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Nodules produced on legume roots by root-nodule bacteria provide the major nitrogenous input into natural and agricultural systems worldwide. This book provides an in-depth and up-to-the minute analysis of what is known about this symbiosis, its origins, the process of nodule formation and development, and the biochemistry and genetics of nodular nitrogen fixation. It also reviews the physiology of the root-nodule bacteria themselves, their ecology in both natural and agricultural systems, and how we go about introducing new legumes and the bactria they require. How all the knowledge gained about this system can be applied in the future for better legume-rhizobia functioning in difficult environments is its logical culmination.

Produce more abundant, high-quality crops with the information you'll find in this book!Recent concerns over environmental pollution and food quality degradation caused by the excessive use of chemicals have prompted scientists and policymakers to re-evaluate modern agricultural processes and search for alternatives that will aid in the production of healthy foods and the protection of our environment. Nature Farming and Microbial Applications summarizes current research in the field, highlighting unique practices such as the use of microbial inoculants and various alternatives to chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The principles of nature farming, as set forth by Japanese philosopher Mokichi Okada, must fulfill these requirements: producing safe and nutritious food that promotes good health providing economic and spiritual benefits to both producers and consumers being sustainable and easily practiced conserving and protecting the environment producing sufficient high-quality food for an expanding world populationTo this end, Nature Farming and Microbial Applications addresses issues of concern to organic farmers, including: soil fertility pest control effective microorganisms photosynthesis transpiration plant-water relations stress resistance of growing cropsThis well-referenced volume contains unique and original methods of modeling and analysis. It will be used again and again as a reference source for students and researchers.

This comprehensive book explores both the fundamental and practical aspects of microbial genetics, shedding light on viroids, viruses, phytoplasma, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. Unveiling a fresh perspective, the book tackles traditional taxonomical debates by embracing DNA-based taxonomy, offering a novel approach to understanding phylogeny within this microbe realm. Furthermore, it delves into the exciting realm of metagenomics, revolutionizing the identification and classification of unculturable microorganisms. Written by leading experts, this essential reading material caters to students and researchers in Microbiology, Genetics, and Biotechnology.

The Everglades Handbook: Understanding the Ecosystem, Fifth Edition is packed with scientific information about the greater Everglades ecosystem, taking into account how drastically the Everglades has changed. The book covers disciplines ranging from ecology, geology, climatology, hydrology, simplified biogeochemistry, and anthropology to conservation biology. The fifth edition of this bestselling guide presents expanded treatment of subjects where our knowledge of the Everglades and its restoration has greatly improved as well as updates throughout. This more detailed coverage includes a new chapter ‘Everglades Chemistry – A Primer'and an expanded section on the role of human intervention in Everglades restoration, as well as numerous new graphics that bring the science to life. Written in Tom Lodge's trademark accessible style combined with the expertise of new coauthor Stephen E. Davis III, Chief Science Officer with the Everglades Foundation, this extensively researched text is essential reading for anybody trying to understand the challenges we face in restoring this unique ecosystem.

The book titled “Microbiome and Plant Nutrition꞉ A Roadmap Towards Sustainable Agriculture” is expected to direct many emerging research pathways needed at local and global levels for sustainable agricultural package and practices. This volume incorporates thirteen seminal chapters on issue based research and their practical applications covering latest information and progress in different areas of microbial supplemented crop nutrition for sustainable agriculture. The book highlights the frontier issues and applications of plant‑microbe interaction in crop nutritional strategy with topics like System biology of plant microbe interaction, Plant growth‑promoting rhizobacteria꞉ a context for sustainable agriculture, Plant growth‑promoting endophytes꞉ a context for sustainable agriculture, The role of the mycorrhiza in nutrient uptake, Plant nitrogen, phosphorus and sulphur nutrition꞉ a microbial perspective, Carbon and nitrogen turnover in soils and plant rhizo‑deposition, Root exudates꞉ a link to plant‑microbe nutritional interactions and insight into the metabolic and nutrition network pathway of plant‑microbe interaction, Commercialization perspective of bio‑stimulants for sustainable agriculture, Interconnection of plants with microbiomes in changing climate꞉ a functional extension of the host and heavy metal dynamics in rice soil꞉ an alleviation through microbial intervention approach. This book will be very useful for the scholars, biotechnologists, agricultural scientists, plant nutritionists, researchers, teachers and students in the emerging field of soil‑microbiome and plant nutrition dynamics in the resilient climatic agriculture era.

