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Libros en Ciencias Agrícolas y Biológicas

The Agricultural and Biological Sciences collection advances science-based knowledge for the improvement of animal and plant life and for secure food systems that produce nutritious, novel, sustainable foods with minimal environmental impact. Food Science titles include not only those products from agriculture but all other aspects from food production to nutrition, health and safety, chemistry to security, policy, law and regulation. Biological Sciences address animal behaviour and biodiversity, organismal and evolutionary biology, entomology, marine biology and aquaculture, plant science and forestry.

  • Introduction to Floriculture

    • 2 Edición
    • Roy A. Larson
    • Inglés
    Every major floriculture crop is discussed in detail in Introduction to Floriculture, Second Edition. The information presented can be used as guidelines for the production of these crops. Divided into two sections on miscellaneous cut flowers and other flowering potted plants, this newly revised edition updates and expands on the existing information from the first edition and contains two completely new chapters on specialty cut flowers and geraniums. This book will be an invaluable source of information for the student as well as the commercial grower.
  • Physicochemical and Plant Physiology

    • 1 Edición
    • Park Nobel
    • Inglés
    Physicochemical and Environmental Plant Physiology provides an understanding of various areas of plant physiology in particular and physiology in general. Elementary chemistry, physics, and mathematics are used to explain and develop concepts. The first three chapters of the book describe water relations and ion transport for plant cells. The next three chapters cover the properties of light and its absorption; the features of chlorophyll and the accessory pigments for photosynthesis that allow plants to convert radiant energy from the sun into chemical energy; and how much energy is actually carried by the compounds ATP and NADPH. The last three chapters consider the various forms in which energy and matter enter and leave a plant as it interacts with its environment. These include the physical quantities involved in energy budget analysis; the resistances affecting the movement of both water vapor and carbon dioxide in leaves; and the movement of water from the soil through the plant to the atmosphere.
  • Plant Disease: An Advanced Treatise

    How Plants Defend Themselves
    • 1 Edición
    • James G. Horsfall
    • Inglés
    Plant Disease An Advanced Treatise, Volume V: How Plants Defend Themselves describes the active, passive, physical, chemical, mechanical, and physiological defense systems of plants against the pathogens. Divided into 23 chapters, this volume discusses theories, experimental approaches, and ways to help plant defend themselves. The opening chapters of this volume deal with certain general aspects of plant defense, such as the theories of “tolerance to disease” and “the time sequence of defense”, including a dynamic model of defense. A chapter discusses how plant populations defend themselves in natural ecosystem and the implications of disease management on agroecosystems. Considerable chapters examine the defense by the host by analogy with defense of a medieval castle, such as perimeter, internal, and chemical defenses. Discussions on the defenses triggered by the invading pathogen; recognition and compatibility phenomena; the concept of hypersensitivity; the role of phytoalexins in defense; and the metabolic detoxification done by plants to suffer less damage from toxins are provided. This volume also discusses the theory and mechanisms of hypovirulence and hyperparasitism. The concluding chapters summarize the effects of numerous nutrients on disease and the mechanisms involved. This volume is an invaluable source for plant pathologists, mycologists, advanced researches, and graduate students.
  • New Protein Foods

    • 1 Edición
    • Aaron Altschul
    • Inglés
    New Protein Foods, Volume 1: Technology Part A deals with protein methodologies in transforming protein sources into better or more useful sources. This volume is organized into 10 chapters that summarize possible sources of protein foods, such as legumes, meat, poultry products, and meat analogs. The introductory chapter presents an overview of the definition of food problem of the societies, the concept of affluent malnutrition, and the role of protein foods. This book then discusses the extent of controversy surrounding the issue of the amino acid fortification of cereals. It emphasizes rice, as it is a major staple in regions where fortification with amino acids should be of great benefit in eliminating malnutrition and improving the health and performance of the populations. This is followed by a discussion on protein fortification of various forms of breads and other products. Chapters 5-8 are devoted into the role of food proteins in human nutrition and the available technologies for their treatment. Emerging protein foods unique to Japan, including products of enzyme applications, are also discussed and their prospects are assessed. The concluding chapter presents underlying philosophies and problems as food and drug laws and regulations move to further definition of food products. It also presents the concern about food nutritive values in changing times. This book is an ideal source of information for food technologists and researchers who are interested with the evolving field of food proteins.
  • Taigu Genic Male-Sterile Wheat

    • 1 Edición
    • Volumen 9
    • Deng Deng Jingyang
    • Inglés
    This book deals with the theoretical background and breeding methods of the single dominant male sterile gene, a spontaneous mutant discovered for the first time in wheat.The book is divided into three sections: the discovery of Taigu genic male-sterile wheat and its determination, such as genetic analysis, cytological observation, location of the gene, etc.; theory and method of the new way of breeding, such as recurrent selection, creating and developing the gene-pool; mechanism of male-sterility, for example morphological anatomy, cytochemistry and bio-chemical analysis.The book will prove valuable to plant breeders, agronomists, bio-technicians, botonists, geneticists and cytologists.
  • Advances in Food-Producing Systems For Arid and Semiarid Lands Part B

    • 1 Edición
    • Jamal Manassah
    • Inglés
    Advances in Food-Producing Systems for Arid and Semiarid Lands: Part B contains the proceedings of a symposium on ""Advances in Food-Producing Systems for Arid and Semiarid Lands"" of the International Symposium Series held in Kuwait in April 1980. As a continuation of the proceedings, this compilation contains the last three parts of the symposium and the editor's closing remarks. It specifically talks about the innovative food systems and aquacultural systems in the arid and semi-arid lands. It also addresses the general problems of post-harvest losses in food of plant origin and the possibilities to reduce these losses. The presented papers bring renewed vitality to the hope that appropriate and directed exploitation of various technologies can evolve developable industries for arid and semiarid lands.
  • Primate Locomotion

