A single volume of 85 articles, the Handbook of the Neurobiology of Aging is an authoritative selection of relevant chapters from the Encyclopedia of Neuroscience, the most comprehensive source of neuroscience information assembled to date (AP Oct 2008).
The study of neural aging is a central topic in neuroscience, neuropsychology and gerontology. Some well-known age-related neurological diseases include Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, but even more common are problems of aging which are not due to disease but to more subtle impairments in neurobiological systems, including impairments in vision, memory loss, muscle weakening, and loss of reproductive functions, changes in body weight, and sleeplessness. As the average age of our society increases, diseases of aging become more common and conditions associated with aging need more attention by doctors and researchers.
This book offers an overview of topics related to neurobiological impairments which are related to the aging brain and nervous system. Coverage ranges from animal models to human imaging, fundamentals of age-related neural changes and pathological neurodegeneration, and offers an overview of structural and functional changes at the molecular, systems, and cognitive levels. Key pathologies such as memory disorders, Alzheimer's, dementia, Down syndrome, Parkinson's, and stroke are discussed, as are cutting edge interventions such as cell replacement therapy and deep brain stimulation. There is no other current single-volume reference with such a 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 100 color figures. A collection of articles reviewing our fundamental knowledge of neural aging, the book provides an essential, affordable reference for scientists in all areas of Neuroscience, Neuropsychology and Gerontology.
* The most comprehensive source of up-to-date data on the neurobiology of aging, review articles cover: normal, sensory and cognitive aging; neuroendocrine, structural and molecular factors; and fully address both patholgy and intervention
* Chapters represent an authoritative selection of relevant material from the most comprehensive source of information about neuroscience ever assembled, (Encyclopedia of Neuroscience), synthesizing information otherwise
dispersed across a number of journal articles and book chapters, and 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 over 20% of chapters feature international contributors, (representing 11 countries)
* 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
* Fully explores various pathologies associated with the aging brain (Alzheimer's, dementia, Parkinson's, memory disorders, stroke, Down's syndrome, etc.)
* Coverage of disorders and key interventions makes the volume relevant to clinicians as well as researchers
* Heavily illustrated with over 100 color figures

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.

The sociological, medical, and historical aspects of birth control in the twentieth century have been compiled in this unique, easy-to-use, and comprehensive resource. Objectively written and international in scope, this encyclopedia covers a variety of topics: biology and anatomy, birth control methods and devices, influential people and organizations, issues and debates, religious perspectives, legal issues, perspectives from other countries. The Encyclopedia is an excellent source for students and other researchers, educators, health care professionals, and perennially high-interest topic. For students, expecially, the book will be invaluable for reports and term papers, speeches, and debates. The Encyclopedia contains more than 200 entries, a bibliography, and more than 50 photographs and charts. Entries end with a list of sources for further reading. Entries include BLAbortion BLAbstience BLBiological Methods of Contraception BLAnthony Comstock BLDalkon Shield BLMary Ware Dennett BLDepo-Provera BLFamily Planning BLGynecology BLInfanticide BLInternational Planned Parenthood Federation BLAletta Jacobs BLJudaism BLMale Contraceptives BLMenopause BLNorplant BLOral Contraceptives BLGregory Pincus BLPopulation Growth BLPoverty BLReproductive Rights BLJohn Rock BLRoe v. Wade BLRoman Catholic Church BLMargaret Higgins Sanger BLSex Education BLSexually Transmitted Diseases BLTubel Sterilization BLUnited Nations fund for Population Activities BLWorld Health Organization

In this new, revised edition of his landmark book, Montagu compels us to reevaluate the way we think about growth and development, in all its phases, throughout life. Humans are designed to grow and develop their childlike qualities, and not to become the ossified adults prescribed by society. Montagu demonstrates how our culture, schools, and families are in conspiracy against such childlike traits as the need to love, to learn, to wonder, to know, to explore, to think, to experiment, to be imaginative, creative and curious, to sing, dance, or play. He also reveals the many links between physical and mental aging and tells how to prevent psychosclerosis, the hardening of the mind, so that we can die young--as late as possible. The best statement ever written on the most important, neglected theme of human life and evolution. "Stephen Jay Gould, Harvard University"

In this new, revised edition of his landmark book, Montagu compels us to reevaluate the way we think about growth and development, in all its phases, throughout life. Humans are designed to grow and develop their childlike qualities, and not to become the ossified adults prescribed by society. Montagu demonstrates how our culture, schools, and families are in conspiracy against such childlike traits as the need to love, to learn, to wonder, to know, to explore, to think, to experiment, to be imaginative, creative and curious, to sing, dance, or play. He also reveals the many links between physical and mental aging and tells how to prevent psychosclerosis, the hardening of the mind, so that we can die young--as late as possible.

