surgical corneal diseases, with a special focus on new technology. The latest tools for diagnosing ocular surface disease, infectious keratitis, and ocular allergies are discussed, along with novel treatment options for these entities. The impact of progress in imaging and contact lens technology on the management of corneal conditions is fully described, and the efficacy of corneal collagen crosslinking for keratoconus and corneal ectasia is evaluated. Detailed attention is devoted to the latest surgical techniques, including lamellar keratoplasty, endothelial keratoplasty, keratoprosthesis, and laser-assisted penetrating keratoplasty. In addition, the role of the eye bank in facilitating corneal procedures is explained. Advances in Medical and Surgical Cornea is written by leading authorities who share a passion for effective, cutting-edge care. It will be invaluable for both experienced ophthalmologists and trainees.
Advances in Medical Biochemistry, Genomics, Physiology, and Pathology
by Saadia A. Faiz Raj Bawa Esther H. Chang Gerald F. Audette Anil DiwanThe pace and sophistication of advances in medicine in the past two decades have necessitated a growing need for a comprehensive reference that highlights current issues in medicine. Each volume in the Current Issues in Medicine series is a stand‐alone text that provides a broad survey of various critical topics—all accomplished in a user-friendly yet interconnected format. The series not only highlights current advances but also explores related topics such as translational medicine, regulatory science, neglected diseases, global pandemics, patent law, immunotoxicology, theranostics, big data, artificial intelligence, novel imaging tools, combination drug products, and novel therapies. While bridging the gap between basic research and clinical medicine, this series provides a thorough understanding of medicine’s potential to address health problems from both the patient’s and the provider’s perspectives in a healthcare setting. The range of topics covered and the expertise of the contributing authors accurately reflect the rapidly evolving areas within medicine—from basic medical sciences to clinical specialties. Each volume is essential reading for physicians, medical students, nurses, fellows, residents, undergraduate and graduate students, educators, policymakers, and biomedical researchers. The multidisciplinary approach of the series makes it a valuable reference resource for the pharmaceutical industry, academia, and governments. However, unlike other series on medicine or medical textbooks, this series focuses on current trends, perspectives, and issues in medicine that are central to healthcare delivery in the 21st century. Volume 1 focuses on the current issues in basic medical sciences, subjects that are fundamental to the practice of medicine. Specifically, it covers medical biochemistry, genomics, physiology, and pathology. These subjects, traditionally taught in the first two years of medical school that precede clinical instruction, provide a core of basic knowledge critical to the success in clinical medicine during rotations, training, and medical practice.
Advances in Medical Diagnostic Technology (Lecture Notes in Bioengineering)
by Khin Wee Lai Yan Chai Hum Maheza Irna Mohamad Salim Sang-Bing Ong Nugraha Priya Utama Yin Mon Myint Norliza Mohd Noor Eko SupriyantoThis book provides the most recent findings and knowledge in advanced diagnostics technology, covering a wide spectrum including brain activity analysis, breast and lung cancer detection, echocardiography, computer aided skeletal assessment to mitochondrial biology imaging at the cellular level. The authors explored magneto acoustic approaches and tissue elasticity imaging for the purpose of breast cancer detection. Perspectives in fetal echocardiography from an image processing angle are included. Diagnostic imaging in the field of mitochondrial diseases as well as the use of Computer-Aided System (CAD) are also discussed in the book. This book will be useful for students, lecturers or professional researchers in the field of biomedical sciences and image processing.
Advances in Medical Education
by J A. A. Scherpbier Cees P. M. Van Der Vleuten J. J. Rethans A. F. W. Van Der SteegAbout 550 registrants from 51 different countries attended the Seventh Ottawa Conference on Medical Education and Assessment in Maastricht. We received 525 abstracts for the conference, divided in thematic poster sessions and platform presentations. Organising the conference was an honour and we tried to meet the high standards of a friendly and relaxed atmosphere which has characterized previous Ottawa conferences. During and after the conference about 250 papers were submitted for publication in the conference proceedings, leaving us little time for a post-conference depression. Despite the large number of papers, the editors have attempted to review and edit the papers as care fully as possible. Occasionally, however, correspondence exceeded reasonable deadlines, preventing careful editing of a small number of the papers. Although we felt that our editorial task was not quite finished, we nevertheless decided to include these papers. We thank the many authors for their enthusiastic and prompt response to - occasionally tedious - editorial suggestions and requests. We are sure that this collective effort has resulted in a book that will make an important contribution to the field of medical education. The editors want to thank Jocelyn Flippo-Berger whose expertise with desk top publishing and perseverance was a great help.
