The thymus is an evolutionarily ancient primary lymphoid organ common to all vertebrates in which T cell development takes place. Failing thymus function is associated with immunodeficiency and/or autoimmunity. In this volume, leading experts provide a comprehensive overview of recent advances in thymopoiesis research. The chapters cover the development of the thymic epithelial microenvironment, address the formation of a diverse and self-tolerant repertoire of T cell receptors as the basis for cellular immunity, discuss the mechanisms by which progenitor cells colonize the thymus and detail the molecular basis for T lineage decisions. The reviews illustrate the important role of the multifaceted process of thymopoiesis for adaptive immunity.

First published in 1982. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

Modern brain imaging is revolutionizing the study of brain function in health and disease. Few realize that its origins began with a pioneering study in the nineteenth century by an Italian scientist, Angelo Mosso, of several subjects brought to him with head injuries that exposed their brains to direct observation. He took advantage of this opportunity to observe for the first time changes in cerebral blood flow in relation to different behaviors, the same changes that are the basis for the measurements underlying modern methods. Although Mosso was widely recognized for this highly original study by his contemporaries, through a German translation in 1881, there has never been a translation through which his magnificent achievement could be recognized in English. His rightful role as the pioneer in brain imaging has thus not been recognized. This unique volume corrects that deficiency. Through it, the modern reader, whether an expert in the field or an interested scientist or member of the public, can gain a new perspective on the remarkable insights Mosso gained into how behaviors as subtle as thinking about a subject or feeling an emotion can produce the changes in pulsations of the brain that he observed. The special features of this volume begin with a brief summary of Mosso's life. Two pioneers of modern brain imaging, Marcus Raichle and Gordon M. Shepherd, then provide an extensive commentary that succinctly summarizes Mosso's work and explains its relevance to modern methods. The authors not only emphasize Mosso's role as a pioneer in brain imaging, but also through this study as a pioneer in the eventual rise of cognitive neuroscience. The English translation then follows, together with all of the plates and illustrations of the original volume. The result is a classic of neuroscience now available for wide appreciation by neuroscientists, neurologists, psychologists, psychiatrists, historians of science and medicine, and the general public.

Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Endocannabinoids offers a comprehensive reference on natural and synthetic cannabinoids, providing coverage on both adverse and non-adverse effects, including reactivity to pain, changes in behavior and neuroactivity. This volume updates on research on the effects of these compounds in brain function and neurological dysfunction, offering readers a comprehensive reference on medical usage and the symptom relief provided by these compounds. With coverage of neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, and a wide range of other afflictions, including depression, anxiety, nausea and cancer, this broad coverage expounds on the physiological, psychological and pharmacological effects of these compounds. Unique case reports are also provided, creating a platform for research on the use of these compounds in improving patient care, brain function and neurological dysfunction. As the endocannabinoid system has been implicated in various neurological conditions, this book is a welcomed resource on the topics presented.

Humans engage in a seemingly endless variety of different behaviors, of which some are found across species, while others are conceived of as typically human. Most generally, behavior comes about through the interplay of various constraints - informational, mechanical, neural, metabolic, and so on - operating at multiple scales in space and time. Over the years, consensus has grown in the research community that, rather than investigating behavior only from bottom up, it may be also well understood in terms of concepts and laws on the phenomenological level. Such top down approach is rooted in theories of synergetics and self-organization using tools from nonlinear dynamics. The present compendium brings together scientists from all over the world that have contributed to the development of their respective fields departing from this background. It provides an introduction to deterministic as well as stochastic dynamical systems and contains applications to motor control and coordination, visual perception and illusion, as well as auditory perception in the context of speech and music.