Written out of the author's experience at the laboratories in the Institute of Agricultural Sciences at Banaras Hindu University, this book addresses the need for identifying and addressing deficiencies in soil, water, and plants. Techniques to evaluate soil fertility constraints based on soil chemical extraction and analysis of the plants that grow on such soils are discussed. This book also presents standard methods from different sources – these have been compiled and adapted for routine analyses in the Indian subcontinent.This book is aimed at aimed at research scientists, technicians, and students.Print edition not for sale in South Asia (India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan or Bhutan)

Following its predecessors, Plant Roots: The Hidden Half, Fifth Edition is thoroughly updated and reports the major changes that have taken place in root research since the last edition published over 10 years ago. Considered a widely acclaimed book in the field of plant sciences, this edition includes a broad array of topics reflecting progress being made in the subdomains of root biology, featuring chapters on modern topics, while retained chapters are fully updated to demonstrate significant developments made in our understanding of root biology and in fast-evolving research methodologies and techniques. It reviews all root-related processes, from the evolution of roots in past eras to single-cell genomics, allowing readers to grasp an overall view of the state-of-the-art research in this field.Among the 104 contributors to this book are seasoned experts in the field, as well as uprising specialists who have already made a distinguished mark in scientific literature. All of the chapters are extensively referenced featuring specific information on any topic related to the biology of the hidden half of plants. Featuring full color illustrations throughout, this handbook is an essential source of information for both expert and novice root scientists.

Drought, a serious global issue, is being aggravated by climate change. Both pedological and agronomic droughts are major risk factors with adverse effects on agronomic productivity, food and nutritional security, and human wellbeing. This volume in the Advances in Soil Sciences series provides research information regarding case studies from diverse agro-ecoregions around the world and lists examples of effective management of drought at farm, state, national, regional, and global scales.Features:Considers processes, factors, and causes of pedological/agronomic droughts.Discusses effects of global warming on soil drought and describes management options to enhance drought resilience of agricultural soils.Focuses on specific case studies along with review of a variety of tools and techniques designed to mitigate drought and reduce its impact on agronomic productivity.Includes information on soil health and its effects on drought.In addition to highlighting the scientific accomplishments of Dr. Bobby A. Stewart, this book is a major contribution to the global issue of drought management and its dynamics in relation to soil properties under changing climate. It is reference material for researchers, students, practitioners, and policymakers in soil science, agronomy, ecology and management of natural resources with specific focus on adaptation and mitigation of climate change, restoration of soil health, strengthening of biodiversity and promoting the strategy for advancing the “Sustainable Development Goals” or Agenda 2030 of the United Nations.

Global climate change has created unprecedented challenges for human civilization due to its widespread adverse consequences, including a reduction in crop yield and threatening food security across the globe. Among the crop plants, legumes have great potential for ameliorating global warming since they can reduce carbon emissions by lowering reliance on the application of chemical fertilizers, by increasing nitrification and carbon sequestration in soil, and by providing protein-rich diets to both humans and livestock. This book identifies the extent of climate-induced stresses on legume plants and focuses on achieving food security through sustainable agricultural practices.This book compiles recent research findings and reviews on climate-related problems, the potential of legumes in ameliorating the impacts of climate change, as well as better management of agricultural land and practices for achieving environmental sustainability and food security.This book will serve as guidelines for scientists, agricultural practitioners, and policymakers working to achieve food security and better management of climate-induced stresses in agricultural interventions. It will also be useful as a reference book for researchers and students of both graduate and postgraduate levels. Furthermore, this book will provide enhanced knowledge about the mechanisms of yield and stress tolerance of legumes as well as developing climate-smart crops and improving cropping systems for a sustainable environment and food security. Features of the book Reviews trends of global climate change and its consequences for food security across the continents Identifies the challenges and scopes of cultivating legumes in achieving food security in the context of global climate change Focuses on the improvements of legume production through conservation approaches in agricultural practices and modern techniques, including omics-based breeding, biotechnology, genetic engineering, and rhizobium technology Discusses the sustainable amelioration options for soils affected by climate-induced stresses Cites examples of applications of rhizobium technologies in reducing greenhouse gas emission Describes pathways associated with yield, resistance, and tolerance of legumes to climate-induced stresses

Response of Field Crops to Abiotic Stress: Current Status and Future Prospects is a collection of useful scientific resources for students, researchers, and academicians on diverse aspects of abiotic stress responses in field crops. The book provides its readers with a vivid understanding of abiotic stress responses in field crops by covering diverse aspects. It offers exhaustive explanations of the impact and responses of field crops to abiotic stresses.This book offers comprehensive coverage of: Climate change impact on field crops Arsenic and aluminium stress responses in field crops Drought, high temperature, and flooding stress responses in field crops Salinity and osmotic stress responses in field crops Heavy metal stress responses in field crops UV stress responses Elemental biofortification Reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism Nutraceutical and human health Computational modelling approaches for abiotic stresses in plants

Phytoremediation has evolved into an important tool to improve the bioremediation process since it is an innovative green technology that uses a wide variety of plants to remediate radioactive metals and elements, organics, and chemicals from soil, sediment, surface water, and groundwater environmental pollutants. Together, bioremediation and phytoremediation technologies provide an effective approach to contaminant abatement.Volume 3 of the four-volume set identifies and draws a fresh image of existing developments in theoretical and functional implementation systems from recent scientific research studies that consider different facets of bioremediation. It also discusses the latest technology and prospects of new soil bioremediation technology and analyzes their domains, along with their associated challenges and consequences.Other volumes in the 4-volume set:• Volume 1: Fundamental Aspects and Contaminated Sites• Volume 2: Microbial Approaches and Recent Trends• Volume 4: Degradation of Pesticides and Polychlorinated BiphenylsTogether, these four volumes provide in-depth coverage of the mechanisms, advantages, and disadvantages of the bioremediation and phytoremediation technologies for safe and sustainable soil management. The diverse topics help to arm biologists, agricultural engineers, environmental and soil scientists and chemists with the information and tools they need to address soil toxins that are a dangerous risk to plants, wildlife, humans and, of course, the soil itself.

