A new perspective on brain function depends upon an understanding of the interaction and integration of excitation and inhibition. A recent surge in research activity focused on inhibitory interneurons now makes a more balanced view possible. Technological advances such as improved imaging methods, visualized patch-clamp recording, multiplex single-cell PCR, and gene-targeted deletion or knock-in mice are some of the novel tools featured in this book. This book will provide an integrated view of neuron function, operating in a balanced regime of excitation and inhibition. It is a timely contribution emphasizing how this balance is established, maintained, and modified from the molecular to system levels.

The broad spectrum of topics from molecular to cellular and system/computational neuroscience will appeal to a wide audience of advanced graduate students, post-docs, and faculty. Moreover, this book this book features active young researchers from around the world, who are currently educating the brain scientists of tomorrow.

This detailed volume assembles comprehensive protocols to assist with the study of structural, molecular, cell biological, and in vivo facets of GPCRs, and to enable the development of experimental tools for screening novel GPCR drugs. Sections explore the tweaking of ligands, bioluminescence and FRET approaches, specific GPCR signaling properties, as well as visualization of subcellular compartmentalization. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, 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 practical, G Protein-Coupled Receptor Signaling: Methods and Protocols serves as an ideal reference for life scientists working in a variety of research fields including molecular pharmacology, cell and developmental biology, brain behavior and physiology, drug development and screening. Chapter 4 is available open access under a CC BY 4.0 license via link.springer.com.

Parkinson's Disease: Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Pathology explores the molecular pathways at the basis of the cellular defects connected to Parkinson's disease, the second most common neurodegenerative disease, and the most common movement disorder. This book presents the latest research on the pathways and mechanisms that have been discovered to play a role in Parkinson's pathology. This focus on mechanisms rather than individual genes allows the contributors to elaborate on overlapping and joint functions of different causative genes. Readers will find descriptions of model systems that present parallels (and differences) between discoveries in different species, demonstrating the importance of multidisciplinary research that spans a broad array of technologies and model organisms. Written from both a cross-methodology and cross-species perspective, the book provides readers with the current state of knowledge on the molecular biology of Parkinson's.

Genetics and Neurobiology of Down Syndrome provides a thorough review of the genetic etiology and mechanisms of trisomy 21. The author discusses the history of the syndrome, along with the clinical features and health consequences, including physical features, cognitive, and neurologic symptoms. Genetic counseling on pros and cons of prenatal screening and testing and associated ethical issues are explored. This unique book also covers the societal and demographic aspects as well as the future direction of therapeutic development.

This book explains the foundation of approximate Bayesian computation (ABC), an approach to Bayesian inference that does not require the specification of a likelihood function. As a result, ABC can be used to estimate posterior distributions of parameters for simulation-based models. Simulation-based models are now very popular in cognitive science, as are Bayesian methods for performing parameter inference. As such, the recent developments of likelihood-free techniques are an important advancement for the field. Chapters discuss the philosophy of Bayesian inference as well as provide several algorithms for performing ABC. Chapters also apply some of the algorithms in a tutorial fashion, with one specific application to the Minerva 2 model. In addition, the book discusses several applications of ABC methodology to recent problems in cognitive science. Likelihood-Free Methods for Cognitive Science will be of interest to researchers and graduate students working in experimental, applied, and cognitive science.

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

* Bridges the disciplines of litigation and neuropsychology in a modern UK context. * Conveys the complexity and huge amount of research data into an accessible medicolegal based neuropsychology text with relevance for both lawyers and psychologists. * A scientifically oriented exploration based on real-life case examples

In Neuroprotective Signal Transduction prominent researchers and clinicians focus on how inter- and intracellular signaling mechanisms prevent the degeneration and death of neurons occurring in both acute and chronic neurodegenerative disorders. Authoritative contributions dissect the signaling pathways of an array of neuroprotective factors-ranging from neurotrophins (NGF, BDNF, NT-3, and NT-4/5), to growth factors (bFGF, IGF-1, GDNF), to cytokines (TNF, IL-1b, and TGFb), to secreted amyloid precursor proteins, to protease nexin-1. Also treated are cytoprotective signaling events that occur within injured neurons independently of intercellular signals. Neuroprotective Signal Transduction presents fundamental, cutting-edge treatment of the cellular and molecular signal transduction pathways found in human neurodegenerative conditions. The book's elucidation of the molecular cascades evolved by the nervous system to protect itself is now lead to effective strategies for preventing neuronal degeneration in such conditions as stroke, traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and will form the basis for powerful new drug discovery and gene therapy strategies.

