Advanced Methods and Mathematical Modeling of Biofilms: Applications in health care, medicine, food, aquaculture, environment, and industry

The book Advanced Mathematical Modelling of Biofilms and its Applications covers the concepts and fundamentals of biofilms, including numerical discrete and numerical continuum models and different biofilms methods, and discusses design, problem-solving, and state-of-the-art modelling methods. It also addresses uncertainty and future needs for advancing the use of biofilm models.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2022
Publisher: Elsevier Science & Technology

Advanced Mathematical Modelling of Biofilms and its Applications delves into the intricate world of biofilms, encompassing their concepts, fundamentals, and diverse modelling approaches. This comprehensive text explores numerical discrete and numerical continuum models, as well as various biofilms methods such as the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) and cellular automata (CA). It also discusses the integration of LBM and individual-based models (iBM). Furthermore, the book focuses on design, problem-solving, and state-of-the-art modelling methods, catering to the evolving needs of students, researchers, and engineers in the fields of health care, medicine, food, aquaculture, and industry. Recognizing the importance of staying updated with the latest information and knowledge regarding biofilms, this book also addresses areas of uncertainty and future requirements for advancing the utilization of biofilm models.

Over the past 25-30 years, remarkable advancements have been made in various domains of computer technologies, applications, and methodologies. These cutting-edge technologies, including complex programming, algorithms, lattice Boltzmann methods, high-resolution visualization, and high-performance computation, have opened up unprecedented possibilities for developing comprehensive modelling frameworks of biofilms and their applications.

The field of biofilms has witnessed significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for understanding and manipulating these complex microbial communities in diverse environments. Biofilms are thin films of bacteria, archaea, and fungi that form on surfaces, and they play crucial roles in numerous ecological and industrial processes. By employing advanced mathematical modelling techniques, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the structure, dynamics, and behaviour of biofilms, leading to the development of more efficient and sustainable technologies.

One of the key advantages of mathematical modelling is its ability to simulate the complex interactions between biofilms and their surroundings. By representing the biofilm as a network of cells, researchers can study the flow of nutrients, water, and waste within the biofilm, as well as the interactions between different species within the community. This simulation-based approach allows for the prediction of biofilm growth, development, and response to environmental changes, which can be invaluable in various applications.

In the health care sector, biofilms are a major concern as they can cause infections and diseases. Mathematical modelling can help in the development of new antimicrobial agents, as well as the design of medical devices and implants that are less susceptible to biofilm formation. For example, the LBM can be used to simulate the flow of blood within a blood vessel, which can aid in the design of stents and other medical devices that promote blood flow and prevent the formation of blood clots.

In the food industry, biofilms can contaminate food products and cause food spoilage. Mathematical modelling can help in the development of food preservation techniques, as well as the design of food packaging that prevents the growth of biofilms. For instance, the CA can be used to simulate the movement of bacteria and fungi within a food product, which can help in the development of packaging that maintains the freshness and quality of the food.

In the aquaculture sector, biofilms can pose a significant challenge to fish farming. Mathematical modelling can help in the development of new aquaculture technologies, as well as the design of fish tanks and ponds that promote the growth of healthy biofilms. For example, the iBM can be used to simulate the interactions between fish and their environment, which can help in the development of aquaculture systems that are more sustainable and efficient.

In the industrial sector, biofilms can be a source of contamination and waste. Mathematical modelling can help in the development of new cleaning and waste management technologies, as well as the design of industrial processes that minimize the formation of biofilms. For instance, the LBM can be used to simulate the flow of fluids within industrial equipment, which can help in the development of more efficient and effective cleaning systems.

In conclusion, advanced mathematical modelling of biofilms and its applications has the potential to revolutionize our understanding and utilization of these complex microbial communities. By employing advanced modelling techniques, researchers can gain a deeper insight into the structure, dynamics, and behaviour of biofilms, leading to the development of more efficient and sustainable technologies. The applications of mathematical modelling in the health care, food, aquaculture, and industrial sectors are numerous and have the potential to improve our quality of life and the environment. As the field of computer technologies continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative and groundbreaking applications of mathematical modelling in the study of biofilms and their applications.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 235 x 191 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780323856904