This volume discusses the current state of research findings related to healthy brain aging by integrating human clinical studies and translational research in animal models. Several chapters offer a unique overview of successful aging, age-related cognitive decline and its associated structural and functional brain changes, as well as how these changes are influenced by reproductive aging. Insights provided by preclinical studies in mouse models and advanced neuroimaging techniques in humans are also presented.

This new book provides a clear and accessible analysis of the various ways in which human reproduction is regulated. A comprehensive exposition of the law relating to birth control,abortion, pregnancy, childbirth, surrogacy and assisted conception is accompanied by an exploration of some of the complex ethical dilemmas that emerge when one of the most intimate areas of human life is subjected to regulatory control. Throughout the book, two principal themes recur. First, particular emphasis is placed upon the special difficulties that arise in regulating new technological intervention in all aspects of the reproductive process. Second, the concept of reproductive autonomy is both interrogated and defended. This book offers a readable and engaging account of the complex relationships between law, technology and reproduction. It will be useful for lecturers and students taking medical law or ethics courses. It should also be of interest to anyone with a more general interest in women's bodies and the law, or with the profound regulatory consequences of new technologies.

In this fascinating book, Jacques Balthazart presents a simple description of the biological mechanisms that are involved in the determination of sexual orientation in animals and also presumably in humans. Using scientific studies published over the last few decades, he argues that sexual orientation, both homosexual and heterosexual, is under the control of embryonic endocrine and genetic phenomena in which there is little room for individual choice. The author begins with animal studies of the hormonal and neural mechanisms that control the so-called instinctive behaviors and analyzes how this animal work may potentially apply to humans. The book does not focus exclusively on homosexuality, however. Instead, the book acts as a broader guide to the biological basis of sexual orientation, and also discusses important gender differences that may influence sexual orientation. While firmly grounded in the scientific literature, this text is developed for a broader audience and will be of interest to psychologists, researchers, students, and anyone interested in the biological factors that determine our sexuality.

This book is a concise guide to the diagnosis and management of reproductive health issues in adolescents that may lead to future fertility problems. Beginning with an overview of female adolescence and reproductive development, the following chapters cover different disorders including PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), endometriosis, anaemia, menstrual abnormalities, teenage pregnancy and abortion, STIs and more. Each section provides step by step guidance from history taking, signs and symptoms, and clinical examination, to diagnosis and therapy. A complete chapter covers the 2012 POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) Act. Key points Concise guide to reproductive health issues in adolescents, subsequently leading to fertility problems Discusses investigation, diagnosis and management of numerous disorders Covers POCSO Act 2012 Includes clinical images and figures to assist learning

Prostate biopsy is now one of the most common procedures performed by urologists. This book presents all topics related to the diagnosis of prostate cancer, including risk factor assessment, indications for biopsy, techniques, complications, and emerging technologies in the science. It also covers such important topics in prostate biopsy as PSA, pain prevention, prediction models, and biopsy techniques. The book's contributors include those who have defined the science of prostate cancer diagnosis and continue to improve upon it. These internationally acclaimed specialists provide their expert opinions on all topics related to prostate cancer diagnosis.

World-wide migration has an unsettling effect on social structures, especially on aging populations and eldercare. This volume investigates how taken-for-granted roles are challenged, intergenerational relationships transformed, economic ties recalibrated, technological innovations utilized, and spiritual relations pursued and desired, and asks what it means to care at a distance and to age abroad. What it does show is that trans-nationalization of care produces unprecedented convergences of people, objects and spaces that challenge our assumptions about the who, how, and where of care.