This is a comprehensive, interpretive account of aphasia written to appeal to a broad audience. It combines historical, anatomic, and psychological approaches toward understanding the nature of aphasia. Included is a discussion of the brain-language relationship, the symptoms and syndromes common to aphasia, and alternative approaches to classification.
Key Features
* Integrates phenomenology of aphasic symptoms with the anatomy of language and current theories of brain-language relations
* Traces history of aphasic theory, from pre-Broca to contemporary theory
* Provides detailed review of manifestations of aphasia in every language modality
* Contains critical analysis of neurolinguistic inter-relations

Since the beginning of the 21st Century there has been a rapid increase in our understanding of the cellular trafficking mechanisms of molecular chaperones in eukaryotes and in prokaryotes. In the former, molecular chaperone trafficking can occur between the various cellular compartments, with concomitant movement of other proteins. Such events can also result in the release of molecular chaperones from cells. In bacteria, molecular chaperones are involved in the trafficking of other proteins and are themselves released into the external milieu. The increasing appreciation of the role of molecular chaperones and Protein-Folding Catalysts in the interplay between bacteria and the cells of their hosts is now an important area of research for understanding the mechanisms of infectious diseases. This volume brings together experts in the biochemistry, cellular biology, immunology and molecular biology of molecular chaperones and Protein-Folding Catalysts with a focus on the mechanisms of cellular trafficking of these proteins and the role of these variegated trafficking mechanisms in both human and animal health and disease.

This book reviews the research on Einstein's brain from a sociological perspective and in the context of the social brain paradigm. Instead of "Einstein, the genius of geniuses" standing on the shoulders of giants, Restivo proposes a concept of Einstein the social being standing on the shoulders of social networks. Rather than challenging Einstein's uniqueness or the uniqueness of his achievements, the book grounds Einstein and his achievements in a social ecology opposed to the myths of the "I," individualism, and the very idea of "genius." "Einstein" is defined by the particular configuration of social networks that he engaged as his life unfolded, not by biological inheritances.

Based on a large variety of experiments on both humans and animals, this volume presents novel conceptualizations of the organizing consequences of hormones throughout the lifespans of mammals.

The specific topic, "Isoquinolines And Beta-Carbolines As Neurotoxins And Neuroprotectants - New Perspectives In Parkinson`S Disease Therapy," was chosen in light of accumulating neurobiological evidence indicating that, in addition to exogenous neurotoxins (e.g., 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine [MPTP]), endogenous compounds may play an important role in the most common neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Parkinson`s disease). Two groups of amine related compounds, which appeared chemically like MPTP, were detected in human brain and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF): ss-carbolines (BCs) and tetrahydroisoquinolines (TIQs). These are heterocyclic compounds formed endogenously from phenylalanine/tyrosine (TIQs) and tryptophan, tryptamine, and 5-hydroxytryptamine (BCs), respectively and exert a wide spectrum of psychopharmacological and behavioral effects. The TIQs and BCs may bind to their own high affinity sites on neuronal membranes associated with or located close to the receptors of neurotransmitters. Research on TIQs and BCs is stimulated also by their possible role in pathological conditions, especially parkinsonism and alcoholism. Recently, clinical interest has been spurred by their role as neuroprotective, and even neurorestorative, anticonvulsant and antiaddictive, substances. In this book we are going to summarize, for the first time, the results from behavioral, neurochemical and molecular experiments, which demonstrate a wide spectrum of TIQs and BCs effects - from their rather mild neurotoxic actions to the important neuroprotective and antiaddictive properties. Additionally, the recent results of experimental studies in vivo have allowed a much better understanding and simultaneous comparison of the neurochemical and molecular mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective and neurotoxic actions of endogenous TIQs and BCs and have pointed to the possibility of their therapeutic applications in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease.

Experimental approaches to auditory research make use of validated animal models to determine what can be generalized from one species to another. This volume brings together our current understanding of the auditory systems of fish and amphibians. To address broader comparative issues, this book treats both fish and amphibians together, to overcome the differing theoretical and experimental paradigms that underlie most work on these groups.

Introduction to Basic Aspects of the Autonomic Nervous System, Sixth Edition, Volume One is an all-encompassing reference on the autonomic nervous system's basic function, dysfunction and pathology. This volume describes the anatomy of the autonomic nervous system and its role in the regulation of blood pressure, body temperature, respiration, micturition, digestion and renal function. Additional chapters focus on the autonomic modulation of the neuroendocrine system, sexual function, and immunity. There is also a chapter on mummies and the autonomic nervous system. With these chapters, readers will gain extensive knowledge on the autonomic nervous system's anatomy, functional organization and neurochemistry, which is critical to care for patients with autonomic disorders and guide patient-oriented research.

After 40 years of research, scientists have confirmed that persistent neurogenesis occurs in the adult mammalian brain. The obvious next question is: "Are the newly generated neurons functional?" If so, "What are the functions of these new neurons?" This volume intends to clarify both questions by providing the latest data available.

A hands-on user's guide that takes readers step-by-step on a 21-day journey to discover what it means to be truly present and aware in our daily lives. In today's increasingly fast-paced world it can be difficult to find moments to catch your breath, regain inner balance, and just ... be. This simple yet profound guide shows readers how to strengthen their minds by learning to focus attention, open awareness, and develop a positive state of mind - the three pillars of mindfulness practice that research shows lead to greater physical and mental well-being. Packed with guided meditation instructions, practical exercises, and everyday tools and techniques, Becoming Aware offers a simple program to enhance our inner sense of clarity and even our interpersonal well-being.

