This issue features internationally renowned experts who have provided their expertise on a variety of topics related to the importance of vitamin D. It was not until feedback loops were identified between vitamin D production and parathyroid hormone, phosphate that it earned its place as a true endocrine hormone. Current social and economic conditions have brought it back into the limelight with outbreaks of rickets and osteomalacia even in developed countries. However its complex regulation, together with the identification and characterization of the vitamin D receptor and its role in influencing multiple genetic pathways and function has heralded a new era highlighting its importance in health and disease. This includes its role in autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, diabetes mellitus, cancer especially breast and prostate, skin, neurological and cognitive disorders, and infectious diseases such as tuberculosis. We now know that adequate levels of vitamin D it is important in preventing falls and fracture. The need for supplementation and the amount recommended has also changed considerably from what we previously considered sufficient. The ongoing development of selective active analogs of vitamin D targeted to specific organs and function leads to the exciting possibility of improving outcomes of diseases associated with vitamin D regulation.

Neuroendocrinology is a discipline which originated about 50 years ago as a branch of Endocrinology and that is now strictly linked to neuroscience.

Volumes 181 and 182 of Progress in Brain Researchprovide a rapid view of the major points presently discussed at biological and clinical levels.

The chapters have been written by top scientists who are directly involved in basic or clinical research and who use the most sophisticated biotechnological techniques.

The volumes cover of the role of genetics in many endocrine-related events, like neuroendocrinological diseases and endocrine depenedent cancers (prostate, breast, etc, ). Interesting information is also provided on possibile treatments of neurodegenerative brain diseases (e.g., Alzheimer and similar syndromes).

The best researchers in the field provide their conclusions in the context of the latest experimental results

Chapters are extensively referenced to provide readers with a comprehensive list of resources on the topics covered

Of great value for researchers and experts, but also for students as a background reference"

Neuroendocrinology is a discipline which originated about 50 years ago as a branch of Endocrinology and that is now strictly linked to neuroscience.

Volumes 181 and 182 of Progress in Brain Researchprovide a rapid view of the major points presently discussed at biological and clinical levels.

The chapters have been written by top scientists who are directly involved in basic or clinical research and who use the most sophisticated biotechnological techniques.

The volumes cover of the role of genetics in many endocrine-related events, like neuroendocrinological diseases and endocrine depenedent cancers (prostate, breast, etc, ). Interesting information is also provided on possibile treatments of neurodegenerative brain diseases (e.g., Alzheimer and similar syndromes).

The best researchers in the field provide their conclusions in the context of the latest experimental results

Chapters are extensively referenced to provide readers with a comprehensive list of resources on the topics covered

Of great value for researchers and experts, but also for students as a background reference"

This book presents a collection of recent articles published in peer reviewed journals. The articles provide clinicians and trainees with the latest information in the field of diabetology. Divided into eight sections the yearbook begins with an overview of basic science and epidemiology, followed by discussion on comorbidities and complications. The next sections cover Type 1 diabetes mellitus, gestational diabetes, drugs and therapeutics, and new technologies and future directions. For each article, the authors provide background information, key learning points, strengths and limitations of the study, and a 'take home' message. Each article is accompanied by detailed references for further reading. Key points Collection of recent articles on diabetes published in peer reviewed journals In depth discussion on Type 1 diabetes and gestational diabetes Authors provide background information and summaries for each article Detailed references for further reading

Androgen Deficiency and Testosterone Replacement: Current Controversies and Strategies explores the difficulties around the diagnosis and treatment of androgen deficiency. The text examines the available evidence concerning the diagnosis and treatment of men with low testosterone. It also examines controversies in the identification and management of these men. While the information contained within will be of use to those who specialize in androgen deficiency and sexual medicine, the scope of the book will serve as a source of basic information about testosterone replacement and as a source of reasoned analysis of the controversies surrounding testosterone replacement in the aging male. Physicians and physician extenders will be able to apply evidence management principles to the evaluation and treatment of men with testosterone deficiency; supported by the most recent practice guidelines available. The authors represent a select group of physicians with expertise in androgen deficiency and replacement. Androgen Deficiency and Testosterone Replacement: Current Controversies and Strategies will be of great value to all physicians and physician extenders who deliver health care to men of all ages.

