Developmental biology Books

Book Synopsis‘Intimate and thoughtful… Exciting… [A] sweeping evolutionary history.’ Science The author of the bestselling Your Inner Fish gives us a brilliant, up-to-date account of the great transformations in the history of life on Earth. This is a story full of surprises. If you think that feathers arose to help animals fly, or lungs to help them walk on land, you’d be in good company. You’d also be entirely wrong. Neil Shubin delves deep into the mystery of life, the ongoing revolutions in our understanding of how we got here, and brings us closer to answering one of the great questions – was life on earth inevitable…or was it all an accident?Trade Review‘Neil Shubin’s book is one that completely changed my understanding of evolution… The things I learned from this book stayed with me – I’m still dropping facts into conversation.’ * BBC Science Focus, BOOK OF THE YEAR *‘Neil Shubin shows himself to be a natural storyteller and a gifted scientific communicator.’ * Wall Street Journal *‘A rollicking ride…light of touch, anecdote-rich and funny, and yet…still feels satisfyingly informative... What’s not to love?’ -- Dr Tori Herridge, BBC Wildlife'Neil Shubin provides an up-to-date and utterly engrossing account of the latest thinking on the great transformations in evolution… Frequently funny and always eloquent, Shubin’s power as a science communicator is to make you fall in love with evolutionary biology all over again.’ -- Leon Vlieger * The Inquisitive Biologist *'Neil Shubin is one of the most accomplished writers on evolution and the history of life, and this book is a worthy successor to its predecessors.' -- Richard Fortey, author of Life, The Earth and Fossils'Another winner from Dr. Shubin, who skillfully and thoughtfully steers us through the incredibly fascinating world of DNA and fossils. Dr. Shubin’s clear and engaging writing rewards us with a deeper understanding of how all life on our planet is interconnected. Steeped in the paradigm of evolutionary theory, he inspires us to think more deeply about our connectedness with the natural world. Charles Darwin would applaud Dr. Shubin’s clear explanations and insightful rendering of the incontrovertible evidence for the evolution of all life on planet Earth.' -- Donald Johanson, paleoanthropologist and discoverer of LUCY‘A welcome new exploration of the evolution of human and animal life on Earth… Shubin explores it with his characteristic enthusiasm and clarity… A fascinating wild ride through the mechanics of evolution.’ -- Kirkus (starred review)'Neil Shubin has been one of my favourite science communicators ever since I took his undergraduate anatomy course. In this ambitious and readable book, Shubin blends his own research, epic tales from the history of science, and the latest discoveries in palaeontology and genetics to tackle some of the biggest mysteries of evolution. This is an engrossing account from a scientific storyteller at the height of his talents.' -- Steve Brusatte, University of Edinburgh palaeontologist and author of The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs‘Shubin’s … exhilarating excursion into the ways of evolution… Shubin isn’t the most prolific popular-science writer, but he is one of the best.’ -- Booklist (starred review)‘Enjoyable… Eloquent… This superb primer brings the intellectual excitement of the scientific endeavor to life in a way that both educates and entertains.’ * Publishers Weekly (starred review) *'Through tales of remarkable creatures, and some even more remarkable people who study them, Neil Shubin unravels the mystery at the heart of evolution — how nature invents. From bacteria to brains, fish lungs to ballistic salamander tongues, Shubin decodes the surprising origins of the marvelous gadgets that have driven the riot of life’s diversity.' -- Sean B. Carroll, author of The Serengeti Rules and Brave Genius

