Cellular biology (cytology) Books

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Book SynopsisThis textbook presents solid tools for in silico engineering biology, offering students a step-by-step guide to mastering the smart design of metabolic pathways. The first part explains the Design-Build-Test-Learn-cycle engineering approach to biology, discussing the basic tools to model biological and chemistry-based systems. Using these basic tools, the second part focuses on various computational protocols for metabolic pathway design, from enzyme selection to pathway discovery and enumeration. In the context of industrial biotechnology, the final part helps readers understand the challenges of scaling up and optimisation. By working with the free programming language Scientific Python, this book provides easily accessible tools for studying and learning the principles of modern in silico metabolic pathway design. Intended for advanced undergraduates and master’s students in biotechnology, biomedical engineering, bioinformatics and systems biology students, the introductory sections make it also useful for beginners wanting to learn the basics of scientific coding and find real-world, hands-on examples.Table of Contents1. Introduction to engineering biology 1.1. The engineering waves of biology: genetic, genomics, systems and synthetic 1.2. Industrial biotechnology in revolutions 1.3. The present: Design-Build-Test-Learn foundries 1.4. The future: automation, cloud biotechnology and artificial intelligence 2. Understanding the cell: genome-scale engineering 2.1. Systems biology models 2.2. Model reconstruction from omics to big data 2.3. Model simulation through constraint-based approaches 2.4. Modeling dynamics 3. Sources of natural chemical diversity 3.1. Understanding the mechanisms of enzyme innovation and adaptation 3.2. Knowledge-based encodings for chemical reactions 3.3. Modeling enzyme promiscuity using reaction rules and molecular signatures 3.4. Enumerating chemical diversity 4. Enzyme discovery and selection 4.1. Discovery through sequence homology 4.2. Discovery through reaction homology 4.3. Screening and selection through directed evolution 5. The metabolic space 5.1. Metabolic phenotypes 5.2. The metabolic spaces of the biosphere 5.3. Extended, non-natural and outer metabolic spaces 6. Pathway discovery 6.1. Defining chemical targets 6.2. Retrosynthetic analysis of the metabolic scope 6.3. Pathway enumeration 6.4. Pathway ranking 7. Pathway design 7.1. Pathway selection 7.2. Enzyme selection 7.3. Genetic parts selection 7.4. Combinatorial design 7.5. Experimental design 8. Chassis redesign 8.1. Knock-outs 8.2. Knock-ins 8.3. Knowledge-based redesign 9. Learning and adaptation 9.1. Principles of machine learning 9.2. Deep learning 9.3. Smart parts selection 9.4. Smart experimental redesign 10. Scaling-up and derivatization 10.1. Scale-up 10.2 Derivatization 10.3 Agile biodesign

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Book SynopsisThis textbook shall introduce the students to 3D cell culture approaches and applications. An overview on existing techniques and equipment is provided and insight into various aspects and challenges that researchers need to consider and face during culture of 3D cells is given. The reader will learn the importance of physiological cell, tissue and organ models and gains important knowledge on 3D analytics. This textbook deepens selected aspects of the textbook “Cell Culture Technology”, which also is published in this series, while offering extended insight into 3D cell culture. The concept of the textbook encompasses various lectures ranging from basics in cell cultivation, tissue engineering, biomaterials and biocompatibility, in vitro test systems and regenerative medicine. The textbook addresses Master- and PhD students interested and/or working in the field of modern cell culture applications and will support the understanding of the essential strategies in 3D cell culture and waken awareness for the potentials and challenges of this application.Table of ContentsChapter 1. Introduction to 3D cell culture.- Chapter 2. Lab equipment for 3D cell culture.- Chapter 3. A view from the cellular perspective.- Chapter 4. Biological, natural and synthetic 3D matrices.- Chapter 5. Hydrogels for 3D cell culture.- Chapter 6. Vascularization in 3D cell culture.- Chapter 7. Application of scaffold-free 3D models.- Chapter 8. 10. Microfluidic Systems and Organ (Human) on a Chip.- Chapter 9. 3D-Bioprinting.- Chapter 10. Non-destructive and label-free monitoring of 3D cell constructs.

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Book SynopsisWhat are life and death? Is it possible to understand their essence and give clear definitions? Countless books and articles have been devoted to trying to answer these intriguing questions. However, there are still no definite and generally accepted answers. The intrigue remains. And meanwhile, human attempts to vanquish death and achieve immortality continue apace.This book is an attempt to answer the eternal questions about life and death by analyzing, synthesizing, and rethinking the known facts that characterize life. The material here should be of particular interest, as it contains many hypotheses, philosophical generalizations, and well informed speculations. What is most important for life - matter, energy, or information? How are individual lives and the phenomenon of life in general related? What serves what – does the genome serve the cell or does the cell serve the genome? What is the value of life and death? Can we become immortal? The inquisitive reader will find original answers to these and other exciting questions in the pages of this stimulating book.Table of ContentsThe phenomenon of life. Planet system of life.- Individual Life. Living bodies - holders of life.- The Emergence of Individual Life and the Life Phenomena.- Development.- Reproduction of living bodies and genomes.- Ways and Mechanisms of Survival.- Aging and Loss of Individuals.- The processes and mechanisms of living bodies. The nature of vitality.- Information and Management. Mechanisms of the Invisible World of the Genome.- Living Bodies - Phenotypic Framing of Genomes.- Duality of Life.- Immortality. Power of the Genome.- Conclusion. The Unified System of Life.

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Book SynopsisThis book provides readers with an overview of the frequent occurrence of asymmetric cell division. Employing a broad range of examples, it highlights how this mode of cell division constitutes the basis of multicellular organism development and how its misregulation can lead to cancer.To underline such developmental correlations, readers will for example gain insights into stem cell fate and tumor growth. In turn, subsequent chapters include descriptions of asymmetric cell division from unicellular organisms to humans in both physiological and pathological conditions. The book also illustrates the importance of this process for evolution and our need to understand the background mechanisms, offering a valuable guide not only for students in the field of developmental biology but also for experienced researchers from neighboring fields.Table of Contents1. Ismael Sánchez-Osorio, Carlos A. Hernández-Martínez , Agustino Martínez-Antonio, Modeling Asymmetric Cell Division in Caulobacter crescentus Using a Boolean Logic Approach ama@biosintetica.mx 2. John J. Tyson, Kartik Subramanian, Spatiotemporal models of asymmetric cell division cycle in Caulobacter crescentus skartik@vt.edu 3. Marco Geymonat, Marisa Segal, Intrinsic and extrinsic determinants linking spindle pole fate, spindle polarity and asymmetric cell division in the budding yeast S. cerevisiae ms433@cam.ac.uk 4. Arielle Koonyee Lam, Bryan Phillips, Wnt signaling polarizes C. elegans asymmetric cell divisions during development bryan-phillips@uiowa.edu 5. Anne Pacquelet, Asymmetric cell division in the one-cell C.elegans embryo: multiple steps to generate cell size asymmetry anne.pacquelet@univ-rennes1.fr 6. Jerome Teuliere, Gian Garriga, Size matters: how C. elegans asymmetric divisions regulate apoptosis garriga@berkeley.edu 7. Christian Pohl, The midbody and its remnant in cell polarization and asymmetric cell division Pohl@em.uni-frankfurt.de 8. Emmanuel Gallaud, Tri Than Pham, Clemens Cabernard , Drosophila melanogaster neuroblasts: a model for asymmetric stem cell divisions clemens.cabernard@unibas.ch 9. Malgorzata Kloc, Jacek Z. Kubiak, Szczepan Bilinski, Asymmetric divisions in oogenesis MKloc@houstonmethodist.org 10. Radek Sindelka, Monika Flachsova, Pavel Abaffy and Mikael Kubista, Asymmetric localization and distribution of factors determining cell fate during early development of Xenopus laevis mikael.kubista@ibt.cas.cz 11. Guillaume Hatte, Jacek Z. Kubiak, Jean-Pierre Tassan, Asymmetries in cell division, cell size and furrowing in the Xenopus laevis embryo jean-pierre.tassan@univ-rennes1.fr 12. Takefumi Negishi, Hiroki Nishida, Asymmetric and unequal cell divisions in ascidian embryos hnishida@bio.sci.osaka-u.ac.jp 13. Agathe Chaigne et Marie-Emilie Terret, Marie-Hélène Verlhac, Asymmetries and symmetries in the mouse oocyte and zygote marie-helene.verlhac@college-de-france.fr 14. Damian Dudka, Patrick Meraldi, Symmetry does not come for free – cellular mechanisms to achieve a symmetric cell division Patrick.Meraldi@unige.ch 15. Clare L. Garcin, Shukry J. Habib, A Comparative Perspective on Wnt/β-catenin Signalling in Cell Fate Determination shukry.habib@kcl.ac.uk 16. Prestina Smith, Mark Azzam, Lindsay Hinck, Extracellular regulation of the mitotic spindle and fate determinants driving asymmetric cell division lhinck@ucsc.edu < 17. Ian Meyers, Mathieu Daynac, Claudia Petritsch, Regulation of asymmetric cell division in mammalian neural stem and cancer precursor cells Claudia.Petritsch@ucsf.edu 18. Subhas Mukherjee, Daniel J. Brat, Molecular programs underlying asymmetric stem cell division and their disruption in malignancy dbrat@emory.edu @emory.edu

