This book is a must-have for anyone interested in obesity or the physiology of white or brown adipose tissues. It contains state-of-the-art methods from researchers that are world leaders in this field. Detailed lab protocols range from methods to visualize adipocytes and adipose tissues in humans and experimental models, to convert stem cells into white and brown adipocytes in vitro, to evaluate aspects of adipocyte metabolism, to inducibly knock out genes in adipose tissues, and to evaluate transcriptional control of adipogenesis on a global scale.

1) The study of adipose tissue goes hand in hand with our global effort to understand and reverse the epidemic of obesity and associated medical complications.

2) Contributors include leading researchers who have made tremendous contributions to our ability to investigate white and brown adipose tissues.

3) The wide variety of experimental approaches detailed within this volume: including the evaluation of adipose tissue biology at the molecular, biochemical, cellular, tissue, and organismal levels.

This book examines the new knowledge that has been gained from the objective monitoring of habitual physical activity by means of pedometers and accelerometers. It reviews current advances in the technology of activity monitoring and details advantages of objective monitors relative to physical activity questionnaires. It points to continuing gaps in knowledge, and explores the potential for further advances in the design of objective monitoring devices. Epidemiologists have studied relationships between questionnaire assessments of habitual physical activity and various medical conditions for some seventy years. In general, they have observed positive associations between regular exercise and good health, but because of inherent limitations in the reliability and accuracy of physical activity questionnaires, optimal exercise recommendations for the prevention and treatment of disease have remained unclear. Inexpensive pedometers and accelerometers now offer the epidemiologist the potential to collect relatively precisely graded and objective information on the volume, intensity and patterns of effort that people are undertaking, to relate this data to past and future health experience, and to establish dose/response relationships between physical activity and the various components of health. Such information is important both in assessing the causal nature of the observed associations and in establishing evidence-based recommendations concerning the minimal levels of daily physical activity needed to maintain good health.

The book presents a state-of-the-art overview of biomechanical and mechanobiological modeling and simulation of soft biological tissues. Seven well-known scientists working in that particular field discuss topics such as biomolecules, networks and cells as well as failure, multi-scale, agent-based, bio-chemo-mechanical and finite element models appropriate for computational analysis. Applications include arteries, the heart, vascular stents and valve implants as well as adipose, brain, collagenous and engineered tissues. The mechanics of the whole cell and sub-cellular components as well as the extracellular matrix structure and mechanotransduction are described. In particular, the formation and remodeling of stress fibers, cytoskeletal contractility, cell adhesion and the mechanical regulation of fibroblast migration in healing myocardial infarcts are discussed. The essential ingredients of continuum mechanics are provided. Constitutive models of fiber-reinforced materials with an emphasis on arterial walls and the myocardium are discussed and the important influence of residual stresses on material response emphasized. The mechanics and function of the heart, the brain and adipose tissues are discussed as well. Particular attention is focused on microstructural and multi-scale modeling, finite element implementation and simulation of cells and tissues.

This volume provides state-of-the-art techniques for studying various aspects of cholesterol homeostasis, including its uptake, synthesis and efflux from the cell, as well as its trafficking within the cell. Chapters also cover techniques for studying the regulation of cholesterol homeostasis at both the transcriptional and post-translational levels, as well as studying the membrane topology and structure of cholesterol-related proteins. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and practical, Cholesterol Homeostasis: Methods and Protocols aims to provide key techniques in tackling the investigation of cholesterol homeostasis.

This new volume of "Current Topics in Developmental Biology" covers the area of mechanisms in regeneration. With an international board of authors, it provides a comprehensive set of reviews covering such topics as control of growth during regeneration, skeletal muscle degeneration and regeneration in mammals and flies, and suppression of regeneration in mammals.
Covers the area of mechanisms in regenerationInternational board of authors Provides a comprehensive set of reviews

"The Handbook of Nutrition, Diet and the Eye" is the first book to thoroughly address common features and etiological factors in how dietary and nutritional factors affect the eye.

The ocular system is perhaps one of the least studied organs in diet and nutrition, yet the consequences of vision loss can be devastating. One of the biggest contributors to complete vision loss in the western hemisphere is diabetes, precipitated by metabolic syndrome. In some developing countries, micronutrient deficiencies are major contributory factors to impaired vision. However, there are a range of ocular defects that have either their origin in nutritional deficiencies or excess or have been shown to respond favorably to nutritional components. The eye from the cornea to the retina may be affected by nutritional components. Effects may be physiological or molecular.