National Book Award finalist
A "New York Times" notable book
"One knows early on one is reading a classic--a text so necessary and abundant and true that all efforts of its kind, for decades before and after it, will be measured by it."--Thomas Lynch, "Los Angeles Times"
After fifteen years in print, "Woman "remains an essential guide to everything from organs to orgasms and hormones to hysterectomies. With her characteristic clarity, insight, and sheer exuberance of language, bestselling author Natalie Angier cuts through the still prevalent myths and misinformation surrounding the female body, that most enigmatic of evolutionary masterpieces. "Woman "is a witty and assured narrative tour de force with a reliable grasp of science.
Updated throughout and with a new introduction bringing readers up to date on the latest science in evolutionary psychology and hormone replacement therapy, this new edition of Woman reinvigorates Angier's joyful vision of womanhood.
"Ultimately, this grand tour of the female body provides a new vision of the role of women in the history of our species."--"Washington Post"

Nonlinear dynamics has become an important field of research in recent years in many areas of the natural sciences. In particular, it has potential applications in biology and medicine; nonlinear data analysis has helped to detect the progress of cardiac disease, physiological disorders, for example episodes of epilepsy, and others. This book focuses on the current trends of research concerning the prediction of sudden cardiac death and the onset of epileptic seizures, using the nonlinear analysis based on ECG and EEG data. Topics covered include the analysis of cardiac models and neural models. The book is a collection of recent research papers by leading physicists, mathematicians, cardiologists and neurobiologists who are actively involved in using the concepts of nonlinear dynamics to explore the functional behaviours of heart and brain under normal and pathological conditions. This collection is intended for students in physics, mathematics and medical sciences, and researchers in interdisciplinary areas of physics and biology.

From women's medicine and the writings of Christine de Pizan to the lives of market and tradeswomen and the idealization of virginity, gender and social status dictated all aspects of women's lives during the middle ages. A cross-disciplinary resource, Women andGender in Medieval Europe examines the daily reality of medieval women from all walks of life in Europe between 450 CE and 1500 CE, i.e., from the fall of the Roman Empire to the discovery of the Americas. Moving beyond biographies of famous noble women of the middles ages, the scope of this important reference work is vast and provides a comprehensive understanding of medieval women's lives and experiences. Masculinity in the middle ages is also addressed to provide important context for understanding women's roles. Entries that range from 250 words to 4,500 words in length thoroughly explore topics in the following areas: * Art and Architecture * Countries, Realms, and Regions * Daily Life * Documentary Sources * Economics * Education and Learning * Gender and Sexuality * Historiography * Law * Literature * Medicine and Science * Music and Dance * Persons * Philosophy * Politics * Political Figures * Religion and Theology * Religious Figures * Social Organization and Status Written by renowned international scholars, Women and Gender in MedievalEurope is the latest in the Routledge Encyclopedias of the Middle Ages. Easily accessible in an A-to-Z format, students, researchers, and scholars will find this outstanding reference work to be an invaluable resource on women in Medieval Europe.

This book provides a balanced presentation of the fundamental principles of cardiovascular biomechanics research, as well as its valuable clinical applications. Pursuing an integrated approach at the interface of the life sciences, physics and engineering, it also includes extensive images to explain the concepts discussed. With a focus on explaining the underlying principles, this book examines the physiology and mechanics of circulation, mechanobiology and the biomechanics of different components of the cardiovascular system, in-vivo techniques, in-vitro techniques, and the medical applications of this research. Written for undergraduate and postgraduate students and including sample problems at the end of each chapter, this interdisciplinary text provides an essential introduction to the topic. It is also an ideal reference text for researchers and clinical practitioners, and will benefit a wide range of students and researchers including engineers, physicists, biologists and clinicians who are interested in the area of cardiovascular biomechanics.

