1 2 MARCEL B. ROBERFROID AND GLENN R. GIBSON 1 Universite Catholique de Louvain, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Avenue Mounier 73, B-1200 Brussels, BELGIUM 2 Food Microbial Sciences Unit, Department of Food Science and Technology, The University of Reading, Reading, UK It is clear that diet fulfils a number of important human requirements. These include the provision of sufficient nutrients to meet the requirements of essential metabolic pathways, as well as the sensory (and social) values associated with eating. It is also evident that diet may control and modulate various body functions in a manner that can reduce the risk of certain diseases. This very broad view of nutrition has led to the development of foodstuffs with added "functionality." Many different definitions of functional foods have arisen. Most of these complicate the simple issue that a functional food is merely a dietary ingredient(s) that can have positive properties above its normal nutritional value. Other terms used to describe such foods include vitafoods, nutraceuticals, pharmafoods, foods for specified health use, health foods, designer foods, etc. Despite some trepidation, the concept has recently attracted much interest through a vast number of articles in both the popular and scientific media.

This exciting book presents diverse applications of microalgal renewable resources to meet modern demands for energy and value-added products. It also comprehensively describes the role of algae in sustainable and cost-effective wastewater treatment strategies, and highlights the latest research on, advances in and biotechnological relevance of algae in the areas of bioenergy, bioremediation, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and green economy. The book addresses gaps in the fields of bioenergy, waste management, health and economy by providing broad information on bioenergy production, management strategies, drug development, nutraceuticals products and biobased economy using algae at the commercial level. The book introduces researchers to key and emerging innovations in the field of algal biology research and will assist policymakers, environmentalists, scientists, students and global thinkers in defining sustainable developmental goals for the future. Accordingly, it is an extremely important read for researchers and students in the environmental sciences, life sciences and chemistry, experts in the energy sector and policymakers alike.

Although there have been many books on HIV and AIDS, surprisingly little has been published that focuses on the immunology of retroviral infections in general, and HIV in particular. Retroviral Immunology: Immune Response and Restoration is the first book of its kind to address the most important aspects of the immunology of retroviruses, including not only the virus-specific immune responses, but also genetic and virologic factors modulating these responses. The book also deals directly with the emerging concept of immune restora tion in retroviral infections, a particularly important subject to the thousands of clinicians who deal with this problem on a daily basis. With the advent of highly effective antiviral drug regimens to slow down the replication of HIV and the progression of AIDS, new challenges and opportunities are arising. Restoration of general immune function has brought with it not only complica tions of immune restoration-mediated disease, but also the realistic hope for meaningful restoration of the ability to control HIV replication with the immune system. Leading scientists in the field have summarized the most current informa tion regarding experimental and clinical aspects of retroviral infections. Retroviral Immunology: Immune Response and Restoration should prove an impor tant point of reference for basic scientists and clinicians in this area of research. We are indebted to all of our authors for their excellent contributions."

This volume provides state-of-the-art and novel methods on antibiotic isolation and purification, identification of antimicrobial killing mechanisms, and methods for the analysis and detection of microbial adaptation strategies. Antibiotics: Methods and Protocols guides readers through chapters on production and design, mode of action, and response and susceptibility. 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, Antibiotics: Methods and Protocols aims to inspire scientific work in the exciting field of antibiotic research.

The book summarizes the latest research and developments in dairy biotechnology and engineering. It provides a strategic approach for readers relating to fundamental research and practical work with lactic acid bacteria. The book covers every aspect from identification, ecology, taxonomy and industrial use. All contributors are experts who have substantial experience in the corresponding research field. The book is intended for researchers in the human, animal, and food sciences related to lactic acid bacteria. Dr. Heping Zhang is a Professor at the Key Laboratory of Dairy Biotechnology and Engineering Ministry of Education, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, China. Dr. Yimin Cai works in Livestock and Environment Division, Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS), Japan.

