Learning and memory are necessary, fundamental functions that animals need in order to survive and adapt to any environment. The ability to learn and form memory depends on changes occurring in neuronal circuits. These changes occur at both the synaptic level and at the level of changes in intrinsic membrane properties of neurons. Such changes involve physical, structural changes (including growth of new processes as well as retractions of other processes). Some of these changes may persist throughout the life of the organism while others last for relatively short times. While learning and memory are related, they are separate processes with their own 'rules and regulations'. Longer lasting memories involve changes in protein synthesis as well as gene activity. The molecular changes that occur in neurons and glia that underlie learning and memory result in structural and biophysical changes in single neurons and neuronal circuits. Some of the chapters in this book present the authors' findings from specific model systems while other chapters present research concerned with memory consolidation in humans, which can be referred to the process by which the changes in neuronal functioning that occur as a result of learning (ie: new behaviour).

The eye is one of the most remarkable achievements of evolution, and has evolved up to 40 times in different parts of the animal kingdom. In humans, vision is the most important sense, and much of the brain is given over to the processing of visual information. In this Very Short Introduction, Michael Land describes the evolution of vision and the variety of eyes found in both humans and animals. He explores the evolution of colour vision in primates and the workings of the human eye, to consider how that contributes to our visual ability. He explains how we see in three dimensions and the basic principles of visual perception, including our impressive capacity for pattern recognition and the ability of vision to guide action. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

Three distinct types of contractions perform colonic motility functions. Rhythmic phasic contractions (RPCs) cause slow net distal propulsion with extensive mixing/turning over. Infrequently occurring giant migrating contractions (GMCs) produce mass movements. Tonic contractions aid RPCs in their motor function. The spatiotemporal patterns of these contractions differ markedly. The amplitude and distance of propagation of a GMC are several-fold larger than those of an RPC. The enteric neurons and smooth muscle cells are the core regulators of all three types of contractions. The regulation of contractions by these mechanisms is modifiable by extrinsic factors: CNS, autonomic neurons, hormones, inflammatory mediators, and stress mediators. Only the GMCs produce descending inhibition, which accommodates the large bolus being propelled without increasing muscle tone. The strong compression of the colon wall generates afferent signals that are below nociceptive threshold in healthy subjects. However, these signals become nociceptive; if the amplitudes of GMCs increase, afferent nerves become hypersensitive, or descending inhibition is impaired. The GMCs also provide the force for rapid propulsion of feces and descending inhibition to relax the internal anal sphincter during defecation. The dysregulation of GMCs is a major factor in colonic motility disorders: irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and diverticular disease (DD). Frequent mass movements by GMCs cause diarrhea in diarrhea predominant IBS, IBD, and DD, while a decrease in the frequency of GMCs causes constipation. The GMCs generate the afferent signals for intermittent short-lived episodes of abdominal cramping in these disorders. Epigenetic dysregulation due to adverse events in early life is one of the major factors in generating the symptoms of IBS in adulthood. Table of Contents: Introduction / Regulatory Mechanisms / Colonic Motility in Health / Colonic Motility Dysfunction / References

In this book, the authors present current research in the study of hormones and behavior. Topics include the neuroendocrine regulation of sedation and excitation in neonatal chicks; the behavior of the mother and vasopressin; inhibited TRHergic pathway of amygdala and insular cortex may participate in high anxiety levels and decreased food intake of dehydrated-induced anorexic rats; the difference between morning and evening thyrotropin response to protirelin(TRH); altered energy balance in response to sleep restriction; hormones in breast carcinogenesis; ecdysteriods and honeybee social behaviors; and changes in appetite-associated hormone and feeding behavior in advanced age.

This volume records the papers presented in Chieti, Italy, at the 1991 meeting of the International Society for Arterial Chemoreception (ISAC). This was the eleventh of a series of assemblies held since 1959. This field of research, which examines the critical function and mechanisms of O and pHIPC0 sensitive cells in 2 2 the body, is unique in that it encompasses diverse biological and medical areas. The reader of this book will note chapters concerning modem techniques like in situ hybridization; analysis of cell membrane channels and intracellular ion movements; immunohistochemistry of peptides, hormones, and the corresponding receptors of chemoreceptor cells; and systemic analysis of reflex pathways involving chemoreceptor cells and their meaning in health and disease. This broad spectrum will appeal to readers interested in the chemoreceptor field, as well as young scientists seeking a scientific field where not only structural analysis but also a sense for functional connections is required. In recognition of the importance of the contribution of a new scientific generation to this field, ISAC awarded the prestigious F. de Castro-C. Heymans E. Neil prize to A. G6rlach, a young scientist. Also at this meeting, the Ferdinando Data Foundation Award, for helping scientists from non-developed countries to pursue their interest in chemoreception, was initiated. ISAC held plenary lectures in honor of C. Eyzaguirre and R. Forster, both of whom have contributed greatly to research in the chemoreceptor field.

