Topology and Physics of Circular DNA presents comprehensive coverage of the physical properties of circular DNA. The author examines how topological constraints arising from cyclization of DNA lead to distinctive properties that make closed molecules radically different from linear DNA. The phenomenon of supercoiling, its geometric and topological analysis, and the formation of noncanonical structures in circular DNA under the influence of supercoiling are emphasized. The combination of consistent theoretical analysis and detailed treatment of major experimental approaches make Topology and Physics of Circular DNA an important reference volume for biophysicists, biochemists, molecular biologists, and researchers and students who want to expand their understanding of circular DNA.

Technologies like CRISPR and gene drives are ushering in a new era of genetic engineering, wherein the technical means to modify DNA are cheaper, faster, more accurate, more widely accessible, and with more far-reaching effects than ever before. These cutting-edge technologies raise legal, ethical, cultural, and ecological questions that are so broad and consequential for both human and other-than-human life that they can be difficult to grasp. What is clear, however, is that the power to directly alter not just a singular form of life but also the genetics of entire species and thus the composition of ecosystems is currently both inadequately regulated and undertheorized. In Gene Editing, Law, and the Environment, distinguished scholars from law, the life sciences, philosophy, environmental studies, science and technology studies, animal health, and religious studies examine what is at stake with these new biotechnologies for life and law, both human and beyond.

Human pluripotent stem cells, including human embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells, are a key focus of current biomedical research. The emergence of state of the art culturing techniques is promoting the realization of the full potential of pluripotent stem cells in basic and translational research and in cell-based therapies. This comprehensive and authoritative atlas summarizes more than a decade of experience accumulated by a leading research team in this field. Hands-on step-by-step guidance for the derivation and culturing of human pluripotent stem cells in defined conditions (animal product-free, serum-free, feeder-free) and in non-adhesion suspension culture are provided, as well as methods for examining pluripotency (embryoid body and teratoma formation) and karyotype stability. The Atlas of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells - Derivation and Culturing will serve as a reference and guide to established researchers and those wishing to enter the promising field of pluripotent stem cell research.

This volume details methods and protocols to further the study of stem cells within the computational stem cell biology (CSCB) field. Chapters are divided into four sections covering the theory and practice of modeling of stem cell behavior, analyzing single cell genome-scale measurements, reconstructing gene regulatory networks, and metabolomics. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Computational Stem Cell Biology: Methods and Protocols will be an invaluable guide to researchers as they explore stem cells from the perspective of computational biology.

Helicases from All Domains of Life is the first book to compile information about helicases from many different organisms in a single volume. Research in the helicase field has been going on for a long time now, but the completion of so many genomes of these ubiquitous enzymes has made it difficult to keep up with new discoveries. As the huge number of identified DNA and RNA helicases, along with the structural and functional differences among them, make it difficult for the interested scholar to grasp a comprehensive view of the field, this book helps fill in the gaps.

Recent trends in Nanomedicine and Tissue Engineering covers numerous recent technological and research accomplishments in the area of Nanomedicine and Tissue Engineering. The introduction of nanomaterials and nanotechnology have led to crucial advancements in the fields of nanomedicine and tissue engineering, as well as cancer therapies and drug delivery systems. The book follows recent trends in drug delivery systems, wound healing fields, cancer therapies, protection of teeth and also other health care systems. Technical topics discussed include: * Nanorobots * Tissue engineering * Gene therapy * Drug delivery * Nanomotors * Nanogels

Introductory Review on Sirtuins in Biology and Disease provides key insights for scientists and advanced students who need to understand sirtuins and the current research in this field. This book is ideal for pharmaceutical companies as they develop novel targets using sirtuins for metabolic diseases, cancer and neurodegenerative illnesses. Sirtuins are a diverse family of proteins, with several members in mammals. The functional diversity of sirtuins is rather broad, and they have been implicated in various central biological processes. Thus, they are also highly relevant in the context of various human diseases, from cancer to neurodegeneration.

Volume I of this book provides a comprehensive discussion of the factors involved in regulation of the cell cycle, the general biological properties of growth factors, and the receptor and postreceptor mechanisms of action of these signaling agents. It evaluates the possible role of growth factors in the regulation of proto-oncogene and tumor suppressor gene expression, and the development of neoplastic processes is discussed in detail.

In the last few years the major effect that RNAi has had in invertebrate systems like C.elegans and drosophila is beginning to take hold in mammalian systems through both single gene knockdown experiments and genome-scale screens. In the next decade, there will no doubt be both notable successes and failures as we attempt to apply this genetic tool to various biological problems for the first time in academia and industry. Through the introduction of RNAi, mammalian systems have finally gained admittance to the pantheon of model genetic systems.

