Biofilms Ii

An examination of the research and translational application to prevent and treat biofilm-associated diseases In the decade since the first edition of Microbial Biofilms was published, the interest in this field has expanded, spurring breakthrough research that has advanced the treatment of biofilm-associated diseases. This second edition takes the reader on an exciting, extensive review of bacterial and fungal biofilms, ranging from basic molecular interactions to innovative therapies, with particular emphasis on the division of labor in biofilms, new approaches to combat the threat of microbial biofilms, and how biofilms evade the host defense. Chapters written by established investigators cover recent findings, and contributions from investigators new to the field provide unique and fresh insights. Specifically, Microbial Biofilms provides state-of-the-art research in the field of bacterial and fungal biofilms detailed descriptions of the in vitro and in vivo models available to evaluate microbial biofilms future areas of research and their translational and clinical applications Microbial Biofilms is a useful reference for researchers and clinicians. It will also provide insight in the dynamic field of microbial biofilms for graduate and postgraduate students.

Wiley Series in Ecological and Applied Microbiology, RalphMitchell, Series Editor Biofilm processes profoundly impact industrial productivity andcompetitiveness. Their pervasive effects on water quality, powergeneration, energy efficiency, human and animal health, and productquality have compelled industries to observe the detrimentaleffects of biofilms. Although biofilms can be extremely costly toindustry and harmful to health, they can also be highly beneficialin other applications. As a result, opportunities presented bybiofilm systems for process innovation, analytical diagnosis,instrumentation development, biotechnological advances, andenvironmental benefits are tremendous. Biofilms II: Process Analysis and Applications combines thefundamental principles of mathematics and physical sciences withthe basics of biochemistry and molecular microbiology to explainthe rapid advances in biofilm science and technology. The need forthis updated edition is the result of combined interdisciplinaryresearch efforts in biofilm science and engineering. In particular,the past decade has seen major advances in biofilm diagnostics,ecology dynamics, genetics, and transport phenomena. Included inthis comprehensive volume is extensive coverage of: * Recent discoveries in biofilm processes, such as plasmid generetention and transfer, cell signaling control of adhesion and genetransfer, and biofilm structural heterogeneity * Biofilm ecology, highlighting significant advances in geneticsand molecular biology as applied to biofilm ecosystems * Real systems in which biofilms are utilized for beneficialapplications or where undesired biofilms cause severe damage Biofilms II will enhance the understanding of these complexmicrobial systems for `scientists and engineers in academics andindustry.

Biochemistry and ecology of biofilms from industrial, medical and other viewpoints.

The aim of this book is to provide readers with a wide overview of the main healthcare-associated infections caused by bacteria and fungi able to grow as biofilm. The recently acquired knowledge on the pivotal role played by biofilm-growing microorganisms in healthcare-related infections has given a new dynamic to detection, prevention and treatment of these infections in patients admitted to both acute care hospitals and long-term care facilities. Clinicians, hygienists and microbiologists will be updated by leading scientists on the state-of-art of biofilm-based infections and on the most innovative strategies for prevention and treatment of these infections, often caused by emerging multidrug-resistant biofilm-growing microorganisms.

When bacteria attach to and colonise the surfaces of food processing equipment and foods products themselves, there is a risk that biofilms may form. Human pathogens in biofilms can be harder to remove than free microorganisms and may therefore pose a more significant food safety risk. Biofilms in the food and beverage industries reviews the formation of biofilms in these sectors and best practices for their control. The first part of the book considers fundamental aspects such as molecular mechanisms of biofilm formation by food-associated bacteria and methods for biofilm imaging, quantification and monitoring. Part two then reviews biofilm formation by different microorganisms. Chapters in Part three focus on significant issues related to biofilm prevention and removal. Contributions on biofilms in particular food industry sectors, such as dairy and red meat processing and fresh produce, complete the collection. With its distinguished editors and international team of contributors, Biofilms in the food and beverage industries is a highly beneficial reference for microbiologists and those in industry responsible for food safety. Considers fundamental aspects concerning the ecology and characteristics of biofilms and considers methods for their detection Examines biofilm formation by different micro-organisms such as samonella and food spoilage Discusses specific issues related to biofilm prevention and removal, such as cleaning and sanitation of food contact surfaces and food processing equipment

Biofilms are predominant mode of life for microbes under natural conditions. The three-dimensional structure of the biofilm provides enhanced protection from physical, chemical and biological stress conditions to associated microbial communities. These complex and highly structured microbial communities play a vital role in maintaining the health of plants, soils and waters. Biofilm associated with plants may be pathogenic or beneficial based on the nature of their interactions. Pathogenic or undesirable biofilm requires control in many situations, including soil, plants, food and water. Written by leading experts from around the world, Biofilms in Plant and Soil Health provides an up-to-date review on various aspects of microbial biofilms, and suggests future and emerging trends in biofilms in plant and soil health. Issues are addressed in four sub areas: I) The fundamentals and significance of biofilm in plant and soil health, and the concept of mono and mixed biofilms by PGPR and fungal biofilms. II) Biochemical and molecular mechanisms in biofilm studies in plant associated bacteria, and techniques in studying biofilms and their characterization, gene expression and enhanced antimicrobial resistance in biofilms, as well as biotic and biotic factors affecting biofilm in vitro. III) The ecological significance of soil associated biofilms and stress management and bioremediation of contaminated soils and degraded ecosystems. IV) Pathogenic biofilm associated with plant and food and its control measures. This book is recommended for students and researchers working in agricultural and environmental microbiology, biotechnology, soil sciences, soil and plant health and plant protection. Researchers working in the area of quorum sensing, biofilm applications, and understanding microbiome of soil and plants will also find it useful.

A state-of-the-art review of biofilm science and technology, incorporating approaches from microbiology, physical chemistry, environmental engineering and chemical engineering. The book describes the physical and chemical properties of biofilms and the processes by which they accumulate.

The ability to form biofilms is a universal attribute of bacteria. Bacteria are able to grow on almost every surface, forming these architecturally complex communities. In biofilms, the cells grow in multicellular aggregates, encased in an extracellular matrix produced by the bacteria themselves. They impact humans in many ways, and can form in natural, medical and industrial settings. For example, the formation of biofilms on medical devices such as catheters or implants often results in difficult-to-treat chronic infections. This book focuses on emerging concepts in bacterial biofilm research, such as the different mechanisms of biofilm formation in Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria, and the burden of biofilm associated infections. It also highlights the various anti-biofilm strategies that can be translated to curb biofilm-associated infections and the escalation of antimicrobial resistance determinants.