Fertility and Pregnancy: An Epidemiologic Perspective, is a lively overview of human reproduction: how it works, and what causes it to go wrong. Weaving together history, biology, obstetrics, pediatrics, demography, infectious diseases, molecular genetics, and evolutionary biology, Allen Wilcox brings a fresh coherence to the epidemiologic study of reproduction and pregnancy. Along the way, he provides entertaining anecdotes, superb graphs, odd tidbits and occasional humor that bring the topic to life.
The book is divided into two sections. The first lays the foundations - the basic principles of reproductive physiology, demography, infectious diseases, and genetics as they apply to human reproduction. The second part deals with the endpoints of reproductive epidemiology - a spectrum ranging from infertility and fetal loss to birth defects and the delayed effects of fetal exposures. The book closes with a discussion of unsolved problems, suggesting possible research projects for a new generation of epidemiologists. An extensive glossary makes this a valuable reference as well as an enjoyable read.

This handbook is a guide to infertility and ultrasound for gynaecologists and infertility specialists. The second edition has been fully revised and includes many new topics, providing the latest information in the field. Divided into two sections, the first half of the book covers infertility. Beginning with discussion on assessment of an infertile couple, the following chapters examine different hormone treatments, sperm preparation, and ovulation induction, including in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. The remaining chapters cover male infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, and practical tips for infertility management. The second part of the book covers ultrasound. Beginning with discussion on transvaginal sonography and ultrasound in different uterine diseases, the following chapters cover ultrasound in infertility treatment, as well as in the different trimesters of pregnancy. Screening for foetal abnormalities is also discussed in depth. The comprehensive text is highly illustrated with more than 700 ultrasound images, diagrams and photographs. Key points Practical guide to infertility and ultrasound for specialists in gynaecology and infertility Fully revised, second edition featuring many new topics Highly illustrated with more than 700 ultrasound images and diagrams Previous edition (9789351528562) published in 2015

Different technologies have been introduced to improve management of labor. To date there is no single text that aims at covering all these technologies that address different problems and issues in labor management. The book reviews new technologies and devices aimed to improve labor management and outcomes. These diverge between looking at a better way to use fetal heart rate monitors (that are used in 90% of labours); using new monitors to detect the <1% of babies that are damaged in labor and account for 99% of the medico-legal costs in labor; and early detection of non-progressive labors that complicate 30-50% of labors. This is the only book about all these technologies from the perspectives of new devices and technologies in labor.

aCahn explores the relationships that underpin artificial reproductive technology: parenting, donating, and becoming (those who are the children brought to life through this process). . . . Much about assisted reproduction are the relationships that are fostered and challenged by the use of the technology, whether donor to potential parent, potential parent to state, surrogate to intended mother, or embryo to clinic, and after it is all adone, a child to parent.a
--Michele Goodwin, author of "Black Markets: The Supply and Demand of Body Parts"

The birth of the first test tube baby in 1978 focused attention on the sweeping advances in assisted reproductive technology (ART), which is now a multi-billion-dollar business in the United States. Sperm and eggs are bought and sold in a market that has few barriersto its skyrocketing growth. While ART has been an invaluable gift to thousands of people, creating new families, the use of someone elseas genetic material raises complex legal and public policy issues that touch on technological anxiety, eugenics, reproductive autonomy, identity, and family structure. How should the use of gametic material be regulated? Should recipients be able to choose the abesta sperm and eggs? Should a child ever be able to discover the identity of her gamete donor? Who can claim parental rights?

Naomi R. Cahn explores these issues and many more in Test Tube Families, noting that although such questions are fundamental to the new reproductive technologies, there are few definitive answers provided by the law, ethics, or cultural norms. The regulatory void outside of minimal requirements for gametic testing and limited protection against deceptivemarketing techniques used by fertility clinics creates thorny problems for all involved in the egg and sperm business.

As a new generation of adonor kidsa comes of age, Test Tube Families calls for better regulation of ART. It exhorts legal and policy-making communities to cease applying piecemeal laws and instead create laws that sustain the fertility industry, yet protect the interests of donors, recipients, and the children that result from successful transfers.