The unique architecture and physiology of the mammalian intestine, together with a tightly coordinated regulatory system, allows for the handling and absorption of as much as 9 L of fluid a day with 98% or greater efficiency. Advances in the past 40 years have made inroads into revealing the intricacies and interplay of numerous ion transporters and their modulators that are responsible for intestinal electrolyte and water transport. Studies of two devastating diseases, the virulent infectious disease cholera and the autosomal recessive disease cystic fibrosis, were largely responsible for this information explosion. These advances have been critical in the development of new therapeutic strategies to combat life-threatening diseases of varying etiologies ranging from enteric infections to cystic fibrosis and inflammatory bowel diseases. Yet, the story is far from complete, and progress needs to continue on translating information gained from reductionistic cell and tissue culture models, in vivo models, and ultimately human studies and on improving therapeutic approaches. This book reviews the current status of our knowledge of fluid transport across the intestine, including the complexities of transcellular and paracellular ion transport down the length of the intestine and how aberrations of normal physiological processes lead to disease. Table of Contents: Overview / Epithelial Cell and Tissue Architecture / Principles of Transepithelial Electrolyte and Water Movement / Intestinal Architecture and Electrolyte Transport / Electrolyte Transporters--Pumps, Carriers, and Channels / Water Transport / Regulation / Intestinal Disorders and Advances Toward Better Treatment of Intestinal Disorders / Conclusion / References

This pUblication contains the proceedings of a Seminar held in Galway, Ireland on September 27 - 30, 1977 under the asupices of the Commission of the European Communities, as part of the EEC programme of co-ordination of research on beef production. The programme was drawn up by a scientific working group on PHYSIOLOGY OF REPRODUCTION on behalf of the beef production committee. The working group comprised: Or. J.M. Sreenan (Chairman), Ireland; Mr. L.E.A. Rowson, United Kingdom; Professor C. Thibault, France; Or. B. Hoffman, Germany (Fed. Rep.); Professor L. Henriet, Belgium; Or. F. du Mesnil du Buisson, France; Or. J. Riemensberger, Germany (Fed. Rep.); Dr. P. Mauleon, France; and, in the planning of the seminar, they were joined by Mr. P. L'Hermite, CEC and Or. J.C. Tayler (temporarily seconded to the CEC, 1975). The subject chosen for this seminar was drawn from the list of prior- ities in research objectives drawn up in 1973 by members of a committee (now the Standing Committee on Agricultural Research, CPRA) given in Appendix 1. One of the functions of this series of seminars was to summarise and update the information available on the selected subjects and to discuss future needs for research, so as to assist the Commission in evaluating the probable im- pact of research on agricultural production within the community.

This publication contains the proceedings of a seminar held in Ghent, Belgium on October 11th-13th 1977, under the auspices of the Commission of the European Communities, as part of the EEC programme of co-ordination of research on beef production. The seminar was initiated by the scientific working group on 'Carcass and Meat Quality' and attracted the interest of the working groups on 'Genetics and Selection' and on 'Nutrition and Management'. Consequently it developed into a multi-disciplinary programme, organised under the responsibility of the working group on Carcass and Meat Quality. This group comprised Ir. H. de Boer (Chairman), Netherlands; Prof. R. Boccard, France; Dr D.E. Hood, Ireland; Dr R.W. Pomeroy, UK; Dr A. Romita, Italy; Professor Dr L. Sch~n, Fed. Rep. of Germany; Mr P. L'Hermite, CEC; and Dr J.C. Tayler, UK (adviser to the CEC). In view of the broad scope of the subject, a special plan ning meeting was organised, involvi.ng experts from the different disciplines involved. The additional participants were: Dr B. Bech Andersen, Denmarkj Dr A.J.H. van Es, Netherlands; Prof. Dr J. Martin, Belgium; Dr. St.C.S. Taylor, UK. The multidisciplinary scope of this ~eminar follows a series of seminars in 1975-76 on more specific aspects of beef production research in the individual fields involved. It seems logical that further seminars should integrate the approaches by different disciplin~s in order to achieve a balanced programme of research on the very complex topic of beef production.

