The field of microRNA biology is really emerging in the last couple of years. Several investigators highlighted the importance of miRNAs in cancer. Although there is so much literature on microRNAs exist, a comprehensive book is still not available. Thus this book will be a great use to the scientists in the field of cancer biology. In addition, this book will be a good source of information for undergraduate, graduate students who want to develop their research careers in cancer biology.

In recent years, the advancing science and increasing availability of assisted reproduction have given new hope to infertile couples. However, the use of IVF and ART has also led to marked increases in the number of multiple-infant live births. This poses a public health concern, as these neonates have a higher rate of pre-term delivery, compromising their survival chances and increasing their risk of lifelong disability. By optimizing the selection of gametes and embryos with high probabilities of implantation, it is possible to reduce the number of embryos transferred and, by extension, the number of high-risk multiple gestations, while maintaining or increasing pregnancy rates. Human Gametes and Preimplantation Embryos: Assessment and Diagnosis provides a broad yet concise overview of established and developing methodologies for assessment of gamete and embryo viability in assisted reproduction. This book elucidates the best practices for precisely selecting viable specimens based on morphology and cleavage rate and covers the spectrum of emerging adjunctive technologies for predicting reproductive potential. The authors present their extensive knowledge of "omics" approaches (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics), with unbiased delineation of the associated advantages and potential pitfalls. This valuable clinical resource is well suited to infertility specialists, Ob/Gyn physicians, IVF laboratory technicians, and researchers in the fields of embryology and reproductive medicine.

Well known experts in the field of Chronobiology from around the world, provide an integrative view of the state of the art of circadian biology. At present, genetic and epigenetic interaction of regulatory pathways among circadian oscillators, metabolic networks, cellular differentiation and neuronal communication are subject of intense scrutiny. The book is organized in three sections: The first includes selected examples of the circadian systems of crustaceans, insects, fish, birds and mammals. The second is a detailed view of the physiological mechanisms underlying the circadian clocks in mammals. Finally, in the third section some examples of the relevance of circadian biology and circadian misalignment to health and disease are provided including nutrition and metabolism, obesity, cancer, cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, Huntington and affective diseases. This section concludes with a brief review on gene therapy and its potential use as a therapeutic tool to correct "clock genes" pathologies. This book is aimed at all those interested in contemporary aspects of physiology, biochemistry and molecular biology applied to the study and characterization of timing systems.. It could be used as an initial approach to this field, but it also provides updated information for those already familiar with the fascinating field of Chronobiology.

Stress is a double edged sword. Whereas chronic stress has well known harmful effects, recent research shows that intermittent exposure of cells and organisms to mild stress can improve various biological parameters, including severe stress tolerance, health span and longevity. Mild stress-induced hormesis is potentially a powerful tool in gerontological research and interventions. This book brings together some of the world leaders in this area of research who present a critical analysis of the ongoing research with respect to the effects and mechanisms of action of various types of mild stress, such as irradiation, heat, physical exercise, hypergravity, pro-oxidants and nutritional components, on a variety of biological systems ranging from fruitflies to human cells and bodies. Their separate chapters and a final collective chapter open up a whole new world of possibilities for future research in aging, successful aging, and health span extension.

Superantigen Protocols assembles experimental protocols that have proved useful for the study of superantigens. These techniques will allow researchers from various areas of cell biology, microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, and molecular biology to assess the physical characteristics and biological effects of well-known superantigens as well as of putative substances that might have superantigenic activities, and to explore therapies for superantig- induced effects. Microbial exotoxins have been studied for decades as virulence factors because of their pathogenic effects. The term "superantigen" was coined by Marrack and Kappler a decade ago for some of these molecules because of their potent T-cell stimulatory activities. In recent years, advances in mole- lar biology provide recombinant as well as natural superantigens in highly purified form for physical characterization. Superantigens are now used extensively as tools to study interactions between receptors on cells of the immune system as they bind to major histocompatibility complex class II m- ecules on antigen-presenting cells and V regions of T-cell receptors. The b- ? logical effects that result from these interactions are studied both in vitro and in vivo. The intent of this book is, therefore, to bring together up-to-date te- niques developed by experts in the field of biochemistry, immunology, and molecular biology for the study of superantigens. Superantigen Protocols begins with an overview of the field to provide background information on the various classes of superantigens and their str- ture.