Agriculture in the 21st century will need considerable modification to remain both productive and sustainable. Greater production is needed to meet the needs of our still-growing populations and to combat hunger and poverty. Declines in soil health and the pollution of water sources are making many of our production systems less tenable. These adverse trends are exacerbated more and more by the impacts of climate change.There are, fortunately, alternative methods available for agricultural practice that can countervail these constraints. Biological Approaches to Regenerative Soil Systems brings together the work of both researchers and practitioners to map out better approaches to contemporary agriculture that draw upon both old and new knowledge. It presents the science that underlies more biologically driven strategies as well as contemporary innovative experiences in diverse parts of the world. Both accepted research and these varied experiences encourage confidence that these approaches, not relying primarily on the introduction of new varieties and on exogenous inputs, can succeed.This book updates and revises a preceding volume Biological Approaches to Sustainable Soil Systems published by CRC Press in 2006. So much has been learned and done on this subject in the past decade and a half that a second edition was warranted. For instance, the first edition was published, knowledge about plant-soil microbiomes, which are a frequent focus in this book, has mushroomed.Because sustainability is a broad term and an end-state, the editors preferred to assemble expertise regarding regenerative agriculture, which is concerned with the means for achieving sustainability. The concept of regenerative soil systems, entities that are more complex and multifaceted than'soil'alone, also incorporates a concern with having more resilient agricultural systems, ones that are better able to cope with the multiple stresses of climate change that are foreseen for the decades ahead.The book's chapters representing a wide range of disciplines were contributed by 84 scientists and practitioners from 20 countries. Although they come from persons with in-depth knowledge of their respective fields, the chapters are written to be accessible to readers who are not trained in the specialized subjects. Taken together, the chapters provide students, researchers, practitioners, planners, and policy makers with a comprehensive understanding of both the science and the steps needed to regenerate and sustain soil systems around the world for the long-term benefit of humankind and the environment.

Green chemistry is a vital subject playing a key role in environmental sustainability. Despite its importance, very little has been explored in the past years. This book is a comprehensive compilation of the methods, techniques and strategies used in green chemistry. The book highlights some critical aspects of green chemistry related to agriculture and food production. It has been put together for undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students. Each chapter has been cited with new and updated research discoveries to help the postgraduate, and doctorate students and researchers. I hope the presented book will be an important tool for students and researchers.

Peanut is an important crop in the semi-arid regions of the world. Both, irrigation and well water can provide the water necessary for it. It is a nutritious seed nut crop and has manyfold uses. As such, research on this crop is imperative. This book reviews physiological aspects, keeping in mind the changing agroclimatic conditions. Growth, development and yield are described on the basis of cellular and morphological manifestations. Being a C3 plant, the photosynthesis and respiration in peanuts is critically viewed specially under varying environment conditions and genotypes. The study of nitrogen assimilation and biological nitrogen fixation have been presented in light of the prevalent environmental and gene effects. The role of plant growth regulators in peanuts is elaborated on, stating up-to-date mode of actions. Special emphasis has been given to mechanisms of abiotic stress effects. The chapters (13) are arranged on the basis of physiology, cellular structure, biochemistry, molecular and genomics concepts.

This volume consists of full length manuscripts of 159 of the 165 invited papers presented at World Soybean Research Conference III that was held in the Scheman Continuing Education Building at Iowa State University August 12-17, 1984. The authors, widely recognized as world authorities in their fields, represent all aspects of soybean research activity: breeding and genetics, crop and soil management, economics, entomology, food science, international programs, nematology, pathology, physiology, plant nutrition, rhizobiology, utilization, and weed science. This proceedings, which contains more than 1200 pages of information including many tables and figures, represents the most extensive compilation of soybean research results since the previous proceedings were published in 1980. It should be of value to research scientists, students and administrators alike.

Biosurfactants are surface-active biomolecules produced by a wide variety of microorganisms. They can be produced from renewable sources, and possess high surface activity, high specificity, low toxicity, tolerance to pH, temperature and ionic strength, biodegradability, excellent emulsifying and demulsifying ability and antimicrobial activity. Biosurfactants have found applications in several industries including organic chemicals, petrochemicals, mining, metallurgy (mainly bioleaching), agrochemicals, fertilizers, foods, beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and many others.The main aim of this volume is to highlight concepts, classifications, production and applications of microbial surfactants in food and agriculture. The book provides a comprehensive coverage of fermentation, recovery, genomics and metagenomics of biosurfactant production. It is presented in an easy-to-understand manner, and includes protocols, figures, and recent data on the industrial demand market and economics, and the production of biosurfactants from novel substrates are particularly worthwhile additions. The volume will be useful for students, researchers, teachers, and entrepreneurs in the area of microbial biosurfactants and their applications in food and agriculture.

