Central nervous system (CNS) diseases such as Alzheimer s disease, Parkinson s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis affect a large number of populations worldwide for which no suitable cure is currently available. In addition, stroke, nanoparticle intoxication, diabetes, hypertension, and psychostimulant abuse either alone or in combination are capable of inducing potential brain damage. Thus, there is an urgent need to expand our knowledge to find suitable therapeutic strategies to enhance neurorepair processes in such diseases.

This volume presents neuroprotection and novel therapeutic strategies developed in the last 5 years by 12 world leaders in the field. The term neuroprotection means rescuing neuronal and non-neuronal cells together. The cerebral endothelium that constitutes the anatomical and physiological site of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is one of the most important non-neural cells in the CNS. Any distortion of the BBB leads to brain diseases and restoration of the barrier results in neuroprotection. Thus, the BBB appears to be the "gateway" for neurological diseases and neurorepair. However, to treat brain tumors or infarcts, new therapeutic strategies are needed to enhance brain drug delivery using nanotechnology. In addition, apart from conventional drugs, restoration of BBB function could also be achieved by means of antibodies directed against specific proteins, neurotransmitters or exogenous supplement of neurotrophic factors. Since co-morbidity factors e.g., hypertension, diabetes, and exposure of nanoparticles could complicate the pathogenesis of neurological disorders either an enhanced dose of the drug or nanodelivery of a combination of several drugs is needed to achieve neuroprotection.

This volume of "International Review of Neurobiology" is the first to discuss novel therapeutic strategies in situations of neurological disorders in combination with different co-morbidity factors.

Reviews written by experts in such a way thatprovides basic knowledge for beginners and advanced information for researchers and experts.

New aspects of Neurodegenerative diseasessuch as;Alzheimer s Disease, Parkinson s Disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis are presented with thelatest therapeutic measures.

Exacerbation of brain pathology in hypertension or diabetes is discussed for the first time.

Published since 1959, International Review of Neurobiology is a well-known series appealing to neuroscientists, clinicians, psychologists, physiologists, and pharmacologists. Led by an internationally renowned editorial board, this important serial publishes both eclectic volumes made up of timely reviews and thematic volumes that focus on recent progress in a specific area of neurobiology research. This volume reviews existing theories and current research surrounding the movement disorder Dyskinesia.

Leading authors review state-of-the-art in their field of investigation and provide their views and perspectives for future research
Chapters are extensively referenced to provide readers with a comprehensive list of resources on the topics covered
All chapters include comprehensive background information and are written in a clear form that is also accessible to the non-specialist

Volume 95 of "International Review of Neurobiology" focuses on Catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibition, and its clinical application in relation to Parkinson s disease. Chapters cover COMT gene and proteins, L-dopa treatment in Parkinson s disease, the latest research on COMT inhibitors and their clinical applications, as well as future prospects for their use.

Up-to-date summary of biochemistry and pharmacology of COMT and its inhibitors Preclinical models in COMT inhibitor devlopment Transgenic COMT mice latest information summarized Chemistry of COMT inhibitors and their design with molecular modelling COMT gene and its regulation and relation to dopamine related diseases Role of cofactor SAM regulation in relation to homocysteine Nonclinical and clinical safety of COMT inhibitors summarized Future prospects of COMT inhibitors in Parkinson s disease

Inflammation is a central mechanism in many neurological diseases, including stroke, multiple sclerosis, and brain trauma as well as meningitis and contributes to the generation of pain. We are now beginning to understand the impact of the immune system on different nervous system functions and diseases, ranging from damage through tolerance to modulation and repair.