This collection of contributions on the subject of the neural mechanisms of sensorimotor control resulted from a conference held in Cairns, Australia, September 3-6, 2001. While the three of us were attending the International Union of Physiological Sciences (IUPS) Congress in St Petersburg, Russia, in 1997, we discussed the implications of the next Congress being awarded to New Zealand. We agreed to organise a satellite to this congress in an area of mutual interest -the neuroscience of movement and sensation. Australia has a long-standing and enviable reputation in the field of neural mechanisms of sensorimotor control. Arguably this reached its peak with the award of a Nobel Prize to Sir John Eccles in 1963 for his work on synaptic transmission in the central nervous system. Since that time, the subject of neuroscience has progressed considerably. One advance is the exploitation of knowledge acquired from animal experiments to studies on conscious human subjects. In this development, Australians have achieved international prominence, particularly in the areas of kinaesthesia and movement control. This bias is evident in the choice of subject matter for the conference and, subsequently, this book. It was also decided to assign a whole section to muscle mechanics, a subject that is often left out altogether from conferences on motor control. Cairns is a lovely city and September is a good time to visit it.

This second edition volume discusses the revolutionary development of faster and less expensive DNA sequencing technologies from the past 10 years and focuses on general technologies that can be utilized by a wide array of plant biologists to address specific questions in their favorite model systems. This book is organized into five parts. Part I examines the tools and methods required for identifying epigenetic and conformational changes at the whole-genome level. Part II presents approaches used to determine key aspects of a gene's function, such as techniques used to identify and characterize gene regulatory networks. This is followed by a discussion of tools used to analyze the levels of mRNA, mRNA translation rates and metabolites. Part III features a compilation of forward and reverse genetic approaches that include recent implementation of high-throughput sequencing in classical methodologies such as QTL mapping. The final two parts explore strategies to facilitate and accelerate the generation and testing of functional DNA elements and basic computational tools used to facilitate the use of systems biology approached by a broad spectrum of plant researchers. Written in the highly successful Methods of 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 key tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Practical and timely, Plant Functional Genomics: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition highlights the latest developments in DNA sequencing technologies that are likely to continue shaping the future of functional genomics.

Chiropractic Peripheral Joint Technique is an essential and accessible text for all students and practitioners of chiropractic, osteopaths, physiotherapists and other manual therapists. Edited by a leading author in the field, Chiropractic Peripheral Joint Technique includes much new work and innovations for treating peripheral joint problems in addition to a catalogue of the traditional chiropractic techniques. This new book concentrates on the peripheral joints (e.g. shoulder, knee etc.) and will be a useful ready reference on chiropractic technique for both the student beginning clinical work and the busy practitioner. A chapter is also included on the temporo-mandibular joint.An essential and accessible text for all students and practitioners Extensively illustrated with over 400 illustrations Highly practical approach, ideal for speedy reference when a problem is encountered

Powerful human anatomy desktop easel reference in 21 pages with more detailed illustrations and labeled parts per page than any other reference tool. Pages are laminated, making them rip and spill-proof and are spiral bound with an easel-stand making this a desktop reference that stands tall on your desk for hands-free reading. Simply flip pages to find the system you need to reference. Beautifully illustrated by award-winning anatomical artist Vincent Perez. There is no other source that offers this much anatomical reference in this amount of space and for this price. Systems covered include: Muscular System Origins & Insertions Skeletal System Joints & Ligaments Nervous System The Brain Cutaneous Innervation Circulatory System Heart Lymphatic System Digestive System & Viscera Respiratory & Urinary Systems Reproductive System Micro Anatomy Suggested uses: Students -- establish your core memory of human anatomy whether you will be a nurse, physical therapists, pre med, or even a massage therapist Medical Coders -- spiral reference stands upright on the desk for easy flip-through reference Medical Administration -- quick reference tool for the important roles on the other side of the medical profession

Nearly, 50 years ago, Karl Pribram in a discussion section accompanying MacLean's proposal of a limbic system, criticized the visceral or limbic brain concept as theoretically too vague and cumbersome. In a recent review of the limbic system, Swanson points to Brodal's criticism that the discovery of connections of limbic structures with virtually all parts of the nervous system render the concept of the limbic system useless, and better abandoned. Additional dissatisfaction surrounding the limbic brain concept stems from the feeling that it is historically inert (an antiquated 19th century construct). In our current age of neural networks, and parallel distributed process it is of little value, merely an historical curio. So why then this int- duction to limbic brain anatomy? We offer several interrelated rationales behind our labors. Recapitulation in the Service of Education: Although concepts had evolved in the second half of this century which effectively overthrew the idea of relatively isolated hemispheric districts (i. e. striatal, cortical, and limbic), parsing the hemisphere into these three districts was an important preliminary step achieved by our forebears in their efforts to understand the large scale structure of the higher mammalian cerebral hemisphere. An examination of how the limbic brain concept came to be provides an opp- tunity to recapitulate the process of exploration, discovery, and und- standing as it relates to one of these principle hemispheric domains.