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Book SynopsisThis much-needed book is the first definitive volume on Euglena in twenty-fire years, offering information on its atypical biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, and potential biotechnology applications. This volume gathers together contributions from well-known experts, who in many cases played major roles in elucidating the phenomenon discussed. Presented in three parts, the first section of this comprehensive book describes novel biochemical pathways which in some instances have an atypical subcellular localization. The second section details atypical cellular mechanisms of organelle protein import, organelle nuclear genome interdependence, gene regulation and expression that provides insights into the evolutionary origins of eukaryotic cells. The final section discusses how biotechnologists have capitalized on the novel cellular and biochemical features of Euglena to produce value added products. Euglena: Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology will provide essential reading for cell and molecular biologists with interests in evolution, novel biochemical pathways, organelle biogenesis and algal biotechnology. Readers will come away from this volume with a full understanding of the complexities of the Euglena as well as new realizations regarding the diversity of cellular processes yet to be discovered. Table of ContentsPart I Biochemistry and Physiology.- Chapter 1 Evolutionary Origin of Euglena.- Chapter 2 The Mitochondrion of Euglena gracilis.- Chapter 3 C2 Metabolism in Euglena.- Chapter 4 Biochemistry and Physiology of Reactive Oxygen Species in Euglena. Chapter 5 Biochemistry and Physiology of Vitamins in Euglena .- Chapter 6 Biochemistry and Physiology of Heavy Metal Resistance and Accumulation in Euglena.- Part II Cell and Molecular Biology.- Chapter 7 Euglena gracilis Genomes and Transcriptome: Organelles, Nuclear Genome Assembly Strategies, Initial Features.- Chapter 8 Euglena transcript processing.- Chapter 9 Photo and Nutritional Regulation of Euglena Organelle Development.- Chapter 10 Protein targeting to Euglena chloroplasts.- Chapter 11 Photomovement in Euglena.- Chapter 12 Gravitaxis in Euglena.- Part III Biotechnology.- Chapter 13 Wax Ester Fermentation and Its Application for Biofuel Production.- Chapter 14 Large-scale Cultivation of Euglena.

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Book SynopsisBiomedical Applications of Extracellular Vesicles Unique resource focusing on biomedical applications and clinical translation of extracellular vesicles in science and medicine Focusing on key points to better understand extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their development, Biomedical Applications of Extracellular Vesicles describes in detail the biogenesis of EVs, the mechanism of intercellular communication, and the treatment of various diseases of EVs and the EV-based drug delivery platforms. An application-oriented resource, the work presents rapidly newer biomedical and clinical applications of natural and engineered EVs such as drug delivery, diagnosis, prognosis monitoring, immunotherapy, and more. The first part of this book provides a basic background on EVs. Next, the book introduces the excellent therapeutic effects of EVs themselves and the underlying mechanisms, followed by how EVs from different sources were used to construct drug delivery platforms. The latest research on EVs from leading groups around the world is presented. Sample topics covered in Biomedical Applications of Extracellular Vesicles include: Biogenesis of various EVs Pros and cons of the different instrumental and methodological developments for analytical strategies applied to EVs EVs in treatment of major diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases Current methods of engineering EVs, and a comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of each method Biomaterials, such as hydrogels, scaffolds, and microneedles, that have been developed to further enhance the therapeutic efficacy of EVs Key challenges, such as quality control, scalability, and biosafety, that limit the clinical and industrial translation of EVs Explaining in detail how extracellular vesicles are produced and engineered, along with potential applications and commercial developments of EVs in science and industry, Biomedical Applications of Extracellular Vesicles is an essential resource on the subject for chemists, cell biologists, and molecular physicists.Table of ContentsPreface xi 1 Extracellular Vesicles and Their Biomedical Applications: An Overview 1 Xing-Jie liang, Ke Cheng, and Zhenhua li 1.1 Introduction 1 1.2 Biogenesis and Composition of Extracellular Vesicles 1 1.3 Biological Functions of Extracellular Vesicles 2 1.4 Extracellular Vesicles Isolation and Limitations 3 2 Biogenesis and Identification of Extracellular Vesicles 5 Dandan Ding, Xing Zhang, Yu Zhao, Xiaoya Li, Qingqing Leng, and Zhenhua li 2.1 Biogenesis of Extracellular Vesicles 5 2.1.1 Biogenesis of Exosome 6 2.1.2 Biogenesis of Microvesicle 8 2.1.3 Biogenesis of Apoptotic Bodies 8 2.1.4 Biogenesis of Large Oncosomes 9 2.2 Identification of Extracellular Vesicles 9 2.2.1 Electron Microscopic Identification 9 2.2.1.1 Scanning Electron Microscopy 9 2.2.1.2 Transmission Electron Microscopy 10 2.2.1.3 Atomic Force Microscopy 11 2.2.1.4 Cryo-Electron Microscopy 12 2.2.2 Particle Size Detection 13 2.2.2.1 Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis 13 2.2.2.2 Dynamic Light Scattering 14 2.2.3 Surface Protein Assay 16 2.2.3.1 Protein Immunoblotting Method 17 2.2.3.2 Nano-Flow Cytometry 19 2.2.3.3 Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay 19 2.2.4 Other Methods 21 2.2.4.1 Tunable Resistive Pulse Sensing 21 2.2.4.2 Single EV Analysis Technique 22 2.2.4.3 Micronuclear Magnetic Resonance 23 References 24 3 Therapeutic Potential of Extracellular Vesicles from Different Cell Sources 35 Xueyi Wang and Zhenhua li 3.1 Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Stem Cells (SCs) 35 3.1.1 Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) 37 3.1.1.1 Kidney Injury 38 3.1.1.2 Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury (MI/RI) 38 3.1.1.3 Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) 39 3.1.1.4 Cancer 40 3.1.2 Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Neural Stem Cells (NSCs) 40 3.1.3 Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Endothelial Progenitor Cells (EPCs) 41 3.1.4 Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Cardiac Progenitor Cells (CPCs) and Other Stem Cells 41 3.2 Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Immune Cells 42 3.2.1 Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Macrophages 42 3.2.2 Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Dendritic Cells (DCs) 44 3.2.3 Extracellular Vesicles Derived from T Cells 45 3.2.4 Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Natural Killer (NK) Cells 46 3.3 Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Cancer Cells 47 3.4 Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Plants 49 3.4.1 Anti-inflammatory 49 3.4.2 Anticancer 50 3.4.3 Antibacterial 51 3.4.4 Antioxidation 51 References 51 4 Biomedical Applications of Extracellular Vesicles in Treatment of Disease 59 Fei Wang, Jiacong Ai, Ziyang Zhang, Yuanhang li, and Zhenhua li 4.1 Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine 60 4.2 Metabolic Diseases 67 4.3 Cardiovascular Diseases 74 4.4 Respiratory Diseases 85 4.5 Cancers 88 4.6 Conclusion and Perspectives 93 References 94 5 Applications of Engineered Extracellular Vesicles 101 Lanya li, Yingxian Xiao, Shushan Mo, and Zhenhua li 5.1 Engineering EVs for Cargo Loading 101 5.1.1 Endogenous Loading 101 5.1.2 Exogenous Loading 104 5.2 Engineering EVs for Surface Modification 106 5.2.1 Genetic Engineering 106 5.2.2 Chemical Modification 108 5.2.3 Hydrophobic Membrane Engineering 109 References 111 6 Current Technology for Production, Isolation, and Quality Control of Extracellular Vesicles 117 Dandan Han, Yichuan Ma, Yujing Hu, and Zhenhua li 6.1 Production of EVs 117 6.1.1 Three-Dimensional Culture 117 6.1.2 Physical Stimulation 119 6.1.3 Chemical Stimulation 120 6.1.4 Physiological Modification 120 6.1.5 Genetic Manipulation 121 6.2 Extraction of EVs 122 6.2.1 Separation Strategies of EVs 123 6.2.2 Ultracentrifugation Approach 123 6.2.2.1 Differential Ultracentrifugation 123 6.2.2.2 Isopycnic and Moving-Zone Density Gradient Ultracentrifugation 125 6.2.3 Ultrafiltration Approach 125 6.2.4 Size-Exclusion Chromatography 127 6.2.5 Polymer Precipitation Strategy 128 6.2.6 Immunoaffinity Capture Approach 128 6.2.7 Microfluidic Technology 129 6.2.8 Other Methods 131 6.3 Quality Control of EVs 132 6.3.1 Transmission Electron Microscopy 133 6.3.2 High-Resolution Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry 134 6.3.3 Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay 134 6.3.4 Fourier-Transform Infrared Attenuated Total Reflection Spectroscopy 135 6.3.5 Capillary Electrophoresis 135 6.3.6 Nanoparticles Tracking Analysis 136 6.3.7 Flow Cytometer 137 6.3.8 Other Techniques 138 References 140 7 Prospects and Limitations of Clinical Application of Extracellular Vesicles 147 li Luo, Weirun li, and Zhenhua li 7.1 Application of Exosomes as Liquid Biopsy in Clinical Diagnosis 147 7.2 Exosomes—It has Become a Star Molecule in Disease Diagnosis 147 7.2.1 Exosomes Could Be Used as Prognostic and Diagnostic Biomarkers in Cancer 150 7.2.2 Exosomes Biopsy Strategies were Proposed to Target the Different Cancers 152 7.2.2.1 Pancreatic Cancer 152 7.2.2.2 Gastric Cancer 152 7.2.2.3 Lung Cancer 152 7.2.2.4 Breast Cancer 153 7.2.2.5 Liver Cancer 153 7.2.2.6 Ovarian Cancer 153 7.2.2.7 Melanoma 154 7.2.2.8 Colon Cancer 154 7.2.2.9 Glioma 155 7.2.3 Exosomes in Clinical Trial for Cancer Biopsy 155 7.3 The Commercial Application of Exosomes 158 7.3.1 Tumor Therapy 158 7.3.2 Lung Infection and ARDS Treatment 158 7.3.3 Cardiovascular Disease Treatment 160 7.3.4 Liver and Kidney Injury Treatment 160 7.3.5 Ophthalmology Treatment 160 7.3.6 Cartilage Injury Treatment 161 7.3.7 Other Treatments 161 7.3.8 Engineering of Exosome Delivery 161 7.3.9 Skin Repair and Medical Skincare Products 164 7.4 Commercial Development of Exosomes 166 7.4.1 Analysis of Representative Companies of Exosomes 168 7.4.1.1 ExoCoBio 168 7.4.1.2 Direct Biologics 168 7.4.1.3 Tianjin Exocrine Science and Technology 169 7.4.1.4 TheraXyte 170 7.4.1.5 Exosome Diagnostics 170 7.4.1.6 Codiak 171 7.4.1.7 Evox 171 7.4.1.8 EVerZom 171 7.5 Issues and Challenges 172 7.5.1 Quality Control 172 7.5.2 Storage Stability 172 7.5.3 Product Safety 173 7.5.4 Drug-Forming Properties of Engineered Exosomes 173 References 174 8 Conclusion and Future Perspectives 181 Xing-Jie liang, Ke Cheng, and Zhenhua li 8.1 Summary and Conclusions 181 8.2 General Trends and Developments 182 8.2.1 EVs in Drug Delivery 182 8.2.2 Engineered EVs in Biomedical Applications 183 8.2.3 EVs for Clinical Applications When Comparing with Liposomes 184 8.3 Challenges for Future Research 185 8.3.1 Standardization and Quality Control 185 8.3.2 Scalability and Manufacturing 185 8.3.3 Targeting and Biodistribution 186 8.3.4 Safety and Toxicity 186 8.3.5 Regulatory Challenges 186 8.3.6 Heterogeneity of EV Populations 187 8.3.7 Understanding the Role of EVs in Disease Progression and Development 187 Index 189