This book represents essential reading for nutritionists, dietitians, optometrists, ophthalmologists, opticians, endocrinologists, and other clinicians and researchers interested in eye health and vision in general.
Saves clinicians and researchers time in quickly accessing the very latest details on a broad range of nutrition, ocular health, and disease issuesProvides a common language for nutritionists, nutrition researchers, optometrists, and ophthalmologists to discuss how dietary and nutritional factors, and related diseases and syndromes affect the eyePreclinical, clinical, and population studies will help nutritionists, dieticians, and clinicians map out key areas for research and further clinical recommendations

This volume is comprised of 18 chapters, covering various aspects of DNA modification and RNA modified bases. It also discusses in detail circular RNA, therapeutic oligonucleotides and their different properties. The chemical nature of DNA, RNA, protein and lipids makes these macromolecules easily modifiable, but they are also susceptible to damage from both endogenous and exogenous agents. Alkylation and oxidation show a potential to disrupt the cellular redox equilibrium and cause cellular damage leading to inflammation and even chronic disease. Furthermore, DNA damage can drive mutagenesis and the resulting DNA sequence changes can induce carcinogenesis and cancer progression. Modified nucleosides can occur as a result of oxidative DNA damage and RNA turnover, and are used as markers for various diseases. To function properly some RNA needs to be chemically modified post-transcriptionally. Dysregulation of the RNA-modification pattern or of the levels of the enzymes that catalyze these modifications alters RNA functionality and can result in complex phenotypes, likely due to defects in protein translation. While modifications are best characterized in noncoding ribonucleic acids like tRNA and rRNA, coding mRNAs have also been found to contain modified nucleosides. This book is a valuable resource, not only for graduate students but also researchers in the fields of molecular medicine and molecular biology.

This book presents the current concepts of semaphorin biology. In the early 1990s, semaphorins were originally identified as axon guidance cues that function during neuronal development. However, cumulative findings have clarified that they have diverse functions in many physiological processes, including cardiogenesis, angiogenesis, vasculogenesis, osteoclastogenesis, retinal homeostasis, and immune regulation. Additionally, they have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various human diseases, including tumorigenesis/tumor metastasis, neuroregenerative diseases, retinal degeneration, irregular pulse/sudden death, and immune disorders. Based on this current research background, the book covers the essential state-of-the-art findings for basic scientists in biochemistry, molecular biology, neuroscience, developmental biology, and structural biology, as well as for physicians in neurology, cardiology, oncology, orthopedic surgery, otorhinolaryngology, ophthalmology, allergology, and rheumatology.

T. Hara, I. Kimura, D. Inoue, A. Ichimura, and A. Hirasawa: Free fatty acid receptors and their role in regulation of energy metabolism. B. Nilius and G. Appendino. Spices: the savory and healthy science of pungency.

Written to satisfy a wide audience, from basic scientist to clinical researcher, this volume explores such varied concepts as: the influence of CBF in the pathotrajectory of TBI, modeling TBI as a means to understand underlying pathological states associated with brain injury victims, disrupted vasculature following head trauma and advanced imaging techniques, vasoreactive substances underlying disrupted blood flow, the role of age and sex on injury outcome, and the latest pre-clinical rationale for focusing on CBF and strategies to improve blood flow as a means to improve outcome in patients suffering the effects of TBI.

Humans receive the vast majority of sensory perception through the eyes and ears. This non-technical book examines the everyday physics behind hearing and vision to help readers understand more about themselves and their physical environment. It begins wit

This special volume of "Progress in Molecular Biology and Translational Science" focuses on chronobiology.

Key features:

* Contributions from leading authorities * Informs and updates on all the latest developments in the field

"The HDL Handbook: Biological Functions to Clinical Implications" brings laboratory research in HDL from bench to bedside in this needed resource for researchers and clinicians studying cholesterol, lipids, epidemiology, biochemistry, molecular medicine, and pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, researchers and clinicians working with an aging population, corporate researchers, post-doctorates; medical students and graduate students will find this publication usefulbecause the scope of coverage includes basic science, genetics, epidemiology, and treatment of HDL cholesterol as well as potential targets to modify HDL cholesterol.
Provides bench-to-bedside coverage of HDL with thorough coverage of basic science, genetics, epidemiology, and treatment Presents a complete update with six new chapters on the latest advances in HDL cholesterol research with international perspective New chapters on proteomics, clinical impact of LCAT in HDL metabolism, and an in-depth discussion of potential targets to modify HDL provide a translational reference for clinicians"

This new volume of "Methods in Enzymology" continues the legacy of this premier serial with quality chapters authored by leaders in the field. This is the third of three volumes on hydrogen peroxide and cell signaling, and includes chapters on such topics as the biological chemistry of hydrogen peroxide, reactive oxygen species in the activation of MAP kinases, and investigating the role of reactive oxygen species in regulating autophagy.
Continues the legacy of this premier serial with quality chapters authored by leaders in the field Covers hydrogen peroxide and cell signalingContains chapters on such topics as the biological chemistry of hydrogen peroxide, reactive oxygen species in the activation of MAP kinases, and investigating the role of reactive oxygen species in regulating autophagy

This new volume of "Methods in Enzymology" continues the legacy of this premier serial with quality chapters authored by leaders in the field. This is the second of three volumes on hydrogen peroxide and cell signaling, and includes chapters on such topics as the cellular steady-state of H2O2, evaluating peroxiredoxin sensitivity towards inactivation by peroxide substrates, and peroxiredoxins as preferential targets in H2O2-induced signaling.
Continues the legacy of this premier serial with quality chapters authored by leaders in the field Covers hydrogen peroxide and cell signalingContains chapters on such topics asthe cellular steady-state of H2O2, evaluating peroxiredoxin sensitivity towards inactivation by peroxide substrates, and peroxiredoxins as preferential targets in H2O2-induced signaling
"

In this thematic volume of "Progress in Molecular Biology and Translational Science, "researchers reflect on recent developments and research surrounding G protein-coupled receptors. The chapters cover a large breadth of research, including GPCR role in stem cell function and pharmacology. Authors explore in-depth research techniques and applications of GPCR usage, covering theory, laboratory approaches, and unique qualities that make GPCRs a crucial tool in microbiological and cancer research.