Mechanical stress is vital to the functioning of the body, especially for tissues such as bone, muscle, heart, and vessels. It is well known that astronauts and bedridden patients suffer muscle and bone loss from lack of use. Even the heart, in pumping blood, causes mechanical stress to itself and to vascular tissue. With the loss of mechanical stress, homeostasis becomes impaired and leads to pathological conditions such as osteopenia, muscle atrophy, and vascular tissue dysfunction. In elderly populations, such mechanical pathophysiology, as well as the mechanical activities of locomotor and cardiovascular systems, is important because skeletal and heart functions decline and cause diseases in other organs. In this monograph, mechanical stress is discussed by experts in the field with respect to molecular, cellular, and tissue aspects in relation to medicine. Covering topics such as gravity and tissues and disuse osteoporosis, the book provides the most up-to-date information on cutting-edge advancements in the field of mechanobiology and is a timely contribution to research into locomotor and circulatory diseases that are major problems in contemporary society.

Excitable media comprise a class of models for a wide range of physical, chemical, and biological systems that exhibit spontaneous formation of spatial patterns. Patterns in Excitable Media: Genesis, Dynamics, and Control explores several aspects of the dynamics of such patterns-in particular their evolution upon interaction with structural and functional heterogeneities in the system. The book provides readers with an introduction to recent developments in the interdisciplinary field of dynamics and control of patterns in nonlinear biological systems described by excitable media models. It also discusses low-amplitude control schemes for eliminating such patterns from an excitable medium which has direct clinical relevance in view of the close connection to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia.

This manual contains extensive discussions on clinical topics and disorders and helps students apply the concepts of anatomy and physiology to their daily life and is especially valuable for students who are planning careers in the health professions.

This volume contains the Proceedings of the XVIIth ISAC Meeting held in Valladolid, Spain, July 1-5, 2008. As such, it contains the most permanent records of the combined efforts of all attendants. The meeting was held at the School of Medicine of Valladolid, that had the privilege of a recent celebration. The celeb- tion was none other than its 600th anniversary, implying that all participants were surrounded by historical landmarks, from the historical building of the University, to the Museum of polychrome sculpture of Valladolid, to the Monastery of Clarisas in Tordesillas, to the beauty and charm of Salamanca. In this ambience we had three days of intense work, distributed in several oral sessions, preceded by plenary lectures given by our invited speakers who were kind enough to provide us with the latestprogressintheirspeci c elds. We also hadtimeallottedtoposterviewing. As regularattendantsto the XVIIth ISACMeeting, we want to expressourappreciation forthevaluablediscussionssurroundingeachposter,theenthusiasticpresentationof data, the comments of colleagues with suggestions for improvement, and the plans for collaborations that emerged from these discussions. Needless to say that XVIIth ISAC Meeting was the fruit of many collabo- tive efforts. The Local Organizing Committee pro ted from the advice of several colleagues from around the world, namely, Prof. Chris Peers from Leeds, UK, Prof. Prem Kumar from Birmingham, UK, Prof. Nanduri Prabhakar from Chicago, USA, Prof. Colin Nurse from Hamilton, Canada, and Prof. Rodrigo Iturriaga from Santiago, Chile.

This book contains the edited version of invited lectures presented at the IUTAM Symposium on Synthesis in Bio Solid Mechanics held in Copenhagen, Denmark, 24-27 May, 1998. The Symposium was attended by 48 scientists in mechanics, mathematics and medicine from 14 countries. The fields of interest range over experimental issues, models of bone remodelling, micromechanics of bone, analogies between optimal design models and bone remodelling, to mathematical issues of the various models seen in this exciting area. Biomechanics has been a very active research area in the last 25 years and covers a very broad class of problems. The present book concentrates on the solid mechanics domain of biomechanics, where important problems of synthesis are presently an active and challenging part. Characteristics of biomechanical materials are not only their inhomogeneity and anisotropy, but also their capability to change in relation to actual use. These living materials call for new methods of analysis and also new methods for synthesis. By synthesis in this context is meant design of implants or artificial control of material growth. Bone mechanics is closely related to recent work on analysis and design of microstructural anistropic materials. Also, recent work in shape design can to some extent be useful in the more complicated problems of biomechanics. Here interface problems play an essential role. This volume will be of interest to researchers in the field of (bio)mechanics and (bio)materials.