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Book SynopsisMany Microorganisms and some macro-organisms can live under extreme conditions. For example, high and low temperature, acidic and alkaline conditions, high salt areas, high pressure, toxic compounds, high level of ionizing radiation, anoxia and absence of light, etc. Many organisms inhabit environments characterized by more than one form of stress (Polyextremophiles). Among them are those who live in hypersaline and alkaline, hot and acidic, cold/hot and high hydrostatic pressure, etc. Polyextremophiles found in desert regions have to copy with intense UV irradiation and desiccation, high as well as low temperatures, and low availability of water and nutrients. This book provides novel results of application to polyextremophiles research ranging from nanotechnology to synthetic biology to the origin of life and beyond.Trade ReviewFrom the book reviews:“It is a document of the terrestrial ecology of free-living microorganisms. … The utility of the volume is enhanced by its general readability; any undergraduate with a basic understanding of microbiology will benefit from reading it. This accessibility is augmented by the color plates that are used throughout the text. … Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above.” (P. K. Strother, Choice, Vol. 52 (2), October, 2014)Table of ContentsPART 1: OPENING CHAPTERSIntroduction; J. Seckbach et al.Foreword; R.W. CastenholzPreface; K. HorikoshiList of Authors and Their AddressesPART 2: GENERAL ASPECTSPolyextremophiles and the Constraints for Terrestrial Habitability; M.C. Capece et al.Life on the Edge and Astrobiology: Who Is Who in the Polyextremophiles World; J. SeckbachThe Dynamic Genomes of Acidophiles; F. J. López de Saro et al.PART 3: HALOPHILESTwo Centuries of Microbiological Research in the Wadi Natrun, Egypt: A Model System for the Study of the Ecology, Physiology, and Taxonomy of Haloalkaliphilic Microorganisms; A. OrenAdaptation in Haloalkaliphiles and Natronophilic Bacteria; H.L. Banciu and D.Y. SorokinA Random Biogeochemical Walk into Three Soda Lakes of the Western USA: With an Introduction to a Few of their Microbial Denizens; R.S. OremlandHalophilic, Acidophilic, and Haloacidophilic Prokaryotes; H. MinegishiLife in Magnesium- and Calcium-Rich Hypersaline Environments: Salt Stress by Chaotropic Ions; A. OrenSurvival Strategies of Halophilic Oligotrophic and Desiccation Resistant Prokaryotes; H. Stan-Lotter and S. FendrihanRadiation Resistance in Extremophiles: Fending Off Multiple Attacks; K.M. Webb and J. DiRuggieroPART 4: THERMOPHILESThermoalkaliphilic Microbes; V. Kumar and T. SatyanarayanaAcido- and Thermophilic Microorganisms, Their Features and Identification of Novel Enzymes or Pathways; Y. KawarabayasiMicrobial Diversity in Acidic High Temperature Steam Vents; R.L. Weiss Bizzoco and S.T. KelleyPART 5: PSYCHROPHILESLeft Out in the Cold: Life in Cryoenvironments; J. Goordial et al.Microbial Diversity and Enzymes in Ikaite Columns; A Cold and Alkaline Environment in Greenland; J.K. Vester et al.Microbial Communities Thriving in Various Ice Ecosystems; B. Sattler and B. PostSnow Algae. Adaptation Strategies to Survive on Snow and Ice; T. LeyaAdaptation of Antarctic Freshwater Green Algae to the Extreme Environments; H. HuPART 6: PRESSUREDeep Sub-Surface Oil Reservoirs as Poly-Extreme Habitats for Microbial Life. A Current Review; A. Wentzel et al.Expanding Limits for Life to a New Dimension: Microbial Growth at Hypergravity; S. Deguchi and K. HorikoshiPART 7: OXYGEN RELATIONSHIPSMicrobial Eukaryotes in Marine Oxygen Minimum Zones; W.D. Orsi and V.P. EdgcombDeep Hypersaline Anoxic Basins as Model Systems for Environmental Selection of Microbial Plankton; A. Stock et al.Microbial Eukaryotes in Hypersaline Anoxic Deep Sea Basins; V.P. Edgcomb and W.D. OrsiLife at High Salt and Low Oxygen: How Do the Halobacteriaceae Cope with Low Oxygen Concentrations in their Environment?; A. OrenPART 8: SELECTED ORGANISMSNiches and Adaptations of Polyextremotolerant Black Fungi; M. Grube et al.Polyextremophilic Photoautotrophic Eukaryotic Algae; W. Reisser Extremophilic Magnetotactic Bacteria; C.T. Lefèvre and D. A. BazylinskiMulticellular Extremophiles – The Case of the Tardigrades; D. Schulze-Makuch and J. SeckbachPART 9: FINAL COMMENTSPolyextremophiles - Summary and Conclusions; J. Chela FloresErratumOrganism IndexSubject IndexAuthor Index