Advances in Medical Engineering (Springer Proceedings in Physics #114)
by Thorsten M. BuzugThis book offers a lucid and comprehensive account of research and development trends of physics, engineering, mathematics and computer sciences in biomedical engineering. Contributions from industry, clinics, universities and research labs are reviewed. Coverage focuses on medical imaging, medical image processing, computer-assisted surgery, biomechanics, biomedical optics and laser medicine. The book is designed and written to give insight to recent engineering, clinical and mathematical studies.
Advances in Medical Imaging, Detection, and Diagnosis (Jenny Stanford Series on Current Issues in Medicine, Volume 4)
by Gerald F. Audette S. R. Bawa Bela Patel Bruce D. Johnson Rajeev Khanna Raj BawaMedical care is the most critical issue of our time and will be so for the foreseeable future. In this regard, the pace and sophistication of advances in medicine in the past two decades have been truly breathtaking. This has necessitated a growing need for comprehensive reference resources that highlight current issues in specific sectors of medicine. Keeping this in mind, each volume in the Current Issues in Medicine series is a stand‐alone text that provides a broad survey of various important topics in a focused area of medicine—all accomplished in a user-friendly yet interconnected format. This volume addresses advances in medical imaging, detection, and diagnostic technologies. Technological innovations in these sectors of medicine continue to provide for safer, more accurate, and faster diagnosis for patients. This translates into superior prognosis and better patient compliance, while reducing morbidity and mortality. Hence, it is imperative that practitioners stay current with these latest advances to provide the best care for nursing and clinical practices. While recognizing how expansive and multifaceted these areas of medicine are, Advances in Medical Imaging, Detection, and Diagnosis addresses crucial recent progress, integrating the knowledge and experience of experts from academia and the clinic. The multidisciplinary approach reflected makes this volume a valuable reference resource for medical practitioners, medical students, nurses, fellows, residents, undergraduate and graduate students, educators, venture capitalists, policymakers, and biomedical researchers. A wide audience will benefit from having this volume on their bookshelf: health care systems, the pharmaceutical industry, academia, and government.
Advances in Medical Imaging, Detection, and Diagnosis (Jenny Stanford Series on Current Issues in Medicine, Volume 4)
Medical care is the most critical issue of our time and will be so for the foreseeable future. In this regard, the pace and sophistication of advances in medicine in the past two decades have been truly breathtaking. This has necessitated a growing need for comprehensive reference resources that highlight current issues in specific sectors of medicine. Keeping this in mind, each volume in the Current Issues in Medicine series is a stand‐alone text that provides a broad survey of various important topics in a focused area of medicine—all accomplished in a user-friendly yet interconnected format. This volume addresses advances in medical imaging, detection, and diagnostic technologies. Technological innovations in these sectors of medicine continue to provide for safer, more accurate, and faster diagnosis for patients. This translates into superior prognosis and better patient compliance, while reducing morbidity and mortality. Hence, it is imperative that practitioners stay current with these latest advances to provide the best care for nursing and clinical practices. While recognizing how expansive and multifaceted these areas of medicine are, Advances in Medical Imaging, Detection, and Diagnosis addresses crucial recent progress, integrating the knowledge and experience of experts from academia and the clinic. The multidisciplinary approach reflected makes this volume a valuable reference resource for medical practitioners, medical students, nurses, fellows, residents, undergraduate and graduate students, educators, venture capitalists, policymakers, and biomedical researchers. A wide audience will benefit from having this volume on their bookshelf: health care systems, the pharmaceutical industry, academia, and government.