This book discusses some of the more common neuro-inflammatory diseases. Topics covered include multiple sclerosis, optic neuritis and Susac syndrome.
Comprehensive review of the latest developments in neuroinflammation
Includes contributions from leading authorities

The serotonin 5-HT6 receptor represents a novel pharmacological target whose impact on physiopathology of CNS functions remains undetermined. Some receptor antagonists have been synthesized and they show a modulatory role in learning and memory processes, and food intake. The pharmacology of 5-HT6 receptor agonists is still under evaluation. However, both 5-HT6 antagonists and agonists seem to exert potential antidepressant activity. Recently, a second messenger system has been discovered. 5-HT6 receptor function is becoming more and more intriguing. Thus, the aim of the present book is to try to clarify the pharmacology of 5-HT6 receptors.

written by expert researchers covers all published literature to date in the field of 5-HT6 receptors

With recent advances of modern medicine more people reach the "elderly age" around the globe and the number of dementia cases are ever increasing. This book is about various aspects of dementia and provides its readers with a wide range of thought-provoking sub-topics in the field of dementia. The ultimate goal of this monograph is to stimulate other physicians' and neuroscientists' interest to carry out more research projects into pathogenesis of this devastating group of diseases.

How do genes determine behavior? How much of behavior is nature versus nurture? How do behaviors evolve? Anholt and Mackay, leading scholars in the field of behavioral genetics, address these questions and much more in this comprehensive textbook that defines the emerging field of behavioral genetics. The provides a range of examples, such as laboratory studies on flies and mice, field observations on species as diverse as butterflies and meerkats, and human behavioral disorders. The book blends classical and modern genetic principles with neurobiological and ecological perspectives to teach students how to find and map genes that affect behaviors, as well as how the coordinated expression of ensembles of these genes enables the nervous system to express complex behaviors in response to changes in the environment. Principles of Behavioral Genetics introduces us to the fascinating science that aims to understand how our genes determine what makes us tick.
Principles of Behavioral Genetics presents a comprehensive overview of the relationship between genes, brain and behavior. Introductory chapters provide clear explanations of basic processes of the nervous system and fundamental principles of genetics of complex traits without excessive statistical jargon. Individual chapters describe the genetics of social interactions, olfaction and taste, memory and learning, circadian behavior, locomotion, sleep, and addiction, as well as the evolution of behavior. Whereas the focus is on genetics, neurobiological and ecological aspects are also included to provide intellectual breadth. The book uses examples that span the gamut from classical model organisms to non-model systems and human biology, and include both laboratory and field studies. Samples of historical information accentuate the text to provide the reader with an appreciation of the history of the field. All chapters contain general overviews, concise summaries, study questions that promote not only memorization but also contemplation of the material, and recommendations for further in-depth reading. An extensive glossary that defines the terminology used in the book is included. This textbook encompasses a broad definition of the emerging science of behavioral genetics.
* Defines the emerging science of behavioral genetics
* Engagingly written by two leading experts in behavioral genetics
* Clear explanations of basic quantitative genetic, neurogenetic and genomic applications to the study of behavior
* Numerous examples ranging from model organisms to non-model systems and humans
* Concise overviews and summaries for each chapter

Now more than ever, doctors are being targeted by government prosecutors and whistleblowers challenging the legality of their relationships with drug and device companies. With reputations at stake and the risk of civil and criminal liability, it is incumbent upon doctors to protect themselves.
Managing Relationships with Industry: A Physician s Compliance Manual is an indispensable resource for doctors, professional societies, academic medical centers, community hospitals, and group practices struggling to understand the ever changing law and ethical standards on interactions with pharmaceutical and device companies. It is the first comprehensive summary of the law and ethics on physician relationships with industry written for the physician. Authored by a former state Attorney General, Harvard Medical School Professor, health care lawyer and professor of ethics, Managing Relationships approaches the topic from a balanced and reasoned perspective adding to the on-going national dialogue and debate on the proper limits to medicine s relationship with industry.
* The first complete and up-to-date summary and analysis of the law and ethics on physician-industry relationships
* Focuses on major enforcement actions and whistleblower lawsuits and the lessons learned for physicians
* Provides options and guidance for maintaining compliant relationships and avoiding traps for the unwary
* Covers both drug and device company relationships
* Summarizes the types of industry relationships that are necessary and productive and those that are harmful and abusive
* Details the law and ethics for each type of relationship including gifts, off-label uses and marketing, CME, speaker s bureaus, free samples, grants, consulting arrangements, etc.
* Includes sample contracts for permissible consulting and CME speaker engagements"

