Lizzie Stark takes readers on a witty, revealing and delightful journey through the natural and cultural history of the egg, exploring its deep symbolism, innumerable uses and metabolic importance in twelve dazzling specimens. From Mali to Finland, Stark looks at cultures that find the world's origins in an egg. Decorated by Ukrainians, an oracle for Greeks, the impetus behind gang wars and flown into space, the egg-whether of chickens, murres or ostriches-has taken on mythic proportions, all the while serving as a humble ingredient in fancy dishes. Stark even writes Jacques Pepin's biography through the lens of the egg dishes he served. Egg is also about Stark's fascination with this delicate ovoid-both her myriad attempts to create a perfect omelette and her fraught relationship to the ova in her body. Filled with colourful characters and fascinating morsels, Egg is a playful, informative and surprising history that guarantees you'll never take the egg for granted again.

In the past, pregnancy after cancer was largely unheard of. Today, it is increasingly a possibility. Oncofertility has emerged as an interdisciplinary field bridging biomedical and social sciences, and examining issues regarding an individual 's fertility options, choice and goals in light of cancer diagnosis, treatment and survivorship. Written by leaders in this evolving field, the volume covers various aspects: medical, ethical and social.

Inspired by Carlos Beyer's 50 years of pioneering research and influence on his students and colleagues, Behavioral Neuroendocrinology builds upon Beyer's fundamental discoveries and concepts as well as their widespread implications. It presents original research and reviews on mechanisms - genomic and non-genomic - of steroid and protein hormone action; the role of steroid metabolism, especially aromatization, protein phosphorylation, and neurotransmitter action in mediating reproductive behavior and sexual differentiation; and brain and spinal cord mechanisms in sexual behavior and analgesia. This book presents a rich diversity of topics - lactation, maternal behavior, pheromone action, chronobiology, allodynia, angiogenesis, prostate physiology, sexual motivation, and specific brain systems, including vomeronasal system, cerebellum, preoptic area, hypothalamus, and spinal cord. This book brings together, in one source, an international "family" of researchers whose work has evolved in diverse but related ways from a seminal set of discoveries and concepts in behavioral neuroendocrinology.

The examination for Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (MRCOG) remains one of the most internationally recognised postgraduate examinations in the specialty. Over the years, the examination has evolved in keeping with changes in medical education; the Part 3 examination now consists of 14 tasks, each covering one of the 14 core modules in the curriculum and assessing specific skills which may include all or some of Information Gathering, Communication with Patients and Families, Communication with Colleagues, Patient Safety, and Applied Clinical Knowledge. This invaluable resource consists of analyses of different aspects of what is being tested, with general advice on how to prepare for the examination and discussion of the reasons why trainees fail the examination. There follow four sample 'papers' of tasks; in each of them, attempts have been made to cover all 14 modules in the core curriculum. There is also an additional paper with random tasks to help with preparation.

The examination for Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (MRCOG) remains one of the most internationally recognised postgraduate examinations in the specialty. Over the years, the examination has evolved in keeping with changes in medical education; the Part 3 examination now consists of 14 tasks, each covering one of the 14 core modules in the curriculum and assessing specific skills which may include all or some of Information Gathering, Communication with Patients and Families, Communication with Colleagues, Patient Safety, and Applied Clinical Knowledge. This invaluable resource consists of analyses of different aspects of what is being tested, with general advice on how to prepare for the examination and discussion of the reasons why trainees fail the examination. There follow four sample 'papers' of tasks; in each of them, attempts have been made to cover all 14 modules in the core curriculum. There is also an additional paper with random tasks to help with preparation.

Regulatory agencies worldwide have issued directives or such requirements for air quality standards in embryology laboratories. This practical guide reviews the application of clean room technology or controlled environments specifically suited for Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Units. Its comprehensive coverage includes material on airborne particles and volatile organic compounds, including basic concepts, regulation, construction, materials, certification, clinical results in humans, and more.