Despite significant progress in increasing agricultural production, meeting the changing dietary preferences and increasing food demands of future populations remains a significant challenge. Salinity, drought, water logging, high temperature and toxicity are abiotic stresses that affect the crop yield and production. Tolerance for stress is a important characteristic that plants need to have in order to survive. Identification of proper techniques at a proper time can make it easy for scientists to increase crop productivity and yield. In Engineering Tolerance in Crop Plants against Abiotic Stress we have discussed the possible stresses and their impact on crops and portrayed distinctive abiotic stress tolerance in response to different techniques that can improve the performance of crops.Features of the Book: Provide a state-of-the-art description of the physiological, biochemical, and molecular status of the understanding of abiotic stress in plants. Address factors that threaten future food production and provide potential solution to these factors. Designed to cater to the needs of the students engaged in the field of environmental sciences, soil sciences, agricultural microbiology, plant pathology, and agronomy. New strategies for better crop productivity and yield. Understanding new techniques pointed out in this book will open the possibility of genetic engineering in crop plants with the concomitant improved stress tolerance.

The book encompasses different Agriculturally Important microorganisms (AIMs), mechanisms of action and modes of application for sustainable agriculture. The potential of microbes in nitrogen fixation, solubilizing nutrients like phosphorous, Potassium, tolerance to etc. are the major strength of the book. There is relatively a new frontier, use of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria(PGPR)in enhancing crop productivity. These microbes inhabit at the rhizospheric region of the root and facilitate plant growth through a variety of direct and indirect mechanisms. These PGP have been identified to solubilize phosphate, Potassium, Zinc, produce siderophore, IAA, Hydrogencyanide, fix ammonia and many more. Today, such microbes are extensively studied not only as a biofertilizer or fortification of nutrient to the plant, but also a potential agent to decrease application of chemical fertilizer and other agrochemicals. The book also gives an insight to this aspect also. Last but not the least,a light has been thrown on use and application of nano-biofertilizer for sustainable agriculture.Note: T&F does not sell or distribute the hardback in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. This title is co-published with NIPA.

This book reviews some aspects of soil biochemistry, including the biochemical turnover of specific elements and organic compounds in soil; the properties and functions of soil enzymes; and the structure, distribution and pathways of metabolism of organic compounds.

Continuous discoveries in plant and crop physiology have resulted in an abundance of new information since the publication of the third edition of the Handbook of Plant and Crop Physiology. Following its predecessors, the fourth edition of this well-regarded handbook offers a unique, comprehensive, and complete collection of topics in the field of plant and crop physiology.Divided into eleven sections, for easy access of information, this edition contains more than 90 percent new material, substantial revisions, and two new sections. The handbook covers the physiology of plant and crop growth and development, cellular and molecular aspects, plant genetics and production processes. The book presents findings on plant and crop growth in response to climatic changes, and considers the potential for plants and crops adaptation, exploring the biotechnological aspects of plant and crop improvement.This content is used to plan, implement, and evaluate strategies for increasing plant growth and crop yield. Readers benefit from numerous tables, figures, case studies and illustrations, as well as thousands of index words, all of which increase the accessibility of the information contained in this important handbook.New to the Edition: Contains 37 new chapters and 13 extensively revised and expanded chapters from the third edition of this book. Includes new or modified sections on soil-plant-water-nutrients-microorganisms physiological relations; and on plant growth regulators, both promoters and inhibitors. Additional new and modified chapters cover the physiological responses of lower plants and vascular plants and crops to metal-based nanoparticles and agrichemicals; and the growth responses of plants and crops to climate change and environmental stresses. With contributions from 95 scientists from 20 countries, this book provides a comprehensive resource for research and for university courses, covering plant and crop physiological responses under normal and stressful conditions ranging from cellular aspects to whole plants.

Smallest fundamental unit of an element or a compound is called molecule. The rapid progress and multi-faceted development of Science, in general; and of Biology, in particular, has ushered in an absolutely new era in the history of mankind, regarding the physiochemical department of life. The emergence of molecular Biology, as a branch of Science for study, could also be possible by virtue of this very present of the past. The discipline is very vast and with the passage of time, big breakthroughs are in the offing. Feeling the pulse of the time, it deemed suitable, rather, necessary to bring out a comprehensive and compact encyclopaedia on this subject in order to cater to the maximum requirements of the lovers of Molecular Biology. Comprising five volumes, this trivial attempt is expected to prove to be an asset for Science elite and students alike. Now, savour it molecule-by-molecule.

The book provides valuable information on wild plants and their ethnopharmacological properties, discussion on ethnobotany, phytotherapy, diversity, chemical and pharmacological properties including antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antiprotozal properties. The chapters include a wide range of case studies, giving updated evidence on importance of wild plant resources from different countries including Nepal, India, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Colombia, Egypt, Peru, etc. In addition, some specific species are used to explain their potential properties. Discussing traditional usage and pharmacological properties of wild plants, this book is entirely different from other related publications and useful for the researchers working in the areas of conservation biology, botany, ethnobiology, ethnopharmacology, policy making, etc.