    • 1 Edición
    • Farish A. Jr. Jenkins
    • Inglés
    Primate Locomotion discusses researches on the concept of primate locomotion. It is organized into 11 chapters that cover biomechanical principles, which are the foundation of understanding of locomotor adaptations. This book first gives an introduction to parallels and analogs between mammalian and mechanical structures. It then describes the mechanisms of arboreal mammal locomotion, as well as the behavioral observations and locomotor patterns of tree shrew. The jumping locomotion of Galago alleni and the role of wrist specialization in the locomotor evolution of the Hominoidea are also explained. The subsequent chapter discusses the relationship between the mechanical features of the scapula and shoulder region and the characteristics of locomotor behavior. A chapter also discusses the adaptive nature of postural behavior in quadrupedal primates, represented by the New and Old World monkeys. Moreover, this book examines the morphological differences between living Insectivora, Carnivora, Primates, and the relevant known fossils of Cretaceous and Early Tertiary Eutheria. This is to evaluate the origins, evolution, and function of the Tarsus. Another chapter presents a functional analysis of most of the foot skeleton, primarily, the Lemuriformes. The concluding chapters deal with electromyographical studies on gorillas; the mechanics of knuckle-walking; the theories on hominoid phylogeny; and the locomotor adaptations in prosimians. This text is intended not only for researchers dealing with primate locomotion, but equally for students and others who share an interest in mammals and locomotor adaptations.
  • Plant Disease: An Advanced Treatise

    How Plants Suffer from Disease
    • 1 Edición
    • James G. Horsfall
    • Inglés
    Plant Diseases An Advanced Treatise, Volume III: How Plants Suffer from Disease deals with the mechanism on how individual plants suffer from disease. Organized into 19 chapters, this volume discusses plant growth, the conceptual theory of disease development in plants, and the occurrence of different kinds of impairment in diseased plant system. The opening chapters outline the array of physiological functions that are essential in the growth and development of healthy plants. This text also describes the effect of disease on the capture, transfer, and utilization of energy by plants. The subsequent chapters discuss specific types of dysfunction in plant system, including food flow, water system, mineral nutrition, and growth alteration. Other chapters deal with other plant diseases, such as crown gall, teratoma, dysfunction and shortfalls of symbiont responses, disrupted reproduction, and tissue disintegration. This volume also examines various physical factors of the environment that impose mechanical or other physical stresses on plants. It also discusses the engineering mechanics of growing plants and the effect of various pathogens and microorganisms on plant strength and plant organ structural integrity. Other chapters deal with the effect of disease on cell membrane and permeability and on intermediary plant metabolism. The concluding chapters cover the genetic aspects of diseased plants and the diseases that induce senescence and diseases that senescence induced. This volume is an invaluable source for plant pathologists and researchers, mycologists, virologists, and graduate students.
  • Iron Chelation in Plants and Soil Microorganisms

    • 1 Edición
    • Larry Barton
    • Inglés
    Iron Chelation in Plants and Soil Microorganisms provides an introduction to the basic biological processes of plants that require iron and those affected by iron deficiency. The book aims to stimulate research in the area of iron metabolism in plants and plant-associated microorganisms. The book is organized into three parts. Part I provides an overview of research methods used in the study of iron chelation relevant to plant biology. Key topics covered include microbial siderophores, phytosiderophores, and plant and microbial ferritins. Part II discusses the molecular approach to iron chelation, which includes molecular biology, enzymology, and iron uptake activities. Part III addresses various physiological and chemical characteristics of the iron stress response. This book was written for scientists involved in plant physiology, agronomy, phytopathology, plant control, and soil microbiology. It may also be of interest to those studying soil chemistry, plant-mineral relationships, horticulture, in vivo and in vitro iron measurements, and microbial ecology. In addition, the book can serve as reference for specialty courses and laboratories conducting research on iron nutrition in plants as well as individuals engaged in iron-related research.
  • Gene Regulation

    • 1 Edición
    • Bert O'Malley
    • Inglés
    Gene Regulation documents the proceedings of the CETUS-UCLA Symposium ""Gene Regulation,"" held in Keystone, Colorado in March/April 1982. The symposium related gene structure and regulatory sequences to overall genomic organization and genetic evolution. It was the first meeting to focus on regulation of eukaryotic gene expression since the maturation in recombinant DNA technology. The book is organized into four parts. Part I presents studies on the structure of eukaryotic genes, including the organization and molecular basis for differential expression of the mouse λ light chain genes; globin gene transcription and RNA processing; and the cloning of the human chromosomal α1-antitrypsin gene and its structural comparison with the chicken gene coding for ovalbumin. Part II on chromatin structure includes papers on nuclease sensitivity of the ovalbumin gene and its flanking DNA sequences; and the relationship of chromatin structure to DNA sequence. Part III on gene expression includes papers on the role of poly(A) in eukaryotic mRNA metabolism and the in vitro transcription of Drosophila tRNA genes. Part IV on cellular biology includes studies such as the importance of calmodulin to the eukaryotic cells.
  • Plant Disease: An Advanced Treatise

    How Pathogens Induce Disease
    • 1 Edición
    • James G. Horsfall
    • Inglés
    Plant Disease An Advanced Treatise, Volume IV: How Pathogens Induce Disease describes the mechanisms of induction of various types of plant dysfunction by parasites and pathogens. Comprised of 22 chapters, this volume focuses on the effects of major group of pathogens on plant, including fungi, bacteria, nematodes, mycoplasmas, ricketssia, insects, and parasitic seed plants. This volume begins with a series of theoretical and analytical discussions on the evolution and energetics of pathogens, predisposition phenomena, multiple pathogen interactions, and the penetration and colonization of hosts by pathogens. Considerable chapters describe the unique features and special adaptations of each major group of pathogens. This text includes discussions on the special relationships the mycoplasmas and rickettsia have developed with insects and viruses; their effects on growth and differentiation of the plant hosts; and the origin and evolutionary development of these pathogens. This volume also describes what is known about plant disease induction in other plants with toxic chemicals and the role of toxic residues in plant refuse and in the “sickness” phenomenon. A chapter examines a series of iatrogenic diseases and the mechanisms by which they are induced. The concluding chapters deal with the effect of diseased plants and plant pathogens in livestock and human beings. This volume is an invaluable source for plant pathologists, mycologists, advanced researches, and graduate students.
  • Measurement Techniques in Plant Science

    • 1 Edición
    • Yasushi Hashimoto + 3 más
    • Inglés
    Any explanation of the physiological ecology of plant growth--why plants survive in particular environments--requir... the measurement of the effects of environmental factors. This book reviews the history, development, and current status of instruments and measurement techniques that have been particularly useful in field studies of plant physiological ecology. It will be of interest to researchers and students in plant physiology and biochemistry, crop scientists, horticulturalists, and foresters.
  • Nutritional Toxicology V1