The new reproductive technologies (NRTs) have given rise to new ethical questions that are widely debated. This book, the outcome of a European Union-wide collaborative process, draws on the experience and expertise of ethicists, lawyers, and clinical practitioners and focuses on some of the "burning issues" in different European countries. These include: donor insemination; surrogacy; preimplantation genetic diagnosis; embryo research; access to IVF treatment; and parental, professional and social responsibility. Familiar notions such as quality of life, parenthood, mothering, responsibility and personal identity surface at many points throughout the book and are refashioned to accommodate new questions. This book introduces and probes ethical questions and challenges in a hands-on way by working through relevant case studies with key commentaries and activities. It engages the reader directly in ethical reasoning and decision-making and provides clear explanations, insightful commentaries and informed debate on NRTs.

'A perfect blend of cutting-edge science and compelling storytelling. Daniel Davis has a rare knack for making complex science comprehensible and thrilling' BILL BRYSON Welcome to a revolution in the science of you. Recent and dramatic breakthroughs in our understanding of the body will profoundly change the experience of being human in the coming century. Already they are opening up boundary-breaking possibilities for intervention at every level, from our brains and genes to our microbiomes and immune systems. These will confer unprecedented powers over health, childhood development, our cognitive and physical abilities, and affect every aspect of how we live our lives and think about ourselves. As the secrets of our bodies are revealed, we all will face previously unthinkable choices with consequences we have yet to understand. Imagine knowing years in advance the precise likelihood of developing specific cancers, thanks to a bespoke understanding of every cell in your body; following a diet and health regime tailored to your microbiome; continuous monitoring of your body's workings and well-being; taking drugs that improve your cognition and help to acquire new skills; manipulating the genes of your unborn children to eliminate disease or even enhance their capabilities. Written by an award-winning scientist at the forefront of this work, The Secret Body shows how these radical and disconcerting possibilities have been made real thanks to the ingenious technologies and decades-long collaborations of scientists worldwide. A gripping drama of discovery and a landmark account of this dawning revolution, it presents a vision of the human body of dizzying complexity, wonder and possibility. 'A beautifully rendered picture of the startling new discoveries in human biology which are radically altering our understanding of how we function and what our future holds' BRIAN COX 'An extraordinary journey that reveals the magnificence, intricacy and beauty of the human body, fundamentally changing the way we see ourselves. Masterful' ALICE ROBERTS

The use of IVM in assisted reproductive technology continues to increase around the world. The major benefit of IVM is that significant numbers of oocytes can be collected from ovaries without recourse to ovarian stimulation. This reduces the costs, time, and risks associated with conventional IVF. Although initially limited to women with polycystic ovary syndrome who were at higher risk of problems following ovarian stimulation, IVM is increasingly used in women with normal ovulatory menstrual cycles. This authoritative text covers the current scientific knowledge of oocyte development and the understanding behind the techniques involved in the clinical application of IVM in assisted reproductive technologies. Short Contents

Published in 1998, this book is a collected volume of papers from the first conference of the European Network for Biomedical ethics. The main subject of this conference is the ethical assessment of IVF in view of its concrete application as an infertility treatment and the consideration of possible alternatives for use. Twenty years after the introduction and the establishment of this therapy a more concrete evaluation of its medical indications, social conditions and consequences, the psychological consequences for the women involved and the parent-child relationship becomes possible. The legal and ethical evaluation of the reproduction technology as regards for example the legal and moral status of supernumery embyos in cryo-conservation has also to be considered in a European perspective. The ethical evaluation concentrates today on the new evolution that IVF technology takes in relation to the extension of diagnostics possibilities due to genetic research. Little work has been done on the connection between IVF and genetic diagnostics and therapy, so the medical and ethical evaluation of the connecting lines are also included in the book.