Microbiota are a promising and fascinating subject in biology because they integrate the microbial communities in humans, animals, plants, and the environment. In humans, microbiota are associated with the gut, skin, and genital, oral, and respiratory organs. The plant microbial community is referred to as'holobiont,'and it is influential in the maintenance and health of plants, which themselves play a role in animal health and the environment.The contents of Microbiome-Host Interactions cover all areas as well as new research trends in the fields of plant, animal, human, and environmental microbiome interactions. The book covers microbiota in polar soil environments, in health and disease, in Caenorhabditis elegans, and in agroecosystems, as well as in rice root and actinorhizal root nodules, speleothems, and marine shallow-water hydrothermal vents.Moreover, this book provides comprehensive accounts of advanced next-generation DNA sequencing, metagenomic techniques, high-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing, and understanding nucleic acid sequence data from fungal, algal, viral, bacterial, cyanobacterial, actinobacterial, and archaeal communities using QIIME software (Quantitative Insights into Microbial Ecology).FEATURES Summarizes recent insight in microbiota and host interactions in distinct habitats, including Antarctic, hydrothermal vents, speleothems, oral, skin, gut, feces, reproductive tract, soil, root, root nodules, forests, and mangroves Illustrates the high-throughput amplicon sequencing, computational techniques involved in the microbiota analysis, downstream analysis and visualization, and multivariate analysis commonly used for microbiome analysis Describes probiotics and prebiotics in the composition of the gut microbiota, skin microbiome impact in dermatologic disease prevention, and microbial communities in the reproductive tract of humans and animals Presents information in a reachable way for students, teachers, researchers, microbiologists, computational biologists, and other professionals who are interested in strengthening or enlarging their knowledge about microbiome analysis with next-generation DNA sequencing in the different branches of the sciences

The book entitled Soil Fertility and Nutrient Management is a compilation work and most of the information was farmed very critically covering all the main topics of plant nutrition. The book will be serve as useful reference to students, teachers, researchers scientists, policy makers and other interested in soil science, agronomy, crop science, environmental sciences and agriculture.Note: T&F does not sell or distribute the Hardback in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

The Nitrogen-Fixing Legume-Rhizobium Symbiosis, Volume 94, the latest release in the Advances in Botanical Research series, highlights new advances in the field, with this new volume presenting interesting chapters on The diversity of legume-rhizobium symbioses, Parasponia; an evolutionary outlier of rhizobium symbiosis, Rhizobium diversity in the light of evolution, Genomes of rhizobia, Gene regulation by extracytoplasmic function (ECF) sigma factors in alpha-rhizobia, Early symbiotic signaling between Plant and Bacteria, Rhizobia infection, a journey to the inside of plant cells, Differentiation of symbiotic nodule cells and their rhizobium endosymbionts, Nodule Organogenesis, Nitrogen Fixation by the Legume-Rhizobium Symbiosis, and much more. - Provides the authority and expertise of leading contributors from an international board of authors - Presents the latest release in the Advances in Botanical Research series - Updated release includes the latest information on the Nitrogen-Fixing Legume-Rhizobium Symbiosis

Microbial Mitigation of Stress Responses of Food Legumes provides knowledge on the impact of abiotic and biotic stress on the agriculture of grain legumes especially pulses and it critically reviews the cutting-edge research in exploring plant microbe interactions to mitigate the stress. It helps in understanding the fundamentals of microbial-mediated management of abiotic and biotic stress in grain legumes.Salient features: Describes the usefulness of microbiome of plant/insects for enhancing the production of grain legumes Focuses on recent advances in microbial methods for mitigating the stress and their application in sustainability of legume production Provides a unique collection of microbial data for the improvement of legume productivity Details microbial metabolites at the gene and molecule levels for plant stress managementThe reader will get all essential and updated information on various stress factors, crop responses, and microbial-mediated stress management for better food legume production.

Sesbania, a member of the legume family, has been the object of study in new efforts to discover, conserve, and use plant genetic resources. This volume brings together the most recent research on the subject and combines it with previous studies and an extensive review of the literature. This work is a synthesis of biological description and applied studies related to the highly variable and versatile Sesbania species. Sesbania occurs in both annual and perennial forms in tropical and subtropical regions and is adaptable to an unusually wide variety of soil conditions, including saline. The most important uses of the plants are in nitrogen fixation (as in green manures) and in cropping systems. Auxiliary uses of the different species are as sources for pulp fibers, fuel wood, animal fodder, and wind-breaks.

Key features:Presents the latest trends and developments of neuromediators in plantsProvides in-depth coverage of plants enriched in neurotransmitters (especially serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine) and how they are used in medicine, pharmacy, and food nutritionDiscusses the physiological role of the neurotransmitters (biomediators) in non-nervous systems including the analysis of effects on the growth and development and stress defenseCovers the occurrence of the substances that act in human and animal nervous system in plants as a phenomenon of the universal irritability feature for biologistsReveals the occurrence and possible physiological functions of biogenic amines in plants, food, and human healthNew scientific data confirm the origin of neurotransmitters in the ancient ocean, whose inhabitants use the compounds in their relationships. One example is the algae Ulvaria, whose image is represented on the cover. During evolution, plant and microbial cells stored the neurotransmitters that play multifunctional roles today. Researchers have paid special attention to their functions in plants, the oxygen well of our planet. This book provides powerful tools for both analyzing and manipulating organisms, considering the functions of neurotransmitters in plant cells and the practical application of knowledge about acetylcholine, catecholamines, serotonin, melatonin, histamine, gamma-aminobutyric acid and glutamine for ecology, agriculture, medicine and food industries. Neurotransmitters in Plants: Perspectives and Applications presents information on: the location and biosynthesis where neurotransmitters occur the molecular biology of some enzymes participating in the process their role in vivo and in vitro processes their functions in plant environmental adaptation in plants their role in enriching the food and medicinal value of plants.

