This book presents a comprehensive review of renewable energy-based sustainable drying techniques for developing countries. Aspiring towards a world with zero food waste, the book has provided discussion on sustainable drying techniques in terms of energy efficiency. The socio-economic condition of each developing country is unique; therefore, has specific technological requirements. As such, the book presents discussions on food waste scenario around the world, the socio-economic status of developing countries and their correlation with food. The book gives an overview of the quality aspects of drying, along with the required energy and time to retain these features. Additionally, a method of selecting drying techniques for developing countries, taking the cost and safety factor into consideration, has been discussed extensively Also, the renewable and non-renewable energy resources of low income, lower-middle income, middle income, and high-income developing countries have been analyzed and presented. The book also highlights the available drying techniques that are currently being practiced by the consumers and industries of developing countries. The book recommends ten sustainable drying technologies for the developing countries and describes their working principle. Discussion on potential challenges for sustainable drying technology adoption is also presented. The book presents up-to-date research on sustainable drying techniques and their impact on developing countries to reduce food waste. Food waste is not only a humanitarian concern but also a threat to environmental sustainability. Currently, one-third of all produced food is being wasted, when nearly 805 million people - including children remain undernourished on a daily basis. In an effort to solve this crisis, a number of food preservations techniques are being practiced in food supply chain. Drying is one such preservation technique that prevents microbial proliferation, slows enzymatic reaction and preserves the physio-chemical properties of food. Albeit, drying is an effective means of food preservation; it is also highly energy-intensive. Developing countries do not have sufficient energy and financial resources to adopt conventional (expensive and high energy) drying techniques. As such, this is the first reference work dedicated to discussing the prospects and challenges of sustainable (renewable energy based and inexpensive) drying techniques for developing countries in order to reduce food waste. Sustainable food drying techniques in developing countries: Prospects and Challenges is a singular work in the field of food preservation and affordable drying technology.

The increased demand due to anthropogenic activity leads to emerging contaminants, resulting in a substantial environmental hazard. The long-term presence and exposure of contaminants lead to severe negative impacts on the environment, humans, and other life forms. Hence, emerging contaminants in the environment is a worldwide concern, and new technologies to mitigate these contaminants are being developed. This book covers the source, occurrence, toxicity, and detection techniques of a wide range of emerging contaminants. This collection also discusses the scope and applications of diverse techniques, including Bio/Phyto and Nano-remediation technologies, to mitigate the emerging contaminants; along with their sustainability issue and prospects. As a result, this book appears to provide insight into several modern and environmentally friendly waste management options, the possibility to minimize and lessen the effects of contaminants, and striving to lower toxicological endpoints to assure environmental safety. This book delivers the most recent advancements by prominent specialists in environmental sciences to academics, researchers, students, and practitioners interested in the identification and eradication of emerging pollutants from the environment.

This volume is a comprehensive review of the structure/function and biology of molecules belonging to the TGF-[beta] superfamily. Because molecules in this family have very diverse biological roles, the editors have chosen to focus on the parts they play in the specific areas of inflammation and wound/fracture healing. Whilst molecules in the TGF-[beta] superfamily have been extensively studied, there are few, if any, publications which have taken a broad perspective on this family, most having chosen to focus on just one very small area. This book is therefore unusual in that it offers a comprehensive overview of the current state of the field, providing both in-depth and essential background material suitable for both clinicians and scientists alike.

Microbial Endophytes: Functional Biology and Applications focuses on endophytic bacteria and fungi, including information on foundational endophytes and the latest advances in relevant genomics, proteomics and nanotechnological aspects. The book provides insights into the molecular aspects of plant endophytes and their interactions and applications, also exploring the potential commercialization of endophytic microorganisms and their use as bio fertilizers, in biocontrol, and as bioactive compounds for other sustainable applications. Coverage of important and emerging legal considerations relevant to those working to implement these important bacteria in production processes is also included.

This textbook explores the complex nature of soil biological communities and their environments, and covers deserts, rainforests, seasonal tropical forests, dry deciduous forests, and island environments in the tropical zone. It provides essential information on soil biology concepts, ecological processes, plant-soil feedback, trophic structure, and land use effects on soil's biological properties. The book also offers an updated approach to soil biota and microbiota and their interactions with plants that regulate the structures and functions of tropical ecosystems. Uniquely, it addresses island environments and natural disasters, shedding new light on soil organisms recovering tropical ecosystem functions. Further topics include ecological processes, plant-soil interactions, trophic communities, molecular approaches, and land use, making the book a valuable asset for students, educators and researchers engaged in the Environmental Sciences, Biodiversity and Conservation, Soil Ecology, Soil Biology, Ecology, Zoology, and Soil Biota Classification using classical and molecular tools.