    • 1 Edición
    • John Hathcock
    • Inglés
    Nutritional Toxicology, Volume I is a sample result that has risen from the need for increased toxicological awareness and understanding by nutritionists and other professionals concerned with food production, utilization, and health. This book aims to collate significant information regarding nutrition-associated toxicity problems. The book is divided into 13 chapters. The first two chapters deal with a general overview of nutritional toxicology. Some of the topics discussed in this section include the nutritional effects of toxicants, xenobiotics, toxic action, and biotoxification. The following subject areas discussed include vitamin excess and toxicity; trace elements and cardiovascular disease; and factors affecting the metabolism of nonessential metals in food. The subsequent chapters focus on problem areas including the hazards of foodborne bacterial infections and intoxications, mycotoxins and toxic stress metabolites, environmental contaminants in food, and hazards of compounds in human nutrition. The last section tackles the close relationship of toxicology with food, including their effects and applications. Some topics include food colors, ingredients, chemicals, and substances, as well as their effects on other organisms. This volume will be invaluable to students and professionals in nutrition and toxicology. Other people who studies nutrition, toxicology, and pharmacology will also benefit from this resource.
  • Low Temperature Stress In Crop Plants

    The Role of The Membrane
    • 1 Edición
    • James Lyons
    • Inglés
    Low Temperature Stress in Crop Plants: The Role of the Membrane contains the proceedings of an international seminar on ""Low Temperature Stress in Crop Plants"" held at the East-West Center, Honolulu, Hawaii, March 26-30, 1979. Organized into five parts, this book focuses on the fundamental mechanisms involved in the temperature response of crop plants. It examines the hypotheses related to the primary temperature sensor in crop plants and the mechanisms of low temperature injury. It also explores the genetic potential for cold resistance. Special topics related to the utilization of Arrhenius plots of the temperature response of plants are also discussed.
  • Regulation of Parasite Populations

    • 1 Edición
    • Gerald Esch
    • Inglés
    Regulation of Parasite Populations is composed of the proceedings of a symposium held at New Orleans, on November 10-14, 1975, and jointly sponsored by the American Microscopial Society and the American Society of Parasitologists. The symposium focuses on the literatures dealing with the regulation of parasite populations. It also introduces some concepts and notions regarding this field of interest. This book reports the five papers presented in the symposium, beginning with the concept of parasitism. It specifically explains the regulation of fish parasite populations and the role of arrested development in the regulation of nematode populations. Aside from the subject at hand, the complementary nature of laboratory work, field studies, and mathematical modeling are explained. This compilation corresponds to an effort to “bridge a gap” between some of the ideas and thoughts in ecology and parasitology.
  • Variable plants and herbivores in natural and managed systems

    • 1 Edición
    • Robert Denno
    • Inglés
    Variable Plants and Herbivores in Natural and Managed Systems examines individual, population, species, and community responses of herbivores to plant variation, with emphasis on insects, fungi, bacteria, and viruses. It is divided into five parts encompassing 18 chapters that discuss variability as a mechanism of defense used by plants against their parasites and the effects of variability on herbivores at several different levels of complexity. After a brief discussion on plant-herbivore interactions, the first part of this book considers sources of within-plant variation and effects on the distribution and abundance of herbivores. Part II examines interplant variation, the co-evolutionary problems it poses for herbivores, and the ecological and evolutionary responses of these animals. It discusses the effects of host-plant variability on the fitness of sedentary herbivorous insects. Part III discusses the role of host variability in the evolution of feeding specialization, genetic differentiation, and race formation. The importance of host variation to the organization of herbivore communities and the manipulation of host-plant variability for the management of herbivore pest populations are presented in the remaining parts. This book will be helpful to agriculturists, silviculturists, biologists, and researchers who wish to expand their knowledge in dynamics of plant-herbivore relationships.
  • Theory and Practice of Biological Control

    • 1 Edición
    • C.B. Huffaker
    • Inglés
    The Theory and Practice of Biological Control covers conventional biological control achievement in the major crop types and in public health problems. Composed of five sections encompassing 28 chapters, this book discusses the basic information concerning developments in other biologically based alternatives to chemical pesticides. The first two sections discuss the philosophy, theory, scope, history, and the biological and ecological bases of biological control. These sections also deal with the impact of predators and the host relationships of parasitoids and pathogens. The following section presents the methodological aspects of biological control. Discussions on the variability of natural enemies as encountered in biological control work; the fitness of individuals and populations; the ways fitness is being or can be influenced by importation procedures; and the ability of imported natural enemies to adapt to the new environment are included. The fourth section outlines the accomplishments of conventional biological control in various types of crops, forests, and public health areas. Lastly, the various components of integrated pest control other than conventional biological control that forms the essential ways used in the integrated control approach are covered in the last section of the book. This book is an ideal source for plant pathologists and researchers, microbiologists, parasitologists, and public health professionals.
  • Isozymes V3

    Developmental Biology
    • 1 Edición
    • Clement Markert
    • Inglés
    Isozymes, III: Developmental Biology contains manuscripts presented at the Third International Conference on isozymes convened in April 1974 at Yale University. Separating 61 manuscripts into chapters, this book begins by discussing the areas of ""isozymology"" that appear particularly promising for further developmental analysis. This text also looks into the role of isozymes as genetic markers in early mammalian development, as well as the mechanisms of intracellular enzyme localization. Significant topics on specific isozymes are given separately in other chapters.
  • Cell-Cell Signaling in Vertebrate Development

    • 1 Edición
    • E.J. Robertson
    • Inglés
    Cell-Cell Signaling in Vertebrate Development provides a comprehensive discussion of cell-cell interactions in vertebrate development and the molecular signals that mediate them. The book is divided into six parts, arranged according to major developmental phenomena demonstrated in illustrative systems derived from amphibian, avian, mammalian, and piscine sources. Part I introduces the mechanisms of gene activation in the context of early vertebrate development. Part II is concerned with cellular contacts and the induction process. Cell-cell interactions are illustrated through analyses of neurogenesis in the mouse; embryonic induction is considered in the frog and in the chick. Part III deals with cell migration and differentiation. It examines cell lineages in the frog eyebud; migration phenomena in connection with axon guidance in the embryonic rat spinal cord and mouse visual system; pathfinding by primary motoneurons; and the formation of terminal arbors in zebrafish embryos. Part IV discusses developmental processes that depend on diffusible signals and signal gradients. Part V illustrates pattern formation as exemplified in the developing chick hindbrain and in urodele limb regeneration. Part VI highlights gene expression and its regulation by transcription factors or growth factors in rodent development.
  • Wildlife Feeding and Nutrition

