Download or read book Electrical phenotyping of the Bacterial Envelope Using Microfluidics written by Qianru Wang (Ph. D.) and published by . This book was released on 2018 with total page 118 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The bacterial cell envelope is a complex multi-layered covering, crucial for cell viability and physiological capabilities. Phenotypic analysis of bacterial envelopes is challenging due to the small size and low cultivability of microbes. The emerging microfluidic techniques enable quantitative and nondestructive probing of cell envelopes by measuring their physical properties. This thesis demonstrates that phenotypic variations on bacterial envelopes change their surface polarizability–an intrinsic dielectric property–in a manner that can be distinguished by microfluidic dielectrophoresis (DEP). The three-dimensional insulator-based dielectrophoresis (3DiDEP), a microfluidic technique previously reported by our group, was optimized to explore the diverse surface phenotypes of bacterial electrochemical activity and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) biosynthesis. Electrochemically active bacteria transport electrons directly from their interior to external insoluble electron accepters, e.g. metal oxides or electrodes in electrochemical systems, via a process known as extracellular electron transfer (EET), holding an exciting promise in energy conversion and bioremediation. Using 3DiDEP, we demonstrate for the first time the strong correlation between microbial EET and cell surface polarizability, generalizable to three bacterial species with variant electrochemical activities, including Geobacter sulfurreducens, Shewanella oneidensis, and Escherichia coli heterologously expressing Shewanella EET pathways. We also applied 3DiDEP to achieve rapid quantification of LPS, the major component and virulence determinant in Gram-negative bacterial outer membrane. We examined E. coli mutant strains with various LPS components truncated, and show that structural diversity in LPS affects the trapping voltages required for 3DiDEP cell immobilization. Last but not least, we studied the interplay of electrothermal and induced charge electroosmosis (ICEO) flows, which can interfere DEP operations but are often overlooked in the design of iDEP systems. The effects of fluidic ionic strength, applied electric field, and insulating channel geometry on temperature rise and fluid velocities were investigated from a theoretical and experimental viewpoint. Taken together, this thesis introduces surface polarizability as a novel physical property for assessing microbial EET and LPS composition. Dielectrophoretic screening of bacterial envelope polarizability may unlock a vast repertoire of EET- and LPS- related biochemical applications, and will be useful as guidance for further DEP-based phenotypic analysis of a diverse array of cells and organisms.

Download or read book Microbial Biofilms written by Hilary M. Lappin-Scott and published by Cambridge University Press. This book was released on 2003-09-18 with total page 332 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Biochemistry and ecology of biofilms from industrial, medical and other viewpoints.

Download or read book Functional Metagenomics Tools and Applications written by Trevor C. Charles and published by Springer. This book was released on 2017-10-09 with total page 256 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: In this book, the latest tools available for functional metagenomics research are described.This research enables scientists to directly access the genomes from diverse microbial genomes at one time and study these “metagenomes”. Using the modern tools of genome sequencing and cloning, researchers have now been able to harness this astounding metagenomic diversity to understand and exploit the diverse functions of microorganisms. Leading scientists from around the world demonstrate how these approaches have been applied in many different settings, including aquatic and terrestrial habitats, microbiomes, and many more environments. This is a highly informative and carefully presented book, providing microbiologists with a summary of the latest functional metagenomics literature on all specific habitats.

Download or read book Imaging Bacterial Molecules Structures and Cells written by and published by Academic Press. This book was released on 2016-12-01 with total page 158 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Imaging Bacterial Molecules, Structures and Cells, the latest volume in the Methods in Microbiology series, provides comprehensive, cutting-edge reviews of current and emerging technologies in the field of clinical microbiology. The book features a wide variety of state-of-the art methods and techniques for the diagnosis and management of microbial infections, with chapters authored by internationally renowned experts. This particular volume focuses on current techniques, such as MALDI-TOF mass spectroscopy and molecular diagnostics, along with newly emerging technologies, such as host-based diagnostics and next generation sequencing. - Written by recognized leaders and experts in the field - Provides a comprehensive and cutting-edge review of current and emerging technologies in the field of clinical microbiology, including discussions of current techniques like MALDI-TOF mass spectroscopy and molecular diagnostics - Includes a broad range and breadth of techniques covered - Presents discussions on newly emerging technologies, such as host-based diagnostics and next generation sequencing

