This book examines the two major parasite groups that are transmitted via water or foods: the single-celled protozoa, and the helminths: cestodes (tapeworms), nematodes (round worms), and trematodes (flukes). Each chapter covers the biology, mechanisms of pathogenesis, epidemiology, treatment, and inactivation of these parasites. This important new text offers a better understanding of the biology and control of parasitic infections necessary to reduce or eliminate future outbreaks in the U.S. and elsewhere.

In the relatively short period since Cryptosporidium was recognised as a human pathogen, and that it could be transmitted in water as well as directly between animals and people, it has been the subject of intense investigations. Its status as an opportunistic pathogen, especially in AIDS patients, and the lack of effective anti-cryptosporidial drugs have served to emphasise the public health importance of this organism. This has to some extent overshadowed the fact that Cryptosporidium is also an important pathogen of domestic animals and wildlife. In recent years, the application of molecular biology and culture techniques have had an enormous impact on our understanding of the aetiological agents of cryptosporidial infections and our ability to study the causative agents in the laboratory. As a consequence, a wealth of information and novel data has been produced during the last 3-4 years, particularly in the areas of taxonomy, biology, pathogenesis, epidemiology - particularly zoonotic and water borne transmission, and treatment.It is thus very timely to bring together in this book the international research community involved to review the major advances in research and identify the important research priorities for the future, thus enabling as wide an audience as possible to benefit from and share in this comprehensive look at Cryptosporidium and cryptosporidiosis.

Giardia and Cryptosporidium are both parasites of considerable global interest due to the gastrointestinal problems these organisms can cause in humans as well as domestic and wild animals. Despite its long history as the causative agent of giardiasis, the clinical and zoonotic significance of Giardia infections in humans and animals is only beginning to emerge with the application of molecular tools. Less is known about Cryptosporidium and studies seek to understand the impact of infection in livestock and other animals, its epidemiology and zoonotic significance. Presenting a comprehensive overview of recent research this book draws on the experience of experts in all fields of Giardia and Cryptosporidium research.

This book encompasses broad aspects of Cryptosporidium research with established methods that have been improved and expanded over the years as well as recent cutting-edge techniques. Within this collection are numerous molecular methods as well as protocols for genotyping and diagnostics, while also including room for in vitro cell culture techniques to address the issues with growing this difficult organism continuously. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, 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 practical, Cryptosporidium: Methods and Protocols serves as an idea guide to the inherent challenges of working with cryptosporidial parasites to provide a foundation for new investigators to build upon. The chapter “Accessing Cryptosporidium Omic and Isolate Data via CryptoDB.org” is available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com.

From the microscopic observation of infection to the widespread application of molecular techniques in taxonomy and epidemiology, to the genome sequencing of two major species and advances in biochemistry, phylogeny, and water treatment, new information on this fascinating genus continues to mount as we discover and utilize the latest scientific te

Twort's Water Supply, Seventh Edition, has been expanded to provide the latest tools and techniques to meet engineering challenges over dwindling natural resources. Approximately 1.1 billion people in rural and peri-urban communities of developing countries do not have access to safe drinking water. The mortality from diarrhea-related diseases amounts to 2.2 million people each year from the consumption of unsafe water. This update reflects the latest WHO, European, UK, and US standards, including the European Water Framework Directive. The book also includes an expansion of waste and sludge disposal, including energy and sustainability, and new chapters on intakes, chemical storage, handling, and sampling. Written for both professionals and students, this book is essential reading for anyone working in water engineering. - Features expanded coverage of waste and sludge disposal to include energy use and sustainability - Includes a new chapter on intakes - Includes a new chapter on chemical storage and handling