The tropical plant family Pandanaceae comprises three genera, Freycinetia, Pandanus and Sararanga. One-hundred and fourteen genera and 226 species of fungi were found on dead leaves of Pandanaceae collected in Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Fiji, Hawaii, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Mauritius, Nepal, New Zealand, Niue, Philippines, Seychelles, Vanuatu and Vietnam. Taxonomic issues within each fungus genus are discussed and reference made to preceding work. All species are written up with bibliographic details, relevant measurements of the current specimens, known habitat and distribution, collection details, and a discussion on taxonomic conclusions. New taxa (4 genera, 35 species) are fully described and illustrated, each with a plate showing relevant macro- and microscopic details. Keys and/or synoptic tables are provided to all species in 28 genera. In addition, details on almost 700 species of fungi described and recorded worldwide from the Pandanaceae are listed.

Applied Microbiology and Molecular Biology in Oil Field Systems addresses the major problems microbes cause in oil fields, (e.g. biocorrosion and souring) and how beneficial microbial activities may be exploited (e.g. MEOR and biofuels). The book describes theoretical and practical approaches to specific Molecular Microbiological Methods (MMM), and is written by leading authorities in the field from both academia and industry. The book describes how MMM can be applied to faciliate better management of oil reservoirs and downstream processes. The book is innovative in that it utilises real industrial case studies which gives useful technical and scientific information to researchers, engineers and microbiologists working with oil, gas and petroleum systems. Content Level Professional/practitioner

McCoy's guide to the maintenance and management of cooling water systems and the bacteria that live in them. Includes studies and testing of microbicides and other microorganisms that infest re-circulating cooling water systems and factors influencing their health and growth. Tests biological oxidation processes as a way of reusing treated effluents as an important method of water conservation in the petroleum refining and chemical processing industries. Explores practical methods for controlling microorganisms in cooling water; including working with chlorine dioxide as a microbicide. Methods are given for identifying and evaluating toxicants and bacteria that lead to fouling and staining of cooling water systems.

In recent years, molecular microbiology has emerged as a top, cutting-edge biological discipline, thanks to the multi-disciplinary and integrative approaches taken by investigators seeking to understand the intricacies of the microbial world and how it affects human health and the biosphere. In Bacterial Cell Surfaces: Methods and Protocols, recent advances in structural biology, proteomics, and imaging techniques, together with the traditional biochemical and genetic approaches, are provided in order to present an exciting look into the structure, function, and regulation of the bacterial cell envelope. The detailed volume contains examples of traditional and innovative tools for the study of protein structure and function and enzymatic activities, the purification and analysis of macromolecules and their complexes, and the investigation of regulatory mechanisms and cell biological processes. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology (TM) 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 practical, Bacterial Cell Surfaces: Methods and Protocols is aimed at the microbiologist, biochemist, or cell biologist, whether a beginning graduate student or a veteran experimentalist, who wishes to learn new methodologies and take advantage of the years of research and protocol optimization from the best laboratories around the world.

Functional foods and nutraceuticals are food products that naturally offer or have been modified to offer additional health benefits beyond basic nutrition. As such products have surged in popularity in recent years, it is crucial that researchers and manufacturers understand the concepts underpinning functional foods and the opportunity they represent to improve human health, reduce healthcare costs, and support economic development worldwide. Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals: Bioactive Components, Formulations and Innovations presents a guide to functional foods from experienced professionals in key institutions around the world. The text provides background information on the health benefits, bioavailability, and safety measurements of functional foods and nutraceuticals. Subsequent chapters detail the bioactive components in functional foods responsible for these health benefits, as well as the different formulations of these products and recent innovations spurred by consumer demands. Authors emphasize product development for increased marketability, taking into account safety issues associated with functional food adulteration and solutions to be found in GMP adherence. Various food preservation methods aimed at enhancing the quality and shelf life of functional food are also highlighted. Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals: Bioactive Components, Formulations and Innovations is the first of its kind, designed to be useful to students, teachers, nutritionists, food scientists, food technologists and public health regulators alike.