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Book SynopsisAll the key principles of developmental biology that students need to know, underpinned by experimental evidence, and an exploration of the molecular basis of the subject.Trade ReviewAn extremely well written book that explains the major developmental concepts and processes in a clear and concise manner, approachable to students. I find the provision of in silico practical activities and on-line journal club supported by lecturer notes extremely helpful for my teaching. Together with on-line MCQs, I use these to test the students' knowledge and help them develop deep understanding and enthusiasm for the subject. * Dr Aida Rajic, University of Suffolk *The organisation and clarity of the writing and figures together really help to convey the principles of Developmental Biology to the enquiring student. This is supplemented by the provision of questions and some online material to cement and broaden understanding. * Dr Michael Taylor, Cardiff University *A really good introduction to developmental biology, covering all the core topics students need to know. The writing and figures are very clear, and there are very useful online resources for both the student and the lecturer. * Dr Joanna Richardson, University of Sussex *Well written, excellent diagrams, nice online resources (especially the signalling pathway animations). * Dr Thomas Butts, University of Liverpool *This book provides a detailed description of all essential aspects of developmental biology, in addition to some information about evolution in relation to developmental biology. * Dr Hegias Mira Bontenbal and Dr Willy M Baarends, University Medical Centre Rotterdam *Table of Contents1. History and Basic Concepts 2. Drosophila Life Cycle and Development of the Body Plan 3. Vertebrate Life Cycles, Experimental Techniques and Human Development 4. Laying Down the Vertebrate Body Plan: Xenopus and Zebrafish 5. Laying Down and Completing the Vertebrate Body Plan: Chick and Mouse 6. Development of Nematodes and Sea Urchins 7. Morphogenesis: Change in Form in the Early Embryo 8. Cell Differentiation and Stem Cells 9. Germ Cells, Fertilization and Sex 10. Organogenesis 11. Development of the Nervous System 12. Growth, Post-Embryonic Development and Regeneration 13. Plant Life Cycle and Development 14. Evolution and Development

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Book SynopsisNamed A Best Book of the Year by World MagazineThroughout his distinguished and unconventional career, engineer-turned-molecular-biologist Douglas Axe has been asking the questions that much of the scientific community would rather silence. Now, he presents his conclusions in this brave and pioneering book. Axe argues that the key to understanding our origin is the “design intuition”—the innate belief held by all humans that tasks we would need knowledge to accomplish can only be accomplished by someone who has that knowledge. For the ingenious task of inventing life, this knower can only be God.Starting with the hallowed halls of academic science, Axe dismantles the widespread belief that Darwin’s theory of evolution is indisputably true, showing instead that a gaping hole has been at its center from the beginning. He then explains in plain English the science that proves our design intuition scientifically valid. Last

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Book SynopsisHillson provides a biological context for human teeth, a guide to key skills, and an introduction to current issues. Designed to be the core textbook for courses on bioarchaeology, forensic anthropology, and palaeoanthropology, this is the definitive manual for tooth identification, variation, histology, wear, and disease.Trade Review'The field of dental anthropology has evolved rapidly since the first edition of this self-titled book, and this new edition expertly presents updated findings and technological advances across the field. Notably, it was and remains the go-to resource for the macro- and microscopic study of dental development, structure and function, including entire chapters devoted to the principal oral tissues.' Joel D. Irish, Liverpool John Moores University'I taught dental anthropology at both the graduate and undergraduate levels for 40 years and had to use three textbooks plus supplemental readings to cover the topics I wished to include: morphology, histology, growth, pathology, among others for bioarchaeological and forensic applications. Now with Hillson's Dental Anthropology I would only have to use one. Hillson challenges the teacher, student, and researcher to think in new directions and consider alternative interpretations of dental data. This book has updated illustrations; an extensive up-to-date bibliography; and further reading sections at the end of each chapter making it an ideal textbook for dental anthropology or for use by students beginning their research careers. I cannot think of a single topic dealing with teeth from an anthropological, archaeological, or forensic perspective that is not covered in Hillson's book. I wish I had all this organized information when I started my dental research as a graduate student or, even now, when students begin their own research careers.' Jerry Rose, Professor Emeritus, University of Arkansas'A well-timed fantastic revised and fully updated edition of a classic book, now including newer analytical techniques. This is an extremely useful text which will be a required staple on every bioarchaeologist's shelf. The sections on 3D morphological analysis and use of newer methods developed or made more accessible to anthropologists since the first edition are especially valuable.' Sonia Zakrzewski, University of Southampton'The new second edition of Simon Hillson's Dental Anthropology is a significant revision to the 1996 first edition and is a well-written, well-illustrated, comprehensive, treatment of the subject. Meticulously updated throughout, it reflects the many important recent advancements in the field and is at once primer, guide, textbook, and reference. Hillson's Dental Anthropology delivers in every aspect and will be an important addition to the library of anyone interested in the scientific study of teeth.' Greg Nelson, University of Oregon'The second edition is certain to become the definitive text on dental anthropology written by the leading expert in the field. Professor Hillson shares his knowledge in an accessible and absorbing manner, a style for which he is well known. The book is comprehensible to those just starting to study teeth; yet, even the most erudite dental anthropologist will come away with new knowledge from this text and will certainly turn to it regularly for reference.' Marin Pilloud, University of Nevada, Reno'This book is a journey into the fascinating and extravagant world of teeth. It is an essential starting point for the study teeth, but also a bridge to more detailed approaches. It covers a broad range of dental topics such as anatomy, morphology, histology, wear and diseases. It is an indispensable reference work for any dental researcher.' Ana Maria Silva, University of CoimbraTable of ContentsContents; List of abbreviations; Preface; 1. Dental anatomy; 2. Variation in size and shape of teeth; 3. Occlusion; 4. Sequence and timing of dental growth; 5. Dental enamel; 6. Dentine; 7. Dental cement; 8. Histological methods of age determination in adults; 9. Chemistry of dental tissues and calculus; 10. Tooth wear and modification; 11. Dental disease; Appendix A. Field and laboratory methods; Appendix B. Microscopy; Appendix C. Age estimation tables and charts for dental development; References; Index.