Despite major efforts by the scientific community over the years, our understanding of the pathogenesis or the mechanisms of injury of multiple sclerosis is still limited. Consequently, the current strategies for treatment and management of patients are limited in their efficacy. The mechanisms of tissue protection and repair are probably even less understood. One reason for these limitations is the enormous complexity of the disease and every facet of its pathogenesis, the mechanisms of tissue injury, the diagnostic procedures and finally the efficacy of treatments and their side effects. The aim of this book is to review the most recent advances made in this highly complex field.

A timely symposium entitled Body-Fluid Homeostasis: Transduction and Integration was held at Araraquara, Sao Paulo, Brazil in 2011. This meeting was convened as an official satellite of a joint gathering of the International Society for Autonomic Neuroscience (ISAN) and the American Autonomic Society (AAS) held in Buzios, Rio de Janeiro. Broad international participation at this event generated stimulating discussion among the invited speakers, leading to the publication of Neurobiology of Body Fluid Homeostasis: Transduction and Integration. Drawn from the proceedings and filled with rich examples of integrative neurobiology and regulatory physiology, this volume: Provides updated research using human and animal models for the control of bodily fluids, thirst, and salt appetite Explores neural and endocrine control of body fluid balance, arterial pressure, thermoregulation, and ingestive behavior Discusses recent developments in molecular genetics, cell biology, and behavioral plasticity Reviews key aspects of brain serotonin and steroid and peptide control of fluid consumption and arterial pressure The book highlights research conducted by leading scientists on signal transduction and sensory afferent mechanisms, molecular genetics, perinatal and adult long-term influences on regulation, central neural integrative circuitry, and autonomic/neuroendocrine effector systems. The findings discussed by the learned contributors are relevant for a basic understanding of disorders such as heat injury, hypertension, and excess salt intake. A unique reference on the neurobiology of body fluid homeostasis, this volume is certain to fuel additional research and stimulate further debate on the topic.

Taurine 8 represents the combined efforts of investigators on the roles of the amino acid taurine on human health and disease. The chapters covered in this book are directly derived from presentations of the contributors at the 18th International Taurine Meeting held in Marrakech, Morocco in April 2012. The purpose of this book is to disseminate current findings on taurine's contribution in several organ systems. This book covers the following topics: Taurine in Nutrition and Metabolism, the Protective Role of Taurine, and the Role of Taurine in Reproduction, Development, and Differentiation. Dr. Abdeslem El Idrissi, College of Staten Island and Dr. William L'Amoreaux, College of Staten Island, were co-chairs of the Organizing Committee for the meeting. Data presented at this meeting provided compelling evidence that taurine is not only cytoprotective in cardiomyocytes, but also is a potent GABA agonist, whereby it can facilitate vasodilation of conducting arteries. Taurine conjugates, such as taurine chloramine, may protect cells from oxidative stress via increased HO-1 expression. In adult rodents, taurine has a potent effect on plasma glucose levels, likely through the release of insulin in pancreatic beta cells. As a potential neurotransmitter, taurine is known to work via the GABAergic system, but current research presented at this meeting suggest that taurine may interact with glutamate and serotonin receptors as well. Data are also presented to demonstrate the protective roles of taurine on neurons in neuroblastoma. Perhaps the most important and exciting presentation is the role of taurine and alcohol: the combination may be lethal. Data are also presented at this meeting of the potential role taurine may have as an adjuvant treatment with cisplatin in chemotherapy.

The use of model organisms together with the power of genetics has profoundly affected our understanding of the physiology of one organ, the skeleton, in two distinct but complementary ways. Thisis the first translational reference to focus on these major conceptual advances in bone biology and their development in the clinic. Several advances have already been translated into therapies and others are being tested for diseases as different as osteoporosis, type-2 diabetes, and hypo-fertility. This book is a timely reference for both basic and clinical researchers in bone biology and endocrinology.
Summarizes the latest research and translational applications of how the varied growth and development of bone affects appetite, metabolism, reproduction, and a wide range of endocrine functions Provides a common language for bone biologists, endocrinologists, osteologists, and other researchers, such as neuroscientists, who study appetite, fuel metabolism and diabetes, to discuss the development of translational research and new therapeutic strategies for bone, metabolic, and neuro-endocrine diseases.