Advances in Medical Physics and Healthcare Engineering: Proceedings of AMPHE 2020 (Lecture Notes in Bioengineering)
by Siddhartha Bhattacharyya Moumita Mukherjee J. K. Mandal Christian Huck Satarupa BiswasThis book presents research advances in the theory of medical physics and its application in various sectors of biomedical engineering. It gathers best selected research papers presented at International Conference on Advances in Medical Physics and Healthcare Engineering (AMPHE 2020), organized by the Department of Physics (in collaboration with the School of Engineering and Technology) Adamas University, Kolkata, India. The theme of the book is interdisciplinary in nature; it interests students, researchers and faculty members from biomedical engineering, biotechnology, medical physics, life sciences, material science and also from electrical, electronics and mechanical engineering backgrounds nurturing applications in biomedical domain.
Advances in Medicine and Medical Research (Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology #1133)
by Mieczyslaw PokorskiThis book focuses on issues in clinical practice and research that are of general interest. The articles primarily focus on understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of diseases, their prevention, and therapy. The topics addressed include cardiovascular regulation with regard to blood pressure and heart rate variability, and to coupling blood pressure changes with subarachnoid fluid oscillations. In addition, the book discusses recent advances in the diagnostics of and targeted molecular therapy for renal and pancreatic malignancies, growth disorders, vitamin D and calcium homeostasis in children in the context of neonatal urolithiasis, and neurosurgical interventions in multifarious age-related diseases of the vertebrae. Neuropsychological aspects of patients’ quality of life and of shaping medical staff’s attitude toward patients are also addressed. The respective articles are intended to build a bridge between basic and clinical research. Further, the book enhances the current body of knowledge on diagnostics and patient treatment and offers valuable new perspectives on practical clinical issues. As such, it offers a unique resource for clinicians, family physicians, medical scholars, and professionals engaged in patient management.
Advances in Membrane Proteins: Part I: Mass Processing and Transportation
by Yu CaoThe book summarizes advances in biochemical and biophysical property of membrane proteins as well as their applications in biomedicine. It is organised into 2 themed parts. This part focuses on mass processing and transportation and provides deep and comprehensive information on specific groups of membrane proteins including channels and transporters, nuclear and cytoplasmic membrane proteins, and membrane embedded enzymes. Their structures, functions, related diseases as well as their roles in drug discovery are fully discussed. Interesting topics cover fundamental concepts, latest progress and critical puzzles yet to be solved. This work will appeal to a wide readership within the membrane structural and functional biology field. Junior scientists could use it to fast track into the field. Advanced scientists will find it helpful to gain a broader view of the field beyond their area of specialization.
Advances in Membrane Proteins: Building, Signaling and Malfunction
by Yu CaoThis book reviews recent advances regarding the biochemical and biophysical properties of membrane proteins and their applications in biomedicine. Divided into two thematic parts, this second volume addresses proteins’ formation, signaling and malfunctions. It covers a number of important membrane proteins including receptors, cell adhesion molecules, single-transmembrane proteins and viral membrane proteins, and discusses their structures, functions, related diseases, and roles in drug discovery in detail. In turn, the book elucidates the lifecycle of membrane proteins, including their synthesis and facilitated folding process, as well as QC procedures for their production. Additional topics include fundamental concepts, the latest findings, and critical puzzles yet to be solved. Given its scope, the book will appeal to a broad readership in the field of membrane structural and functional biology. Junior scientists can use it as an introduction to the field, while advanced scientists will find a broader view of the field beyond their area of specialization.
Advances in Mercury Toxicology (Rochester Series on Environmental Toxicity)
by Tsuguyoshi Suzuki Nobumasa Imura Thomas W. ClarksonThis book is based on an international meeting organized by the University of Tokyo and the University of Rochester, and is published as one belonging to the series of Rochester International Conferences in Environmental Toxicity. The meeting on "Advances in Mercury Toxicology" was held at the University of Tokyo on August 1 to 3, 1990. The invited papers are published in this book along with an "Overview" chapter that was written by the editors at a meeting held at the University of Rochester on August 1 to 2, 1991. The purpose of the meeting was to assemble leading scientists to discuss their most recent findings on the toxicology of mercury. The time was opportune. Considerable progress has been made on the environmental fate and toxicology of mercury. Recent findings have given new insight into the global model for mercury. Transport in the atmosphere extends great distances resulting in pollution of lakes and rivers far distant from the source of mercury release. The process of methylation leads to accumulation of methylmercury in fish and thus in the human diet. New evidence indicates that acid rain and the impoundment of water for hydroelectric purposes affects the methylation and bioaccumulation processes resulting in higher levels of methylmercury in fish.