    • 1 Edición
    • Charles Robbins
    • Inglés
    Wildlife Feeding and Nutrition is the fifth in a series of books on animal feeding and nutrition. It fills a serious gap in the wildlife and animal nutrition literature by providing a discussion of the basic principles of nutrition and their application to the broader field of wildlife ecology. This book is based on lectures presented in an upper-level wildlife nutrition course taught at Washington State University. The book discusses the five major nutritional categories of constituents that animals must acquire from their external environments: energy, protein, water, minerals, and vitamins. Subsequent chapters cover topics such as the estimation of energy and protein requirements; dietary protein requirements for captive wildlife and free-ranging populations; wildlife reproductive characteristics; the digestion and metabolism of nutrients; and food intake regulation. The text will be invaluable to wildlife biologists, to those who are interested in captive animal nutrition and management, and to those who are interested in improving the feed supply and nutrition of free-ranging wildlife.
  • Ecology of Tropical Oceans

    • 1 Edición
    • Bozzano G Luisa
    • Inglés
    This book breaks new ground with the integration of geography, oceanography, plankton and benthic biology, as well as fish, to present a comprehensive account of the ecology of the tropical ocean. Proceeding from a description of the geomorphology, sediments, and vegetation of tropical continental shelves and the oceanography of tropical regions, the authors describe the benthos, plankton, and fish communities of tropical seas. An examination of the production of plant and animal life in tropical oceans is presented together with the numerical population biology of fish and invertebrates.
  • Insect Juvenile Hormones

    Chemistry And Action
    • 1 Edición
    • Julius Menn
    • Inglés
    Insect Juvenile Hormones: Chemistry and Action reviews the state of knowledge on juvenile hormones (JH) and analogs. The book emerged from the presentations and deliberations at the Symposium on the Chemistry and Action of Insect Juvenile Hormones, sponsored by the Division of Pesticide Chemistry of the American Chemical Society at the 162nd National Meeting of the Society in Washington, D. C., September 12-17, 1971. The book summarizes what is known about JH their analogs; their chemistry; their biological effects and mode of action; their biochemical fate in target and nontarget organisms; and their stability. Although divided into three general areas for convenience—biologic... biochemical, and chemical—the text in its entirety is a multidisciplinary discourse, a foundation upon which the understanding of the action or inaction of JH and JH-active chemicals may be based, which hopefully will provide a springboard for future direction and research. This book will be of interest to chemists, biochemists, biologists, endocrinologists, entomologists, insect physiologists, and others concerned with insect development and control.
  • Insects, and Seed Collection, Storage, Testing, and Certification

    • 1 Edición
    • T.T. Kozlowski
    • Inglés
    Seed Biology: Insects, and Seed Collection, Storage, Testing, and Certification, Volume III brings together a large body of important information on seed biology. The book describes seed collection, identification, storage, testing, and certification. It also considers insects that directly affect seeds, seed-producing organs, or seed-bearing structures of plants. Organized into six chapters, this volume begins by outlining man’s dependency on seeds as source of food, fiber, spices, beverages, oils, vitamins, and drugs. Harmful effects of seeds are also mentioned. Separate chapters focus on seed development, dissemination, germination (including metabolism, environmental control, internal control, dormancy, and seed and seedling vigor), protection from diseases and insects, longevity, and deterioration. The book concludes with a discussion on the certification of field and tree seeds, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development certification schemes, and trends in seed certification. This book is a valuable source of information for seed producers and users as well as various groups of research biologists and teachers, including agronomists, plant anatomists, biochemists, ecologists, entomologists, foresters, horticulturists, plant pathologists, and plant physiologists.
  • The Biology and Utilization of Shrubs

    • 1 Edición
    • Cyrus McKell
    • Inglés
    The Biology and Utilization of Shrubs brings together the wide range of information about shrubs from many disciplines and world locations. The book is organized into seven parts. Part I describes the major shrublands found on each of the vegetated continents. It provides an overview of the dominant shrubland types as well as the associated features of soil and climate that influence the geographic distribution of major shrub species. Part II discusses environmental influences and plant responses. Part III considers the range of genetic diversity for important traits and how these may vary in different habitats. Part IV discusses the effects of stress on physiological processes of shrubs, and the kinds of strategies shrubs employ to meet physiological stress. Part V offers evidence to support the claim that the many virtues of shrubs provide a basis for sustaining shrub use for livestock fodder, wildlife habitat, reclamation and erosion control, fuel, and naturalized landscaping. Part VI outlines methods for collecting and processing seeds from natural stands or from superior genotypes planted in seed production orchards. Part VII describes cultural adaptation to shrub use in a livestock-dominated primitive culture, followed by a detailed economic analysis of establishing shrub plantations to improve livestock production.
  • Plant Modification For More Efficient Water Use

    • 1 Edición
    • John Stone
    • Inglés
    Plant Modification for More Efficient Water Use is a compilation of the proceedings of the Symposium on Plant Modification for More Efficient Water Use. These proceedings aim to make significant progress in identifying the physiological and morphological characteristics of plants by providing considerable control of evapotranspiration and by exploring their possible manipulation. This book is divided into four parts focusing on genetic engineering, physiological and environmental factors, and modeling. The first part includes articles about breeding, genetic engineering, use of variety isogenes, genetic modification, and phenotype and drought tolerance in relation to efficient use of water. The second part presents articles about plant responses to water deficit, water-use efficiency, water stress, and drought resistance. It also provides articles on plant-water balance, carbon dioxide requirement, soil physical and chemical barriers, and soil temperature and air temperature. The third part describes models of plant growth for yield prediction; light models for estimating the shortwave radiation regime of plant canopies; and soil-plant-atmospher... model. In addition, this part includes a parametric analysis of the anatomy and physiology of the stomata. The last part offers a challenge on plant modification for more efficient water use.
  • The Living State

    With Observations on Cancer
    • 1 Edición
    • Albert Szent-Gyorgyi
    • Inglés
    The Living State: With Observations on Cancer explores some facets of life, including its pattern and structure, cellular mechanisms, and its connection with biochemistry and biophysics. It reflects the author’s journey in his desire to understand life by looking at cells, animals, bacteria, molecules, and electrons, as well as his observations on cancer. Organized into eight chapters, this volume begins with an overview of the scientific community's longstanding pursuit to understand life and its origins. It then discusses water as an essential medium of organic matter on which life's machinery is built, along with the motion of muscle; biological stability and the paradox of evolution; the energetics of the biosphere based on the interaction of hydrogen and oxygen; the principles of defense against cellular damage; and how defense is linked to the regulation of growth in plants and animals. The reader is also introduced to growth regulation as a defense mechanism, which corrects mechanical injury in animals; the way that ketone aldehydes inhibit cell division; the theory of cancer; and cancer therapy. Biologists, chemists, and physicists will find this book an interesting read.
  • Invertebrate Tissue Culture