This book contains a collection of critical reviews on the expression of biologically functional proteins in" Leishmania" and "Trypanosoma," which was written by renowned researchers on this field. Species belonging to these trypanosomatids genera are etiological agents of leishmaniasis, Chagas disease and sleeping sickness that are extremely debilitating human infection diseases, which remain a major health problem especially in countries from Latin America, Africa and Middle East. Substantiating the problem, the currently accepted drugs for these diseases are quiet unsatisfying due to their low efficacy and high toxicity. In order to solve these real problems, several research groups around the world have become involved in the study and identification of novel potential targets in the trypanosomatid cell. Since proteins are key macromolecules involved in crucial metabolic processes of all living cells, studies have focused on the expression of specific proteins produced by "Leishmania "and "Trypanosoma" by means of different biochemical, molecular and proteomic approaches in order to explore them as targets for understanding the parasite life cycle and developing new strategies against trypanosomiasis. With these proposals in mind, the book Proteins and Proteomics of "Leishmania "and "Trypanosoma" encompasses (i) an integrated view about the biochemistry of parasites belonging to the "Leishmania" and "Trypanosoma "genera; (ii) an updated review on the expression of biologically relevant proteins by human pathogenic trypanosomatids and their possible role in the interaction with host cells/molecules as well as a target for development of both alternative chemotherapies and vaccine; and (iii) several pictures, diagrams and tables that can be used to illustrate both undergraduate and postgraduate teaching as well as scientific lectures, being a useful resource for students and researchers."

Advances in Applied Microbiology, Volume 111, continues the comprehensive reach of this widely read and authoritative review source in microbiology. Users will find invaluable references and information on a variety of areas relating to the topic.

The generation of well-defined nanoparticles of excellent size and shape involves physical and chemical methodologies that are complicated, expensive, and produce hazardous toxic waste that is harmful to the environment and to human health. In order to combat the disadvantages of these methods, scientists have created "the biological method," a new synthetic methodology that serves as a proper alternative to physical and chemical methodologies because of its easy utility, low cost, rapid synthesis, controlled size characteristics, controlled toxicity, and eco-friendliness. Nanobiotechnology is the science in which living matter can be manipulated and exploited to produce materials within the nano-scale. It is a multidisciplinary field of science framed by biology, chemistry, engineering, materials, and life sciences. Different biological entities can be exploited to yield biologically synthesized nanomaterials including bacteria, actinomycetes, yeast, fungi, viruses, algae, plant extracts, and agro-industrial waste extracts. This book represents a comprehensive review concerning the state of the art in nanobiotechnology, emphasizing the use of diverse biological entities in the science, and its versatile applications. It describes currently existing methodology with the latest published references, and provides safety information. It serves as the ideal guide for scientists interested in exploring nanobiotechnology.

Immunological Methods in Microbiology, Volume 47 in the Methods in Microbiology series, highlights new advances in the field, with this new volume presenting interesting chapters on Immunological Techniques in the Clinical laboratory, Immunologic Diagnosis of HIV and Opportunistic Infections, Combining Antigen Detection and Serology for the Diagnosis of Selected Infectious Diseases, Immunologic Detection of Lyme Disease and Related Borrelioses, Immunodetection of Bacteria Causing Brucellosis, Immunological Diagnostic Techniques Used to Identify and Type Pasteurella, Immunological Tests for Diarrhea caused by Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli Targeting Their Main Virulence Factors, and much more.

This book offers a comprehensive review of the latest developments, challenges and trends in C1-based (one-carbon based) bioproduction, and it presents an authoritative account of one-carbon compounds as promising alternative microbial feedstocks. The book starts with a perspective on the future of C1 compounds as alternative feedstocks for microbial growth, and their vital role in the establishment of a sustainable circular carbon economy, followed by several chapters in which expert contributors discuss about the recent strategies and address key challenges regarding one or more C1 feedstocks. The book covers topics such as acetogenic production from C1 feedstocks, aerobic carboxydotrophic bacteria potential in industrial biotechnology, bioconversion of methane to value-added compounds, combination of electrochemistry and biology to convert C1 compounds, and bioprocesses based on C1-mixotrophy. Particular attention is given to the current metabolic engineering, systems biology, and synthetic biology strategies applied in this field.