Authoritative coverage of a revolutionary technique for overcoming problems in electromagnetic design Genetic algorithms are stochastic search procedures modeled on the Darwinian concepts of natural selection and evolution. The machinery of genetic algorithms utilizes an optimization methodology that allows a global search of the cost surface via statistical random processes dictated by the Darwinian evolutionary concept. These easily programmed and readily implemented procedures robustly locate extrema of highly multimodal functions and therefore are particularly well suited to finding solutions to a broad range of electromagnetic optimization problems. Electromagnetic Optimization by Genetic Algorithms is the first book devoted exclusively to the application of genetic algorithms to electromagnetic device design. Compiled by two highly competent and well-respected members of the electromagnetics community, this book describes numerous applications of genetic algorithms to the design and optimization of various low- and high-frequency electromagnetic components. Special features include:

• Introduction by David E. Goldberg, "A Meditation on the Application of Genetic Algorithms"
• Design of linear and planar arrays using genetic algorithms
• Application of genetic algorithms to the design of broadband, wire, and integrated antennas
• Genetic algorithm—driven design of dielectric gratings and frequency-selective surfaces
• Synthesis of magnetostatic devices using genetic algorithms
• Application of genetic algorithms to multiobjective electromagnetic backscattering optimization
• A comprehensive list of the up-to-date references applicable to electromagnetic design problems

Ancestral DNA, Human Origins, and Migrations describes the genesis of humans in Africa and the subsequent story of how our species migrated to every corner of the globe. Different phases of this journey are presented in an integrative format with information from a number of disciplines, including population genetics, evolution, anthropology, archaeology, climatology, linguistics, art, music, folklore and history. This unique approach weaves a story that has synergistic impact in the clarity and level of understanding that will appeal to those researching, studying, and interested in population genetics, evolutionary biology, human migrations, and the beginnings of our species.

Some of the brightest minds in criminology who were nurtured on the strictly environmentalist paradigm of the 20th century have declared that biosocial criminology is the paradigm for the 21st century. This book attempts to unite this ever-growing field with the premier neurobiological theory of personality, otherwise known as reinforcement sensitivity theory (RST). Anthony Walsh places the highly variable number of biosocial approaches under a single theoretical umbrella, whilst providing a unique integrative framework. As the leading neurobiological theory of personality and behavior in psychology today, RST focuses around the age-old question of how naturally selfish social animals can achieve their wants and needs without alienating others in their social groups. RST posits that evolution has built into humans three interacting systems: the behavioral approach system; the behavioral inhibition system; and the fight/flight/freeze system. RST identifies the neurobiological and genetic functions underlying each system and has found a cascade of supporting evidence. Throwing new light on many areas of concern to criminologists, such as psychopathy, violence, ADHD, and schizophrenia, this book will be of interest to scholars and upper-level students in the field. Additional features such as Focus Boxes and diagrams delve into measurement techniques and brain areas.

Plant Breeding Reviews presents state-of-the-art reviews on plant genetics and the breeding of all types of crops by both traditional means and molecular methods. At a time when methods of molecular biology are leading to genetically engineered crops, and when the supply of wild varieties of many crops are threatened, this series provides the most current and important information available on the subject.

Arthropods are important to worldwide agriculture, food safety, human health, and energy production. Besides their practical significance, various species represent excellent model systems for biological investigations of evolution, development, physiology, reproduction, and social interaction. For these reasons, arthropod genomics is receiving increasing attention from researchers around the globe. Protocols for Cytogenetic Mapping of Arthropod Genomes is a collection of up-to-date, detailed protocols for physical chromosome mapping and their applications for studying genome organization and evolution in insects and ticks. This book brings together the expertise of cytogeneticists working on diverse groups of arthropods. Each chapter demonstrates approaches to tissue dissection, chromosome preparation, fluorescence in situ hybridization, and imaging. The book is a timely and complementary effort to the i5K initiative, which will obtain whole-genome sequences for 5,000 insect and related arthropod species. This comprehensive resource provides cytogeneticists with the necessary background and protocols to understand and develop chromosome-based genome assemblies from such whole-genome sequence data.

The New York Times, Boston Globe, Los Angeles Times and Indie Bound Bestseller

'Those who like to insist that blood is always thicker than water should read Inheritance, and let their own hearts slowly and gently expand.'-- The Observer

'All my life I had known there was a secret. What I hadn't known: the secret was me.'

In the spring of 2016, through a genealogy website to which she had whimsically submitted her DNA for analysis, Dani Shapiro received the stunning news that her father was not her biological father. Everything she had believed about her identity was a lie.

Shapiro's parents had died when she was in her twenties. With only a handful of figures on a webpage, Shapiro sets out to discover the truth about herself and her history.