Over the past decade, we have made great advances in the field of multiple sclerosis (MS) research, and this book focuses on those advances in MS pathogenesis and treatment. While some of these advances have been through new approaches and ideas that have emerged in the last decade such as the newly identified protective role that amyloid proteins may play in MS or the use of helminths to treat autoimmune diseases, others have evolved from previous theories and ideas that have only now gained momentum and a deeper understanding such as the role of HLA or gender in MS susceptibility. This book covers these emerging and evolving topics and highlights the substantial advancements made in elucidation of the factors regulating susceptibility or disease progression, identification of new ways to monitor or predict MS pathology, and development of new strategies for treating MS.

Platelets are fragments of blood cells that occur in the blood of vertebrates and are associated with blood clotting. Scientists have made great strides in recent years in understanding what stimulates platelets to form blood clots at the molecular level and in developing drugs to inhibit platelet action. Their work has a direct effect on millions of people who deal with cardiovascular disease, strokes, surgery, physical trauma, and other conditions. While references to platelet function have been included in some large texts, there has not been a basic reference manual that researchers and clinicians can use in their daily work until now.
Platelet Protocols fills the need for a straightforward and comprehensive laboratory manual on current procedures for evaluating and analyzing platelet function and abnormalities. It is an easy-to-read, understandable resource which can be kept at the bench and referred to frequently by scientists, clinicians, and laboratory staff involved in platelet related areas. Topics range from the basics of anticoagulants to the latest developments in platelet testing.
Key Features
Includes:
* A basic introduction to platelet anatomy and physiology
* Testing procedures for new anti-platelet therapies
* Descriptions of platelet function abnormalities
* Therapeutic approaches to inhibition of platelet function
* Step-by-step methodologies with clear explanations
* Helpful appendixes of recipes, instructions, sources of reagents, and more

The objective of this book is to catalyze the application of genomics to the diagnosis and treatment of oral diseases by comprehensively presenting focused discussions on the current state of knowledge. The first section book provides basic information about genetics, genomics and personalized medicine and the informatical methods available to apply and organize genetic data so that it has clinical relevance. Recognizing the genetic robustness of the oral cavity, the introductory section includes chapters on the oral micro biome and host genomics and response to infectious agents. The next two sections contain chapters which describe the genomics of specific oral diseases and conditions, including the genetic basis for mechanism and risk of treatment toxicities associated with cancer therapy and bisphosphonates. Four chapters focus on gene-based therapies and the pharmacogenomics applied to oral disease. The final chapter presents a provocative summary which describes a comprehensive vision of the melding of genomics to personalized medicine and the potential actionable outcomes that will likely affect clinical practice in the upcoming years.

Since the late 1960s, there has been an acceleration of research focused on understanding how the efferent ducts, the epididymis, and the vas deferens function with respect to the maturation and storage of spermatozoa and as hormone dependent tissues. Another major interest in the epididymis is that it is an attractive target for the development of male contraceptives. There are well over 16,000 peer reviewed articles in the literature on these tissues, their structure, gene expression, protein synthesis and function. Regular international meetings have been initiated that are dedicated to this field. Thus, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive reference volume that spans every facet of epididymal biology, from historical background to the most current results, from basic cell and molecular biology to clinical issues. Well-established experts from every part of the world have contributed to this volume. By necessity, each author was given page limitations so that many topics are not dealt with exhaustively. Whenever possible, references to more comprehensive discussion of specific topics are included.

Gender, Identity and Reproduction draws on a variety of perspectives relevant to an understanding of reproduction across the life-course. Through a consideration of the representation of reproductive identities and experiences, the book highlights difference and diversity in relation to contemporary reproductive choices. The book focuses on women's and men's experiences of agency, control and negotiation within the context of cultural, medical, political, theoretical and lay ideologies of the reproductive process in contemporary Western societies.

It has been over 40 years since the original report by Salmon and Daughaday demon strating that the ability of GH to stimulate sulfation of cartilage was mediated by a "sulfation factor. " In the ensuing decades, it has become apparent that this "sulfation factor activity" encompasses a complex system ofligands (IGFs), receptors, and carrier proteins that are, in tum, responsible for a wide array of cellular actions. The IGF system has been demonstrated to be critically involved in both intrauterine and postnatal growth, and to have important implications in cancer biology as well, owing to the ability of the IGFs to function in endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine modes and given the wide distri bution of IGFs in virtually every organ system. The contributions to The /GF System reflect the wide span of interest in the IGF system and its implications for normal and abnormal growth and metabolism. The chapters have been divided into four broad sections: I. Molecular biology of the IGF system; II. Bio logical actions of the IGFs; III. IGF physiology; and IV. Clinical aspects of the IGFs. We have made every effort to highlight the major contemporary themes in IGF biology, but as is inevitable in such a fast-moving field, perspectives will continue to change as new information is accumulated."