This text book on Physiology of Animals is intended to be useful for elementary animal physiology course in colleges of agriculture, zoology, veterinary and animal sciences. In all s, the aim has been to present a clear and concise account of the functioning of various systems of domestic animals. Where appropriate, examples from human and non domestic animals such as rat and rabbit have been cited. Physiology has now grown into a vast discipline. The book covers and explains the following deeply: o Nature and Scope of Physiology o Body Fluids: Water, Electrolyte and Acid Base Balance o Respiration o Blood o Circulatory System o Structure & Functions of the Kidney o Rumen Function o Digestion & Metabolism o Vitamins and Minerals o Endocrine Glands and Their Secretions o Reproduction in the Male o Female Reproduction o Lactation o Nervous System o Bone, Skin and Special Senses o Physiology of Temperature Regulation

There is now enough basic work to sketch out the principal systems at all levels of the brain, from prefrontal cortex to lower brainstem, which are orchestrated to provide control of food selection, preference and consumption. At the same time, the complex interplay between central systems and signals generated from peripheral systems include the gut, liver and fat stores, as well as the interactions with the neuroendocrine system can be described in some detail. A continuing theme throughout the book is that the functional analysis of appetite and food intake cannot be limited to a single focus, e.g. hypothalamic neuropeptides and their interactions, but must be based on a fully integrated view of the several contributing systems.
Appetite and Body Weight: Integrative Systems and the Development of Anti-Obesity Drugs provides an expert guide to the neural, neurochemical, autonomic and endocrine interrelations which underpin appetite and the controls of food intake and body weight. The book covers many of the neurochemical entities that are currently under investigation, including: neuropeptides, leptin, insulin, monoamines and endogenous cannabinoids in relation to appetite and body-weight control. In addition to the neuroscience analysis, there are also chapters that provide an expert guide to some of the key psychological concepts that the researchers believe are essential in trying to understand the phenomena under investigation. The volume will also serve as an authoritative guide to the current emphasis on the development of novel, efficacious anti-obesity medication.
* Provides an integrative view of the many systems involved in appetite and how they interact to effectfood intake (i.e. the brain, endocrine, gut, liver etc.)
* Considers psychological aspects such as incentive, preference, liking and palatability, and sets these concepts in their behavioural, pharmacological and neural contexts
* Examines the development of novel anti-obesity drugs, drawing on experience of pharmacological development work, pre-clinical tests for anti-obesity efficacy, and clinical trials of candidate anti-obesity compounds

Traditionally, behaviour and physiology have been considered two separate fields of biology with the majority of available literature focusing on one or the other. Recently the need for a multidisciplinary approach to these topics has been realised, highlighted by some of the sessions to be held at the 2003 annual meeting of the Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology such as 'regulation of behaviour' and' mechanisms of behaviour'. The proposed volume aims to bring together these disciplines in a comprehensive review of the available literature. Volume 24 will be novel in actively bridging these two areas of fish biology together and considering them as inextricably linked. The progression of chapters focuses on different aspects of the life history of a fish, from predator avoidance through to reproduction, each written by scientists currently bridging the gap between behaviour and physiology in their own specialised subdiscipline.
* Multidisciplinary and integrative research in fish biology
* Written by internationally recognized researchers
* Encompasses the whole life span of fish
* A wide variety of inter-related topics presented in a cohesive format

David E. Alexander's fascination with the many animals and plants that have harnessed the air is evident in "Nature's Flyers: Birds, Insects, and the Biomechanics of Flight," a detailed account of our current scientific understanding of the primary aspects of flight in nature.

Instead of relying on elaborate mathematical equations, Alexander explains the physical basis of flight with sharp prose and clear diagrams. Drawing upon bats, birds, insects, pterosaurs, and even winged seeds, he details the basic operating principles of wings and then moves progressively through more complex modes of animal flight, including gliding, flapping, and maneuvering. In addition to summarizing the latest thinking about flight's energy costs, Alexander presents a holistic view of flight and its ramifications as he explores the ecology and evolution of flying animals, addressing behaviorally important topics such as migration and navigation. With somewhat surprising answers, the author then concludes his study by examining the extent to which natural flight has been inspiring or instructive for the architects of human flight--airplane designers and engineers.

The story—and the science—of nature's greatest engine.

Whether we blink an eye, lift a finger, throw a spear or a ball, walk, run, or merely breathe, we are using muscle. Although muscles differ little in appearance and performance across the animal kingdom, they accomplish tasks as diverse as making flies fly, rattlesnakes rattle, and squid shoot their tentacles.