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Book SynopsisThis book comprehensively summarizes the biological mechanisms of coloration and pattern formation of animals at molecular and cellular level, offering up-to-date knowledge derived from remarkable progress in the last 10 years. The brilliant coloration, conspicuous patterns and spectacular color changes displayed by some vertebrates and invertebrates are generally their strategies of the utmost importance for survival. Consists of mainly three parts, starts with introductory chapter, such as Pigments and Pigment Organelles, Developmental Genetics of Pigment Cell Formation, Adult Pigment Patterns, and Color Changes, this book introduces new pigment compounds in addition to classically known pigments and organelles, explains how the generation of multiple types of pigment cell is genetically controlled, describes the mechanisms underlying the zebrafish stripe formation as well as other animals and also summarizes the mechanism of physiological and morphological color changes of teleost, amphibian and cephalopod. Written by experts in the field, this book will be essential reading for graduate students and researchers in biological fields who are interested in pigmentation mechanisms of animals.Table of ContentsPart 1 Pigments and pigment organelles 1 Pigments in insects 2 Melanins in vertebrates 3 Body color expression in birds 4 Pigments in teleosts and their biosynthesis 5 Bioluminescence and Pigments Part 2 Pigment cell and patterned pigmentation 6 Development of melanin-bearing pigment cells in birds and mammals 7 Pigment cell development in teleosts 8 Pigment patterning in teleosts 9 Theoretical studies of pigment pattern formation 10 Evolution of Pigment Pattern Formation in Teleosts 11 Mechanisms of feather structural coloration and pattern formation in birds 12 Mechanism of color pattern formation in insects Part 3 Color changes 13 Physiological and Morphological Color Changes in Teleosts and in Reptiles 14 Color change in cephalopods 15 Physiological and biochemical mechanisms of insect color change towards understanding molecular links

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Book SynopsisThis book gathers relatively recent and significant topics in the field of ion channel research. Ion channels form the molecular basis for membrane excitability in cells present in the cardiovascular and nervous systems. In many non-excitable cells, ion channels contribute to diverse physiological functions, including the secretion of signaling compounds like hormones and insulin, cell volume regulation, intracellular signaling, especially Ca2+ signaling, etc. Many human diseases have been attributed to abnormal channel functions and defective membrane expression of channel proteins. On the other hand, ion channels are excellent models for studying protein biophysics, especially the allosteric regulation of protein function by miscellaneous stimuli. Therefore, research on ion channels carries significant meaning for the understanding of basic protein biophysics and diverse physiological functions. Such vital information also assists in developing novel and effective treatments for related human diseases. This book provides graduates and scientists in both basic and clinical levels a comprehensive understanding of cutting-edge advances and a useful and stimulating platform for tackling their own questions about ion channels.Table of ContentsAdvancing ion channel research with automated patch clamp (APC) electrophysiology platforms.- Methods & Challenges to Study Mechanosensitive Ion Channels.- The Polysite Pharmacology of TREK K2P channels.- Physiological functions, biophysical properties and regulation of KCNQ1 (KV7.1) potassium channels.- Context matters – Calcium channel splice variants and their effects in brain and cardiovascular function.- Structure-function of TMEM16 ion channels and lipid scramblases.- Distribution and Assembly of TRP Ion Channels.- Regulation of Ion Channel Function by Gas Molecules.- DEG/ENaC ion channels in the function of the nervous system: from worm to man.- Glial chloride channels in the function of the nervous system across species.- Physiological and pathological relevance of selective and non-selective Ca2+ channels in skeletal and cardiac muscle.- Lysosomal TRPML1 Channel: Implications in Cardiovascular and Kidney Diseases.- Store-Operated Calcium Entry in the Cardiovascular System.- The role of thermosensitive ion channels in mammalian thermoregulation.- Mechanotransduction ion channels in hearing and touch.- The functional properties, physiological roles, channelopathy and pharmacological characteristics of the Slack (KCNT1) channel.- Ion Channels in Anesthesiology.

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Book SynopsisIn just a half century, humanity has made an astounding leap in its understanding of life. Now, one of the giants of biological science, Christian de Duve, discusses what we''ve learned in this half century, ranging from the tiniest cells to the future of our species and of life itself. With wide-ranging erudition, de Duve takes us on a dazzling tour of the biological world, beginning with the invisible workings of the cell, the area in which he won his Nobel Prize. He describes how the first cells may have arisen and suggests that they may have been like the organisms that exist today near deep-sea hydrothermal vents. Contrary to many other scientists, he argues that life was bound to arise and that it probably only took millennia--maybe tens of thousands of years--to move from rough building blocks to the first organisms possessing the basic properties of life. With equal authority, De Duve examines topics such as the evolution of humans, the origins of consciousness, the developmentTrade Review"A well-written, engaging scientific tour de force.... de Duve exhibits an extraordinary skill in conveying his deep knowledge of biology.... Both a first-rate scholar and an accomplished popularizer of science...de Duve moves with equal familiarity and eloquence from scientific papers to French poets.... Life Evolving forces the reader to avoid intellectual complacency and to articulate one's own arguments to effectively address his position. These are, in themselves, major reasons to appreciate the book."--Science "This book is addressed to the educated lay person interested in the origin of life, its evolution to the present day and its philosophical implications. The reader is in for a treat of unsurpassed lucid and poetic writing. It is the testament of one of the great biologist-philosophers of our time."--Gunter Blobel, Nobel Laureate in Physiology and Medicine "An original thinker and graceful writer, Christian de Duve is an E.O. Wilson for the cell. In Life Evolving, De Duve lays bare the molecular machinery of life, finding both explanation of our evolutionary past and signs of what it will mean to be human in the twenty-first century."--Andrew H. Knoll, Fisher Professor of Natural History, Harvard University "A well-written, engaging scientific tour de force.... de Duve exhibits an extraordinary skill in conveying his deep knowledge of biology.... Both a first-rate scholar and an accomplished popularizer of science...de Duve moves with equal familiarity and eloquence from scientific papers to French poets.... Life Evolving forces the reader to avoid intellectual complacency and to articulate one's own arguments to effectively address his position. These are, in themselves, major reasons to appreciate the book."--Science "This book is addressed to the educated lay person interested in the origin of life, its evolution to the present day and its philosophical implications. The reader is in for a treat of unsurpassed lucid and poetic writing. It is the testament of one of the great biologist-philosophers of our time."--Gunter Blobel, Nobel Laureate in Physiology and Medicine "An original thinker and graceful writer, Christian de Duve is an E.O. Wilson for the cell. In Life Evolving, De Duve lays bare the molecular machinery of life, finding both explanation of our evolutionary past and signs of what it will mean to be human in the twenty-first century."--Andrew H. Knoll, Fisher Professor of Natural History, Harvard UniversityTable of ContentsIntroduction ; 1. What is Life? (a: Chemistry) ; 2. What is Life? (b: Information) ; 3. Where Does Life Come From? ; 4. How Did Life Arise? (a: The Way to RNA) ; 5. How Did Life Arise? (b: From RNA to Protein-DNA) ; 6. How Did Life Arise? (c: The Birth of Cells) ; 7. The History of Life ; 8. The Invisible World of Bacteria ; 9. The Mysterious Birth of Eukaryotes (a: The Problem) ; 10. The Mysterious Birth of Eukaryotes (b: A Possible Pathway) ; 11. The Visible Revolution ; 12. The Arrow of Evolution ; 13. Becoming Human ; 14. The Riddle of the Brain ; 15. Reshaping Life ; 16. After Us, What? ; 17. Are We Alone? ; 18. How About God in All That?