A single volume of 41 articles, Hormone/Behavior Relations of Clinical Importance is an authoritative selection of relevant chapters from the Hormones Brain and Behavior 2e MRW, the most comprehensive source of neuroendocrinological information assembled to date (AP July 2009).
The study of hormones as they impact the brain and, subsequently, behavior is a central topic in neuroscience, endocrinology and psychiatry. This volume offers an overview of neuroendocrinological topics, approaching the subject from the perspective of hormone-brain function, hormone-behavior relations, sex differences, and the impact on various diseases/pathologies. Many basic human behavioral functions are subject to the influence of hormones - sexual orientation, the experience of pain, fertility, immunity - as are clinical conditions such as diabetes, substance abuse disorder, eating disorders, PTSD, TBI, pain, Alzheimer's, stress/anxiety, affective disorders, and more. There is considerable commercial clinical potential in the study of hormones - drug companies are currently developing a Cholecystokinin (hormonal peptide) booster to reduce appetite in those who suffer from sever obesity, and catamenial epilepsy (features seizure exacerbation in relation to the menstrual cycle) is resistant to treatment by standard antiepileptic medications, but may be hormonally controlled. These issues and more are covered, and there is simply no other current single-volume reference with such comprehensive coverage and depth.
Authors selected are the internationally renowned experts for the particular topics on which they write, and the volume is richly illustrated with over 150 figures (50 in color). A collection of articles reviewing our fundamental knowledge of neuroendocrinology, the book provides an essential, affordable reference for researchers, clinicians and graduate students in the area.
- Offering outstanding scholarship, each chapter is written by an expert in the topic area and approximately 25% of chapters are written by international contributors (7 countries represented)
- Provides more fully vetted expert knowledge than any existing work with broad appeal for the US, UK and Europe, accurately crediting the contributions to research in those regions
- Heavily illustrated with 150 figures, approximately 50 in color, presenting the material in the most visually useful form for the reader
- Fully explores various clinical conditions associated with the hormones and the brain (PTSD, TBI, Stress & Anxiety, eating disorders, diabetes, addictive disorders, Alzheimer's, affective disorders)
- Broad coverage of disorders makes the volume relevant to clinicians as well as researchers and basic scientists

This two-part issue of the Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America brings the practicing endocrinologist up to date on the most important topics in pediatric endocrinology. Part I covers genomics: genetic disorders and new techniques; newborn screening; hormones in the premature infant; congenital disorders of the thyroid: hyper/hypo; glucose in the PIC setting; diabetes prevention; obesity: etiology, prevention, and treatment; metabolic syndrome in pediatrics; complementary and alternative medicine in pediatric endocrinology; imaging in pediatric endocrine dosoirders; U/S gonads; and global epidemiology of Type 1 diabetes.

This volume provides the reader with a pathophysiological perspective on the role of CNS in puberty and adolescence, starting from genetic/molecular aspects, going through structural/imaging changes and leading to physical/behavioral characteristics. Therefore, renowned investigators involved in both animal and human research shared recent data as well as overall appraisal of relevant questions around CNS control of puberty and adolescence. No doubt that this volume will inspire those involved in either scientific research or clinical practice or both in the fascinating field of puberty and adolescence.

This second edition is a one-source guide to current information about red blood cell physiology and the action of native and recombinant human erythropoietic factors. Topics in the fields of erythropoiesis, recombinant protein discovery and production, and treatment of patients with anemia due to renal failure, cancer, or chronic diseases are covered. The newest theories in erythropoiesis (receptors, signaling), manufacturing, new formulations, and clinical research are discussed.

This book is of interest to researchers and clinical investigators in academia and biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, to clinical research associates, clinical monitors, and physician investigators.

A single volume of 31 articles, Mechanisms of Hormone Actions on Behavior is an authoritative selection of relevant chapters from the Hormones Brain and Behavior 2e MRW, the most comprehensive source of neuroendocrinological information assembled to date (AP June 2009).
The study of hormones as they impact the brain and, subsequently, behavior is a central topic in neuroscience, endocrinology and psychiatry. This volume offers an overview of neuroendocrinological topics, approaching the subject from the perspective of the mechanisms which control hormone actions on behavior. Female, male and stress hormones are discussed at the cellular, behavioral and developmental level, and sexual differentiation of the development of hormone-dependent neuronal systems, neuropeptides/neuromodulators, and steroid-inducedneuroplasticity are addressed. There is simply no other current single-volume reference with such comprehensive coverage and depth.
Authors selected are the internationally renowned experts for the particular topics on which they write, and the volume is richly illustrated with over 175 figures (over 50 in color). A collection of articles reviewing our fundamental knowledge of the mechanisms of neuroendocrinology, the book provides an essential, affordable reference for researchers, clinicians and graduate students in the area.
- The most comprehensive single-volume source of up-to-date data on the mechanisms behind neuroendocrinology, with review articles covering x, y z
- Chapters synthesize information otherwise dispersed across a number of journal articles and book chapters, thus saving researchers the time consuming process of finding and integrating this information themselves
- Offering outstanding scholarship, each chapter is written by an expert in the topic area and approximately 35% of chapters are written by international contributors
- Provides more fully vetted expert knowledge than any existing work with broad appeal for the US, UK and Europe, accurately crediting the contributions to research in those regions
- Heavily illustrated with 175 figures, approximately 54 in color
- Presents material in most visually useful form for the reader