Download or read book The Perfect Slime written by Hans-Curt Flemming and published by IWA Publishing. This book was released on 2016-09-15 with total page 336 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The Perfect Slime presents the latest state of knowledge and all aspects of the Extracellular Polymeric Substances, (EPS) matrix – from the ecological and health to the antifouling perspectives. The book brings together all the current material in order to expand our understanding of the functions, properties and characteristics of the matrix as well as the possibilities to strengthen or weaken it. The EPS matrix represents the immediate environment in which biofilm organisms live. From their point of view, this matrix has paramount advantages. It allows them to stay together for extended periods and form synergistic microconsortia, it retains extracellular enzymes and turns the matrix into an external digestion system and it is a universal recycling yard, it protects them against desiccation, it allows for intense communication and represents a huge genetic archive. They can remodel their matrix, break free and eventually, they can use it as a nutrient source. The EPS matrix can be considered as one of the emergent properties of biofilms and are a major reason for the success of this form of life. Nevertheless, they have been termed the “black matter of biofilms” for good reasons. First of all: the isolation methods define the results. In most cases, only water soluble EPS components are investigated; insoluble ones such as cellulose or amyloids are much less included. In particular in environmental biofilms with many species, it is difficult to impossible isolate, separate the various EPS molecules they are encased in and to define which species produced which EPS. The regulation and the factors which trigger or inhibit EPS production are still very poorly understood. Furthermore: bacteria are not the only microorganisms to produce EPS. Archaea, Fungi and algae can also form EPS. This book investigates the questions, What is their composition, function, dynamics and regulation? What do they all have in common?

Download or read book Advanced Healthcare Materials written by Ashutosh Tiwari and published by John Wiley & Sons. This book was released on 2014-05-09 with total page 421 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary view of cutting-edge research on advanced materials for healthcare technology and applications Advanced healthcare materials are attracting strong interest in fundamental as well as applied medical science and technology. This book summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field of advanced materials for functional therapeutics, point-of-care diagnostics, translational materials, and up-and-coming bioengineering devices. Advanced Healthcare Materials highlights the key features that enable the design of stimuli-responsive smart nanoparticles, novel biomaterials, and nano/micro devices for either diagnosis or therapy, or both, called theranostics. It also presents the latest advancements in healthcare materials and medical technology. The senior researchers from global knowledge centers have written topics including: State-of-the-art of biomaterials for human health Micro- and nanoparticles and their application in biosensors The role of immunoassays Stimuli-responsive smart nanoparticles Diagnosis and treatment of cancer Advanced materials for biomedical application and drug delivery Nanoparticles for diagnosis and/or treatment of Alzheimers disease Hierarchical modelling of elastic behavior of human dental tissue Biodegradable porous hydrogels Hydrogels in tissue engineering, drug delivery, and wound care Modified natural zeolites Supramolecular hydrogels based on cyclodextrin poly(pseudo)rotaxane Polyhydroxyalkanoate-based biomaterials Biomimetic molecularly imprinted polymers

Download or read book The Science and Applications of Synthetic and Systems Biology written by Institute of Medicine and published by National Academies Press. This book was released on 2011-12-30 with total page 570 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Many potential applications of synthetic and systems biology are relevant to the challenges associated with the detection, surveillance, and responses to emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. On March 14 and 15, 2011, the Institute of Medicine's (IOM's) Forum on Microbial Threats convened a public workshop in Washington, DC, to explore the current state of the science of synthetic biology, including its dependency on systems biology; discussed the different approaches that scientists are taking to engineer, or reengineer, biological systems; and discussed how the tools and approaches of synthetic and systems biology were being applied to mitigate the risks associated with emerging infectious diseases. The Science and Applications of Synthetic and Systems Biology is organized into sections as a topic-by-topic distillation of the presentations and discussions that took place at the workshop. Its purpose is to present information from relevant experience, to delineate a range of pivotal issues and their respective challenges, and to offer differing perspectives on the topic as discussed and described by the workshop participants. This report also includes a collection of individually authored papers and commentary.

Download or read book Angiogenesis Assays written by Carolyn A. Staton and published by John Wiley & Sons. This book was released on 2007-01-11 with total page 410 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Angiogenesis, the development of new blood vessels from the existing vasculature, is essential for physiological growth and over 18,000 research articles have been published describing the role of angiogenesis in over 70 different diseases, including cancer, diabetic retinopathy, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. One of the most important technical challenges in such studies has been finding suitable methods for assessing the effects of regulators of eh angiogenic response. While increasing numbers of angiogenesis assays are being described both in vitro and in vivo, it is often still necessary to use a combination of assays to identify the cellular and molecular events in angiogenesis and the full range of effects of a given test protein. Although the endothelial cell - its migration, proliferation, differentiation and structural rearrangement - is central to the angiogenic process, it is not the only cell type involved. the supporting cells, the extracellular matrix and the circulating blood with its cellular and humoral components also contribute. In this book, experts in the use of a diverse range of assays outline key components of these and give a critical appraisal of their strengths and weaknesses. Examples include assays for the proliferation, migration and differentiation of endothelial cells in vitro, vessel outgrowth from organ cultures, assessment of endothelial and mural cell interactions, and such in vivo assays as the chick chorioallantoic membrane, zebrafish, corneal, chamber and tumour angiogenesis models. These are followed by a critical analysis of the biological end-points currently being used in clinical trials to assess the clinical efficacy of anti-angiogenic drugs, which leads into a discussion of the direction future studies should take. This valuable book is of interest to research scientists currently working on angiogenesis in both the academic community and in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. Relevant disciplines include cell and molecular biology, oncology, cardiovascular research, biotechnology, pharmacology, pathology and physiology.