Advances in Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering: Volume 4 (Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology)
by Phuc Van PhamThe fourth volume in this series is a proceedings volume based on papers presented at the 5th Innovations in Regenerative Medicine and Cancer Research conference. Chapters are written by some of the most innovative minds in stem cell and tissue engineering research, and provide a comprehensive overview of papers from the most recent conference. The volume addresses tissue engineering principles and applications, including current trends and challenges, as well as future directions. Cutting edge topics of interest include production of functional tissues, vascularization and immune responses, and functionalization of scaffolds. Volumes in this series are invaluable resources for active researchers, clinicians, and professionals in industry, as well as students across a broad range of fields.
Advances in Metabolic Mapping Techniques for Brain Imaging of Behavioral and Learning Functions (NATO Science Series D: #68)
by Francisco Gonzalez-Lima Th. Finkenstädt Henning ScheichIn recent years, revolutionary technical advances have permitted neuroscientists to map the functioning of the brain in exquisite detail. Of interest are the new techniques that visually display cell energy metabolism which is coupled to functional brain activity in behaving animals. This is the first book dealing with the application of 2-deoxyglucose and related metabolic mapping techniques for brain imaging of behavioral and learning functions. Quantitative autoradiographic techniques based on the use of exogenous markers include radiolabeled glucose and its analogs, especially 2-deoxyglucose and fluorodeoxyglucose. Other mapping techniques are based on the histochemical staining of endogenous metabolic markers such as cytochrome oxidase, as well as immunohistochemistry for expression of c-fos genes. In spite of the great potential capabilities of the new imaging techniques, relatively few neuroscientists are using this approach to study brain functions related to behavior. There is a need to review state-of-the-art applications of these methods in behavioral neuroscience, and to formulate recommendations for future research in this area. This book is intended to fulfill these needs by bringing together leading neuroscientists using metabolic mapping approaches to elucidate brain mechanisms of behavior. Discussions are not limited to one animal species, but they cover a broad range of vertebrates with unique behavioral capabilities.
Advances in Metallic Biomaterials: Tissues, Materials and Biological Reactions (Springer Series in Biomaterials Science and Engineering #3)
by Mitsuo Niinomi Takayuki Narushima Masaaki NakaiThis book reviews fundamental advances in the use of metallic biomaterials to reconstruct hard tissues and blood vessels. It also covers the latest advances in representative metallic biomaterials, such as stainless steels, Co-Cr alloys, titanium and its alloys, zirconium, tantalum and niobium based alloys. In addition, the latest findings on corrosion, cytotoxic and allergic problems caused by metallic biomaterials are introduced. The book offers a valuable reference source for researchers, graduate students and clinicians working in the fields of materials, surgery, dentistry, and mechanics.Mitsuo Niinomi, PhD, D.D.Sc., is a Professor at the Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University, Japan.Takayuki Narushima, PhD, is a Professor at the Department of Materials Processing, Tohoku University, Japan.Masaaki Nakai, PhD, is an Associate Professor at the Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University, Japan.
Advances in Metallic Biomaterials: Processing and Applications (Springer Series in Biomaterials Science and Engineering #4)
by Mitsuo Niinomi Takayuki Narushima Masaaki NakaiThis book covers the latest advances in processing techniques for producing metallic biomaterial implants. It also discusses recent developments in surface modifications using bioactive ceramics and blood-compatible polymers, as well as the adhesive strength of bioactive surface layers, before introducing the practical applications of metallic biomaterials in the fields of surgery and dentistry. As such, the book provides an essential reference guide for researchers, graduate students and clinicians working in the fields of materials, surgery, dentistry, and mechanics.Mitsuo Niinomi, PhD, D.D.Sc., is a Professor at the Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University, JapanTakayuki Narushima, PhD, is a Professor at the Department of Materials Processing, Tohoku University, JapanMasaaki Nakai, PhD, is an Associate Professor at the Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University, Japan
Advances in Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics (Springer Atmospheric Sciences)
by Costas G. Helmis and Panagiotis T. NastosThis book essentially comprises the proceedings of the 11th International Conference of Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics (COMECAP 2012) that is held in Athens from 30 May to 1 June 2012. The Conference addresses researchers, professionals and students interested in the following topics: Agricultural Meteorology and Climatology, Air Quality, Applied Meteorology and Climatology, Applications of Meteorology in the Energy Sector, Atmospheric Physics and Chemistry, Atmospheric Radiation, Atmospheric Boundary Layer, Biometeorology and Bioclimatology, Climate Dynamics, Climatic Changes, Cloud Physics, Dynamic and Synoptic Μeteorology, Extreme Events, Hydrology and Hydrometeorology, Mesoscale Meteorology, Micrometeorology/Urban Microclimate, Remote Sensing/ Satellite Meteorology and Climatology, Weather Analysis and Forecasting. The book includes all papers that have been accepted for presentation at the conference.