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Table of ContentsPART I: Biologic and Molecular Basis for Regenerative Medicine PART II: Cells and Tissue Development PART III: Biomaterials for Regenerative Medicine PART IV: Therapeutic Applications Section A: Cell Therapy Section B: Tissue Therapy PART V: Regulation and Ethics

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Murphy has gathered a huge amount of research material on longevity, giving the book a tone of meticulous authority" * Kirkus Reviews *"[An] informative deep dive into the research behind living longer and the aging process."---Tom Wilk, New Jersey Monthly"Meticulous. . . . [Murphy's] sweep is vast as she discourses on diet, exercise, insulin signaling and the genes that affect longevity. In her final, superb chapters, she takes on the associations between the human microbiome and cognitive deterioration, wrapping up with a look ahead to emerging drug therapies."---Hamilton Cain, Wall Street Journal"In How We Age, geneticist Coleen Murphy provides no silver bullets for remaining youthful. Rather, she offers a scholarly account of the state of ageing research that is both lively and personal. She also gives real insight into the ups and downs of leading a research laboratory. . . . How We Age will be particularly useful to researchers, but it should also appeal to general readers who want to know what it took to arrive at the current understanding of ageing — and the prospects of undergoing it in better shape."---Linda Partridge, Nature

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Book SynopsisThis book offers clear, up-to-date guidance on how to report cytologic findings in cervical, vaginal and anal samples in accordance with the 2014 Bethesda System Update. The new edition has been expanded and revised to take into account the advances and experience of the past decade. A new chapter has been added, the terminology and text have been updated, and various terminological and morphologic questions have been clarified. In addition, new images are included that reflect the experience gained with liquid-based cytology since the publication of the last edition in 2004. Among more than 300 images, some represent classic examples of an entity while others illustrate interpretative dilemmas, borderline cytomorphologic features or mimics of epithelial abnormalities. The Bethesda System for Reporting Cervical Cytology, with its user-friendly format, is a “must have” for pathologists, cytopathologists, pathology residents, cytotechnologists, and clinicians.Trade Review“This is a practical reference for cytopathologists, cytotechnologists, residents, fellows, and clinicians. … It is concise, yet exhaustive, and well organized. Images are plentiful and of excellent quality, and do a good job of illustrating different disease entities. … This is a must for everybody signing out gynecologic cytopathology. It is highly recommended.” (Anamarija M. Perry, Doody’s Book Reviews, February, 2016)Table of ContentsSpecimen Adequacy.- Non-Neoplastic Findings.- Endometrial Cells: The How and When of Reporting.- Atypical Squamous.- Epithelial Abnormalities: Squamous.- Epithelial Abnormalities: Glandular.- Other Malignant.- Anal-Rectal Cytology.- Ancillary Testing.- Computer-Assisted Interpretation of Cervical Cytology.- Educational Notes and Suggestions Appended to Cytology Reports.

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Book SynopsisNow in full-color, the Second Edition of Human Evolutionary Genetics has been completely revised to cover the rapid advances in the field since publication of the highly regarded First Edition. Written for upper-level undergraduate and graduate students, it is the only textbook to integrate genetic, archaeological, and linguistic perspectives on human evolution, and to offer a genomic perspective, reflecting the shift from studies of specific regions of the genome towards comprehensive genomewide analyses of human genetic diversity. Human Evolutionary Genetics is suitable for courses in Genetics, Evolution, and Anthropology. Those readers with a background in anthropology will find that the streamlined genetic analysis material contained in the Second Edition is more accessible. The new edition also integrates new technologies (including next-generation sequencing and genome-wide SNP typing) and new data analysis methods, including recent data on ancient genTrade Review"I strongly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in human evolutionary genetics or anthropological genetics. It would be an ideal choice for advanced undergraduates and graduate courses on this topic, and would also be a key reference for those active in such research." - Human Genomics"This is an absolutely superb book! I have been recommending it enthusiastically to professional colleagues, graduate students, and even the occasional highly motivated undergraduate student, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Not only is the book unique in terms of topical coverage, but it is also extremely well executed. In fact, it is one of the best textbooks on any subject I have ever read. It belongs on the shelves of everyone interested in the genetic aspects of human evolution. There is also much of value in it for paleoanthropologists, historical linguistics, archaeologists, and human biologists (biological anthropologists), as well as for geneticists with various complementary specialties and interests." - American Journal of Human Genetics"I strongly recommend Human Evolutionary Genetics as an undergraduate textbook. At the same time, I recommend this book to any readers with an interest in human evolution or human genetics." - Human Genetics"In all honesty, there are few comparable textbooks on this subject, and this edition of Human Evolutionary Genetics really raises the bar. I wholeheartedly recommend this volume, and anticipate building a course around it in my own teaching." - The Quarterly Review of Biology"This is a very valuable, stimulating and challenging book for students, who will benefit from having had a previous grounding in basic biology, chemistry and statistics. For teachers this will also be valuable as a comprehensive review for courses in several aspects of human evolutionary genetics and as a teach‌ing aid."- Journal of Biological Education"My thanks to the authors for updating an already outstanding book; you have outdone yourselves! Buy this book." - American Journal of Human Biology"Human Evolutionary Genetics is a highly recommended textbook that helps readers understand differences in the human genome and how evolution has affected development of the genome and acquired diversity....This book is very well laid out for those who want to introduce themselves to the concepts of evolution and genetics and is a good read for advanced undergraduates and graduates, as well as geneticists, human biologists, anthropologists, and others." - Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine"I strongly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in human evolutionary genetics or anthropological genetics. It would be an ideal choice for advanced undergraduates and graduate courses on this topic, and would also be a key reference for those active in such research." - Human Genomics"This is an absolutely superb book! I have been recommending it enthusiastically to professional colleagues, graduate students, and even the occasional highly motivated undergraduate student, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Not only is the book unique in terms of topical coverage, but it is also extremely well executed. In fact, it is one of the best textbooks on any subject I have ever read. It belongs on the shelves of everyone interested in the genetic aspects of human evolution. There is also much of value in it for paleoanthropologists, historical linguistics, archaeologists, and human biologists (biological anthropologists), as well as for geneticists with various complementary specialties and interests." - American Journal of Human Genetics"I strongly recommend Human Evolutionary Genetics as an undergraduate textbook. At the same time, I recommend this book to any readers with an interest in human evolution or human genetics." - Human Genetics"In all honesty, there are few comparable textbooks on this subject, and this edition of Human Evolutionary Genetics really raises the bar. I wholeheartedly recommend this volume, and anticipate building a course around it in my own teaching." - The Quarterly Review of Biology"This is a very valuable, stimulating and challenging book for students, who will benefit from having had a previous grounding in basic biology, chemistry and statistics. For teachers this will also be valuable as a comprehensive review for courses in several aspects of human evolutionary genetics and as a teach‌ing aid."- Journal of Biological Education"My thanks to the authors for updating an already outstanding book; you have outdone yourselves! Buy this book." - American Journal of Human Biology"Human Evolutionary Genetics is a highly recommended textbook that helps readers understand differences in the human genome and how evolution has affected development of the genome and acquired diversity....This book is very well laid out for those who want to introduce themselves to the concepts of evolution and genetics and is a good read for advanced undergraduates and graduates, as well as geneticists, human biologists, anthropologists, and others." - Yale Journal of Biology and MedicineTable of Contents1. An Introduction to Human Evolutionary GeneticsSection I: How Do We Study Genetic Variation? 2. Organization and Inheritance of the Human Genome 3. Human Genome Variation 4. Finding and Assaying Genome DiversitySection II: How Do We Interpret Genetic Variation? 5. Processes Shaping Diversity 6. Making Inferences from DiversitySection III: Where and When Did Humans Originate? 7. Humans as Apes 8. What Genetic Changes Have Made Us Human? 9. Origins of Modern HumansSection IV: How Did Humans Colonize the World? 10. The Distribution of Diversity 11. The Colonization of the Old World And Australia 12. Agricultural Expansions 13. Into New Found Lands 14. What Happens When Populations Meet?Section V: How Is An Evolutionary Perspective Helpful? 15. Understanding the Past, Present and Future of Phenotypic Variation16. Evolutionary Insights into Simple Genetic Diseases 17. Evolution and Complex Diseases 18. Identity and Identification

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Book SynopsisAn integrated guide to cellular biophysics and nonlinear dynamics, introducing students to the mathematical modeling of excitable cells. It combines empirical physiology and mathematical theory to present key interdisciplinary tools, highlighting how quantitative approaches can complement and advance bench research.Trade Review'In this text, Conradi Smith does an excellent job of teaching students with no mathematical training beyond calculus how to use differential equations to understand the basic principles of cell physiology and excitability. He skilfully walks students through the steps of modeling and analysis, all the while working to develop intuition and insight into how things work. His emphasis on computational methods for solution as well as graphical and geometrical means for interpretation enables him to communicate complex ideas in understandable ways. Furthermore, his patience and attention to detail will be appreciated by those students who have not had extensive exposure to the art of mathematical modeling. This text is a wonderful addition to the mathematical biology textbook literature.' James P. Keener, University of UtahTable of Contents1. Introduction; Part I. Models and Odes: 2. Compartmental modeling; 3. Phase diagrams; 4. Ligands, receptors and rate laws; 5. Function families and characteristic times; 6. Bifurcation diagrams of scalar ODEs; Part II. Passive Membranes: 7. The Nernst equilibrium potential; 8. The current balance equation; 9. GHK theory of membrane permeation; Part III. Voltage-Gated Currents: 10. Voltage-gated ionic currents; 11. Regenerative ionic currents and bistability; 12. Voltage-clamp recording; 13. Hodgkin-Huxley model of the action potential; Part IV. Excitability and Phase Planes: 14. The Morris-Lecar model; 15. Phase plane analysis; 16. Linear stability analysis; Part V. Oscillations and Bursting: 17. Type II excitability and oscillations; 18. Type I excitability and oscillations; 19. The low-threshold calcium spike; 20. Synaptic currents.