Our everyday activities turn on the performance of nature's main engine: we may breathe harder going uphill, but we put more strain on our muscles walking downhill. Those of us who are right-handed can tighten screws and jar lids more forcibly than we can loosen them. Here we're treated to the story of how form and performance make these things happen—how nature does her work.

Steven Vogel is a leader in the great new field of bioengineering, which is rapidly explaining the beauty and efficiency of nature. His talents as both scientist and writer shine in this masterful narrative of biological ingenuity, as he relates the story—and science—of nature's greatest engine.

"An entertaining and compelling overview of what we know about muscle."—Science News

"Manages to educate, enlighten, and entertain....fascinating reading."—Science, Sharon Swartz

"A book that should be enjoyed and understood by intelligent non-scientists as much as by scientists...entertaining and illuminating."—Nature, R. McNeill Alexander

"Muscle is a wonderful lens through which to study evolution and human history."—Washington Post Book World, David Brown

"Biomechanics comes alive in a discussion blending science, health, history, and mechanical insights."—Bookwatch

"A thorough and engaging account of how muscles work and how their physiology has influenced the development of human culture."—Exploratorium Magazine

"Fascinating.... [Vogel's] interests seemingly know no bounds, and he takes the readers along with him on a complex, absorbing journey of exploration notable for its unexpected twists and turns."—Kirkus Reviews starred review

"Positively gripping."—Booklist

An entertaining guide to the exotic sensory abilities of the Earth's nonhuman creatures. Certain insects and animals such as bees, birds, bats, fish, and dolphins possess senses that lie far beyond the realm of human experience. Examples include echolocation, internal navigation systems, and systems based on bioelectricity. In this book Howard C. Hughes tells the story of these "exotic" senses. He tells not only what has been discovered but how it was discovered-including historical misinterpretations of animal perception that we now view with amusement. The book is divided into four parts: biosonar, biological compasses, electroperception, and chemical communication. Although it is filled with fascinating descriptions of animal sensitivities-the sonar system of a bat, for example, rivals that of the most sophisticated human-made devices-the author's goal is to explain the anatomical and physiological principles that underlie them. Knowledge of these mechanisms has practical applications in areas as diverse as marine navigation, the biomedical sciences, and nontoxic pest control. It can also help us to obtain a deeper understanding of more familiar sensory systems and the brain in general. Written in an entertaining, accessible style, the book recounts a tale of wonder that continues today-for who knows what sensory marvels still await discovery or what kind of creatures will provide the insights?

Ecologists have always believed, at least to a certain extent, that physiological mechanisms serve to underpin ecological patterns. However, their importance has traditionally been at best underestimated and at worst ignored, with physiological variation being dismissed as either an irrelevance or as random noise/error. Spicer and Gaston make a convincing argument that the precise physiology does matter

In contrast to previous works which have attempted to integrate ecology and physiology, Physiological Diversity adopts a completely different and more controversial approach in tackling the physiology first before moving on to consider the implications for ecology. This is timely given the recent and considerable interest in the mechanisms underlying ecological patterns. Indeed, many of these mechanisms are physiological.

This textbook provides a contemporary summary of physiological diversity as it occurs at different hierarchical levels (individual, population, species etc.), and the implications of such diversity for ecology and, by implication, evolution. It reviews what is known of physiological diversity and in doing so exposes the reader to all the key works in the field. It also portrays many of these studies in a completely new light, thereby serving as an agenda for, and impetus to, the future study of physiological variation.

"Physiological Diversity" will be of relevance to senior undergraduates, postgraduates and professional researchers in the fields of ecology, ecological physiology, ecotoxicology, environmental biology and conservation. The book spans both terrestrial and marine systems.

In der Antike mythisch verklart, spater als Rohstoffquelle verbraucht, sind Wale und Delphine mittlerweile zu Publikumslieblingen und Symboltieren des Naturschutzes geworden. Wolfgang Gewalt pflegt seit mehr als einem Vierteljahrhundert fast taglichen Umgang mit diesen faszinierenden Tieren - im Zoo und draussen im freien Meer. Er erzahlt von der Herkunft der Wale und Delphine, ihrem Lernvermogen, ihrer Sprache und ihrem Verhalten. Locker und verstandlich erhalt der Leser damit einen unmittelbaren Einblick in den heutigen Stand der Walkunde.