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders, and original observations in the field are often the key to diagnosis and successful treatment. Physicians new to the field as well as seasoned practitioners will benefit from more than one hundred case vignettes that explore the universe of epilepsy as it presents in daily practice. Some of these cases challenge long-held views about epilepsy and others bring the reader to the limits of our understanding of epilepsy, both in clinical and basic science. To improve the interface of clinical and basic science in epilepsy, basic scientists comment on the potential mechanisms underlying clinical observations, and clinicians assess the potential impact of recent results of experiments in the laboratory. This book highlights the importance that original observations have in inspiring both new treatments and continued research.
* Presents unique and challenging case vignettes in epilepsy contributed by eminent physicians in the field
* Provides practicing physicians with examples of how baffling cases were handled and solved
* A new section provides a translational perspective, with basic scientists discussing the potential mechanisms underlying original clinical observations, and clinical scientists discussing the clinical implications of experiments in the epilepsy laboratory

Metabolic syndrome is a set of risk factors that includes: abdominal obesity, a decreased ability to process glucose (insulin resistance), dyslipidemia (unhealthy lipid levels), and hypertension. Patients who have this syndrome have been shown to be at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease and/or type 2 diabetes. Metabolic syndrome is a common condition that goes by many names (dysmetabolic syndrome, syndrome X, insulin resistance syndrome, obesity syndrome, and Reaven's syndrome).
This is the first book to fully explain the relationships between psychiatric illness, Metabolic Syndrome, diet, sleep, exercise, medications, and lifestyle choices. Metabolic Syndrome is a major risk factor in Major Depression, Alzheimer's Disease, Sleep Disorders, Sexual Dysfunction, Fibromyalgia, and several other illnesses of psychiatric significance. Conversely, some psychiatric illnesses tend to predispose patients to Metabolic Syndrome. Of further interest is the fact that some of the medications used in the treatment of psychiatric illnesses have been found to cause or exacerbate Metabolic Syndrome.
The author here provides basic information about what genetic predispositions, medical conditions, and lifestyle choices make Metabolic Syndrome more likely to occur. Among the contributing factors that are discussed are genetics, habitual intake of high glycemic index carbohydrates, fructose, saturated fats, trans fatty acids, vitamins, micronutrients, obesity, smoking, and lack of exercise.
The author describes the actual mechanisms by which Metabolic Syndrome progresses and causes damage in the body, including the action of insulin and the pathophysiology of insulin resistance. Details are provided on what occurs in the liver, pancreas, muscle, fat cells, and immune system as Metabolic Syndrome progresses. New findings are presented on fat cells, including the fact that they are beginning to be considered as endocrine cells. There is a substantive discussion of leptin, which is one of the important adipocytokines. Also carbohydrate, 'bad fats', inflammation, oxidative damage, over-stimulation of the 'fight or flight' system, and high levels of the stress hormone cortisol can actually cause the manifestations of Metabolic Syndrome. These explanations set the stage for an explanation of the inter-relationships between Metabolic Syndrome, psychiatric illness, dementia and effects of not only diet and life choices, but also the effects of psychiatric medications.
Finally, there is an important and unique section on the relationship between Metabolic Syndrome and various psychiatric illnesses, and how they exacerbate each other. The significance of Metabolic Syndrome in Major Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Schizophrenia, fibromyalgia and Polycystic Ovary Disease is vast and it is important to realise the effects of psychiatric medications on Metabolic Syndrome. The author discusses antidepressants, mood stabilizers and the new atypical antipsychotics. There are dramatic differences among medications in the way they affect Metabolic Syndrome and pharmaceutical companies will want to promote patient awareness with this book.

* Provides an understanding of Metabolic Syndrome and how this syndrome is a major risk factor in depression, Alzheimer's Disease, Sleep Disorders, Sexual Dysfunction, and other illnesses of psychiatric significance.
* Places specific emphasis on the connection of Metabolic Syndrome with Psychiatric illnesses, and how these conditions exacerbate each other.
* Discusses the actual mechanisms by which Metabolic Syndrome progresses and causes damage to the body.
* Explores the relationship between Major Depression, Heart Disease and Metabolic Syndrome.
* Includes supplementary section which discusses and critiques many current dietary supplements that are thought to be helpful for Metabolic Syndrome.
* Discusses the roles of diet, genetics and supplements in managing Metabolic Syndrome.