This book explores aspects of the development and regeneration of the of the rote nervaus system, beginning with fundamental considerations of borneobox genes in vertebrate pattern formation. Two papers em- phasize the roJe of mause Hox genes in patterning: the Hox-2 complex in the branchial arches and Hox-7 at later stages of development, par- ticularly in the spinal cord and brain. The importance of borneobox genes and other transcription factors in patterning the Drosophila embryo is weil known. With the discovery of homologaus genes in higher verte- brates including man, we now possess the molecular tools to begin to investigate the molecular basis of patterning in higher vertebrate em- bryos. Interestingly, the last few years have seen the discovery of a number of diverged borneobox genes and other transcription factors in the head, such genes being arranged in a segmental pattern within the developing rhombomeres of the brain and such compartmentalization of expression being extended to their derivatives, tagether with those of the neural crest. More recently, both Hox genes and Pax genes have been described in a segmental arrangement as far torward as the developing forebrain. The majority of the book deals with regeneration of the nervaus system. Several aspects are explored, including ways of promoting central nervous system axons to grow back into a degenerating environment, for example by the use of complex polymeric matrices.

This symposium entitled Calcium, Neuronal Function and Transmitter Re lease, was in the framework of the regional meeting of the International Union of Physiological Sciences, that took place in Jerusalem between August 26-31, 1984. The symposium dealt with the role of calcium ions in regulation of a large number of important processes in modern neurobiology, from molecular and cellular points of view. In this context, we consider heart and most cells as 'honorary neurons'. The meeting was comprised of lectures and quite intense discussions. We hope that the transcription of the discussions which follow the articles will give the reader a feeling of the intense, but pleasant atmosphere that per vaded during this symposium. It is our pleasure to thank Mrs. Miriam Silber, the assistant editor of this book, for her hard work in transcribing the discussions, retyping large portions of the book, and getting the approval of the authors. We express our thanks to Dr. Halina Meiri and Dr. Simona Ginsburg for their editorial assis tance. The unfailing help of Ms. Rachel Klein and Ms. Shoshana Wineberg is greatly appreciated. xxvii SECTION 1 CALCIUM CHANNELS, TRANSPORTERS & CALCIUM REGULATED CHANNELS EFFECTS OF TEMPERATURE ON SINGLE CHANNEL AND WHOLE CELL Ca CURRENTS A. M. BROWN, D. L. KUNZE, H.D. LUX AND D. L. WILSON INTRODUCTION Calcium tall currents have a large, fast component which Is not detectable when the currents are turned on or acti vated from the completely rested state (Brown et aI, 1983)."

Modern theories of brain function are increasingly concerned with dynamics. The task of organizing perception and behaviour in a meaningful interaction with the external world prompts the brain to recruit its various resources in a properly coordinated manner. Vis-a-vis the complexity and multitude of the dynamics involved, a careful orchestration of the various processing components, distributed over space and time, is essential. Hence, it should come as no surprise that a number of recent developments in both experimental and theoretical brain science have emphasized the aspect of spatio-temporal coordination.

This collection of papers intends to capture these various developments in the brain sciences. It brings together new insights and concepts from various branches of experimental and theoretical neuroscience, partly in the form of review chapters, partly in short, focussed contributions, or critical essays. Further it sets out to explore the problems of the processing of the temporal dimension of sensory input and of the generation of space-time patterns in the motor output, as well as the intervening storage and transformation of temporal patterns in nerve nets.

The publication is divided into four major sections: the first considers spatio-temporal aspects of brain function in the context of processing of sensory input and perception and the third, spatio-temporal aspects of brain function at the output end: planning and control of movement. The second section is dedicated to the intervening level of neuronal activity in the working brain and the various dynamics observed at different levels of resolution in space and time. The fourth part combines contributions that transcend this scheme.

It is hoped the book achieves its goal which is to raise an interest in theoretical models that actively seek confrontation with experimental data from the functioning brain, and by a didactic effort aimed at experimentalists to present their data in a format that makes them more amenable to theory.

This volume of Cerebral Cortex is dedicated to Sir John Eccles, who was an active member of the advisory board for the series until his death in May 1997. His input as to what topics should be covered in future volumes of this series will be sorely missed. The present volume is concerned with neurodegenerative disorders and age related changes in the structure and function of the cerebral cortex, a topic that has attracted increasing interest as longevity and the number of aged individuals in the population increase. Although much of the research on the neurodegenerative effects of aging has been centered on Alzheimer's disease, most of the aging popu lation will not be afflicted by this disease. They will, however, be affected by the consequences of normal aging, so the first few chapters of this volume are con cerned with that topic. Chapter 1, by Marilyn S. Albert and Mark B. Moss, gives an account of the cognitive changes that accompany normal human aging. Chapter 2, by Mark B."