This book provides cutting-edge, up-to-date research findings on the use of bionanocomposites in biodegradable and environmental applications, while also detailing how to achieve bionanocomposites preparation, characteristics, and significant enhancements in physical, chemical, mechanical, thermal properties and applications. This book on biodegradable and environmental properties of bionanocomposites provides a comprehensive and updated review of major innovations in the field of polymer-based bionanocomposites for biodegradable and environmental applications. It covers properties and applications, including the synthesis of polymer-based bionanocomposites from different sources biomaterials-based composites and tactics on the efficacy and major challenges associated with successful scale-up fabrication on bionanocomposites. It is an essential reference for future research in bionanocomposites as topics such as sustainable, biodegradable, and environmental methods for highly innovative and applied materials are current topics of importance. The book covers a wide range of research on bionanocomposite and their biodegradable and environmental applications. Updates on the most relevant polymer-based bionanocomposite and their prodigious potential in the fields of biodegradable and the environment are presented. Leading researchers from industry, academy, government, and private research institutions across the globe contribute to this book. Scientists, engineers, and students with interest in the most important advancements in the field of bionanocomposites involving high-performance bionanocomposites will benefit from this book which is highly application-oriented.

Emulsifiers, also known as surfactants, are often added to processed foods to improve stability, texture, or shelf life. These additives are regulated by national agencies, such as the FDA, or multi-national authorities, such as the EEC or WHO. The amphiphilic molecules function by assisting the dispersion of mutually insoluble phases and stabilizing the resulting colloids, emulsions, and foams. Emulsifiers can interact with other food components such as carbohydrates, proteins, water, and ions to produce complexes and mesophases. These interactions may enhance or disrupt structures and affect functional properties of finished foods. In dairy processing, small molecule emulsifiers may displace dairy proteins from oil/water and air/water interfaces, which affects stability and properties of the foams and emulsions. In baked products, emulsifiers contribute to secondary functionalities, such as dough strengthening and anti-staling. Synthetic food emulsifiers suffer from the stigma of chemical names on a product's ingredient statement. Modern consumers are seeking products that are "all natural." Fortunately, there are a number of natural ingredients that are surface-active, such as lecithin, milk proteins, and some protein-containing hydrocolloids. Mayonnaise, for example, is stabilized by egg yolk. This book can serve as both a guide for professionals in the food industry to provide an understanding of emulsifier functionality, and a stimulus for further innovation. Students of food science will find this to be a valuable resource.

Advanced Water Treatment: Advanced Oxidation Processes reviews the most recent research findings and discusses new photocatalysts (such as TiO2, etc.) and their performance under different conditions. Furthermore, the book includes the use of UV LEDs (with H2O2) for the decomposition of organic pollutants and bacteria in various conditions and water samples. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have widely been used in water and wastewater treatment. This book highlights their work towards improving energy-efficient and environmentally friendly technology for growing needs in water treatment.

This book covers the present and future of bioethanol biorefinery technologies. It discusses the efficient use of feedstock in bioethanol production, and critically reviews the environmental sustainability of bioethanol production. In addition, it describes the integrated production of bioelectricity, biopolymers, organic acids, and other biomolecules, as well as the use of process-related liquid and solid byproducts and/or wastes during bioethanol generation. Since the bioethanol industry has also led the automotive industry to explore new avenues, this book summarizes the various aspects of ethanol motorization, hybrid engine development, and biofuel electrification. For decades, clean and renewable alternatives have been sought to reduce dependence on petroleum-based fossil fuels and CO2 emissions. Bioethanol appears as one of the best solutions for the production of biofuels, bioenergy and biochemicals, along with the establishment of new biorefinery concepts and a circular bioeconomy. Therefore, the ideas and technologies presented in this book contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. This book is a useful reference for postgraduate students and researchers interested in biorefinery and biofuel technologies, both in academia- and commercial laboratories. Early career scientists can use it to fast track into the field. Advanced scientists will find it helpful to gain a broader overview of the field beyond their area of specialization.

This book provides a broad overview how extremophiles can be used in biotechnology, including for the production and degradation of compounds. It reviews various recent discoveries and applications related to a large variety of extremophiles, considering both prokaryotes as well as eukaryotes.

Algae are simple, primitive, heterogeneous, autotrophic, eukaryotic or prokaryotic organisms that lead a symbiotic, parasitic or free-living mode of life. Microalgae and macroalgae possess great potential in various fields of application. Microalgae are ubiquitous and extremely diverse microorganisms that can accumulate toxic contaminants and heavy metals from wastewater, making them a superior candidate to become a powerful nanofactory. Algae were discovered to reduce the presence of metal ions, and afterwards aid in the biosynthesis of nanoparticles. Since algae-mediated biogenic nanoparticles are eco-friendly, cost-effective, high-yielding, speedy and energy-efficient, a large number of studies have been published on them in the last few years. This book focuses on recent progress on the utilization of algae for the synthesis of nanoparticles, their characterization and the possible mechanisms involved. Bioprospecting Algae for Nanosized Materials describes the synthesis of algal nanomaterials and its application in various fields for sustainable development. This book outlines the procedures to prepare phyconanomaterials, techniques to utilize the nanomaterials, and applications in agriculture, environment and medicine.