The sites, spaces and subjects of reproduction are distinctly geographical. Reproductive geographies span different scales - body, home, local, national, global - and movements across space. This book expands our understanding of the socio-cultural and spatial aspects of fertility, pregnancy and birth. The chapters directly address global perspectives, the future of reproductive politics and state-focused approaches to the politicisation of fertility, pregnancy and birth. The book provides up-to-date explorations on the changing landscapes of reproduction, including the expansion of reproductive technologies, such as surrogacy and intrauterine insemination. Contributions in this book focus on phenomenologically-inspired accounts of women's lived experience of pregnancy and birth, the biopolitics of birth and citizenship, the material histories of reproductive tissues as "scientific objects" and engagements with public health and development policy. This is an essential resource for upper-level undergraduates and graduates studying topics such as Sociology, Geographies of Gender, Women's Studies and Anthropology of Health and Medicine.

Adopts an "issues approach" to teaching introductory biology Up-to-date on relevant topics like climate change, CRISPR, new hominids, and new cancer therapies Suitable for both a majors and non-majors course More succinct for ease in teaching and more affordable for students A large suite of student resources, such as questions to enable self-testing, simulations of key processes to aid learning, web links to encourage further reading Instructor resources to use in teaching, such as PowerPoint slides with figures from the book, activity and assignment ideas, and comprehensive lesson plans

Now in its fourth volume, the Biennial Review of Infertility brings together the most up-to-date research and clinical information on male and female infertility, emerging assisted reproductive techniques and evolving controversies in reproductive medicine. An impressive panel of contributors presents cutting-edge information in a clear and well-balanced manner. Volume 4 discusses hot topics in contemporary reproductive medicine, including stem cell technologies for male infertility, the current state of ovarian tissue cryopreservation and time-lapse video microscopy of embryos. The expanded section on controversies allows for point/counterpoint discussion between experts with differing opinions on topics like eSET and the use and role of dietary supplements in IVF cycles. Created to provide an ongoing appraisal of current knowledge, the Biennial Review of Infertility stimulates communication amongst all clinicians and researchers working to help couples resolve their infertility.

The ONLY textbook available on marine mammal physiology, a core topic in Marine Science undergrad teaching Builds on the unique overall theme 'How would you design a marine mammal?' which focuses on what an undergrad student would actually want to know. What would they ask? So rather than "What are the biochemical differences between marine and terrestrial mammals?" the book addresses "How can marine mammals dive for such a long time?" or "How do they stay warm in such cold water?" Organises the Table of Contents into common 'real' student questions. The book thus centres around the point of view of the student. This makes it accessible and student-focused. Consistency across all chapters Provides consistent Power Point slides that teachers can use when they don't know the field well AND that students can use as study guides. Offers Study Questions and future thinking/implications questions. A Driving Question for each chapter is highlighted in a box. A concluding chapter ties up loose ends and consolidates the driving questions from the individual chapters. Contains the contributions of well-respected, prominent scientists in the field. Author bios for each chapter showcase diversity in contributor pool. Focuses on physiological adaptations of marine mammals and connects them with the ecological context, including anthropogenic impacts. Discusses differences that might exist by type of marine mammal, development questions, and behavioral issues.

Originally published in 1984 Reproductive Ritual examines fertility and re-production in pre-industrial England. The book discusses both through anthropological research and reviews of contemporary literature that conscious family limitation was practised before the nineteenth century. The volume describes a surprising number of rules, regulations, taboos, injunctions, charms and herbal remedies used to affect pregnancy, and shows the extent to which individual women and men were concerned with controlling the size of their families. The fertility levels in England - as in Western Europe as a whole - were a very long way from the biological maximum in these centuries, and the book discusses the various reasons why this was so. The book reviews traditional ideas concerning the relationship between procreation and pleasure, drawn from a range of contemporary sources and discusses ways in which earlier generations sought both to promote and limit fertility. The book also examines abortion and shows how much evidence there is for its actual practice during the period and of traditional views towards it. This book provides a detailed understanding of historical attitudes towards conception family planning in pre-industrial England.