Saves researchers and clinicians time in quickly accessing the very latest details on a broad range of bone research and therapeutics, as opposed to searching through thousands of journal articles "

Clinical Physiology of the Venous System is a comprehensive overview of vein physiology.

- Presents data in the fields of venous physiology, pharmacology and venous diseases as well as the field of phlebology, which has seen rapid and important progress in the last decade.
- Recent developments in venous disorders are covered with regard to pathophysiology; most modern diagnostic methods and therapies.
- Venous tone regulation data is presented with a focus on neural; hormonal; local and myogenic control of venous smooth muscle. Special attention was paid to endothelium-derived vasoactive factors involved in the regulation of venous tone.
- Take home messages at the beginning of each chapter for quick review.
- List of key abbreviations used in the book.
- Well illustrated with teaching tables.
- Useful for any physician, researcher or student interested in vein physiology.

This book reviews the various applications of nanotechnology in human health. The introductory chapters focus on the classifications, types, synthesis, and characterization of various types of nanomaterials, while subsequent chapters highlight current applications of nanomaterials in the diagnosis and treatment of microbial and viral infections, and also in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. Further, the book explores the potential role of nanomaterials in connection with neuronal differentiation, neuronal protection, and neurological diseases. It demonstrates the use of nanotechnology to diagnose and treat genetic disorders, as well as endocrine and metabolic syndrome diseases. It also discusses the ethics and the negative impacts of nanomaterials on human health. Lastly, it examines the intellectual property aspects and government regulations associated with the research, design, and commercialization of nanotechnology-based products. Given its scope, it offers a valuable resource for all researchers and professionals working with nanotechnology-based applications in human health.

Gain a foundational understanding of gastrointestinal physiology and how the GI system functions in health and disease. Gastrointestinal Physiology, a volume in the Mosby Physiology Series, explains the fundamentals of this complex subject in a clear and concise manner, while helping you bridge the gap between normal function and disease with pathophysiology content throughout the book. Helps you easily master the material in a systems-based curriculum with learning objectives, Clinical Concept boxes, highlighted key words and concepts, chapter summaries, self-study questions, and a comprehensive exam. Keeps you current with recent advances in gastrointestinal physiology with coverage of the physiological significance of gastrointestinal peptides; the regulation of mucosal growth and cancer; details surrounding acid secretion and peptic ulcers; and more. Includes clear, 2-color diagrams that simplify complex concepts. Features clinical commentaries that show you how to apply what you've learned to real-life clinical situations. Covers the regulation of pancreatic secretion and gallbladder contraction; the transport processes for the absorption of nutrients; facts about fat absorption; and the regulation of food intake. Enhanced eBook version included with purchase. Your enhanced eBook allows you to access all of the text, figures, and references from the book on a variety of devices. Complete the Mosby Physiology Series! Systems-based and portable, these titles are ideal for integrated programs. Blaustein, Kao, & Matteson: Cellular Physiology and Neurophysiology Cloutier: Respiratory Physiology Koeppen & Stanton: Renal Physiology Pappano & Weir: Cardiovascular Physiology White, Harrison, & Mehlmann: Endocrine and Reproductive Physiology Hudnall: Hematology: A Pathophysiologic Approach

This monograph provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in the field of vasopressin and oxytocin. In the summer of 1997, scientists from over 20 countries congregated in Montreal for the 1997 World Congress of Neurohypophysial Hormones, a conference that united the fields of vasopressin, neurohypophysis, and oxytocin in a single joint meeting that gave rise to this book. The organization of a joint meeting was prompted by several developments. Specifically the molecular characterization of the vasopressin/oxytocin receptor family made it mandatory to adopt an integrated view and to discuss the vasopressin/oxytocin ligand/receptor family as a whole. To ensure emphasis on novelty, the conference focused on advances made in the late-1990s and also included important contributions by scientist that had not previously been associated with the vasopressin/oxytocin field.