    Applications in Medicine, Biology, and Agriculture
    • 1 Edición
    • Edouard Kurstak
    • Inglés
    Invertebrate Tissue Culture: Applications in Medicine, Biology, and Agriculture comprises the proceedings of the IV International Conference on Invertebrate Tissue Culture, held on June 5-8, 1975 at Mont Gabriel, Quebec, Canada. The conference focuses on invertebrate organ, tissue, and cell culture, as well as cell culture limitations, pitfalls, and applications in medicine, biology, agriculture, neurophysiology, and studies of morphogenesis, differentiation, viruses, symbionts, and parasites. This reference material specifically provides information on sophisticated laboratory methods and on numerous utilizations of invertebrate cell culture techniques in medicine and biology. This book also elucidates the nutritional requirements and the establishment of cell lines. The study of viruses and protozoa of agricultural and forest importance is also shown. This book will be useful and stimulating to the readers and will provide in a single volume the results obtained in the diverse areas of research pursued by the leading exponents of invertebrate tissue culture from America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.
  • Water and Plant Disease

    • 1 Edición
    • T.T. Kozlowski
    • Inglés
    Water Deficits and Plant Growth, Volume V: Water and Plant Disease presents a comprehensive treatment of the role of water deficits and excesses in the plant disease complex. This book highlights water relations of diseased plants and the effects of water stress induced by disease and environmental factors, along with water deficits related to disease and water stress as a predisposing factor in plant disease. This volume is organized into nine chapters and begins with an overview of the water relations of diseased plants, focusing on root, foliar, and shoot diseases, as well as vascular wilts. The following chapters examine the effects of water deficits on pathogen and host, the degree and duration of water deficits as predisposing factors in plant disease, and important abiotic diseases induced by water deficits and excess. The discussion then turns to water in relation to active and passive liberation of spores, as well as to the infection process. This book also explains soil moisture in relation to spread and survival of pathogens, the link between water and seed decay, field and storage fungi that affect seeds, and water in relation to wood deterioration. This volume concludes with a chapter on moisture as a factor in epidemiology and the forecasting of disease. This book is a valuable resource for scientists and investigators in fields such as botany, plant pathology, forestry, agriculture, and biology.
  • Nutritional Toxicology V3

    • 1 Edición
    • John Hathcock
    • Inglés
    Nutritional Toxicology, Volume III is a compilation of reviews and research regarding nutrition and toxicology, specifically the issues that affect public health and regulation. This volume further develops understanding of the basic concepts significant to protect and promote public health and provide a credible scientific basis for public health and regulatory decisions. Composed of seven chapters, this volume further extends the discussion of the topics included in Volume I and Volume II of this series. The first two chapters deal with the topic of food safety. The first one discusses safety of food packaging materials and their health implications. The second chapter tackles the relation between neurotoxicology and food safety assessment. The next section of this book includes more detailed discussion regarding proteins (amino acids), phosphorylated derivatives, and vitamin B6 interactions. The discussion of these topics generally covers their chemical aspects, metabolism, bioavailability, and distribution in foods. The last two chapters give recommendations regarding toxicological experiments and vitamin supplement. Chapter 6 presents considerations in the designing of standardized diets in toxicological experiments. Chapter 7 gives an analysis of the risk/benefit of vitamin supplements. As with the other volumes, this book proves helpful to students, professionals, and researchers in the field of nutritional sciences, pharmacology, and biology.
  • Genetic Improvement of Vegetable Crops

    • 1 Edición
    • G. Kalloo + 1 más
    • Inglés
    Genetic improvement has played a vital role in enhancing the yield potential of vegetable crops. There are numerous vegetable crops grown worldwide and variable degrees of research on genetics, breeding and biotechnology have been conducted on these crops. This book brings together the results of such research on crops grouped as alliums, crucifers, cucurbits, leaf crops, tropical underground and miscellaneous. Written by eminent specialists, each chapter concentrates on one crop and covers cytology, genetics, breeding objectives, germplasm resources, reproductive biology, selection breeding methods, heterosis and hybrid seed production, quality and processing attributes and technology. This unique collection will be of great value to students, scientists and vegetable breeders as it provides a reference guide on genetics, breeding and biotechnology of a wide range of vegetable crops.
  • Behavioral and Department Models

    • 1 Edición
    • Bert Zuckerman
    • Inglés
    Nematodes as Biological Models is two-volume treatise that provides a comprehensive reference source for research, in which free-living nematodes have been used to examine fundamental processes in genetics, development, nutrition, toxicology, pharmacology, and gerontology. The text emphasizes the use of Caenorhabditis elegans as a model in a variety of biological studies and also includes description of important studies utilizing other free-living nematodes as models. Volume 1: Behavioral and Developmental Models covers cell lineages, muscle development, behavior, the nervous system, control mechanisms, and genetics, with the major emphasis on C. elegans. Significant contributions derived primarily from studies on the parasitic nematode Ascaris and the free-living nematode Panagrellus are also considered. The second volume includes discussions on free-living nematodes as biological models for pharmacological and toxicant testing, and for studies on gerontology and nutrition. Several chapters in this volume also cover nematode physiology and morphology, which readers will find useful in understanding the subject matter. The book is a masterful reference for students and lecturers in parasitology, zoology, physiology, and other related biological courses. Researchers and extended workers on nematology and related disciplines will also find this book invaluable.
  • Recent Advances in Acarology

    • 1 Edición
    • J Rodriguez
    • Inglés
    Recent Advances in Acarology, Volume I, emerged from the V International Congress of Acarology held at Michigan State University in August 1978. It includes the contents of the symposia and a selection of contributions to the workshops and submitted paper sessions. The book is organized into six parts. Part 1 focuses on the pest management of agricultural mites. Part 2 on the biology of spider mites presents contributions in the areas of male reproductive behavior, silk production, pheromones, the components of reproductive success, and the effects of nutrition and temperature on tetranychid development. Part 3 on stored product acarology includes papers that reflect a broad understanding of acarine biology, nutrition, biochemistry, systematics, and ecology. Part 4 is devoted to physiology, biochemistry, and toxicology. It includes reports on the use of low-energy laser-generated x rays to measure salt concentrations in ducts of living mites; the use of labeled butanediol in metabolism studies of acarid mites; and electron microscope studies of functional morphology of ticks. Part 5 on ecology, bionomics, and behavior includes studies on the developmental cycle of sponge-associated water mites; behavior of tick larvae in relation to C02; and the influence of maternal age on the sex ratio of the progeny of a tetranychid. Part 6 presents research on soil mite biology.
  • Cell of Immunoglobulin Synthesis