The examination for Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (MRCOG) remains one of the most internationally recognised postgraduate examinations in the specialty. Over the years, the examination has evolved in keeping with changes in medical education; the Part 2 examination now consists of two papers made up of Single Best Answer (SBA) questions and Extended Matching Questions (EMQ). This invaluable resource consists of 400 SBA questions (200 in Obstetrics and 200 in Gynaecology), followed by 400 EMQs (200 in Obstetrics and 200 in Gynaecology), grouped into papers, to provide enough material to guide preparations and to give some practice experience of the examination formats. All the questions have answers with explanations and sources of evidence. In preparing for the examination, candidates should make repeated references to these sources of evidence. There is also general advice on how to prepare for the examination and discussion of the reasons why trainees fail the examination.

Office-Based Infertility Practice is an invaluable resource to all physicians treating infertile couples. The text emphasizes the practice of infertility in the office setting, reflecting the current trend away from the hospital into the outpatient environment. The most current and advanced therapies available are discussed by recognized experts in the field. The first half of the book is devoted to the evaluation and work-up of the infertile couple, including evaluation of the male, female, age-related infertility factors, and the roles of ultrasound, endometrium saline sonography, falloposcopy and diagnostic laparoscopy and hysteroscopy. The second half of the book presents the treatment and operative procedures for the infertile couple, including ovulation induction, IUI, tubal cannulation, treatment of cervical stenosis, the use of office laparoscopy and therapeutic hysteroscopy, male treatment as support for IVF, vas reversals, and testicular biopsy, as well as routine IVF, intratubal gamete transfer, and micromanipulation. With over 60 illustrations, this book is a must for all infertility specialists, obstetrician-gynecologists, fellows, and residents. Its practical, comprehensive approach will be of daily use to the office practitioner treating women of reproductive age.

In this unique book emphasis is placed on tests necessary to evaluate fetal well-being and to detect those fetuses at risk of hypoxia and acidosis in utero. Written by pioneers in the neonatal field, this publication contains chapters on the pathophysiology , obstetric management, and collagen diseases of intrauterine growth retardation. Ultrasound in detection of growth retarded fetuses is explored, as well as magnetic resonance imaging and magnesium substitution for the prevention of intrauterine growth retardation. Containing never-before-published information, this volume is an excellent reference source for both investigators in the field and those entering it. Topics Include: Perinatal growth chart for international reference Ultrasound guided procedures in small for gestation fetuses Utero-placental and fetal circulation

Analyzes various reproductive and gynecological disorders encountered in the care of women who do not wish to conceive, as well as those who have difficulty with conception, early pregnancy, and menopause. Discusses the latest strategies in the treatment of infertility, pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and osteoporosis.

If you had a dependable method for determining the healthiest and most viable conceptus from a cohort of growing preembryos, replacing more than a single one in order to achieve good pregnancy rates would be moot. Sometime in the not-so-distant future, this may be a reality. Taking a step towards that future, An Atlas of Human Blastocysts vividly illustrates the typical and atypical morphology of mammalian blastocysts. The atlas demonstrates that extended culture of blastocysts is now achieveable in the laboratory and points us toward the day when it will be possible to choose between a number of healthy hatched blastocysts.

Why are women biologically driven to find Mr. Tall, Dark, and Handsome?Can more sex help ensure a safe pregnancy?What effect does pornography have on a man's fertility?

Dr. Sharon Moalem, author of the New York Times bestseller Survival of the Sickest, takes us on a trip from prehistory to the forefront of cutting-edge medical research--and through a bedroom or two--to tell the story of how human sexuality has developed over time. How Sex Works challenges common perceptions about our bodies as it provides answers to such provocative questions as: Can the birth control pill influence the type of men women are attracted to? Why do hourglass-shaped women tend to be especially fertile? When are women most likely to cheat? Can twins have different fathers?

From the composition and function of human sex organs to the fascinating biochemistry behind sexual attraction, How Sex Works is an entertaining, comprehensive exploration of culture, biology, and history that takes us far beyond our common understanding of sex.