In response to low iron availability in the environment most microorganisms synthesize iron chelators, called siderophores. Bacteria and fungi produce a broad range of structurally diverse siderophores, which all show a very high affinity for ferric ions.

"Microbial Siderophores" presents an up-to-date overview of the chemistry, biology and biotechnology of these iron chelators. Following an introduction to the structure, functions and regulation of fungal siderophores, several chapters focus on siderophores of pseudomonads. Here, the technique of siderotyping, which has proved to be a rapid, accurate and inexpensive tool for pseudomonad characterization and identification, is described. Further, the biological significance of siderophores of symbiotic fungi and the possible role of siderophores in pathogenesis are discussed. In addition to methodological approaches, chapters on the biotechnological production of siderophores and their application in promoting human and plant health are included.

Helicobacter pylori is an important human pathogen that infects up to 50% of the human population. As the leading cause of peptic ulcers, gastritis, and gastric cancer worldwide, the organism has been the subject of intensive research to unravel the mysteries of its genetics and cellular biology. In fact, the number of publications in this field has risen dramatically in recent years making it extremely difficult for even the most diligent reader to stay abreast of progress. This book distills the most important cutting-edge findings in the field to produce a timely and comprehensive review. With contributions from leading international helicobacter researchers, topics include: lipopolysaccharides, outer membrane proteins, motility and chemotaxis, type IV secretions systems, metal metabolism, molecular mechanisms of host adaptation, genomotyping, and proteonomics. As a useful introduction to the subject for new researchers and as an invaluable reference for the experienced researcher, this book is essential reading for all researchers working with Helicobacter and related organisms.

Hepatitis viruses research started more than fifty years ago. The names of hepatitis A and hepatitis B were introduced in 1947 when it became clear that there were two types of hepatitis that were transmitted either enterically or parenterally. It became apparent in the 1970's that there were additional hepatitis viruses distinct from hepatitis A and hepatitis B, and thus, the term non-A, non-B hepatitis was introduced. The non-A, non-B hepatitis was further divided into post-transfusion non-A, non-B hepatitis and enterically-transmitted non-A, non-B hepatitis in the 1980's. By the end of the 1980's, both post-transfusion non-A, non-B virus and enterically-transmitted non-A, non-B virus had been identified and renamed hepatitis C virus and hepatitis E virus, respectively. Hepatitis delta antigen was first recognized as an antigen associated with hepatitis B virus infection in the 1970's. In the early 1980's, a virus was isolated and named hepatitis delta virus. These five different hepatitis viruses have distinct replication pathways and are major health concerns. They have become an important topic for teaching to graduate-level and medical students. Hepatitis Viruses provides a comprehensive, up-to-date review of these viruses to readers. Each chapter is written by one of the top researchers in the field, and topics include: the epidemiology and the natural history of infection of these viruses, the molecular biology and the replication cycle of individual hepatitis viruses, host-virus interactions and the pathogenesis of hepatitis viruses, the immunology of hepatitis viruses, the relationship between hepatitis viruses and hepatocellular carcinoma, the viral vaccines and antiviral drugs. This book can serve as a supplemental reading material to graduate students and medical students, and to any researcher who would like to learn more about hepatitis viruses.

Next Generation Sequencing: Chemistry, Technology and Applications, by P. Hui Application of Next Generation Sequencing to Molecular Diagnosis of Inherited Diseases, by W. Zhang, H. Cui, L.-J.C. Wong Clinical Applications of the Latest Molecular Diagnostics in Noninvasive Prenatal Diagnosis, by K.C.A. Chan The Role of Protein Structural Analysis in the Next Generation Sequencing Era, by W.W. Yue, D.S. Froese, P.E. Brennan Emerging Applications of Single-Cell Diagnostics, by M. Shirai, T. Taniguchi, H. Kambara Mass Spectrometry in High-Throughput Clinical Biomarker Assays: Multiple Reaction Monitoring, by C.E. Parker, D. Domanski, A.J. Percy, A.G. Chambers, A.G. Camenzind, D.S. Smith, C.H. Borchers Advances in MALDI Mass Spectrometry in Clinical Diagnostic Applications, by E.W.Y. Ng, M.Y.M. Wong, T.C.W. Poon Application of Mass Spectrometry in Newborn Screening: About Both Small Molecular Diseases and Lysosomal Storage Diseases, by W.-L. Hwu, Y.-H. Chien, N.-C. Lee, S.-F. Wang, S.-C. Chiang, L.-W. Hsu