The third of a planned group of volumes dealing with reptilian nervous systems, Sensorimotor Integration focuses chiefly on visual and sensorimotor aspects of reptilian neurobiology. Chapters examine data for numerous species, drawing together the most current work and thinking on each topic and emphasizing results from recent studies. "This volume would be a valuable addition to any comparative anatomist's bookshelf, and one that should be of great interest to comparative neurobiologists and neuroanatomists alike."--Katherine V. Fite, Quarterly Review of Biology

Here is a uniquely modern approach to the study of physiological diversity that builds on the tradition established by C. Ladd Prosser's Comparative Animal Physiology. Responding to the need for a rigorously up-to-date, comprehensive survey of function and integrative systems in a variety of species, which is also easily accessible to the user, Dr. Prosser has delivered a thoroughly revised Fourth Edition in a convenient two-volume format. This carefully designed framework lets each volume zero-in on distinct aspects of comparative physiology normally studied as a whole unit. From the study of genetically replicating molecules to investigations of adaptive modulation, these two companion volumes offer an all-encompassing view of the field. With their contemporary approach, scholarly editing, flexible format, and detailed contents, Neural and Integrative Animal Physiology and Environmental and Metabolic Animal Physiology will stand together as the authoritative source in the field.

During the last two decades, major advances have been made in mammalian genetics. New methods in molecular and cytogenetics, and in biotechnology have been developed. Many of these have been applied to investigating the genetics of sheep and to improving the production of wool, meat and milk. This book is a comprehensive reference work on sheep genetics. All relevant topics have been included, from fundamental genetic structure to the genetics of various production and other traits, to transgenic sheep and genetic conservation. Chapters have been specially commissioned for the volume and written by internationally recognized experts from Europe, USA, Australia and New Zealand. The book will be invaluable to advanced students and research workers in animal genetics, breeding and biotechnology.

Timely title assembling the combined knowledge of some of the leading authorities in the field of small fish reproduction - an important topic for risk assessment and registration of chemical, agricultural, and pharmaceutical compoundsProvides guidance on the microscopic structure of living tissue and evaluation of the reproductive glands of small laboratory fishIncludes state-of-the-art science along with sufficient anatomical and physiological background for understanding and interpreting test resultsHelps standardize the interpretation of results from aquatic bioassays and field observations, which will also clarify inconsistencies in the current scientific literature

Note: CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials are not included as part of eBook file.

The Tai Chimpanzee Project (Tai National Park, Cote D'Ivoire) has yielded unprecedented insights into the nature of cooperation, cognition, and culture in our closest living relatives. Founded in 1979 by Christophe and Hedwige Boesch, the project has entered its 40th year of continuous research. Alongside other famous long-term chimpanzee study sites at Gombe and Mahale in East Africa, the tireless work of the team at Tai has contributed to the fields of behavioural ecology and anthropology, as well as improving public awareness of the urgent need to protect this already endangered species. Encompassing important research topics including chimpanzee ecology, reproductive behaviour, tool use, culture, communication, cognition and conservation, this book provides an engaging account of how Tai chimpanzees are adapted to African jungle life and how they have developed unique forms of cooperation with less violence, regular adoptions and complex cultural differences between groups.

In this authoritative three-volume reference work, leading researchers bring together current work to provide a comprehensive analysis of the comparative morphology, development, evolution, and functional biology of the skull.

Through its emphasis on recent research, its many summary tables, and its bibliography of more than 4,000 entries, this first modern, synthetic treatment of comparative amphibian environmental physiology emerges as "the" definitive reference for the field. Forty internationally respected experts review the primary data, examine current research trends, and identify productive avenues for future research.

Expanded and updated, this second edition of a bestselling book challenges conventional entomological wisdom with the latest research and analytical interpretations. Encouraging independent evaluation of the data and allowing for the extrapolation of major concepts across species, this indispensable text establishes a thorough understanding of the physiological and biochemical functions and adaptations that have made insects one of the most successful groups of living organisms on the planet. Comprehensive in scope, yet organized to provide immediate access to specific information, Insect Physiology and Biochemistry, Second Edition - * Features new chapters on insect immunity and diapause * Expands information on the dynamics and mechanics of flight and on color vision * Details all major physiological functions * Examines all stages of the lifecycle and development * Highlights the relationship of insect physiology and behavior * Discusses environment and ecology as determinants in physiological and biochemical adaptations * Supplies more than 250 illustrations, including electron and transmission electron micrographs * Contains nearly 2000 references and Websites * Includes a new, four page color insert Following the tradition of its bestselling predecessor, this edition provides working scientists and students with an engaging and authoritative guide to the most current findings in the field. James L. Nation is Professor Emeritus in the Entomology and Nematology Department at the University of Florida at Gainesville. He taught insect physiology at the graduate level for 42 years. His research includes nitrogen excretion, pheromones, cuticular hydrocarbons, and insect nutrition. He is currently editor of Florida Entomologist.