J.G. Jones - Böcker

This is the third volume of Advances in Microbial Ecology to be produced by the current editorial board. I would, therefore, like to take this opportunity to thank my co-editors for all their efforts, particularly in maintaining a balance of subject matter and geographical distribution of the contributions. Volume 15 is no exception in that we have a balance between the prokaryo­ tic and eukaryotic organisms and a range of subject matter from applied ecology through process ecology to ecological theory. The response from our readers has been encouraging in the sense that the breadth of coverage is much appreciated, particularly by teachers and postgraduate/postdoctoral researchers. However, we still strive to improve our coverage and particularly to move wider than the North America/Europe axis for contributions. Similarly, we would like to see coverage of the more unusual microbes, perhaps a chapter devoted to the ecology of a particular species or genus. There must exist many ecological notes on "rarer" organisms that have not found their way into the standard textbooks or taxonomic volumes; properly compiled these could provide valuable information for the field ecologist. Ecological theory has, until recently, been the domain of the "macroecolo­ gist. " Recent advances in molecular techniques will ensure that the microbial ecologist will playa more significant role in the development of the subject. We shall not, therefore, change our policy of encouraging our contributors to specu­ late, permitting them sufficient space to develop their ideas.

If the trends of the late 20th century continue, most climatologists agree that the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere will have doubled by 2050. This increase in CO2 will have a major effect on the global climate and substantially alter the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of lakes throughout the world. A number of studies have considered the impact of climate change on water resources, but many have a national focus and are primarily concerned with changes in water quantity rather than quality. In recent years a number of workers have demonstrated that year-to-year changes in the weather have a profound impact on the seasonal dynamics of lakes. This book highlights some of the mechanisms involved and assesses the likely qualitative impact of changes in the weather.

Kevin Marshall is a hard act to follow. Volume 13 of Advances in Microbial Ecology has been produced by a new editorial board, and we, the members of that board, are delighted to have the opportunity to pay tribute to Kevin's achievements. In his time as Series Editor, the quality of the chapters submitted and the range of subject matter covered have ensured an expanding and more stimulated readership. This represents a considerable achievement, given the growth in the number of review volumes and the increasing tendency for journals to publish review articles. The achievement was reached not only through metic­ ulous attention to quality and detail but also by providing a forum for the expression of views, information, and results that would stimulate discussion. Advances in Microbial Ecology will continue to provide such a focus, although, because of the frequency of publication, it would not be practicable to introduce a "reply" or "comment" section. Although we do not deliberately aim to provide a forum for controversy, we encourage speculation based on sound scientific arguments. In addition, we would like to encourage authors to offer chapters for consideration. In the past, the volumes have largely comprised invited chapters. With the best will in the world, an editorial board of four cannot claim adequate coverage of such a vast and rapidly developing research area. We would there­ fore welcome submission of outline plans for chapters, which should be sent to the Editor.

This is the third volume of Advances in Microbial Ecology to be produced by the current editorial board. Volume 15 is no exception in that we have a balance between the prokaryo­ tic and eukaryotic organisms and a range of subject matter from applied ecology through process ecology to ecological theory.

THERE WAS A WAR IN HEAVEN. EVIL WON. NOW DARKSEID, GOD OF APOKOLIPS, HAS FALLEN TO EARTH--AND HE'S UNLEASHING HELL. The best-selling DC event now in an oversized slipcase Absolute Edition! Using the soul-destroying Anti-Life Equation, Darkseid is remaking the heroes, villains, and everyday people of Earth in his dark image...and destroying reality itself in the process. Now superheroes from around the world--and across the Multiverse--must make a last, desperate stand against the forces of Anti-Life. Will Earth endure? And when the crisis reaches its climax, who will make the ultimate sacrifice? Grant Morrison, the writer behind BATMAN, ALL-STAR SUPERMAN, JLA and more, presents the twilight of the DC Universe and its pantheon of Super Heroes. Collects Batman #682-683, Final Crisis #1-7, Final Crisis: Superman Beyond #1-2, Final Crisis: Submit #1, and Final Crisis Sketchbook #1.