Inheritance is a genetic detective story; a memoir that reads like a thriller. It is a book about secrets -secrets within families, kept out of shame or self-protectiveness; secrets we keep from one another in the name of love. It is a book about the extraordinary moment we live in a moment in which science and technology have outpaced not only medical ethics but also the capacities of the human heart to contend with the consequences of what we discover.

Bioinformatics brings computational methods to the analysis and processing of genomic data. Bioinformatics: Databases and Systems focuses on the issues of system building and data curation that dominate the day-to-day concerns of bioinformatics practitioners. Included are chapters by many of today's leading bioinformatics practitioners, describing most of the current paradigms of system building and curation, including both their strengths and weaknesses. Biological topics covered include sequence databases, metabolic pathways, phenotypes, variety collections, gene expression atlases and neuroinformatics. Species range from bacteria to mammals to plants. Software systems and technologies covered include OPM, CORBA, SRS, KLEISLI, ACEDB, Web-based integration and laboratory workflow. Bioinformatics: Databases and Systems provides a valuable introduction for newcomers to the field, and a useful reference for veterans.

A Probabilistic Model of the Genotype/Phenotype Relationship provides a new hypothesis on the relationship between genotype and phenotype. The main idea of the book is that this relationship is probabilistic, in other words, the genotype does not fully explain the phenotype. This idea is developed and discussed using the current knowledge on complex genetic diseases, phenotypic plasticity, canalization and others.

This title offers 62 chapters divided among three volumes covering the latest topics dealing with Doubled Haploid (DH) technology, as well as methods to produce DHs in different species through different in vivo and in vitro approaches. Volume 1 explores general topics and transversal methods in DH technology; DH production in two alliaceae, onion, and leek; and DH production in cereals such as barley, durum, bread, oat, and japonica rice. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, application details for both the expert and non-expert reader, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and comprehensive, Doubled Haploid Technology, Volume 1: General Topics, Alliaceae, Cereals is a valuable resource for scientists and researchers looking to learn more about this interesting and developing field.

Human Reproduction-The Missing Parts of the Puzzle; B.P. Setchell. Genes, Chromosomes and Fertility: Human Y Chromosome Deletions in Yq11 and Male Fertility; P.H. Vogt. Frequency of Y-Chromosome Microdeletions; (Yq11.22-23) in Men with Reduced Sperm Quality Requesting Assisted Reproduction; A. Bonhoff, et al. Germ Cell Differentiation and Tumorigenesis: Endocrine Control of Germ Cell Proliferation in the Primate Testis: What Do We Really Know?; G.F. Weinbauer, E. Nieschlag. The Role of the Testicular Accessory Cells: Molecular Pathophysiology of the Pituitary-Gonadal Axis; M. Simoni, et al. Compartmentalization, Vascularization and Angiogenesis: Compartmentalization of the Intertubular Space in the Human Testis; A.F. Holstein, M. Davidoff. Post-Testicular Sperm Maturation: The Role of Apocrine Released Proteins in the Post-Testicular Regulation of Human Sperm Function; G. Aumuller, et al. Control of the Male and Female Tracts: Interactions Between Leukocytes and the Male Reproductive System: The Unanswered Question; A.G. Rossi, R.J. Aitken. Gamete Interaction and Fertilization: The Cell Biology of Fertilization; R.J. Aitken. 45 Additional Articles. Index.

Epigenetics of Aging and Longevity provides an in-depth analysis of the epigenetic nature of aging and the role of epigenetic factors in mediating the link between early-life experiences and life-course health and aging. Chapters from leading international contributors explore the effect of adverse conditions in early-life that may result in disrupted epigenetic pathways, as well as the potential to correct these disrupted pathways via targeted therapeutic interventions. Intergenerational epigenetic inheritance, epigenetic drug discovery, and the role of epigenetic mechanisms in regulating specific age-associated illnesses-including cancer and cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurodegenerative diseases-are explored in detail. This book will help researchers in genomic medicine, epigenetics, and biogerontology better understand the epigenetic determinants of aging and longevity, and ultimately aid in developing therapeutics to extend the human life-span and treat age-related disease.