Incorporating real-life stories to illustrate her arguments, Cahn provides specific suggestions for legal reforms. The book sets out a series of controversial proposals, including an end to donor anonymity and a plea for states to clarify parentage decisions. She also calls for the federal government to regulate ART processes to ensure that donors are adequately protected against exploitation, that recipients receive the gametes they have been promised, and that the market functions ethically as well as efficiently.

Fertility specialists are constantly looking for ways to improve the chances of pregnancy through IVF or other assisted reproductive techniques (ART). 'Adjuvant' or 'add-on' therapies are procedures or medications which are added to IVF treatment to try and improve the chances of success. This book is a practical guide to the use of adjuvants in infertility for clinicians and trainees. Divided into ten sections, the text begins with an overview of the rational for additional therapy in IVF. The next section examines different types of adjuvant therapy and their pros and cons. Topics include medical nutrition therapy, neutraceuticals, antioxidants, micronutrients, and reactive oxygen species. Each of the following sections covers adjuvant use for improving a specific fertility issue - PCOS, ovarian reserve, uterine blood flow, endometrial receptivity, embryo implantation, and male subfertility. The final sections discuss the impact of thyroid autoimmunity on the outcome of ART, and the use of surgery as an adjuvant in infertility. Key points Practical guide to the use of adjuvants in infertility Covers various types of adjuvant and their use for different fertility issues Includes discussion on surgery as an adjuvant Highly illustrated with clinical photographs and diagrams

The "Handbook of Sociology of Aging" is the most comprehensive, engaging, and up-to-date treatment of developments within the field over the past 30 years. The volume represents an indispensable source of the freshest and highest standard scholarship for scholars, policy makers, and aging professionals alike.

The "Handbook of Sociology of Aging "contains 45 far-reaching chapters, authored by nearly 80 of the most renowned experts, on the most pressing topics related to aging today. With its recurring attention to the social forces that shape human aging, and the social consequences and policy implications of it, the contents will be of interest to everyone who cares about what aging means for individuals, families, and societies.

The chapters of the "Handbook of Sociology of Aging" illustrate the field's extraordinary breadth and depth, which has never before been represented in a single volume. Its contributions address topics that range from foundational matters, such as classic and contemporary theories and methods, to topics of longstanding and emergent interest, such as social diversity and inequalities, social relationships, social institutions, economies and governments, social vulnerabilities, public health, and care arrangements. The volume closes with a set of personal essays by senior scholars who share their experiences and hopes for the field, and an essay by the editors that provides a roadmap for the decade ahead.

The "Handbook of Sociology of Aging" showcases the very best that sociology has to offer the study of human aging.

From Viagra to in vitro fertilization, new technologies are rapidly changing the global face of reproductive health. They are far from neutral: religious, cultural, social, and legal contexts condition their global transfer. The way a society interprets and adopts (or rejects) a new technology reveals a great deal about the relationship between bodies and the body politic. Reproductive health technologies are often particularly controversial because of their potential to reconfigure kinship relationships, sexual mores, gender roles, and the way life is conceptualized. This collection of original ethnographic research spans the region from Morocco and Tunisia to Israel and Iran and covers a wide range of technologies, including emergency contraception, medication abortion, gamete donation, hymenoplasty, erectile dysfunction, and gender transformation.

This book provides the first clinically comprehensive and practical approach to ethical challenges in perinatal medicine.The first chapter introduces and explains the professional responsibility model of perinatal ethics.The professional responsibility model is based on the medical ethics of two major physician-ethics in the history of Western medical ethics, Dr. John Gregory (1724-1773) of Scotland and Dr. Thomas Percival (1740-1804) of England.The professional responsibility model is used to articulate the ethical concept of the fetus as a patient and to operationalize the ethical principles of beneficence and respect for autonomy.The book provides practical guidance for clinical judgment and decision making with patients about the responsible clinical management of the wide range of issues encountered by perinatologists in clinical practice and research.Topics included: periviability; feticide; intrapartum management; maternal-fetal conflict; innovation for fetal benefit; research for fetal benefit; non-aggressive obstetric management; managing the transition from pregnancy to birth; destructive procedures such as cephalocentesis; critical care for the pregnant patient; home birth; patient-choice cesarean delivery; neonatal care as a trial of management; and setting limits on neonatal care on the basis of clinical judgments of futility.