Increase in global population, drastic changes in the environment, soil degradation and decrease in quality and quantity of agricultural productivity warranted us to adapt sustainable farming practices. This book focuses on soil health management and creating biased rhizosphere that can effectively augment the needs of sustainable agriculture.

Key features:Serves as a cutting-edge resource for researchers and students who are studying plant abiotic stress tolerance and crop improvement through metabolic adaptationsPresents the latest trends and developments in the field of metabolic engineering and abiotic stress toleranceAddresses the adaptation of plants to climatic changesGives special attention to emerging topics such as the role of secondary metabolites, small RNA mediated regulation and signaling molecule responses to stressesProvides extensive references that serve as entry points for further researchMetabolic Adaptations in Plants during Abiotic Stress covers a topic of past, present and future interest for both scientists and policy makers as the global challenge of climate change is addressed. Understanding the mechanisms of plant adaptation to environmental stresses can provide the necessary tools needed to take action to protect them, and hence ourselves. This book brings together recent findings about metabolic adaptations during abiotic stress and in diverse areas of plant adaptation. It covers not only the published results, but also introduces new concepts and findings to offer original views on the perspectives and challenges in this field.

Global climate change affects crop production through altered weather patterns and increased environmental stresses. Such stresses include soil salinity, drought, flooding, metal/metalloid toxicity, pollution, and extreme temperatures. The variability of these environmental conditions pared with the sessile lifestyle of plants contribute to high exposure to these stress factors. Increasing tolerance of crop plants to abiotic stresses is needed to fulfill increased food needs of the population. This book focuses on methods of improving plants tolerance to abiotic stresses. It provides information on how protective agents, including exogenous phytoprotectants, can mitigate abiotic stressors affecting plants. The application of various phytoprotectants has become one of the most effective approaches in enhancing the tolerance of plants to these stresses. Phytoprotectants are discussed in detail including information on osmoprotectants, antioxidants, phytohormones, nitric oxide, polyamines, amino acids, and nutrient elements of plants.Providing a valuable resource of information on phytoprotectants, this book is useful in diverse areas of life sciences including agronomy, plant physiology, cell biology, environmental sciences, and biotechnology.

This integrated collection describes the importance of forage legumes for pasture development and improvement in the tropics and subtropics. Leading agronomists review the magnitude of the need for pasture improvement; tropical and subtropical soil and climate environments; reports of the successful use of legumes in pasture development in a wet and a dry tropical environment; and the scope of the problem in terms of area to be developed and development logistics required. Three legume genera,Centrosema, Desmodium,andStylosanthes,are discussed in detail--information is presented on taxonomy, adaptation, distribution, productivity, and usefulness--and considerable emphasis is placed onRhizobiumgermplasm resources for these genera. A concluding section of technical essays addresses special considerations in using tropical legumes in pasture development and presents a coordinated multidisciplinary approach to legume exploration and evaluation.

First published 1983. Aimed at improving agricultural production by providing a better under· standing of the interaction between crops and the environment, this book presents the latest research findings on the effects of water and temperature stresses on plants in humid temperate regions. It also covers management practices and breeding programs that may reduce crop sensitivity to the vagaries of weather.

The AAAS Selected Symposia Series was begun in 1977 to provide a means of more permanently recording and more widely disseminating some of the valuable material which is discussed at the AAAS Annual National Meetings. The volumes in the Series are based on symposia held at theMeetings which address topics of current and continuing significance, both within and among the sciences, and in the areas in which science and technology have an impact on public policy. The Series format is designed to provide for rapid dissemination of information, so the papers are reproduced directly from camera-ready copy. The papers are organized and edited by the symposium arrangers who then become the editors of the various volumes. Most papers published in the Series are original contributions which have not been previously published, although in some cases additional papers from other sources have been added by an editor to provide a more comprehensive view of a particular topic. Symposia may be reports of new research or reviews of established work, particularly work of an interdisciplinary nature, since the AAAS Annual Meetings typically embrace the full range of the sciences and their societal implications.

Pesticide Interactions in Crop Production: Beneficial and Deleterious Effects evaluates the effects of pesticides on plants by exploring the physical, chemical, biological, and ecological interactions of pesticides that influence a crop. The effects of pesticides on the environment and on the crop pests themselves are considered as well. Specific topics addressed include iatrogenic responses, the fate of pesticides applied to cereals under field conditions, the persistance of pesticides on target crops, the effect of pesticides on soil symbionts, and the role of ecological agriculture on conventional and organic cropping systems. Pesticide Interactions in Crop Production: Beneficial and Deleterious Effects will be an important volume for agriculturalists, phytologists, mycologists, soil biologists, plant pathologists, tropical ecologists, arboriculturalists, and other researchers interested in the effects of pesticides on crops and soil.