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Book SynopsisAmong the offspring of humans and other animals are occasional individuals that are malformed in whole or in part. The most grossly abnormal of these have been referred to from ancient times as monsters, because their birth was thought to foretell doom; the less severely affected are usually known as anomalies. This volume digs deeply into the cellular and molecular processes of embryonic development that go awry in such exceptional situations. It focuses on the physical mechanisms of how genes instruct cells to build anatomy, as well as the underlying forces of evolution that shaped these mechanisms over eons of geologic time. The narrative is framed in a historical perspective that should help students trying to make sense of these complex subjects. Each chapter is written in the style of a Sherlock Holmes story, starting with the clues and ending with a solution to the mystery.Trade Review'With rigorous arguments presented in captivating prose and crystal-clear drawings so rich in information, this new masterpiece by Lewis Held is a unique introduction to the genetics of development. Here, monstrous and normal illuminate each other, as products of the same developmental logic. This book is full of inspiring insights, on a par with the works of the great developmental biologists highlighted in its pages.' Alessandro Minelli, University of Padova, Italy, and author of Understanding Development'Orthodoxy is so rife in science these days it is strangling originality. The spread of 'best practice' as well as the related belief that there is only one ideal way to understand and explain things has stifled both diversity and imagination. … Lewis Held shows us there is another way - to look at the natural world open-mouthed and open-minded. We are taken on a lively ramble through myriad natural phenomena in countless species and the attempts of scientists to understand them. There is an infectious sense of the wonder and complexity of everything. There are innumerable nuggets to be found and it is fun. … His book sings like the descant in a choral rendition of a familiar hymn. I recommend it, but don't try and read it all in one go!' Peter A. Lawrence, University of Cambridge, UK'In this wonderful exploration of development, Lewis Held uses both familiar and less-well-known examples of frogs, flies, dogs, and cats to delve deeply into the underlying biological principles their traits can illustrate … Held also describes the genetic basis of traits that pet-owners find endearing … In addition to this fascinating exploration of genetic mechanisms and their outcomes is another idea that I have always valued in Lewis Held's work: the respect for pioneering insights and discoveries by earlier researchers like Curt Stern, Walter Gehring, Ernst Hadorn, and others. I remember hearing a faculty advisor once criticize a new graduate student for planning to cite a research article that was more than a couple years old as being irrelevant to 'modern research'. Thankfully, writers like Held remind us that the story of discovery is a long one, and critical insights can come from anywhere.' Jim Thompson, Drosophila Information Service'Recommended. Graduate students and faculty.' D. A. Brass, ChoiceTable of ContentsPreface; Part I. Frogs: 1. The introspective frog; 2. Two-headed tadpoles; 3. Extra-legged frogs; Part II. Flies: 4. The double-jointed fly; 5. The four-winged fly; 6. The naked fly; Part III. Dogs: 7. The Shar-Pei; 8. The bully whippet; 9. The Great Pyrenees; Part IV. Cats: 10. The blotched tabby; 11. The Siamese cat; 12. The calico cat.

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Book SynopsisWhy do the best-known examples of evolutionary change involve the alteration of one kind of animal into another very similar one, like the evolution of a bigger beak in a bird? Wouldn''t it be much more interesting to understand how beaks originated? Most people would agree, but until recently we didn''t know much about such origins. That is now changing, with the growth of the interdisciplinary field evo-devo, which deals with the relationship between how embryos develop in the short term and how they (and the adults they grow into) evolve in the long term. One of the key questions is: can the origins of structures such as beaks, eyes, and shells be explained within a Darwinian framework? The answer seems to be yes, but only by expanding that framework. This book discusses the required expansion, and the current state of play regarding our understanding of evolutionary and developmental origins.Trade Review'Wallace Arthur treats his readers to an eminently readable but still deeply rooted introduction into one of the most significant achievements of evolutionary biology: how evolutionary developmental biology put the organism back into the centre of evolutionary thinking.' Günter P. Wagner, Yale University, USA'Evo-devo deals with the multiple connections that exist between the biological processes of evolution and development. However, as an interface subject, there is a plurality of views on its content and its boundaries. In spite of that, Wallace Arthur has succeeded in writing an extremely clear and highly accessible guide to this fascinating, multifaceted discipline. Using the concept of 'developmental repatterning' as a common thread, the book provides a balanced view of evo-devo, covering its main achievements and future challenges. This is an ideal entry point for the non-specialist, but also a stimulating read for the practitioner who wants to consider her/his research in a wider perspective.' Giuseppe Fusco, University of Padova, Italy'Occasionally I feel that the field of Evolution and Development has lost its way, becoming submerged in myriad examples and details that don't expand our understanding of life. Wallace's book expounds the intellectual underpinnings of Evolution and Development, leads us through the key questions, and finally shows how the details and examples inform our future understanding. This book provides not just a guide to Evolution and Development, but also a spur to refocus and redouble our efforts to use development to help understand the evolution of life on Earth.' Peter Dearden, University of Otago, New ZealandTable of ContentsPreface; Acknowledgements; 1. What is evo-devo and why is it important?; 2. Antecedents of evo-devo; 3. Evolutionary and developmental essentials; 4. Evo-devo essentials; 5. The evolution of variations on a theme; 6. The evolutionary origins of themes and novelties; 7. The evolutionary origins of body plans; 8. Body plan features and toolkit genes; 9. Bringing it all together; Concluding remarks; Summary of common misunderstandings; References; Index.

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Book SynopsisThoroughly updated with 50% new material, this introductory textbook covers the basic principles and latest research on the causes, growth, detection, and treatment of cancers. Student learning is supported with a stepwise presentation, 'Pause and Recap' boxes, end-of-chapter review questions, and additional online resources.Trade Review'A comprehensive, engagingly written, accurate overview of a topic that has continued to rapidly evolve in recent years. As our knowledge of cancer's molecular underpinnings advances, it is essential to remain up-to-date and this book delivers. Each chapter is full of concise explanations and wonderful illustrations that convey complex concepts in a straightforward way. I highly recommend this valuable resource to all students of biology and medicine.' Andrew Lam, M.D., University of Massachusetts Medical School'The new edition of Introduction to Cancer Biology has been well worth waiting for. It develops logically from the previous edition and brings our current understanding of all aspects of the nature of cancer biology up to date. Central to the book are chapters dealing with DNA, oncogenes, tumour suppressor genes and signalling pathways. The chapters convey the historical development of these ideas into our current understanding. Thus, the book is suitable for students, undergraduates and postgraduates with an interest or need, to develop an overview of cancer research.' Tony Bradshaw, Oxford Brookes University'This textbook has easy to understand figures and clearly laid out chapters. My favourite is the logical roadmap describing how one should teach using this textbook. I never saw that before. I think the students will appreciate the 'pause and recap' throughout the book; what a great way to check your knowledge one step at a time.' Luiza Nogaj, Mount Saint Mary's University Los Angeles'A comprehensive look at cancer biology and treatment with chemical-level precision.' John Schmidt, Villanova University, PennsylvaniaTable of ContentsPreface; 1. Lessons from epidemiology; 2. Causes of cancer; 3. Genetic analysis of cancer; 4. Signaling in normal cells; 5. 'Cancer genes': Mutations and cancer development; 6. What is a tumour? 7. Cancer signaling networks; 8. Cancer detection, diagnosis and radiotherapy; 9. Cancer chemotherapy; 10. The future of cancer detection and treatment; Appendix A: Tumour grading and staging; Appendix B: Classes of major oncoproteins; Appendix C: Major tumour suppressor genes; Appendix D: Ten major cancers at a glance; Glossary, References, Index.