Download or read book Bacterial Persistence written by Jan Michiels and published by Humana. This book was released on 2015-10-15 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This volume presents a comprehensive collection of methods that have been instrumental to the current understanding of bacterial persisters. Chapters in the book cover topics ranging from general methods for measuring persister levels in Escherichia coli cultures, protocols for the determination of the persister subpopulation in Candida albicans, quantitative measurements of Type I and Type II persisters using ScanLag, to in vitro and in vivo models for the study of the intracellular activity of antibiotics. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Bacterial Persistence: Methods and Protocols brings together the most respected researchers in bacterial persistence whose studies will remain vital to understanding this field for many years to come.

Download or read book Microtechnology for Cell Manipulation and Sorting written by Wonhee Lee and published by Springer. This book was released on 2016-10-05 with total page 287 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book delves into the recent developments in the microscale and microfluidic technologies that allow manipulation at the single and cell aggregate level. Expert authors review the dominant mechanisms that manipulate and sort biological structures, making this a state-of-the-art overview of conventional cell sorting techniques, the principles of microfluidics, and of microfluidic devices. All chapters highlight the benefits and drawbacks of each technique they discuss, which include magnetic, electrical, optical, acoustic, gravity/sedimentation, inertial, deformability, and aqueous two-phase systems as the dominant mechanisms utilized by microfluidic devices to handle biological samples. Each chapter explains the physics of the mechanism at work, and reviews common geometries and devices to help readers decide the type of style of device required for various applications. This book is appropriate for graduate-level biomedical engineering and analytical chemistry students, as well as engineers and scientists working in the biotechnology industry.

Download or read book Micro Nano Devices for Blood Analysis written by Rui A. Lima and published by MDPI. This book was released on 2019-12-03 with total page 174 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The development of micro- and nanodevices for blood analysis is an interdisciplinary subject that demands the integration of several research fields, such as biotechnology, medicine, chemistry, informatics, optics, electronics, mechanics, and micro/nanotechnologies. Over the last few decades, there has been a notably fast development in the miniaturization of mechanical microdevices, later known as microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), which combine electrical and mechanical components at a microscale level. The integration of microflow and optical components in MEMS microdevices, as well as the development of micropumps and microvalves, have promoted the interest of several research fields dealing with fluid flow and transport phenomena happening in microscale devices. Microfluidic systems have many advantages over their macroscale counterparts, offering the ability to work with small sample volumes, providing good manipulation and control of samples, decreasing reaction times, and allowing parallel operations in one single step. As a consequence, microdevices offer great potential for the development of portable and point-of-care diagnostic devices, particularly for blood analysis. Moreover, the recent progress in nanotechnology has contributed to its increasing popularity, and has expanded the areas of application of microfluidic devices, including in the manipulation and analysis of flows on the scale of DNA, proteins, and nanoparticles (nanoflows). In this Special Issue, we invited contributions (original research papers, review articles, and brief communications) that focus on the latest advances and challenges in micro- and nanodevices for diagnostics and blood analysis, micro- and nanofluidics, technologies for flow visualization, MEMS, biochips, and lab-on-a-chip devices and their application to research and industry. We hope to provide an opportunity to the engineering and biomedical community to exchange knowledge and information and to bring together researchers who are interested in the general field of MEMS and micro/nanofluidics and, especially, in its applications to biomedical areas.

Download or read book Molecular Epidemiology written by Paul A. Schulte and published by Academic Press. This book was released on 2012-12-02 with total page 609 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book will serve as a primer for both laboratory and field scientists who are shaping the emerging field of molecular epidemiology. Molecular epidemiology utilizes the same paradigm as traditional epidemiology but uses biological markers to identify exposure, disease or susceptibility. Schulte and Perera present the epidemiologic methods pertinent to biological markers. The book is also designed to enumerate the considerations necessary for valid field research and provide a resource on the salient and subtle features of biological indicators.