This book is a specialized monograph on soil physical conditions and root-system relations. It attempts to explain the importance of physical properties of soil by showing how they affect root growth and functions; and on the other hand, how roots themselves change their environment. Emphasis is placed on the interactive effects of soil physical factors. An attempt has been made to analyze the possibilities of the root system‘s modification by both soil and plant management.The book is addressed to research workers and advanced students in soil and plant sciences and may also be of interest to agronomists and related specialists.

Life on earth began with bacteria, which now colonize every corner of the planet. As the ancestors of mitochondria, bacteria are also fundamental for our cells. Most bacteria look alike, but have very different functions. Therefore, knowing the functional profile of bacteria helps understand their impact on our life. This book provides a wealth of information on the functional evolution of bacteria in a novel and coherent way. The book is aimed towards scientists as well as those who are curious about the world of bacteria and their relationships with mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells, and us.

The sections in this handbook series reflect the input of different editors and advisory boards, and as a consequence, there is considerable variation in both the depth and coverage offered within a given area. However, an attempt has been made throughout to bring together pertinent information that will serve the needs of nonspecialists, provide a quick reference to material that might otherwise be difficult to locate, and furnish a starting point for further study.The project was undertaken with the realization that the initial volumes in the series could have some obvious deficiencies that will necessitate subsequent revisions. In the meantime, it is felt that the primary objectives of the Sections Editors and their Advisory Boards has been met in this first Edition.

The modern age life science research is more inclined towards interdisciplinary studies. Recent developments in the technologies have led to a better understanding of living systems, and this has removed the demarcations between various disciplines of life sciences. A new trend in life science incorporates biological research involving a merger of diverse disciplines such as microbiology, biotechnology, molecular biology, biochemistry, ecology and agriculture. This book is primarily written with the objective of providing standard information on recent topics in the fields of stress biology, molecular biology, ecology, agriculture, bioremediation, human diseases and over all, several biotechnological approaches towards the studies ranging from green photosynthesizing plants to human pathogens. The book encompasses topics on cyanobacteria, bacteria, fungi, higher plants, ecology and human diseases, distributed throughout eleven chapters for the benefit of graduate and postgraduate students as well as young researchers and scientists. The ever-increasing population has resulted in an increasing demand of food, medicine and other natural products. Researchers are continuously working to resolve and develop a better understanding of life and other biological processes; they need to conserve genes, plants and ecosystems, and the apprehension of land, water and environment have led to the strengthening of traditional disciplines as well as the emergence of diverse disciplines such as stress biology, molecular biology, biotechnology, agriculture and human health. This book imparts the latest developments and the state-of-the art knowledge in the specific fields of life sciences. The subject matter is presented in a logical sequence so that it is easily understandable to the students and researchers. The recent information on the subject is integrated throughout the chapters. In addition, this book provides newer techniques and the use of modern tools in achieving the potential of microbiology, ecology, herbal medicine, biotechnology and stress biology; this is all used to understand the challenges found in life sciences. This book covers a wide range of topics, and the authors anticipate that the contents may appeal to a wider range of readers. Therefore, the authors present this book with great pleasure and express their most sincere gratitude to all the contributors and research scholars, namely Mr. Jainendra Pathak, Mr. Rajneesh, Ms. Vidya Singh, Mr. Deepak Kumar, Mr. Haseen Ahmed, Mr. Deepak K. Singh and Ms. Abha Pandey. They are also particularly thankful to Nova Science Publishers, Inc., for their continued patience and for the unfailing attention they have given to the publication of this book.

This book deals an essential aspect of crop management in identification of deficiencies of plant nutrients and their diagnostic methods. The book provides soil and tissue analysis standards critical in plant nutrition.

The result of strong international interest in the soybean, the World Soybean Research Conference II was held March 26-29, 1979, at North Carolina State University. This volume contains summaries of the more than two hundred papers presented at that meeting. The authors, international authorities in their fields, represent sixteen areas of professi

The aim of this important book is to present the reader with developments concerning glutathione research. This work focuses on the synthesis-degradation and oxidation-reduction cycles of glutathione, the physiological functions of glutathione (especially in mammalian cells), and the analytical methods used to accurately measure the glutathione status of cells. This resource addresses specific modification of glutathione metabolism that is of special interest in the treatment of some tumors. This rare volume also introduces some different, new techniques on how to accurately measure glutathione, specifically in its oxidized form. Anyone involved with biochemistry, physiology, toxicology, pharmacology, nutrition and radiation biology will find this publication interesting and filled with useful information. It is also a valuable reference for research scientists in such fields as aging, metabolism disorders, and glutathione research.