The book presents a basis for the interaction of the brain and nervous system with painting, music and literature, and a discussion of art from multiple facets such as anatomy, migraine, illusion and evolutionary biology. The book explores several aspects of the neurobiology of painting, including evolutionary neurobiology, sensation vs. perception, the visual brain and how the mind works, and also explores the affects of brain disorders and trauma on artist, with a concluding chapter on Frida Kahlo and the spinal cord injury that influenced her painting.

The study of catatonia in Autism Spectrum Disorders is a novel and controversial topic. Catatonia is a motor disorder characterized by stereotypy, rigidity, mutism, and posturing. These motor signs are also characteristic of autism. The interest in the relation between autism and catatonia stems from clinical observations that autistic and catatonic symptoms overlap, that some people with autism develop full-blown catatonia, and that anti-catatonic treatments bring relief in some of those patients.
This book explores the question of if the two syndromes have a common pathophysiology. It also examines whether the successful treatment of catatonia be applied to patients with both autism and catatonia. The book concludes with blueprints for the assessment, treatment, and future study of catatonia in Autism Spectrum Disorders. These blueprints aim to increase early recognition and treatment of catatonia in patients with autism, show the urgency of controlled treatment trials and increased collaborative and interdisciplinary research into the co-occurrence of these two enigmatic disorders.
* Provides a historical perspective of the concepts of catatonia and autism, as described by old European masters like Bleuler and Kalhbaum
* Presents clinical-epidemiological studies that apply systematic criteria of catatonia in populations with Autism Spectrum Disorders
* Includes a review of the importance of psychomotor function for normal and abnormal development

Glutamate and GABA are the main information carrying neurotransmitters in the brain. Their action is modulated by a further series of small molecules called neuromodulators. The major neuromodulators in the brain are acetylcholine (both muscarinic and nicotinic), dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine and serotonin. These have an enormous range of functions in a wide variety of brain mechanisms. This book attempts to give a general overview of this field with a section devoted to each of these. Each section starts with anatomy, both structural and functional. The various types of receptors for these agents are described and then the effects of stimulating these receptors. These receptors trigger a variety of electrical reactions that generally involve potassium, sodium or calcium channels. Also reviewed are other receptors that trigger a wide variety of post-synaptic signaling cascades that influence a large number of neuronal functions including receptor sensitivity, synaptic plasticity and gene manipulation. Finally the relevance of these systems to disease states is detailed. There are many reviews of individual neuromodulators but this is the only book where one author attempts to cover the whole field.

This text introduces underlying principles of the endocrine regulation of behavior in animals and humans. Every chapter begins by stating a principle, followed by specific examples of hormone actions derived from scientific experiments and clinical observations, and concludes with a few challenging unanswered questions. The reference source Hormones, Brain & Behavior identified this field as rapidly expanding within neurobiology and endocrinology. Now, this well-illustrated and referenced text will serve students from undergraduate school to medical school as they learn this new discipline.
* Uniform presentation of material across all chapter, with each chapter addressing a key principle, illustrated by basic experimental and clinical examples
* Includes user-friendly features such as boxed figures with extended captions and references, numerous clinical notes, and a comprehensive list of abbreviations
* Illustrations highlight both the clinical and basic science information

International Review of Neurobiology is a well-respected series appealing to neuroscientists, clinicians, psychologists, physiologists, and pharmacologists. Led by an internationally renowned editorial board, this important serial publishes both eclectic volumes made up of timely reviews and thematic volumes that focus on recent progress in a specific area of neurobiology research. This volume is a cumulative subject index of volumes 26-50.

