ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book talks about the biological and economic constraints on the development of vaccines and drugs for the control of infections caused by bacteria and viruses. It presents an epidemiological perspective on our inadequate understanding and surveillance of the food supply. The book examines the implications of environmental change in Central and Eastern Europe. It outlines the development and design of national and international agricultural research systems to meet the needs of developing countries. The book also outlines the need for more effective articulation between international research, national research and the communities and families that must be empowered to make more effective use of the knowledge, technology and materials generated by the health and agricultural research systems.
