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'This is a multi-authored book concerning the perceived threat and recorded increase of emerging pests and vector-borne diseases affecting man and animals in Europe. Historically, Europe suffered from numerous pests and vector-borne diseases, including yellow fever, malaria, plague and typhus. Introduction of hygienic measures, drugs and vector control caused the disappearance of many of these diseases from Europe. In the (sub)tropics, however, many of these diseases still thrive, causing serious health problems for humans and animals. Increased trade, leading to animal and human movement and climate change cause reason to assume that several of these diseases might become re-established or allow'new'diseases and pests to be introduced in Europe. The recent outbreaks of bluetongue virus in North-western Europe highlights this concern, requiring an effective surveillance systems for the early detection of pests and vector-borne diseases. In 24 chapters this book provides examples of the most likely pests and diseases affecting man and animals in Europe, with emphasis on ecological factors favouring these diseases and methods for prevention and intervention. The authors are recognized experts in specific fields. All chapters are peer reviewed.'

This book provides an overview of the biology and biochemistry of peroxisomes, and discusses the contribution of these organelles to peroxisomal and neurodegenerative diseases.It begins with a detailed introduction to the biogenesis and metabolic functions of peroxisomes, and highlights their role in oxidative stress and in lipid metabolism such as fatty acid oxidation. The following chapters focus on the molecular and clinical aspects of peroxisomal disorders caused by defects in peroxisomal function. In particular, the biological aspects of peroxisomal biogenesis disorders such as Zellweger syndrome and Heimler syndrome are discussed. This includes their underlying genetic causes as well as the biochemical and metabolic defects associated with the disorders. In addition, several chapters cover recent observations suggesting an association between peroxisomal dysfunction and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Multiple Sclerosis and other degenerative cerebellar pathologies. The final section of the book discusses important cell and animal models for studying the role of peroxisomes in human diseases and presents current therapeutic strategies for their treatment. This book deals with a highly topical subject that is at the heart of current research, and represents a valuable contribution for all students and researchers who want to understand the complex biology of peroxisomes and their role in human diseases.

Chikungunya and Zika Viruses: Global Emerging Health Threats is the go-to resource for both historical and current information on this important virus that is rapidly increasing its global range. Epidemics since 2005 have spread from Africa and Asia, and through Europe, and an ongoing epidemic has caused nearly two million cases in the Americas. It causes severe crippling arthritis, with symptoms lasting for months or years. As no vaccine or treatment is available, there is international interest in the virus, thus funding opportunities for research have dramatically increased. This book presents our understanding of the virus, bringing comprehensive knowledge in a single source. - Provides a comprehensive collection of the state-of-the-art on CHIKV biology in a go-to reference book - Edited by leaders in the field who provide a single, up-to-date source of information - Gives a better understanding of the transmission and spread of chikungunya virus, a clear, coherent description of the outcomes of infection (both acute and chronic), and its biology and risk factors - Pulls relevant background information to justify projects of many professionals developing vaccines and mosquito vector control approaches

The discovery of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in the late 1990s ushered in a new age of discovery for innate immunity. The importance of TLRs for immunology and biomedical research was recognized with the Nobel Prize for Medicine or Physiology in 2011. The prize was shared by three scientists: Ralph Steinman (for the discovery of dendritic cells, whi

This book presents new information on OPEC in the 21st century, oil prices and liquefied natural gas. An analysis of selected methodologies and applications in the oil exploration industry is included. The study of the interactive nature of activities between financial and petroleum markets, the dynamic behavior of oil price volatility and the linkages between the prices of oil futures on different exchanges are also discussed. An theoretical analysis is made on the impact of a rise in the world price of oil on inflation, output, employment and welfare in a small open economy. The relationship between the volatility of oil products and other products indirectly dependent on oil is also considered. This book presents a generalization of cartel models by incorporating both world demand and supply conditions into OPEC pricing. Furthermore, potential effects of an ad valorem tariff, non-cartel output, and alternative fuels on OPEC'S behavior are investigated. Output growth and oil consumption in China are also explored.