This volume describes recent advances in the bioconversion of lignocellulosics. It starts with two articles on genetics and properties of cellulases and their re- tion kinetics and mechanisms. The cost of cellulases has been a hindrance to large scale use of enzymatic hydrolysis. Two articles on cellulase production by submerged fermentation and by solid state fementation are included to describe the state of the art in this area. Dilute acid hydrolysis of cellulose continues to be of interest as well as potentially useful. The most recent advances in this area is also covered. A great deal of progress has been made in genetic engineering for improved regulation of xylose fermentation by yeasts. An article on genetically engineered Saccharomyces for simulteaneous fermentation of glucose and xylose describes the importance advances made in production of fuel ethanol from lignocellulosic biomass. In recent years, there has been increasing interests in recycling and the reuse of scrap paper as well as environment considerations. A contribution is presented which describes the research perspectives in that area. Finally, recent advances in the use of lignocellulosic biomass for the p- duction of ethanol and organic acids are presented in two articles. Renewable resources are inevitably of great importance in the years to come. There is a never-ending search for better living conditions for human beings. The more resource materials can be recycled, the richer we will be.

Systematic investigations of the structure, mechanics, and dynamics of biological surfaces help us understand more about biological processes taking place at cell and bacteria surfaces. Presented here is a study of the role membrane-bound saccharides play in the modulation of interactions between cells/bacteria and their environments. In this thesis, membrane structures were probed perpendicular and parallel to the surface, and sophisticated planar models of biomembranes composed of glycolipids of various structural complexities were designed. Furthermore, specular and off-specular X-ray and neutron scattering experiments were carried out. This research has led to the development of several new methods for extracting information on the structure and mechanics of saccharide-rendered biomembranes from the measured scattering signals. In fact, more is now known about the influence of the saccharide structure. These results demonstrate that the study of planar model systems with X-ray and neutron scattering techniques can provide comprehensive insight into the structure and mechanics of complex biological surfaces.

This book should be of interest to students of animal ecology; ecology.

The book compiles an update information about the state of bioremediation in emerging Latin American countries. Some of the studied regions are sites that suffered decades of pollution by agrochemicals, heavy metals and industrial waste due to the lack of control by government regulations. Such is the case of Northern Argentina, where were illegally deposited over 30 tn of obsolete organochlorine pesticides in 1994. The content has focused in the use of native organisms (from bacteria to plants) as a viable solution to the problem of pollution, using low-cost and powerful techniques, socially well accepted and appropriate from the environmental point of view. In this context, levels of pesticide found in the Latin American population are informed. It was also displayed as a multidisciplinary approach based on concerns of a diverse group of researchers (biochemists, biologists, chemical engineers and geneticists) about a global problem, dealing with specific cases of study, with a view to project their findings to worldwide. In this regard, researchers provide their findings to regulatory sectors, whom could make appropriate decisions.