Published since 1959, International Review of Neurobiology is a well-known series appealing to neuroscientists, clinicians, psychologists, physiologists, and pharmacologists. Led by an internationally renowned editorial board, this important serial publishes both eclectic volumes made up of timely reviews and thematic volumes that focus on recent progress in a specific area of neurobiology research.
Key Features
*Provides solid scientific basis to our understanding of the associations between the brain and the immune system the importance of these connections
* Presents coherent development from cellular and molecular neuroimmune communication to social and health considerations, including psychological intervention
* Addresses the theory that there is a neurobiology of the immune system

This book provides a comprehensive description of how human sensory systems function, with comparisons of the five senses and detailed descriptions of the functions of each of them. In addition to describing anatomy and function, the book also provides insight as to how sensory information is processed in the brain to provide the basis for communication and for our perception of our surroundings.
The information is presented in a way that is suitable for individuals from diverse disciplines and educational backgrounds. It gives the clinician an understanding of the function of normal and diseased sensory systems and provides a convenient, up-to-date source of information relevant to individuals in the fields of communication and communication disorders. This book is ideal for scientists, clinical researchers, and students in neurology and neuroscience.
Key Features
* Provides comparative descriptions of the anatomy and physiology of all five sensory systems including pain
* Focuses on neural and central processing of sensory information
* Describes parallel processing and stream segregation and the different targets for sensory information including the emotional brain

With data from the United States and Europe, Jon Miller and Linda Kimmel examine the public's understanding of and attitude toward biotechnology and biomedicine while they present methods of introducing cutting edge science to the
nonscientist. Biomedical Communications illustrates how vital it is for researchers, journalists, and policy makers to clearly communicate their findings in a way that avoids general misconception or confusion. The authors explore how to acquire information about biomedical policy, discuss strategies for informing consumers, and present tactics for improving biomedical communication with the public.
TOPICS COVERED:
* Using Research to Improve Biomedical Communications
* The Public Understanding of Biomedical Science
* Strategies for Communications to Consumers
* Public Attitudes Toward Biotechnology Issues

Febrile Seizures is written by the most active researchers and clinicians in epilepsy research today. This book presents the latest developments in this field as well as the current state of knowledge in the following:
* New imaging tools and emerging data, visualizing effects of febrile seizures on the brain
* New genetic methodologies
* The use of animal models to permit scientific analysis of the electrophysiology and molecular biology of the seizure.

Key Features
* First book on febrile seizures in over 20 years
* Broad spectrum of approaches, from genetic and epidemiological to bench research using animal models and in vitro single-cell patch-clamp methods
* Comprehensive update of the topic, written by world leaders in the field
* Novel and newly discovered information based on up-to the minute methods
* Engaging style, accessible to the clinician, researcher, and educated parent

It is well recognized that there is an intimate and reciprocal interaction between epilepsy and sleep. The book, Epilepsy and Sleep is a ground-breaking, comprehensive source for exploring this correlation and is especially timely because of the considerable growth in the understanding of the physiology underlying both sleep and epilepsy. An insightful reference, it presents many of the complex physiologic mechanisms underlying epilepsy--sleep interaction and highlights sleeping disorder symptoms that may be related to epilepsy.
The annual cost of treating epilepsy in the United States is an estimated $12.5 billion, according to a report issued January 2000 by The Epilepsy Foundation. The Foundation also reports that more than 180,000 Americans develop epilepsy each year. However, thousands more cases may be misdiagnosed as sleeping disorders, causing these figures to jump significantly. This correlation and diagnosis can help determine the correct type of medication to administer to regulate the symptoms, in turn saving hundreds of hours of lost time at work and millions of dollars.
Key Features
* Provides the first comprehensive source of information available on the correlation between epilepsy and sleep
* Outlines sleeping disorder symptoms which may in fact be caused by epilepsy
* Well illustrated, easy-to-read text
* An essential text for epileptologists, psychiatrists, physicians, and sleep disorder therapists
* Written by internationally recognized experts in the field