This newest addition to the Nutrition and Health series is a comprehensive, yet portable, guide to the use of dietary fiber for the management of health and disease. Dietary Fiber in Health and Disease covers all sources of dietary fiber with a focus on preventing and managing chronic diseases. Each chapter contains a careful analysis with many figures and tables of the most recent human dietary fiber studies and includes specific recommendations on the fiber types and intake levels required to prevent and manage chronic disease and improve health. Additionally, physicians, dietitians, nurses, nutritionists, pharmacists, food industry scientists, academic researchers and educators, naturopathic doctors, and other health professionals will be drawn to the practical, ready-to-use information and coverage of subjects such as fiber in gastrointestinal health and disease, fiber in cancer prevention, fiber in Type 2 Diabetes, and fiber in body weight and composition. Dietary Fiber in Health and Disease will be of interest to physicians and other healthcare professionals in many different specialties, including general practitioners, oncologists, endocrinologists, and other practitioners looking to implement dietary advice as part of the patient treatment plan.

For courses in anatomy & physiology for health professions. An engaging journey through the human form Anatomy & Physiology for Health Professions: An Interactive Journey is a hands-?on, visually rich study companion guiding allied health and nursing students through human body systems and clinical applications. With a conversational tone, relatable analogies, and light humor, the authors provide an enjoyable read reinforcing lasting connections. The 4th edition presents the latest research and clinical applications in abnormal human A&P, plus new visual aids and practice opportunities. A student workbook, available separately, offers interactive exam prep resources, including concept maps and crossword puzzles. Also available with MyLab Health Professions MyLab (TM) is the teaching and learning platform that empowers you to reach every student. By combining trusted author content with digital tools and a flexible platform, MyLab personalizes the learning experience and improves results for each student. Developed for allied health students and instructors, MyLab Health Professions supports students' mastery and application of the skills they'll need for a successful career in health care. Note: You are purchasing a standalone product; MyLab does not come packaged with this content. Students, if interested in purchasing this title with MyLab, ask your instructor to confirm the correct package ISBN and Course ID. Instructors, contact your Pearson representative for more information. If you would like to purchase both the physical text and MyLab, search for: 0135188865 / 9780135188866 Anatomy & Physiology for Health Professions: An Interactive Journey Plus MyLab Health Professions with Pearson eText -- Access Card Package, 4/e Package consists of: 0134876814 / 9780134876818 Anatomy & Physiology for Health Professions: An Interactive Journey, 4/e 0134880226 / 9780134880228 MyLab Health Professions with Pearson eText -- Access Card -- for Anatomy & Physiology for Health Professions, 4/e

Synthesizing coverage of sensation and reward into a comprehensive systems overview, Neurobiology of Sensation and Reward presents a cutting-edge and multidisciplinary approach to the interplay of sensory and reward processing in the brain. While over the past 70 years these areas have drifted apart, this book makes a case for reuniting sensation and reward by highlighting the important links and interface between the two. Emphasizing the role of reward in reinforcing behaviors, the book begins with an exploration of the history, ecology, and evolution of sensation and reward. Progressing through the five senses, contributors explore how the brain extracts information from sensory cues. The chapter authors examine how different animal species predict rewards, thereby integrating sensation and reward in learning, focusing on effects in anatomy, physiology, and behavior. Drawing on empirical research, contributors build on the themes of the book to present insights into the human sensory rewards of perfume, art, and music, setting the scene for further cross-disciplinary collaborations that bridge the neurobiological interface between sensation and reward.