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Book SynopsisThis book introduces readers to the fascinating interaction of specialized gamete cells, forming the early embryo and a blueprint of new life. Readers will gain a thorough understanding of the complex physiological events and mechanical processes - such as ionic regulation, metabolism and intracellular signalling - to decipher cause and effect in fertilization. Wide-ranging in its approach, this book describes fertilization as a highly conserved mechanism throughout the animal kingdom, taking case studies from echinoderms, ascidians, amphibians and mammals through to other phyla. An excellent companion to undergraduate and postgraduate students of medicine, veterinary and biological sciences, this text provides an underpinning of the mechanisms of fertilization that inform assisted reproduction practice and research in medicine and agriculture. It explores the detailed phases before fertilization: the oocyte as a quiescent cell, attracting its partner gamete, followed by a cascade of pTable of ContentsPreface; 1. Introduction; 2. Producing gametes; 3. The players, sperm and oocytes; 4. Sperm-oocyte interaction; 5. Oocyte activation; 6. The dynamics of fertilization; 7. Transformation of the zygote in to the early embryo; 8. Basic biology concepts; References; Index.

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Book SynopsisCD34+ pluripotent hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are generally involved in all aspects of the human system as well as in the stem cell therapeutic strategies, as in bone marrow transplantation (BMT). This book deals with several original research articles on HSC proliferation and containment. Lineage directed differentiation of HSCs and use of easily available herbal extracts for greatly increased proliferation into erythrocytes to treat thrombocytopenia are herein reported.HSCs respond to the growth factors and the herbal medicine is a welcome substitute with lack of known side effects for treatment purposes. However molecular mechanisms as in signal transduction are more easily deciphered than those derived from the herbs which may well be taken up for future studies. Mutations in the signal transduction genes such as JAK-2 have been shown to cause dysregulation of the CD34+ cell differentiation causing erythrocytosis, which is the reverse of thrombocytopenia, both of which are undesirable clinical consequences! Erythrocytes have been shown to date back to ancient tissues from the fossils.

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Book SynopsisThe book provides a broad overview of an important biological system -- 'cell membrane'. The cell is the powerhouse where processes of life are controlled. Cell membranes consist of lipid bilayers that make biological boundaries. The bilayer participates in determining most of the cell-based uptakes of materials, exchanging of information between both sides and ensuring helping vital biological processes to continue. We have focused specifically on an understanding of various aspects of lipid membrane bilayers. The book is focused on a detailed description of the diverse mechanisms and phenomena associated with membranes. Lipid bilayers exist in various parts of the cell, namely, across the plasma membrane, mitochondrial membrane, and nuclear membrane. While exploring lipid bilayers we shall, therefore, need to consider structures and functions of various sections of biological cells. Besides spectroscopic observations and electrical measurements of membrane bilayers, we address here the phenomena of coexistence and independent existence of different membrane components using various theoretical and experimental methodologies popularly used in biology, physics, mathematics, chemistry, biomedical engineering, and general medical sciences. The focus has been made on explaining diverse mechanisms that play crucial roles in molecular level in the construction of lipid bilayers and maintaining the relevant biological functions. This book will be helpful for readers who want to understand biological processes by applying both simple observations and fundamental scientific analysis. It provides a deep understanding of the causes and effects of molecular processes inside lipid bilayer membranes. A group of eminent scientists from around the globe contributed chapters focusing on different aspects. Each chapter may be found to present an individual topic and elaborate on a specific problem. But the chapters altogether have covered most of the basic aspects relevant to the title of the book. The book will be a vital reference for scientific understanding of lipid bilayers.Table of ContentsPrefaceFundamentals of Plasma, Nuclear and Mitochondrial Lipid MembranesMechanical Stresses in the Lipid Bilayer of Erythrocyte MembranesThe Role of the Lipid Bilayer in the Erythrocyte Membrane Structural ChangesMicrobial-Derived Bioactive Lipopeptides: Pore-Forming Metabolites in Lipid BilayersColchicine Induced Ion Channel Formation into Membranes as a Mechanism behind Chemotherapy Drug Cytotoxicity of Cancer CellsMolecular Stability Analysis of Reverse Micelles Role in Breast Cancer Drug Delivery and It's Dynamics and Simulation StudiesIndex.

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Book SynopsisA Closer Look at Fibroblasts first summarizes the molecular mechanisms of fibroblasts induced by photobiomodulation, reviewing current therapeutic approaches. Photobiomodulation, previously called low intensity laser irradiation, is a safe and efficient mechanism used to stimulate a positive response through absorbed light or light emitting diodes, and to reduce pain and inflammation promoting healing of the wound area. Following this, the authors demonstrate the importance of fibroblasts in the process of development and progression of ovarian cancer, helping to establish new therapeutic management targeted towards cancer-associated fibroblasts. In the penultimate study, the effects of the combination of andiroba, copaíba and guarana in the form of biphasic oil and emulsion is examined in the context of wound healing. The concluding study focuses on the implications of the previously mentioned guarana in the context of skin aging and the oxy-inflammatory metabolism.Table of ContentsPreface; Molecular Mechanism of Photobiomodulation Associated with Fibroblasts; The Role of Fibroblasts in Ovarian Cancer; Analysis of the Effect of an Andiroba, Copaíba and Guaraná Combination on in Vitro and in Vivo Scar Models; Laser Therapy Associated With Guaraná as a Therapeutic Alternative on the Skin of Oxy-Inflammatory Metabolism; Index.

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Book SynopsisThis book provides the essential information necessary for students and scientists in the life and health sciences and chemistry of biologically active substances. The book adopts a readable, friendly style that helps introduce the reader to this fascinating and exciting world of hormones. This book is devoted to highlight the recent progress on the extraction, analysis, physico-chemical properties and the use of hormones. Much attention is paid in several chapters to steroid hormones, which play an important role in human biochemistry. Information on phytohormones and hormones in mushrooms is also original. The book presents revolutionary results in clinical trials of hormones, comparative genomic analysis, and the use of these substances as a tool for biosynthesis. The logic of the whole book is subordinated to the scheme "presence in living organisms -- identification and analysis -- properties -- application and safety" of hormones. It also includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world on various topics related to the study of biologically active substances. Through it, we attempt to further enlighten the readers about the new concepts in this field. Altogether, presented in an organized, concise, and simple-to-use format, "A Closer Look at Hormones" allows quick access to the most frequently used data.

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Book SynopsisThe main function of the Leydig cells is to synthesize testosterone, but growing evidence supports the idea that Leydig cells are important in regulating the testicular immune environment. As such, Leydig Cells: Structure, Functions and Clinical Aspects discusses Leydig cells serving as immunological sentinels in the testis. Next, the authors explore the commercially available immortalized Leydig cell lines (TM3, R2C, MA-10 and MLTC-1) derived from rat or mouse and the results of studies using these cells. Additionally, the effects of the most commonly used environmental contaminants on Leydig cell function are discussed in the context of the impaired of steroidogenic pathway. The results of several studies are presented which demonstrate that lycopene supplementation improves and maintaines the normal level of testosterone by improving the expression of StAR protein and steroidogenic enzymes in the Leydig cells of polychlorinated biphenyl exposed rats.Table of ContentsPrefaceImmunological Function of Leydig CellsLeydig Cell Lines: In Vitro Models for Testosterone BiosynthesisThe Role of Environmental Contaminants in Leydig Cell SteroidogenesisEffect of Endocrine Disruptors (PCBs/DEHP) on Testicular Leydig Cells in Adult and f1 Male Offspring RatsBibliographyIndex.

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Book SynopsisIn biological systems, the normal processes of oxidation (plus a minor contribution from ionising radiation) produce highly reactive free radicals. These can readily react with and damage other molecules. In some cases the body uses free radicals to destroy foreign or unwanted objects, such as in an infection. However, in the wrong place, the body''s own cells may become damaged. Should the damage occur to DNA, the result could be cancer. Antioxidants decrease the damage done to cells by reducing oxidants before they can damage the cell. Virtually all studies of mammals have concluded that a restricted calorie diet extends the lifespan of mammals by as much as 100%. This remarkable finding suggests that food is actually more damaging than smoking. As food produces free radicals (oxidants) when metabolised, antioxidant-rich diets are thought to stave off the effects of ageing significantly better than diets lacking in antioxidants. The reduced levels of free radicals, resulting from a reduction in their production by metabolism, is thought to be a major cause of the success of caloric restriction in increasing life span. Antioxidants consist of a group of vitamins including vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium and carotenoids, (such as beta-carotene, lycopene, and lutein). This book brings together the latest research in this dynamic field.