The thalamus is a group of cells placed centrally in the brain that serve a critical role in controlling how both sensory and motor signals are passed from one part of the cerebral cortex to another. Essentially, all information reaching the cerebral cortex and thus consciousness is relayed through the thalamus. The role of the thalamus in controlling the flow of information (such as visual, auditory, and motor) to the cortex has only recently begun to be understood. This book provides an in-depth look at the function of the thalamus and its role as relayer of information to the cerebral cortex. The authors explore how the thalamus controls messages that are passed to the cortex and they introduce the novel suggestion that the thalamus serves a critical role in controlling how messages pass from one part of the cortex to another. Exploring the Thalamus is a comprehensive, up-to-date reference for researchers. It discusses problems concerning the function and structure of the thalamus and concludes each chapter with thought-provoking questions regarding future research.
Key Features:
* Focuses on thalamocortical interrelationships
* Discusses important problems concerning the function and structure of the thalamus
* Concludes each chapter with thought-provoking questions requiring future research

This book details how "Alzheimer Disease" went from being an obscure neurologic diagnosis to a household word. The words of those responsible for this revolution are the heart of this book. Dr. Robert Katzman and Dr. Katherine Bick, leaders in Alzheimer research and policy making, interview the people responsible for this awakening of public consciousness about Alzheimer
Disease from 1960 to 1980. They speak with the scientists, public health officials, government regulators, and concerned relatives and activists responsible for taking this neurodegenerative disease out of the "back wards" through the halls of Congress, and on to the front page. The reader will learn how the explosive increase in research funding and public awareness came about, how physicians and psychiatrists established diagnostic criteria, how drugs were developed that offer hope for sufferers, and how the Alzheimer's Association was born.
* Written in the words of those responsible for the widespread recognition of this neurodegenerative disease
* The authors are recognised as leaders in Alzheimer research and policy making

Volume 30 examines the prominent role of calcium as an intracellular second messenger. Leading investigators review a wide variety of studies on how calcium enters and moves through cells, how it interacts with its many binding proteins, and how calcium and its intracellular receptor, calmodulin, control vital cellular processes. Coverage includes a detailed analysis of the mechanisms by which calcium bound to calmodulin regulates contractile proteins in smooth muscle cells. Close attention is given to the roles of calcium and calmodulin-dependent protein kinases and phosphatases in synaptic signal transduction, protein synthesis, gene expression, programmed cell death, activation of T-lymphocytes, and control of cell division cycles. Other chapters discuss studies using genetically manipulable nonmammalian organisms to further proble the functions of calcium and calmodulin.

Volume 33 reviews the current understanding of ion channel regulation by signal transduction pathways. Ion channels are no longer viewed simply as the voltage-gated resistors of biophysicists or the ligand-gated receptors of biochemists. They have been transformed during the past 20 years into signaling proteins that regulate every aspect of cell physiology. In addition to the voltage-gated channels, which provide the ionic currents to generate and spread neuronal activity, and the calcium ions to trigger synaptic transmission, hormonal secretion, and muscle contraction, new gene families of ion channel proteins regulate cell migration, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and gene transcription, as well as electrical excitability. Even the genome of the lowly roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans encodes almost 100 distinct genes for potassium-selective channels alone. Most of these new channel proteins are insensitive to membrane potential, yet in humans, mutations in these genes disrupt development and increase individual susceptibility to debilitating and lethal diseases.
How do cells regulate the activity of these channels? How might we restore their normal function? In Ion Channel Regulation, many of the experts who pioneered these discoveries provide detailed summaries of our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms that control ion channel activity.
Key Features
* Reviews brain functioning at the fundamental, molecular level
* Describes key systems that control signaling between and within cells
* Explains how channels are used to stimulate growth and changes to activity of the nucleus and genome

Volume 42 presents an in-depth review on Alzheimer's Disease as well as a look at several transcription factors.
Key Features
* Clinical features of stroke and the current stasis of stroke therapy
* Alzheimers Disease--pathology, pathological proteins, etiology, pathogenesis, neurotransmitter alterations, and treatment strategies
* An examination of the regulation of AP-1 and related transcription factors and their role in brain injury and drug abuse-related behavior
* Emerging roles of the transcription factor NF(B
* Recent advances about the nature of alterations in ion channel structure or function which may be responsible for epileptogenesis
* An integrated model accounting for the multiple mechanisms involved in the posttranslational regulation of glutamate ionotroic receptors
* Genetic mutation and the Glycine Receptor