This book is highly recommended on the basis of the following points:

- The editors are highly regarded in the field of mycorrhizal biology and one is co-author of the most comprehensive textbook on mycorrhizas;
- Chapters by international experts based on invited presentations at the 3rd International Conference on Mycorrhizas, supplemented by invited chapters on special topics;
- Mycorrhizas are being increasingly recognised as ubiquitous plant/fungal symbioses, with the potential to influence the function and ecology of around 90% of all land plants; perhaps the most common and also ancient terrestrial symbioses in existence;
- This book has a broad coverage of biology of symbioses between mycorrhizal fungi and plants, especially ecto- and arbuscular mycorrhizas (other recent texts have focused mainly on arbuscular mycorrhizal symbioses);
- Forward-looking review chapters by keynote speakers including an overview of research challenges for the future;
- Up-to-date research focus;
- Coverage includes: molecular diversity and detection of mycorrhizal fungi; cellular and molecular interactions between the symbionts; physiology of the interactions; implications of the symbioses for ecosystem processes, including agriculture;
- Several complementary chapters on some topics, ensuring that different perspectives are presented (recent edited volumes have had a smaller group of authors and hence narrower focus);
- Readership from advanced undergraduate students in biology (particularly plant science), postgraduate students and researchers in universities and government agencies.

The aim of this book is to provide readers with a wide overview of the main healthcare-associated infections caused by bacteria and fungi able to grow as biofilm. The recently acquired knowledge on the pivotal role played by biofilm-growing microorganisms in healthcare-related infections has given a new dynamic to detection, prevention and treatment of these infections in patients admitted to both acute care hospitals and long-term care facilities. Clinicians, hygienists and microbiologists will be updated by leading scientists on the state-of-art of biofilm-based infections and on the most innovative strategies for prevention and treatment of these infections, often caused by emerging multidrug-resistant biofilm-growing microorganisms.

This book offers a comprehensive study of biological molecules acquired from marine organisms, which have been exploited for drug discovery with the aim to treat human diseases. Biomolecules have potential impacts on a diverse range of fields, including medical and pharmaceutical science, industrial science, biotechnology, basic research, molecular science, environmental science and climate change, etc. To understand and effectively apply medicinally important biomolecules, multidisciplinary approaches are called for. The ocean remains a rich biological resource, and the vast untapped potential of novel molecules from marine bio-resources has caught the interest of more and more researchers. These novel biological compounds have never been found in terrestrial or other ecosystems, but only in this rich niche. Advances in sampling techniques and technologies, along with increased funding for research and nature conservation, have now encouraged scientists to look deeper in the waters. Aquaculture supports both tremendous seafood production and the bulk production of marine-derived drugs. Furthermore, molecular methods are now being extensively employed to explore the untapped marine microbial diversity. With the help of molecular and biotech tools, the ability of marine organisms to produce new biosynthetic drugs can be greatly enhanced. This book provides an extensive compilation of the latest information on marine resources and their undisputedly vital role in the treatment of diverse ailments.

Part of a review series that looks at trends in modern biology. This book covers aspects of bioprocessing and biotransformation, where knowledge, methods and expertise are required from chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, chemical engineering and computer science.

This book discusses the practical applications of quorum sensing inhibitors for both human and plant health. Quorum sensing inhibitors that disrupt microbial biofilms can be employed to treat bacterial infections. The book describes the various bioactive molecules that can serve as quorum sensing inhibitors to combat deadly bacterial infections, in addition to several synthetic quorum sensing inhibitors. Quorum sensing is the mechanism through which bacteria develop antibiotic resistance. Intended to provide a clearer understanding of the practical applications of quorum sensing inhibitors, the book details how the problem of antibiotic resistance can be countered through the intelligent application of quorum sensing inhibitors.

Pine forests face a global threat of pine wilt disease, which is being spread by vector beetles carrying pathogenic nematodes from dead trees to healthy ones. Among the host pines there are varying degrees of susceptibility, and nematode strains also contain a variety of virulences, both of which factors help to determine whether infected host trees will die or survive. As well, biotic and abiotic environmental factors influence the fate of infected trees. This book describes the history of the disease, pathogenic nematodes, vector beetles, the etiology and ecology of the disease, microorganisms involved, and control methods that utilize host resistance and biological control agents. Concrete, comprehensive, and the most up-to-date knowledge about this worldwide forest epidemic is presented for readers, enabling them to understand the nature and epidemic threat of pine wilt disease.