More than just coincidence connects a Tate & Lyle lawsuit and artificial sweetener to Jamaican-born Chemist Bert Fraser-Reid. From his first experience of Chemistry through his diabetic father, to his determination and drive as a Chemistry student in Canada, Fraser-Reid weaves a remarkable tale integrating science, law and autobiographical anecdotes. This book arises from the lawsuit brought by Tate & Lyle against companies accused of infringing its patents for sucralose, the sweet ingredient in the artificial sweetener SPLENDA which is made by chlorinating sugar. From a 1958 undergraduate intern witnessing the pioneering experiments on sugar chlorination, to being the 1991 recipient of the world's premiere prize for carbohydrate chemistry, Fraser-Reid was groomed for his role as expert witness in the mentioned lawsuit. Nevertheless, it seems more than his career links Fraser-Reid to the case.

This issue of the Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America, devoted to the topic of lipids, provides the most essential updates and new treatments in the field. The following subject matter is addressed: assessment of the effectiveness of advanced lipoprotein testing; rosk scores for prediction of cardiovascular outcomes; lifestyle and dietary approaches to lowering LDC-cholesterol and triglycerides, and raising HDL-cholesterol; comparative efficacy and safety of statins, ezetimibe, bile acide binders, and combinations for lowering LDL-C; alternative therapies for reducing LDL-C, including intestinal bypass, and new medications such as squalene synthase inhibitors, ApoB antisense oligonucleotides, small interfering RNA's of Apo B and proprotein convertase subtilism kexin 9 (PCSK9); myopathic problems of statins; pharmacologic management of hypertriglyceridemia, including fibric acids, niacin, and fish oils; new treatments for raising LDL cholesterol, lipid management in special patient populations, including pediatric, geriatric, and patients with HIV; lipid management in renal failure, hemodialysis, and transplantation.

Sperm DNA damage is common and has been associated with reduced rates of conception, impaired embryonic development and increased risk of miscarriage. Although the exact causes of sperm DNA damage are unknown, it is clear that infertile men possess substantially higher levels of sperm DNA damage than do fertile men. Written by leading, internationally renowned clinicians and basic scientists with expertise in sperm DNA, Sperm Chromatin: Biological and Clinical Applications in Male Infertility and Assisted Reproduction provides readers with a thoughtful and comprehensive review of the biological and clinical significance of sperm DNA damage. The work covers the fundamental principles of sperm chromatin architecture and function, the proposed modes of DNA damage and repair, the tests of sperm DNA damage, the clinical aspects of DNA damage and the impact of DNA damage on reproductive outcome. Unlike any other title on the topic, Sperm Chromatin: Biological and Clinical Applications in Male Infertility and Assisted Reproduction is an invaluable addition to the literature and will serve as an indispensable resource for basic scientists with an interest in sperm biology and for urologists, gynecologists, reproductive endocrinologists, and embryologists working in the field of infertility.

Autoimmune disorders are amongst the most frequently encountered conditions in endocrine practice. The evidence-based approach to therapeutics and detailed evaluation of the outcome of existing treatment regimens have led to some advances in care delivery. Pragmatic reviews by leading international experts outline the clinical state of the art in several chapters of this issue of the Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America devoted to autoimmune disorders. Topics covered include the following: regulatory T cells as key players in tolerance and autoimmunity; immunology lessons from monogenic conditions such as AIRE; immunogenetics of T1D and AITD; advances in T1D therapeutics, including islet cell replacement and salvage; updates on TSHR structure, function, and monoclonal human TSHR antibodies; animal models of Grave's disease; evidence-based and emerging modalities of treatment of Graves' hyperthyroidism; patient selection and treatment of thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy; antibodies to steroidogenic tissues: Addison's and POF; diagnosis and management of polyendocrinopathy syndromes; autoimmune parathyroid disease; and autoimmune hypophysitis.