This book highlights the latest findings on fundamental aspects of composting, the interaction of various microorganisms, and the underlying mechanisms. In addition to addressing modern tools and techniques used for composting research, it provides an overview of potential composting applications in both agriculture and environmental reclamation. Composting is the process of organic waste decomposition, mediated by microorganisms. The end-product is called 'compost' and can be used as a supplement to improve soil fertility. As the municipal waste generated in most developing countries contains a substantial amount of organic matter suitable for composting, this technology offers a win-win opportunity for stakeholders in terms of disposing of organic waste and providing organic fertilizers for agriculture. In addition, using compost reduces the dependency on harmful chemical fertilizers, and represents a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative.

We can't see them, but microbes are the dominant form of life on Earth. They make up half of the world's biomass. They were here billions of years before we were, and they will be here after we are gone. Without their activity, life as we know it would be impossible. Even within our own bodies, there are ten times as many bacterial cells as human cells. "Understanding Microbes" provides a clear, accessible introduction to this world of microbes.

As well as looking at a selection of infectious diseases, including how they are prevented and treated, the book explores the importance of microbes in the environment, in the production and preservation of food, and their applications in biotechnology.

This lively and engaging book provides the basics of microbiology, in a contemporary context. It will be equally useful for students across the biological, environmental and health sciences, and for the curious reader wanting to learn more about this fascinating subject.A highly-readable, concise introduction to the basics of microbiology placed in the context of the very latest developments in molecular biology and their impact on the microbial world. Numerous real-world examples range from how cows digest grass to the role of microbes in cancer and the impact of climate changeWell-illustrated in full colour throughout.Written by an Author with a proven track record in teaching, writing and research.

Microbial and Natural Macromolecules: Synthesis and Applications brings together active scientists and academicians in the field who share updated information and research outcomes from global experts. Microbial macromolecular diversity, molecular composure, genetics, usability of advanced molecular tools and techniques for their study as well as their applicability are discussed with detailed research perspectives.

This fourth edition provides all new methods on yeast that have not been included in the past three editions. Divided in four parts, chapters guide readers through general applications for genetic manipulation in yeast cells, genome-wide studies, systematically rearrange the yeast chromosomes, and pathway methods. 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, Yeast Protocol, Fourth Edition aims to compliment previous editions while offering new tools for the yeast research community.

This book gathers selected studies on the industrial applications of glycoside hydrolases (GHs), presenting an updated classification of these enzymes, and discussing their structure, mechanisms, and various approaches to improve their catalytic efficiency. Further, it explains the various industrial applications of glycoside hydrolases in food, effluent treatment, biofuel production, and the paper and pulp industries. Lastly, the book provides a comparative analysis of glycoside hydrolases and discusses the role of metagenomics in the discovery of industrially important enzymes. As such it is a thought-provoking, instructive and informative resource for biochemists, enzymologists, molecular biologists and bioprocess technologists.

Fungi are eukaryotic microorganisms that include both unicellular and multicellular species. They have a worldwide distribution and a wide range of applications in diverse sectors, from environmental, food and medicine to biotechnological innovations. Fungal biochemical genetics involves the study of the relationships between genome, proteome and metabolome, and the underlying molecular processes in both native and bioengineered fungi. This book provides a valuable resource on the challenges and potential of fungal biotechnology and related bioengineering and functional diversity for various industrial applications in the food, environmental, bioenergy and biorefining, and the biopharma sectors. In comparison to previous and related publications in the area of applied myco-biotech-engineering, this book bridges a knowledge gap in the areas related to prospects and investment as well as intellectual and technical issues. This book also provides information on recent commercial and economic interests in the area by juxtaposing the developments achieved in recent worldwide research and its many challenges.

Advanced Water Treatment: Electrochemical Methods reviews the current state-of-the-art in the electrochemical-based methods for water treatment, the effectiveness of the electrochemical oxidation technique in inactivating different primary biofilm forming paper mill bacteria, as well as sulfide and organic material in pulp and paper mill wastewater in laboratory-scale batch experiments. Various electrodes are described, including boron-doped diamond, mixed metal oxide, PbO2, and their impacts on inactivation efficiency of parameters, such as current density and initial pH or chloride concentration of synthetic paper machine water. The mechanisms of action of various electrodes in different systems are reported. The book is a source of information for environmental and chemical engineers due to the number of methods and industry-focused application cases and researchers who study the transition from a laboratory environment to practical applications.