    • 1 Edición
    • Benvenuto Pernis
    • Inglés
    Cells of Immunoglobulin Synthesis documents the proceedings of a symposium on ""Cells of Immunoglobulin Synthesis"" held at Arden House, on the Harriman Campus of Columbia University from June 9-11, 1978. The meeting was the third of the P & S Biomedical Sciences Symposia. Starting with the opening address on B lymphocyte differentiation and the tolerance problem, the remainder of the book presents the contributions made by researchers at the symposium. These contributions are organized into seven parts. Part I contains studies on immunoglobulin genes, messages, and molecules. Part II presents studies on cellular immunoglobulin production. Part III examines membrane immunoglobulins while Part IV focuses on immunoglobulins as regulatory molecules. Part V deals with lymphocyte hybrids. Part VI examines immunoglobulin idiotypes while Part VII contains papers on the ontogeny of immunoglobulin-synth... cells.
  • Plant, Chemicals and Growth

    • 1 Edición
    • F.C. Steward
    • Inglés
    Plants, Chemicals and Growth investigates natural and synthetic chemicals that control plant growth and development. It examines how plant growth regulators, such as 2,4-D, 2,4-dichlorophenoxya... acid, 2,4,5-T, 2,4,5-trichloropheno... acid, ammonium sulfamate, indole-3-butyric acid, disodium 3,6-endoxohexahydrop... gibberellic acid, and 2-chloroethyltrimeth... chloride, induce biological responses in plants. These responses range from tropism and chemotropism to growth of organs by cell division and enlargement, rhythmic phenomena in growth and development, initiation of lateral organs and problems of phyllotaxy, and the regulatory effects of light and temperature on growth and form. Comprised of 10 chapters, this volume begins with an overview of chemical regulators and the ways in which they elicit biological responses in plants; how chemical regulation of plants is related to the growth and development of flowering plants; cell growth and cell division; cell cycle; and cellular ontogeny. It then looks at the history and modern concepts of growth-regulating compounds, such as auxins, cytokinins, and gibberellins. The book introduces readers to how chemicals induce growth in quiescent cells; natural sources of growth stimulatory substances; synergisms and interactions of growth regulatory systems; growth-regulating effects in free cell systems; examples of biologically active compounds; the mechanisms of action of plant growth regulators; concepts and interpretations of plant growth regulation; and prospects and problems associated with chemical regulation of plant growth and behavior. Teachers, biology students, agriculturalists, and researchers will find this book extremely useful.
  • Chromosomal Proteins And Their Role In The Regulation Of Gene Expression

    • 1 Edición
    • Gary Stein
    • Inglés
    Chromosomal Proteins and Their Role in the Regulation of Gene Expression examines how chromosomal proteins take part in the regulation of gene expression. This book also looks at the variety of approaches that are used in studying the structural and functional properties of chromosomal proteins, particularly as they relate to the control of transcription. This text is organized into 15 chapters and begins by analyzing the regulation of histone gene expression during the cell cycle and the role of non-histone chromosomal proteins in such regulation. The following chapters focus on the in vitro transcription of the globin gene in mouse fetal liver chromatin; the involvement of non-histone proteins in both positive and negative controls of gene activity; and the role of phosphorylated proteins as regulators of gene activity. The discussion then shifts to the phosphorylation state of non-histone proteins and its correlation with gene transcription; changes in nuclear proteins during embryonic development and cellular differentiation; and the manner by which histones are deposited onto replicating chromosomes. This book also explains the histone methylation, specific phosphorylation sites in lysine rich (H1) histone, and the separation and characterization of nuclear non-histone proteins by means of DNA columns. This book is of interest to advanced undergraduate students, as well as to graduate students and researchers in genetics, cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and microbiology.
  • The Mycoplasmas V1

    Cell Biology
    • 1 Edición
    • M.F. Barile
    • Inglés
    The Mycoplasmas, Volume I: Cell Biology is a volume of a comprehensive three-volume series encompassing various facets of mycoplasmology, emphasizing outstanding developments made in the field. This volume deals specifically with the cell biology of the mycoplasmas. This book focuses on problems regarding mycoplasma classification, phylogenetics, and relatedness to wall-covered bacteria; their unique molecular biology, energy metabolism, transport mechanisms, antigenic structure, and membrane biochemistry. The characterization, ultrastructure, and molecular biology of the mycoplasmaviruses, as well as the special properties of several groups of mycoplasmas, such as Ureaplasma, Acholeplasma, Thermoplasma, and Anaeroplasma, are also described. This book will serve as a standard reference work for mycoplasmologists, as well as for other interested microbiologists, cellular and molecular biologists, membrane biochemists, clinicians, veterinarians, plant pathologists, and entomologists.
  • Practical Tissue Culture Applications

    • 1 Edición
    • Karl Maramorosch
    • Inglés
    Practical Tissue Culture Applications contains the proceedings of a conference held at the International Laboratory for Research on Animal Diseases in Nairobi, Kenya, August 24-29, 1978. This book aims to describe some of the more important practical applications of in vitro techniques in a simple, easily understandable manner. Organized into three sections, with a total of 27 chapters, this book provides critical reviews, describes various techniques, and presents complete step-by-step methodology. It emphasizes applications pertaining to the health and economy in developing nations. In particular, this book discusses the pitfalls in preparing general purpose culture media, balanced salt solutions, and the procedures followed in the development of modern in vitro techniques. It also describes techniques for cultivation of vertebrate cells and organs; plant tissue culture and its numerous applications; and electron microscopy of cultured cell. This book explains as well virus isolation and identification in cell cultures, mass production of cells for vaccines, and use of cultured cells for drug evaluation. The applications of in vitro techniques to parasitology are explored in numerous chapters of this book. Considering the potential benefit of application of in vitro techniques, this reference material will be of interest both in developed and developing countries.
  • Macromolecules Regulating Growth and Development