Great-Tasting Food for People with Diabetes and their Families
Revised and updated to reflect the latest recommendations from The American Diabetes Association and The American Dietetic Association, "The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes "remains the most authoritative and comprehensive resource available for people with diabetes and their families.
With more than 370 healthful and flavorful recipes accompanied by complete nutritional analysis, this book makes it easy to prepare satisfying and delicious meals that the whole family will enjoy.
RECIPES INCLUDE:
Whole Wheat Blueberry Rice Pancakes - Baked Orange French Toast
Black Bean and Cilantro Spread - Honey-Mustard Chicken Wings
Curried Chicken Salad - Marinated Skirt Steak with Vegetable Chutney
Lamb Over Minted Couscous - Italian Turkey Sausage with Peppers and Onions
Baked Salmon with Horseradish Mayonnaise - Sugar Snap Peas with Basil and Lemon
Baked Potato Skins - Rum Baked Black Beans - Apple Raspberry Crisp
Port-Poached Pears - New York Cheesecake - Raisin Rice Pudding

Responding to a renewed interest in the growing problem of iodine deficiency worldwide, Drs. Charles Oxnard and Peter Obendorf, along with experienced translator and anatomist John Dennison, take a fresh look at the classic text, Der endemische Kretinismus, published in 1936 by Springer. Translated here for the first time into English, this landmark text will be a welcome resource for researchers confronting the problem of iodine deficiency. Oxnard and Obendorf point out that there is very little detailed knowledge or numerical data on cretinism available in the English-speaking world. In addition, highly-renowned Professor Basil S. Hetzel, recently-retired World Health Organization Chairman of the International Council for Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders, published in 2009 with Dr Chen Zu-pei on the resurgence of iodine deficiency in China. Indeed, throughout the entire developing world there may be as many as two billion people at risk to iodine deficiency; perhaps three quarters of a billion have goiter, and ten million may be cretins. Even in developed countries, iodine deficiency is re-emerging (as in New South Wales in 19% of children) with the result of significantly reduced numbers of gifted children (though this is not cretinism per se). Certain to be of significant interest to a wide range of researchers, health providers and professionals, including government health administrators, this English translation of Endemic Cretinism is a major contribution to the literature.

"Advances in Immunology, " a long-established and highly respected publication, presents current developments as well as comprehensive reviews in immunology.
This thematic volume focuses on the immunopathogenesis of type 1 diabetes mellitus. Edited and authored by the foremost scientists in this field, it provides up-to-date information and directions for future research.

Historically the field of endocrine research has always been at the forefront of scientific endeavors. The investigators of these important breakthroughs in research have been rewarded by numerous Nobel awards. In the field of diabetes alone, Nobel prizes have been awarded to researchers who discovered insulin, characterized the protein and invented radioimmunoassays using insulin as a paradigm. Not surprisingly, biomedical researchers have always been attracted by the endocrine system and other similar systems of intercellular communication.
Over the past two decades, endocrine research has developed rapidly and adapted modern molecular and cellular biology techniques for its specific use. These changes have allowed researchers in the field to maintain their edge. Thus, endocrine disease-related genes have been characterized and mutations in these genes have helped explain common and
less common endocrine disorders. Our understanding of the regulation of gene expression has been greatly enhanced by molecular techniques.
In an attempt to bring investigators up to date with the recent advances in this exploding field we have decided to publish a series entitled Advances in Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology. Internationally famous investigators have agreed to participate and their contributions are appreciated.
Volume 1 has focused on aspects of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis including GnRH and GH gene regulation, molecular aspects of insulin, insulin-like growth factors and glucagon. In addition, reviews on the recently cloned calcium receptor and steroid receptor interactions with DNA are presented.

This book is one of the first to evaluate the role of Steroids in autoimmune rheumatic diseases from the basic mechanisms to the clinical involvements and focuses on the importance of steroidal hormones in the pathogenesis and therapeutic management of the autoimmune rheumatic diseases. In particular, the chapters analyze the mechanisms of action and the involvement of adrenal steroids (glucocorticoids) in the neuroendocrine immune system, including effects on the elderly.
The perturbations of the HPA axis as a source of altered steroidal synthesis will be discussed and related to some interesting pathological conditions that commonly complicate the autoimmune rheumatic diseases such as psychosis or fibromyalgia. Concerning the role of gonadal steroids (sex hormones), several chapters will discuss clinical and epidemiological evidences of their role, as well as their effects as risk factors in autoimmune rheumatic diseases, including a section on pediatrics.
*The premier issue evaluating the role of steroids in autoimmune rheumatic diseases from the basic mechanisms to the clinical involvements
*Documents the latest research and indicate recent and coming new therapeutic-biological approaches to the therapy
*The book will present therapeutic perspectives concerning the new glucocorticoids, and the effects of biological drugs on their synthesis