Epigenetics is a rapidly expanding field in medical and biological research which concerns heritable traits that are not attributable to changes in the DNA sequence. Epigenetic mechanisms play key roles in many biological processes, and it has become clear that their disruption can gives rise to diverse pathologies in humans. Edited by preeminent experts, Sophie Rousseaux and Saadi Khochbin, this volume in the Epigenetics and Human Health' series discusses the role of epigenetics in human reproduction. The book presents epigenetic transitions that are important at defined stages of gametogenesis and during meiosis. Several of the sixteen chapters written by experts in the field cover fundamental concepts discovered through cellular and biochemical work and from research on animal models. In other chapters, key examples are provided of how disruption of these mechanisms affects germ cell development and fertility, and contributes to the germinal cancers. Finally, the book discusses how in vitro manipulation and culture in assisted reproduction can epigenetically perturb germ cells, and how this can trigger disease phenotypes in the next generation. Conceived towards advanced students, medical professionals and research scientists, this is the first comprehensive textbook on this topic that will serve as a valuable reference during the years to come.

'Maisie's knowledge of hormones changed my life... you need this book' Anna Jones 'Hill's advice is straightforward and no-nonsense' The Guardian 'An informative must-read for any woman - whatever their age' Vogue online During perimenopause three quarters of women will experience symptoms such as mood changes, insomnia, hot flushes, and night sweats, but there is little in the way of evidence-based information out there to help and guide us. Perimenopause Power is the essential handbook to understanding what the hell's going on and to empower us to improve our experience of the dreaded 'change'. Maisie Hill, the highly qualified women's health expert, best-selling author of Period Power and founder of The Flow Collective, takes us through the physiological changes of perimenopause and menopause, step by step, with calm positivity. In this invaluable guide she shares tips and advice to support women through the challenge of wildly fluctuating hormones. A must-read for anyone looking for a well-researched, evidenced-based book on perimenopause and menopause that gives women the information they need to address their hormonal needs. Perimenopause Power will help women to understand what's going on with their bodies and how to deal with troublesome symptoms, and share valuable insights into making it a positive and powerful experience. 'Maisie Hill helps you understand the changes in your body and psyche during the lead-up to menopause and how to handle symptoms.' Top Sante 'Maisie Hill gets rid of myths, sheds light and allows for an open, honest and much-needed conversation' Mind

Providing the latest evidence-based information on etiology, evaluation and treatment, this unique text provides an in-depth, comprehensive discussion of the epidemiology, genetic and endocrinologic factors and medical and surgical management of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Taking a multidisciplinary approach including psychological treatment and patient perspectives, all aspects of current RPL prevention and treatment are elucidated. Detailed chapters provide real-world illustrative material and cover the set-up and management of RPL clinics and databases, containing practical tips. Recurrent Pregnancy Loss will be an excellent resource for OB-GYN specialists, general and reproductive endocrinologists, radiologists, hematologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and any other investigators or clinicians treating patients confronted with this emotionally and physically trying condition.

In the last forty years anthropologists have made major contributions to understanding the heterogeneity of reproductive trends and processes underlying them. Fertility transition, rather than the story of the triumphant spread of Western birth control rationality, reveals a diversity of reproductive means and ends continuing before, during, and after transition. This collection brings together anthropological case studies, placing them in a comparative framework of compositional demography and conjunctural action. The volume addresses major issues of inequality and distribution which shape population and social structures, and in which fertility trends and the formation and size of families are not decided solely or primarily by reproduction.

Biological rhythms time the ebb and flow of virtually every physiological process, and their mutual coordination guarantees the integrity of the organism over space and time. Aging leads to the disintegration of this coordination, as well as to changes in the amplitude and/or frequency of the underlying rhythms. The results of this are accelerated loss of health during aging, and in experimental model systems curtailed lifespan occurs. This book will examine the machinery that constitutes circadian systems and how they impact physiologic processes. It will also discuss how disturbances of circadian rhythms can lead to complex diseases associated with aging. Much of this treatment will focus on metabolism and genome stability. Importantly, the chapters in this book will encompass work in several different models, in addition to human. The book will conclude with a discussion of modeling approaches to biologic cycles and chronotherapy, for future research and translation.