Advances in Microbial Biotechnology: Current Trends and Future Prospects
by Pradeep Kumar Jayanta Kumar Patra Pranjal ChandraOver the last few decades, the rapid and vast development of advanced microbial bioresources and metagenomics techniques has completely transformed the field of microbial biotechnology. Our understanding of microbial diversity, evolutionary biology, and microbial interaction with their animal and plant hosts at molecular level has been revolutionized with an abundance of new research. This new volume, Advances in Microbial Biotechnology: Current Trends and Future Prospect, focuses on the application of microorganisms for several purposes: for plant protection and improvement, for environmental remediation purposes, and for the improvement of human health. Various applications of microorganisms are covered broadly and have been appropriately reflected in depth in different chapters. The book is divided into four major sections: applied microbiology in agriculture microbes in the environment microbes in human health microbes in nanotechnology The book provides insight into the diverse microorganisms that have been explored and exploited in the development of various applications for agricultural improvements. The book also looks at the application of microbes for the removal of pollutants and the recovery of metals and oils. Also discussed is the detection and exploitation of microorganisms in the diagnosis of human diseases, providing possible holistic approaches to health. This new volume will provide a wealth of information on new research on the application of microbial biotechnology today.
Advances in Microbial Biotechnology: Current Trends and Future Prospects
by Pradeep Kumar Jayanta Kumar Patra Pranjal ChandraOver the last few decades, the rapid and vast development of advanced microbial bioresources and metagenomics techniques has completely transformed the field of microbial biotechnology. Our understanding of microbial diversity, evolutionary biology, and microbial interaction with their animal and plant hosts at molecular level has been revolutionized with an abundance of new research. This new volume, Advances in Microbial Biotechnology: Current Trends and Future Prospect, focuses on the application of microorganisms for several purposes: for plant protection and improvement, for environmental remediation purposes, and for the improvement of human health. Various applications of microorganisms are covered broadly and have been appropriately reflected in depth in different chapters. The book is divided into four major sections: applied microbiology in agriculture microbes in the environment microbes in human health microbes in nanotechnology The book provides insight into the diverse microorganisms that have been explored and exploited in the development of various applications for agricultural improvements. The book also looks at the application of microbes for the removal of pollutants and the recovery of metals and oils. Also discussed is the detection and exploitation of microorganisms in the diagnosis of human diseases, providing possible holistic approaches to health. This new volume will provide a wealth of information on new research on the application of microbial biotechnology today.
Advances in Microbial Ecology (Advances in Microbial Ecology #1)
by M. AlexanderMicrobial ecology has come of age. A long history of exploratory research and problem definition is admittedly behind us, and outstanding scientists from many regions of the world have contributed major findings to the development of the discipline. The early literature is indeed vast and impressive, yet it is still fair to say that the field is just beginning to develop in a mature fashion. The major microbial habitats and the chief inhabitants have been delineated and are only now being adequately explored; the processes that are brought about by the microscopic residents are at the present time being investigated in definitive ways; new concepts are being formulated; and novel, exciting, and useful techniques have been devised. In recognition of the emergence of microbial ecology as a rapidly growing and independent discipline, the International Commission on Microbial Ecology-a unit of the International Association of Micro biological Societies and the Division of Environmental Biology of the Inter national Union of Biological Societies-has established the Advances in Microbial Ecology and has appointed an editor and editorial board for the series. The purposes of this review series are to present in one group of volumes an overview of the information that is now spread in an enormous array of technical journals, to have authors in various areas of microbial ecology summarize and present views in depth of their own specialties, and to help promote the continued growth of microbial ecology.