This second edition of Protein Purification provides a guide to the major chromatographic techniques, including non-affinity absorption techniques, affinity procedures, non-absorption techniques and methods for monitoring protein purity. The new edition of the book has been organized to encourage incremental learning about the topic, starting with the properties of water, progressing through the characteristics of amino acids and proteins which relate to the purification process. There is an overview of protein strategy and equipment, followed by discussions and examples of each technique and their applications. The basic theory and simple explanations given in Protein Purification make it an ideal handbook for final year undergraduates, and postgraduates, who are conducting research projects. It will also be a useful guide to more experienced researchers who need a good overview of the techniques and products used in protein purification. Key Features * Guide to the major techniques used in protein purification * Includes flowcharts to help the reader slect the best purification strategy * Contains step-by-step protocols that guide the reader through each technique and its use * Includes exercises and solutions

Analysis of Genetic Association Studies is both a graduate level textbook in statistical genetics and genetic epidemiology, and a reference book for the analysis of genetic association studies. Students, researchers, and professionals will find the topics introduced in Analysis of Genetic Association Studies particularly relevant. The book is applicable to the study of statistics, biostatistics, genetics and genetic epidemiology. In addition to providing derivations, the book uses real examples and simulations to illustrate step-by-step applications. Introductory chapters on probability and genetic epidemiology terminology provide the reader with necessary background knowledge. The organization of this work allows for both casual reference and close study.

Albinism in Africa: Historical, Geographic, Medical, Genetic, and Psychosocial Aspects provides the first in-depth reference for understanding and treating patients of human albinism in Africa. Leading international contributors examine the historical, geographic, psychosocial, genetic and molecular considerations of importance in effectively and sensitively managing this genetic disorder. Foundational chapters covering the historical and psychosocial aspects of albinism are supplemented by discussions of the pathobiology of the disease, as well as a thorough analysis of the genetics of skin pigmentation, eye pigmentation, hair pigmentation, and incidents of skin cancer involved in the manifestations of this disorder. New prenatal diagnostics and genetic testing methods, genetic risk assessment for individuals, families, and communities, and novel genetic markers that may be used for developing new therapeutics for treating albinism are also discussed in detail. The book provides care management approaches that may be applied to instances of albinism in other regions, along with guiding principles for treating rare genetic disorders and stigmatized patient populations across the globe.

Cancer threatens the lives of people around the world. Women, in particular, are at risk of certain cancers with a genetic cause. Certain mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes put mothers and daughters at risk of breast and ovarian cancers. Unlike many cancers that most commonly occur after age 60, these inheritable cancers threaten women's lives, health and fertility even when they are young, before most would even begin to go for annual mammogram screenings to check for breast cancer. Three Daughters, Three Journeys takes on the biggest health issue of our time from a global perspective with three heroines fighting for their lives against cancer. Marzena, a Polish oncology nurse, has spent her life treating child patients with cancer. Then, she confronts it in her own family and her own body. Kamola, a rural Indian girl, knows she has symptoms of the same disease that took her mother, but feels afraid to discuss it with her father and brothers, knowing her family cannot afford medical treatment. Kamola confides in Dr Rini Mishra, a doctor testing a new treatment called Neelazin, using a bacterial anticancer protein in food, to destroy cancer cells. Selena, a wealthy woman of color in Chicago, finds out about her genetic risks of breast and ovarian cancer. She has a choice of preventative surgery that will save her life but remove any chance of having children. As she meets women who struggle to afford cancer treatment, Selena dedicates her life to providing affordable homes and counseling to families affected by the disease. Although the drug Neelazin is fictional, the possibility of new cancer treatments using bacterial anticancer proteins is being researched now. A problem with the current chemotherapy for cancer treatment is the high toxicity of most of these drugs, as these drugs can enter both normal and cancer cells, though preferably cancer cells, causing the death of normal cells as well that are important in maintaining health. Another problem is that current chemotherapeutic drugs mostly target a single or few key steps that are important for cancer growth and proliferation and inhibit the growth of cancer cells. The cancer cells respond by quickly changing these single targets, thereby becoming resistant to the drugs, as is reflected in stage IV cancer patients. An alternative to chemotherapy would be to exploit the bacterial evolutionary wisdom and use certain proteins that can have preferential entry to cancer cells in order to minimize normal cell toxicity and multiple targets in cancer cells through protein-protein complex formation, thus reducing resistance development in cancer cells. An interesting advantage of protein drugs is to express them as part of food, and some recent research seems to suggest that oral consumption of such foods may allow the therapeutic protein to reach the blood stream to target the cancer. Women with the genetic risk factors could soon have the choice of taking a pill or such anticancer protein-expressing food to treat or prevent cancer, rather than removing the healthy tissue of the breasts and ovaries. Hopefully, they would not have to choose between fertility and survival, as is the implied message in this book, fictional as it is at this time.

Advances in Genetics, Volume 98 provides the latest information on the rapidly evolving field of genetics, presenting new medical breakthroughs that are occurring as a result of advances in our knowledge of the topic. The book continually publishes important reviews of the broadest interest to geneticists and their colleagues in affiliated disciplines, critically analyzing future directions. Topics of interest in this updated volume include the Genetics of Mitochondrial Disease, a Genetic analysis of depression, happiness and other normal personality traits, The Evolving Centromere and Kinetochore, and The Genetics of Parkinson's Disease.