    • 1 Edición
    • Elizabeth Hay
    • Inglés
    Macromolecules Regulating Growth and Development documents the proceedings of the 30th Symposium of the Society for Developmental Biology, held at the University of Washington in Seattle, June 17-19, 1971. The contributions made by researchers at the symposium are organized into three parts. Part I deals with regulatory factors in the selective growth of mammalian cells. It includes papers on the role of the cell surface in growth and transformation; the epidermal growth factor; and the role in regulation of tumor growth. Part II examines the formation and organization of plant cell walls and the plasma membrane. It presents studies on the origin and growth of cell surface components; synthesis and secretion of proteins in plant cells; and lipids and membrane structure. Part III deals with the organization and expression of genetic information. The contributions in this section include organization of DNA and proteins in mammalian chromosomes; total synthesis of transfer RNA genes; and biosynthesis of bacterial ribosomes.
  • Pesticide Management and Insecticide Resistance

    • 1 Edición
    • David Watson
    • Inglés
    Pesticide Management and Insecticide Resistance explores the problem of insect resistance to pesticides and reviews various approaches to pesticide management and safety. It looks at the environmental hazards of pesticide residues and their regulation, along with application techniques aimed at maximum efficiency against the pest and minimum waste to pollution, safety considerations in the development of pest control programs, and pesticide monitoring. Divided into eight parts encompassing 49 chapters, this volume begins with an overview of the global pesticide industry and the costs of commercializing pesticides relative to their profit potential. It then introduces the reader to the release of fluorohydrocarbon propellants in pesticidal aerosols and their hazards to the ozone layer, management of pests in urban environments, international plant protection, the current status of DDT, the importance of training pest-control personnel, and procedures of forest spraying. Other chapters focus on pesticide management safety from a medical perspective; pesticide safety as it relates to the manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution of pesticides; importance of pesticide application equipment and related field practices in developing countries; and the importance of pesticides in successful pest management programs. This book is a valuable resource for scientists, students, researchers, and policymakers who want to ensure the safety of consumers, applicators, and harvesters when using pesticides.
  • Insect Biology in The Future

    VBW 80
    • 1 Edición
    • Michael Locke
    • Inglés
    Insect Biology in the Future: ""VBW 80"" contains essays presented to Sir Vincent Wigglesworth during his 80th year. Wigglesworth is fairly designated as the founding father and remarkable leader of insect physiology. His papers and other works significantly contribute to this field of study. This book, dedicated to him, underlines the value of insect material in approaching a wide spectrum of biological issues. The essays in this book tackle the insects' physiology, including their evolution and dominance. The papers also discuss the various avenues of water loss and gain as interrelated components of overall water balance in land arthropods. This reference suggests possible areas for further research mainly at the whole animal level. It also describes the fat body, hemolymph, endocrine control of vitellogenin synthesis, reproduction, growth, hormones, chemistry, defense, and survival of insects. Other topics of importance include cell communication and pattern formation in insects; plant-insect interaction; and insecticides.
  • Fungal Wilt Diseases of Plants

    • 1 Edición
    • Marshal Mace
    • Inglés
    Fungal Wilt Diseases of Plants focuses on wilt diseases caused by the fungal genera Verticillium, Fusarium, and Ceratocystis. Special attention is given to the interactions of physiological, biochemical, and anatomical factors, as these relate to pathogenesis and mechanisms of disease resistance. Organized into 16 chapters, this book begins with a description, in a historical perspective, of the major research themes in fungal wilt diseases. It then looks into the worldwide status of this plant disease. The three subsequent chapters describe the epidemiology and life cycle of the major fungal wilt pathogens in Fusarium, Verticillium, and Ceratocystis. This book also provides an in-depth view of the genetics and biochemistry of these pathogens; the nature of pathogenesis and the effects of wilt pathogens on host-water relations; and the sources and genetics of host resistance in field and fruit crops, vegetable crops, and shade trees. Other chapters are dedicated to the biochemistry, physiology, and the anatomical aspects of resistance and to the progress in the biological and chemical control of these pathogens. This text will be of great value to graduate students and senior research scientists in plant pathology, physiology, and biochemistry, who are specifically involved in studying wilt diseases and host-parasite interactions. It will provide them the detailed background information needed to supplement their specialized research interests.
  • Reproduction of Marine Invertebrates V3

    Annelids and Echiurans
    • 1 Edición
    • Arthur Giese
    • Inglés
    Reproduction of Marine Invertebrates, Volume III: Annelids and Echiurans illustrates the importance of annelids and echiurans in the evolution of reproductive mechanisms and in the ecology of the sea. It discusses the asexual reproduction, sexual reproduction capacity, and developmental stages of specific annelids, such as polychaeta and clitellata, and of echiurans. The annelids appear to be midway forms in the evolutionary progression of the metazoans. The echiurans, with close affinities to the annelids, are organisms that have become increasingly important for researches in developmental biology. The book will be helpful to marine scientists and biologists, reproduction researchers, and developmental biologists.
  • Mitochondria in Higher Plants

    Structure, Function, and Biogenesis
    • 1 Edición
    • Roland Douce
    • Inglés
    Mitochondria in Higher Plants: Structure, Function, and Biogenesis is a collection and interpretation of information on plant mitochondria. It explains not only the basic enzymology of ATP synthesis coupled to electron transport that seems to constitute the major activity of the mitochondria, but also many other aspects that make plant mitochondria rather more diverse than their animal counterparts. Organized into five chapters, this book begins with the morphological and cytological observations on mitochondria, and proceeding through membrane and matrix functions to participation in metabolism and biogenesis. Each section presents the unique properties of plant mitochondria within the framework of general mitochondrial structure and function. This book is intended not only for research workers and students interested in the enzymology of plant mitochondria respiration, but also for graduate and undergraduate students in the field of plant biochemistry, cell physiology, and molecular biology. It will be useful as a starting point for those students wishing to pursue special studies in this field.
  • Molecular Structure of Human Chromosomes

    • 1 Edición
    • Jorge Yunis
    • Inglés
    Molecular Structure of Human Chromosomes is an authoritative guide to genetics, focusing on human genome. This reference compiles contributions covering available knowledge on human genome structure and organization, which the previous researches fail to encompass. This text provides a comprehensive discussion of cytogenetic techniques, emphasizing their application to human genome studies and examinations. The book is divided into nine chapters. It explains the molecular organization and function of the human genome and the DNA sequences in man. It also discusses the localization of human gene by in situ hybridization and the approaches to gene mapping. The book describes the structure of the chromosomes and the trends in chromosome techniques; banding and polymorphism; and repetitive DNA and primate evolution. Various practitioners in genetics and biology will find this book a good reference. Students and novices in these fields will also find this book an excellent guide.
  • Plant Physiology 7A