Computer access is the only way to retrieve up-to-date sequences and this book shows researchers puzzled by the maze of URLs, sites, and searches how to use internet technology to find and analyze genetic data. The book describes the different types of databases, how to use a specific database to find a sequence that you need, and how to analyze the data to compare it with your own work.
The content also covers sequence phenotype, mutation, and genetic linkage databases; simple repetitive DNA sequences; gene feature identification; and prediction of structure and function of proteins from sequence information. This book will be invaluable to those starting a career in life sciences research as well as to established researchers wishing to make full use of available resources.
Key Features
* Describes a wide range of databases: DNA, RNA, protein, pathways, and gene expression
* Enables readers to access the information they need from databases on the web
* Includes a directory of URLs for easy reference
* Invaluable for those starting a career in life sciences research and also for established researchers wishing to make full use of available resources.

This book puts hydrogen sulfide in context with other gaseous mediators such as nitric oxide and carbon monoxide, reviews the available mechanisms for its biosynthesis and describes its physiological and pathophysiological roles in a wide variety of disease states. Hydrogen sulfide has recently been discovered to be a naturally occurring gaseous mediator in the body. Over a relatively short period of time this evanescent gas has been revealed to play key roles in a range of physiological processes including control of blood vessel caliber and hence blood pressure and in the regulation of nerve function both in the brain and the periphery. Disorders concerning the biosynthesis or activity of hydrogen sulfide may also predispose the body to disease states such as inflammation, cardiovascular and neurological disorders. Interest in this novel gas has been high in recent years and many research groups worldwide have described its individual biological effects. Moreover, medicinal chemists are beginning to synthesize novel organic molecules that release this gas at defined rates with a view to exploiting these new compounds for therapeutic benefit.

The Aging Skeleton is a comprehensive and timely book on all aspects of the skeleton as it ages, including basic mechanisms and pathways as well as pathobiology. Chapters cover general aspects and models of aging, determinants and maintenance of peak bone mass, mechanisms of age-related bone loss, quantifiable manifestations of age-related bone loss, fractures, and therapeutics.
Key Features
* Covers all aspects of the aging skeleton in one comprehensive volume
* Looks at the influence of genetics, nutrition, environment, hormones, and other factors on bone mass
* Provides a thorough discussion of fractures, one of the major consequences of the aging skeleton
* Reviews current therapeutic approaches and methods
* Written by internationally renowned authors and edited by leaders in the field
* Is the only book available on this subject

The present volume is the first in the advances in oncobiology series. It is meant to be useful not only to clinical and non-clinical oncologists but also to graduate students and medical students. The individual chapters are presented as self-contained summaries of current knowledge rather than as reviews. The last chapter deals with the subject of chemotherapy.

This manual is intended to guide and facilitate human anatomical dissections. It is flexible enough for use in long as well as short courses. It can be particularly useful as a link with real anatomy when used together with computerised-anatomy programs, or where students do not dissect but merely look at atlases, prosections and models. There is an introduction for each anatomical region; and for each section to be dissected there is an overview, a dissection schedule which guides the student through a set of instructions, a summary and a list of objectives that are clinically important. The terminology used is the latest. The manual is suitable for medical and dental students. It is also of value for advanced knowledge of anatomy for surgery and in relation to the interpretation of normal anatomy in non-invasive imaging of anatomy for clinical diagnosis, surgical practice on cadaveric material, and in discussions about clinical problems.

This book is written to help and enable students in how to observe biological specimens in terms of viscosity, mass, elasticity and work producing elements. The observations are related to underlying chemical reactions by means of strain (fractional length change) sensitivity of the reactions, and a theory is developed how to connect these. Their mathematical derivation is complex when three or more states are involved, but a method is presented here to demonstrate how to simplify this complex problem. Basic mathematical solutions that are useful for this book, are presented (Fourier and Laplace transforms, differential equations, matrix operations) together with Fortran programs in the Appendix.

Hematopoietic Stem Cells Development brings together articles covering the biology of hematopoietic stem cells during embryonic development, reporting particular aspects of fly, fish, avian and mammalian models. Thus, this book allows a comparative overview of hematopoietic stem cell generation in the different classes, emphasizing the conserved trends in development. This book culminates with state-of-the art knowledge on hematopoietic development in human species and discussions of the most recent breakthroughs with relevance to both researchers and clinicians.