Key features:

* Contributions from leading authorities * Informs and updates on all the latest developments in the field

This edited volume collects the research results presented at the 14th International Symposium on Computer Methods in Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering, Tel Aviv, Israel, 2016. The topical focus includes, but is not limited to, cardiovascular fluid dynamics, computer modeling of tissue engineering, skin and spine biomechanics, as well as biomedical image analysis and processing. The target audience primarily comprises research experts in the field of bioengineering, but the book may also be beneficial for graduate students alike.

This new volume of "Methods in Enzymology" continues the legacy of this premier serial by containing quality chapters authored by leaders in the field. This volume coversG protein coupledreceptorsandincludes chapterson such topics as G protein-coupled receptor trafficking motifs, structure-based virtual screening, and automation-friendly high throughput assays for identification of pharmacoperone drugs.
Continues the legacy of this premier serial with quality chapters authored by leaders in the field Covers G protein coupled receptorsContains chapters on such topics as G protein-coupled receptor trafficking motifs, structure-based virtual screening, and automation-friendly high-throughput assays for identifying pharmacoperone drugs"

This new volume of "Methods in Enzymology" continues the legacy of this premier serial by containing quality chapters authored by leaders in the field. This volume covers G protein coupled receptors and includes chapters on such topics as post-translation modification of GPCR in relationship to biased agonism, structure-based virtual screening, and GPCR oligomerization in the brain.
Continues the legacy of this premier serial with quality chapters authored by leaders in the fieldCovers G protein coupled receptorsContains chapters on such topics as post-translation modification of GPCR in relationship to biased agonism, structure-based virtual screening, and GPCR oligomerization in the brain

Obesity is an epidemic with enormous health, economic and social burdens. Current drugs for obesity treatment are far from ideal in terms of efficacy and side effects. Reviews in this volume of Progress in Molecular Biology and Translational Science summarize current status in studies of a number of G protein-coupled receptors that were shown to be promising targets for obesity treatments. Some of these receptors also cause monogenic obesity in humans.
Subject matter: obesity is an epidemic and G protein-coupled receptors are promising drug targets, with significant potential as new anti-obesity drugs.

Chapters are written by leading experts.

The concept of immunotherapy was in infancy when the first edition was written; since then, major advances have been made, not only with several prominent clinical trials, but also with the approval of cell-based therapy by the FDA for the treatment of cancer in 2010. These events resulted in a gradually narrowing gap between early scientific knowledge and the late development of immune-based therapies. Consequently, the significance and magnitude of these advances warranted a revision of this contribution; this revised edition will provide a deeper understanding of the recent advances and discoveries related to the function of the immune response and their applications in the development of novel therapies to treat human diseases. Some of the key discoveries during the past five years include: the identification of the new subsets of helper T cells; new cytokines and their networks; and novel signal transduction mechanisms. For example, the identification of TH17 subset of helper T cells, in addition to TH1 and TH2 cells, not only advanced our understanding of the function of the basic immune response, but also raised our awareness of the possible etiology and pathogenesis of diseases such as allergy, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and other auto-immune/immune system based diseases. The newly identified powerful cytokine networks, that regulate both innate and acquired immune responses, emerged as a result of the finding of new cell types such as innate lymphoid cells and iNKT. Identification of the novel cytokines and their networks has advanced our knowledge of the mechanisms involved in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis, including inflammation and tissue repair during stress and injury. The development of HIV vaccines has also seen dramatic changes over the last few years. There has been a shift from a sole focus on T cell vaccines to a holistic approach that pertains to the induction of both humoral and cellular elements. This entails the induction of antibodies - both binding and neutralizing - to prevent infection. The cellular vaccination produces a safety net of CD8+ T-cell responses to suppress the replication of the virus in the infected patients, and both of the effector arms are aided by helper T cells. From the perspective of clinical applications, significant advances have also been made in: oral immunotherapy for allergic disease, the possible treatment of HIV infection, the development of new monoclonal antibodies and their fragments to treat human diseases, and immune cell based therapies for cancer.

This is the first book to assemble the leading researchers in the field of LRRK2 biology and neurology and provide a snapshot of the current state of knowledge, encompassing all major aspects of its function and dysfunction. The contributors are experts in cell biology and physiology, neurobiology, and medicinal chemistry, bringing a multidisciplinary perspective on the gene and its role in disease. The book covers the identification of LRRK2 as a major contributor to the pathogenesis of Parkinson's Disease. It also discusses the current state of the field after a decade of research, putative normal physiological roles of LRRK2, and the various pathways that have been identified in the search for the mechanism(s) of its induction of neurodegeneration.