    A Treatise: Physiology of Development: Plants and Their Reproduction
    • 1 Edición
    • F.C. Steward
    • Inglés
    Plant Physiology: A Treatise, Volume VIA: Physiology of Development: Plants and Their Reproduction explores the various problems of development and reproduction that arise as plants, responsive to environmental stimuli, develop a vegetative plant body and produce seeds and fruits or organs of perennation. This book considers the morphological aspects of plant growth and development as well as the growth and reproduction of fungi, physiological aspects of vegetative reproduction and flowering, and perennation and dormancy. This volume is organized into four chapters and begins with an overview of growth and development, with reference to organization and patterns of development in vascular plants and the initiation and development of plants. The discussion then shifts to vegetative, sexual, and asexual reproduction in fungi, along with heterokaryosis and morphogenesis. The next chapter explores reproduction in plant biology, focusing on vegetative and sexual reproduction, sex determination, and photoperiodism. This book concludes by considering the physiological mechanisms underlying the production of organs of perennation and the establishment of dormancy. This text will be of value both to graduate students and to established investigators with specific interest in plant physiology.
  • Tropical Forests

    Botanical Dynamics, Speciation & Diversity
    • 1 Edición
    • Bozzano G Luisa
    • Inglés
    Proceedings of a conference on Tropical Forests: Botanical Dynamics, Speciation and Diversity held at the University of Aarhus, Denmark, August 8*ba10, 1988.The increasing rate of destruction of the world's tropical forests gives grave cause for concern on several counts. In conservative terms, species are being lost at an incredible rate, many before they have even been described. In scientific terms, habitats, communities, and unique systems are lost before they can be studied and used to broaden our understanding of ecological processes in general.The meeting on which this book is based aimed to address two basic needs: to describe some of the marvellous biological treasures of tropical forests and to learn what they can tellus about processes in ecology, and to alert us all once again to the disaster which is overtaking this rich and varied environment.
  • The Quality of Foods and Beverages V2

    Chemistry and Technology
    • 1 Edición
    • George Charalambous
    • Inglés
    The Quality of Foods and Beverages, Volume II: Chemistry and Technology contains the proceedings of the second International Flavor Conference held in Athens, Greece, on July 20-24, 1980. The conference presents findings of 105 scientists from 20 countries on the chemistry and technology underlying the quality of foods and beverages. This volume is composed of 26 papers presented in the conference. It covers topics on ingredients of smoke and smoke flavor preparations; enzymatic flavor development in foods; enhancement of fruit flavors in dessert; practical applications of new forms of dried fruits; and quality evaluation of macadamia nuts. It also explains moisture relations of food microorganisms; pollution of liquid food by PVC container; views on food developments in Sweden and Italy; and advances in Shoyu research. Additionally, the advances in legume processing; changes in the organoleptic quality of spices and their oleoresinsin stored food products; and flavoring of extrusion cooked and textured meat extenders and analog are explained. This reference also discusses the determination of cocoa butter substitutes in chocolate; application of HPLC for evaluation of coffee flavor quality; and certain elements in Greek wines. This book is useful to all food industry practitioners, as it provides a comprehensive research reports on numerous chemical and technological facets of the quality of foods and beverages.
  • Origins of Inbred Mice

    • 1 Edición
    • Herbert C. III Morse
    • Inglés
    Origins of Inbred Mice documents the proceedings of a symposium on the state of knowledge on inbred mice held in Bethesda, Maryland, in 1978. The book is organized into seven parts. Part I provides introductory remarks on the history of the development of inbred mice. Part II contains papers that examine mutations of inbred strains of mice. Part III contains studies dealing with viruses that affect inbred mice, including those that cause leukemia and mammary tumors. Part IV examines histocompatibility genes and their antigens; cell surface antigens of mouse leukemia; the characteristics of genes of the Tla region of the mouse; and the use of recombinant inbred strains in gene mapping. Part V presents studies on differences among sublines of inbred mouse strains. The papers in Part VI focus on wild mice, covering their classification and biochemical polymorphisms. Finally, Part VIII discusses the viruses, T locus, and histocompatibility antigens of wild mice.
  • Plant Parasitic Nematodes

    • 1 Edición
    • Bert Zuckerman
    • Inglés
    Plant Parasitic Nematodes, Volume III provides a comprehensive discussion of the different advances in plant nematology. This includes biochemical techniques to taxonomy and innovation in transmission and scanning electron microscopy technology. It explains a broadened basis for understanding nematode physiology and behavior and the sensory mechanisms that govern nematode actions and plant host-nematode interactions. The book discusses the development of modern approaches to the evaluation and reduction of crop losses. The emphasis of this volume is on plant parasites and insights gained through research on other nematodes. In particular, the book explains the anatomical, developmental, behavioral, and genetic studies on the free-living nematode Cenorhabditis elegans, which is a widely used laboratory model for examining various biological problems. The information provided by various researches on C. elegans increases our understanding about the relevance of nematodes to general biological processes in higher organisms, including man. The book is divided into 19 chapters which cover the following concepts of plant nematology: biochemistry, cytochemistry, and genetics; morphology and function; host-parasite relations; and evaluation and control of crop losses. The present volume is an excellent reference for students, lecturers, and research professionals in plant parasitology and related fields.
  • Soil Microbial Associations

    Control of Structures and Functions
    • 1 Edición
    • Volumen 17
    • V. Vancura + 1 más
    • Inglés
    This volume is the first publication of its kind to provide a fully comprehensive and detailed approach to the survey of microbial associations in soil: their structure and function in relation to soil fertility and environment protection. The problems covered by this title are presented on various levels of the ecological system; from subcellular phenomena occurring in the microbial cell (genetic and enzyme regulation), to processes taking place in the flow of mass and energy in the agroecosystem. The aim of this monograph is to contribute to the understanding of the laws of formation and function of microbial associations in natural and agricultural soils, and to build a scientific basis for the control of soil biological processes. Using a contemporary approach to some fields of soil microbiology, the book highlights the possibility of utilizing certain microorganisms and microbial processes to increase soil fertility and protect the environment. These critically evaluated and selected results were obtained at the Institute of Microbiology and the Institute of Experimental Phytotechnics of the Czechoslovak Academy of Sciences, in cooperation with the Institute of Microbiology of the Academy of Sciences of the USSR.