With the advent of Assisted Reproductive Technologies, our understanding of the reproductive system in both men and women has progressed in an exponential manner. Along with this increase in knowledge has emerged new and advanced laboratories performing unique techniques aimed at diagnosing and treating infertility problems. And as these laboratories expand, the need for properly trained technicians has also emerged. But while many ART labs are staffed with biologists well trained in reproductive research techniques, they lack the necessary skills to effectively manage these labs. The Handbook of the Assisted Reproduction Laboratory addresses many of the management issues and basic background information on reproductive biology and medicine needed by the technicians staffing and directing these ART labs. Internationally recognized experts in the field discuss various topics in this handbook, which: Reviews male and female reproductive systems and processes Discusses the clinical diagnosis and management of male and female infertility Provides new information on the state-of-the-art techniques of egg and embryo culture, micromanipulation, and biopsy Presents various aspects of quality control, quality assurance, and clinical laboratory management With its in-depth analysis of management issues, as well as basic background information on reproductive biology and medicine, the Handbook of the Assisted Reproduction Laboratory serves as an ideal guide for current investigation and as a stimulus for future developments in the field.

Over the past 10 years, studies have shown that the rates of fertility vary in different ethnic groups. Ethnic differences also play a significant role in the outcome of assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles. In the United States, minority groups--African Americans, Hispanics (mainly Mexicans and Central Americans), East Asians (Chinese, Japanese, Koreans, Philippinos) and South Asians (Indians, Pakistanis, and Bengalis)--have significantly lower chances of live births compared to Caucasian women. Birth outcome data collected by the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology shows a worsening trend in conception rates between the years 1999-2000 and 2004-2006, raising more concern that the disparity in fertility rates between minority groups and white women is widening over time. This comprehensive book serves to answer the questions that arise when managing infertility in a multi-ethnic population. An expert assembly of key leaders in the field of reproductive medicine imparts insight and clinical experience in order to identify and analyze the possible causes of racial disparities in fertility outcome. Some of the reviewed causes include higher Body Mass Index (BMI), tubal diseases, metabolic syndrome, and fibroids in African Americans; tubal disease and higher early pregnancy loss in Hispanics; higher incidence of diminished ovarian reserve and lower BMI in East Asians; and higher incidence of polycystic ovarian disease (PCOS) in South Asians. The book also provides a review of data on access to care and ART services in developing countries. A thoughtful combination of evidence-based medicine and advanced treatment options, this book is sure to distinguish itself as the definitive reference on ethnic differences in assisted reproduction.

This textbook presents essential and accessible information about human embryology including practical information on human health issues and recent advances in human reproductive technology. Starting with biological basics of cell anatomy and fertilization, the author moves through the development of specific organs and systems, before addressing social issues associated with embryology. Each chapter includes specific objectives, general background, study questions, and questions to inspire critical thinking. Human Life Before Birth also contains two appendices and a full glossary of terms covered in the text. Clinicians and researchers in this field will find this volume indispensable. Key selling features: Explores all the developmental and embryological events that occur in human emryonic and fetal life Reviews basic cell biology, genetics, and reproduction focusing entirely on humans Summarizes the development of various anatomical systems Examines common birth defects and sexually transmitted diseases including emerging concerns such as Zika Documents assisted fertilization technologies and various cultural aspects of reproduction

This book is the second collection of essays on reproductive ethics from Drs. Campo-Engelstein and Burcher. This volume is unique in that it is both timely and includes several essays on new technologies, while also being a comprehensive review of most of the major questions in the field, from racial disparities in reproductive healthcare to gene editing and the possibility of the creation of a transhuman species. The scholars writing these essays are pre-eminent in their fields, and their backgrounds are quite varied, including philosophers, anthropologists, physicians, and professors of law. Reproductive ethics remains an underdeveloped area of bioethics despite the recent technological breakthroughs that carry both great promise and potential threats. Building on the first volume of work from a conference held just over one year ago, this new collection of essays from a conference held April 2017 continues this discussion as well as provides ethical insights and reviews of these emerging technologies. The ethical questions swirling around human reproduction are both old and new, but the conference presentations, and the essays derived from them, focus on new ways of appreciating old arguments such as the ethics of abortion, as well as new ways of seeing new technologies such as CRISPR and mitochondrial transfer.