There are approximately 500 different soil varieties in Malaysia, most is residual soil and coastal alluvial soil. This book presents a comprehensive overview of various aspects of soils in Malaysia. It covers topics including climate; flora and fauna; geology and hydrology; land use changes for agriculture; soil fertility; human-induced soil degradation; and soil contamination sources. It features information on the role of biological, chemical, mechanical, and physical factors in relation to soil properties. The book highlights land use impact, soil problems arising from contamination and its control methods, the management of problem soils, limiting materials as well as future soil issues.The presentation of different soils in Malaysia is organized through chapters based on two major soil groups (a) the sedentary soils formed in the interior on a wide range of rock types, and (b) the soils of the coastal alluvial plains. The book features information on how these various soil types affect the economy of the country and highlights the soil issues and challenges within the context of sustainable agriculture. Useful to graduate students of soil science, professionals, and agriculturalists, it provides extensive knowledge of agriculture soils in Malaysia in a concise and user-friendly manner.

This book looks at significant current grassland problems and issues, and provides an insight into grassland productivity in diverse areas of the world, with their various production systems. There is a focus on recent technical advances and the prospects for further innovation, through twenty-one chapters by eminent grassland scientists, grouped i

On the basis of thermodynamic considerations and the Earth's historical processes, this book argues the physical inevitability of life's generation and evolution, i.e., Why did life generate? Why does life evolve? Following an introduction to the problem, the hypothesis “Darwinian Evolution of Molecules” is proposed, which explains how, when, and where life was instigated through successive chemical reactions and the survival of selected molecules. The individual processes described are all scientifically reasonable, being verifiable by experiment. The hypothesis is supported by extensive reference to the scientific literature published in academic journals, including some experimental reports from the author's own research group. The readers of this book will learn that the decreasing temperature of the early Earth led to a reduction in its entropy, inducing the Earth's materials to order, which entailed ordering of the light elements as organic molecules with subsequent further ordering (i.e., evolution) to systems that can be considered alive (i.e., life). Researchers and students, as well as the non-academic audience, interested in the interdisciplinary problem of the origin of life will find suggestions and possible approaches to the scientific and conceptual problems they may be facing.

The core of the text is aimed at the research worker in the field of nitrogen fixation, but, despite its specialisation, does not lose the emphasis on teaching, both as a direct reference book and as a backbone for a graduate course on the subject.The closing part of the book includes a subject index and a glossary of terms. The latter was included not for the expert, for whom many of the definitions will be too general, but for the newcomer; the author hopes that the quick survey of key terms will help in the reading of this book.

The essays that comprise this anthology of the best in ecology from Critical Reviews in Microbiology describe principles and practices in considerable detail. There is no attempt, however at a balanced presentation of the different groups of microorganisms or their activities. Likewise, some areas of current concern are considered cursorily and others not at all. Nevertheless, the book is an interesting and informative introduction to a growing endeavour. The combined experience and insight of the contributing authors will surely aid the reader to develop an ecological attitude, and to better appreciate microorganisms as determinants of environmental quality.

Methods in Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology emphasizes a variety of well-tested methods in plant molecular biology and biotechnology. For each detailed and tested protocol presented, a brief overview of the methodology is provided. This overview considers why the protocol is used, what other comparable methods are available, and what limitations can be expected with the protocol. Other chapters in the book present overviews regarding how to approach particular problems and introduce unique methods - such as how to use computer methodology to study isolated genes. The book will be a practical reference for plant physiologists, plant molecular biologists, phytopathologists, and microbiologists.

This handbook in two volumes synthesises our knowledge about the ecology of Central Europe's plant cover with its 7000-yr history of human impact, covering Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Austria, Czech Republic and Slovakia. Based on a thorough literature review with 5500 cited references and nearly 1000 figures and tables, the two books review in 26 chapters all major natural and man-made vegetation types with their climatic and edaphic influences, the structure and dynamics of their communities, the ecophysiology of important plant species, and key aspects of ecosystem functioning. Volume I deals with forests and scrub vegetation and analyses the ecology of Central Europe's tree flora, whilst Volume II is dedicated to the non-forest vegetation covering mires, grasslands, heaths, alpine habitats and urban vegetation. The consequences of over-use, pollution and recent climate change over the last century are explored and conservation issues addressed.

Encyclopedia of Evolutionary Biology, Four Volume Set is the definitive go-to reference in the field of evolutionary biology. It provides a fully comprehensive review of the field in an easy to search structure. Under the collective leadership of fifteen distinguished section editors, it is comprised of articles written by leading experts in the field, providing a full review of the current status of each topic. The articles are up-to-date and fully illustrated with in-text references that allow readers to easily access primary literature. While all entries are authoritative and valuable to those with advanced understanding of evolutionary biology, they are also intended to be accessible to both advanced undergraduate and graduate students. Broad topics include the history of evolutionary biology, population genetics, quantitative genetics; speciation, life history evolution, evolution of sex and mating systems, evolutionary biogeography, evolutionary developmental biology, molecular and genome evolution, coevolution, phylogenetic methods, microbial evolution, diversification of plants and fungi, diversification of animals, and applied evolution. - Presents fully comprehensive content, allowing easy access to fundamental information and links to primary research - Contains concise articles by leading experts in the field that ensures current coverage of each topic - Provides ancillary learning tools like tables, illustrations, and multimedia features to assist with the comprehension process