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Book SynopsisThis book presents the latest research in the field of stem cells from around the globe. Two broad categories of mammalian stem cells exist: embryonic stem cells, derived from blastocysts, and adult stem cells, which are found in adult tissues. In a developing embryo, stem cells are able to differentiate into all of the specialised embryonic tissues. In adult organisms, stem cells and progenitor cells act as a repair system for the body, replenishing specialised cells. As stem cells can be readily grown and transformed into specialised tissues such as muscles or nerves through cell culture, their use in medical therapies has been proposed. In particular, embryonic cell lines, autologous embryonic stem cells generated therapeutic cloning, and highly plastic adult stem cells from the umbilical cord blood or bone marrow are touted as promising candidates. Among the many applications of stem cell research are nervous system diseases, diabetes, heart disease, autoimmune diseases as well as Parkinson''s disease, end-stage kidney disease, liver failure, cancer, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer''s disease. Stem cells are self-renewing, unspecialised cells that can give rise to multiple types all of specialised cells of the body. Stem cell research also involves complex ethical and legal considerations since they involve adult, foetal tissue and embryonic sources.

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Book SynopsisGlycolysis literally means "splitting sugars". In glycolysis, glucose (a six carbon sugar) is split into two molecules of a three-carbon sugar. Glycolysis yields two molecules of ATP (free energy containing molecule), two molecules of pyruvic acid and two "high energy" electron carrying molecules of NADH. Glycolysis can occur with or without oxygen. In the presence of oxygen, glycolysis is the first stage of cellular respiration. Without oxygen, glycolysis allows cells to make small amounts of ATP. This process is called fermentation. This book presents the latest research in the field.

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Book SynopsisCell proliferation is an increase in the number of cells as a result of cell growth and cell division. A series of growth disorders can occur at the cellular level, often causing cancer. This book examines and discusses recent developments in this field. In particular, the changes that occur in cell viability, cell proliferation and cytotoxicity following therapy and laser irradiation are studied. Furthermore, the effects that probiotic bacteria and gastrointestinal mucosa have on cell proliferation are looked at. Data from literature suggests a possible use for probiotics in the therapeutic management of different diseases. This book reviews the ways to estimate cell proliferation and a general view about the principal methods used to evaluate cell populations kinetics are given. Also, research has shown that reductions in cell proliferation by nutrition interventions may indicate a decrease in cancer risk. Thus, this book examines the ability of dietary restriction regiments to reduce cell proliferation rates and cancer risks in humans and animals.

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Book SynopsisFor many years the mammalian blood cell system has provided cell biologists and haematologists with one of the best experimental models in which to unravel how one stem cell -- the hematopoietic stem cell -- gives rise to many different types of progeny. Numerous models of lineage relationships have emerged, but the most influential of these, in which differentiating cells undergo a series of binary choices, has been increasingly challenged in recent years -- to the extent that the accumulation of new findings recently culminated in a Nature commentary suggesting that "the latest research will necessitate revision of textbook accounts". This book brings together contributions from many leading experts in the field of blood cell development who each discuss both the overall process of hematopoiesis and the origins and development of each of the cells of the blood and immune systems. It describes how new molecular, cellular and -- particularly -- transgenic tools are helping us understand the processes that control the lineage fates of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells and how lineage-committed progeny develop along particular maturation pathways.

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Book SynopsisThis book examines the latest research developments in the field of basophil granulocytes, sometimes referred to as basophils, which are the least common of the granulocytes, representing about 0.01% to 0.3% of circulating white blood cells. The name comes from the fact that these leucocytes are basophilic, i.e., they are susceptible to staining by base dyes, as shown in the picture. Basophils contain large cytoplasmic granules which obscure the cell nucleus under the microscope. However, when unstained, the nucleus is visible and it usually has 2 lobes. The mast cell, a cell in tissues, has many similar characteristics.

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Book SynopsisFree radicals are molecules, ions, or atoms with unpaired electrons in their outermost shell of electrons. Although it is a relatively recent discovery, the occurrence of free radicals in biological processes is now widely accepted. Free radicals are involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases and also in inflammation. Free radicals are also involved in important physiological processes, such as ageing. Free radicals are constantly formed in the human body, but they can become toxic when generated in excess or in the presence of a deficiency in the naturally occurring antioxidant defences. In general, the body has adequate antioxidant defences to cope with the production of free radicals under physiological conditions. This book reviews the updated knowledge on free radicals and its possible mechanisms in neurological disorders and in some oxidative stress processes, such as in intractable epilepsy and febrile seizures. Some approaches useful to elucidate the effects of free radical exposure on the overall protein structure are also discussed. Additionally, the potential risk factors and major cellular events contributing to the generation of reactive oxygen species and retinal pigment epithelium (EPI)/photoreceptor cell damage, and their roles in the pathogenesis of AMD are examined. Furthermore, thyroid cells are a unique model to study free radical processes involving reactive oxygen and iodine species. The role of oxidative stress in impairment in the thyroid function is explored. Other chapters in this book explore free radicals and its role in the in vivo disease control of malaria, as well as the monitoring of free radical in ultrasonic field in vitro and in vivo, its role in laboratory medicine, the relationship between rabies and free radicals, the correlation between exercise and free radical production, and the role of free radicals in several homeostatic processes through methods that can be used to detect free radicals either directly or indirectly (also known as fingerprinting methods).

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Book SynopsisMolecular chaperones are a ubiquitous class of proteins that play important roles in protein folding and in the protection of cells from several stresses associated with the disruption of three native dimensional structures of proteins. The most important of these proteins are the so-called heat shock proteins (HSPs), also known as stress proteins. This book examines some of the biological aspects of this intriguing family of proteins that are important for consideration of the "proteiomics of HSPs". This book also reviews current research on protein folding in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the functions of ER-resident molecular chaperones in protein folding in the ER. The biochemical, structural and functional information on Redox Enzyme Maturation Proteins (REMPs) are also reviewed in detail. Furthermore, recent progress in molecular biology has provided new insights into the molecular basis of diseases and molecular targets for diagnosis and therapy of human diseases. The role of molecular biology research in molecular imaging is examined, as well as the applications of molecular imaging in diagnostics, gene therapy and drug development. Other chapters in this book explore the role of protists as promising objects for the study of adaptive mechanisms at the biochemical and the molecular level, the different trends in the evolution of molecular adaptations to adverse environmental conditions, and a review of the molecular mechanisms of bicyclol in the protection against liver damage.

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Book SynopsisIn this book, the current understanding of the mechanisms of each beta cell toxins are reviewed, reported toxin resistant insulinoma or immortalised beta cells are summarised, and the different nature of those toxin resistant cells are analysed. With advancements in cancer stem cell research, the possible involvement of stem cells enrichment after various toxin challenges is also discussed. Moreover, there is a renewed interest in the study of the function of fatty acid synthase (FASN) and fatty-acid synthesis in cancer pathogenesis. This book outlines the role of FASN in cancer development and the pre-clinical development of FASN inhibitors and their anti-tumour effects. In addition, Parkinson disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterised by a progressive loss of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons. The authors discuss the roles of oxidative modification of the proteins of mitochondrial respiration in the pathogenesis of PD. Furthermore, it has been currently understood that the key role in the physiological and regenerative restoration of adult tissues belongs to adult stems cells. Adult stem cell survival after the action ionizing radiation, hyperthermia and in the conditions of the "ischemia/reperfusion" reaction development are examined.

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Book SynopsisThis book summarises some of the major processes involved in the production of daughter cells as they have been reported from work mainly with synchronous cultures of microalgae over the 50 years or so since that technique was first developed. It highlights the key findings that have led to our present understanding of cell cycle processes in microalgae with particular reference to those that control daughter-cell production. The authors of this book also systematise the data on molecular genetic system controlling drosophila bristle morphogenesis and proposes an integral scheme of its functioning. In addition, the current understanding of kidney regeneration after injury are examined from the perspective of renotropic factors, renal stem/progenitor cells, and stem cell therapies. In unicellular and multicellular organisms, asymmetric division enables segregation of damaged molecules into one daughter cell. The authors suggest that partition of damaged proteins and organelles and segregation of template DNA may function together to produce long-lived stem cells. Daughter cells'' behavior of the chlorarachniophytes are also described and the evolution and biological implications are discussed. Lastly, recent advances in stem cell biology are summarised, and ways in which clinical medicine could take advantage of this fascinating field of biology are examined.

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Book SynopsisCell division is a highly co-ordinated process by which the living organisms grow, develop and reproduce. This book presents original research results on the leading edge of cell division research. Each article has been carefully selected in an attempt to present substantial research results across a broad spectrum.

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