Download or read book Bacterial Cell Walls and Membranes written by Andreas Kuhn and published by Springer. This book was released on 2019-06-18 with total page 501 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book provides an up-to-date overview of the architecture and biosynthesis of bacterial and archaeal cell walls, highlighting the evolution-based similarities in, but also the intriguing differences between the cell walls of Gram-negative bacteria, the Firmicutes and Actinobacteria, and the Archaea. The recent major advances in this field, which have brought to light many new structural and functional details, are presented and discussed. Over the past five years, a number of novel systems, e.g. for lipid, porin and lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis have been described. In addition, new structural achievements with periplasmic chaperones have been made, all of which have revealed amazing details on how bacterial cell walls are synthesized. These findings provide an essential basis for future research, e.g. the development of new antibiotics. The book’s content is the logical continuation of Volume 84 of SCBI (on Prokaryotic Cytoskeletons), and sets the stage for upcoming volumes on Protein Complexes.

Download or read book Biotechnology of Lactic Acid Bacteria written by Fernanda Mozzi and published by John Wiley & Sons. This book was released on 2015-09-04 with total page 392 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have historically been used as starter cultures for the production of fermented foods, especially dairy products. Over recent years, new areas have had a strong impact on LAB studies: the application of omics tools; the study of complex microbial ecosystems, the discovery of new LAB species, and the use of LAB as powerhouses in the food and medical industries. This second edition of Biotechnology of Lactic Acid Bacteria: Novel Applications addresses the major advances in the fields over the last five years. Thoroughly revised and updated, the book includes new chapters. Among them: The current status of LAB systematics; The role of LAB in the human intestinal microbiome and the intestinal tract of animals and its impact on the health and disease state of the host; The involvement of LAB in fruit and vegetable fermentations; The production of nutraceuticals and aroma compounds by LAB; and The formation of biofilms by LAB. This book is an essential reference for established researchers and scientists, clinical and advanced students, university professors and instructors, nutritionists and food technologists working on food microbiology, physiology and biotechnology of lactic acid bacteria.

Download or read book Valproic Acid written by Alexis Boucher and published by Nova Science Publishers. This book was released on 2013 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Valproic acid (VPA) is a short chain fatty acid which has been used medicinally to treat conditions as far reaching as epilepsy, Bipolar disorder, migraines, and cancer. In this book, the authors research the pharmacology, mechanisms of action and clinical implications of valproic acid. Topics discussed include novel applications of the anticonvulsant drug valproic acid in cancer therapeutics; VPA treatment for epilepsy; use of fish models in fetal valproate syndrome studies; prenatal valproic acid exposure correlating with the occurrence of autism; and using 3D spheroids to determine the acute and chronic lethal thresholds of valproic acid.

Download or read book Electrospun Nanofibers written by Mehdi Afshari and published by Woodhead Publishing. This book was released on 2016-09-13 with total page 650 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Electrospun Nanofibers covers advances in the electrospinning process including characterization, testing and modeling of electrospun nanofibers, and electrospinning for particular fiber types and applications. Electrospun Nanofibers offers systematic and comprehensive coverage for academic researchers, industry professionals, and postgraduate students working in the field of fiber science. Electrospinning is the most commercially successful process for the production of nanofibers and rising demand is driving research and development in this field. Rapid progress is being made both in terms of the electrospinning process and in the production of nanofibers with superior chemical and physical properties. Electrospinning is becoming more efficient and more specialized in order to produce particular fiber types such as bicomponent and composite fibers, patterned and 3D nanofibers, carbon nanofibers and nanotubes, and nanofibers derived from chitosan. - Provides systematic and comprehensive coverage of the manufacture, properties, and applications of nanofibers - Covers recent developments in nanofibers materials including electrospinning of bicomponent, chitosan, carbon, and conductive fibers - Brings together expertise from academia and industry to provide comprehensive, up-to-date information on nanofiber research and development - Offers systematic and comprehensive coverage for academic researchers, industry professionals, and postgraduate students working in the field of fiber science

Download or read book Azospirillum VI and Related Microorganisms written by Istvan Fendrik and published by Springer Science & Business Media. This book was released on 2013-06-29 with total page 546 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Azospirillum is a plant growth promoting rhizobacterium used for inoculation of cereal and forage crops. The book covers its physiology, ecology, biochemistry, and molecular biology. The most advanced molecular techniques to understand the regulatory mechanisms of nitrogen fixation and ammonia assimilation, as well as the basis of phytohormone production, are included. In particular, the identification of novel types of promoters, specific regulatory circuits, and new regulatory proteins is described. New insights in the plant growth promoting role of the bacteria through the analysis of their interactions with the plant are presented. Also discussed are field applications, allowing the evaluation of the physiological and agronomic involvement of Azospirillum inoculations.