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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 SynopsisCells to Civilizations is the first unified account of how life transforms itself--from the production of bacteria to the emergence of complex civilizations. What are the connections between evolving microbes, an egg that develops into an infant, and a child who learns to walk and talk? Award-winning scientist Enrico Coen synthesizes the growth ofTrade ReviewShortlisted for the 2013 Royal Society Winton Prize for Science Books "This attempt at a grand theoretical synthesis within biology explores the transformative powers and creative forces that have brought about the living world from the first cells to the latest developments in cultural and technological evolution... [Coen's] eloquently written book offers a programmatic synthesis and an empirically grounded proposal for a theory of biology... Cells to Civilizations will stimulate many productive discussions about the origins and development of life in all its complexities."--Manfred D. Laubichler, Science "In Cells to Civilization, [Coen] couples his knowledge of genetics with metaphor and art, likening the unfurling of mutant snapdragon flowers to an artist's brushstrokes on an expanding canvas... The book is packed with fascinating facts... [H]uman cultures and minds are among the most complex information systems in nature, and Coen does a good job of reminding us of their roots in evolution."--John Hawks, New Scientist "The ideas [in Cells to Civilizations] are subtle, possibly significant, and slightly unsettling. What more could a reader wish for?"--Robert Schaefer, New York Journal of Books "[Coen's] prose is every bit as good as Richard Dawkins' or Steve Jones', and his rich illustrations, particularly the way he uses classical and modern art to make his points, refreshes the text and keeps one's focus on the arguments. His clever ideas and engaging and creative writing style suggest that he would make a fascinating dinner companion. I loved this book and will put it on the general reading list for our biology undergraduates. I suspect it will also find resonance with the interested layman."--Charalambos P. Kyriacou, Times Higher Education "Cells to Civilizations is a very approachable and thought-provoking reading for everyone involved in education and science."--Monika Biro, American Biology Teacher "Cells to Civilizations is an intelligent and entertaining book by a distinguished biologist."--Robert C. Richardson, BioScience "[Cells to Civilizations] was thought provoking, informative, and fun to read."--Choice "Clearly written ... intriguing, thought-provoking."--Library Journal "What are the connections between evolving microbes, an egg that develops into an infant, a child who learns to walk, and the rise of Ancient Rome? For many years, scientists have generally thought these great transformations--evolution, development, learning, and cultural change--occurred through different mechanisms. But geneticist Enrico Coen, in his pioneering new book Cells to Civilization, reveals that these transformations revolve around shared core principles and manifest the same fundamental recipe. Coen blends provocative discussion, the latest scientific research, and colourful examples to demonstrate the links between these critical stages in the history of life."--Chemicals & Chemistry "Coen's book is ambitious and stimulating... Cells to Civilizations is good material for conversation and a worthwhile read."--Deniz Erezyilmaz, truthdig.com "Do not be daunted by the scope of the book, which is written for a wide audience, although it contains enough science for biologists and anthropologists to ponder and argue with Coen. For the rest, it is an easy read, particularly as the biology it contains is peppered with vignettes drawn from painting and art history, which act as a guide for the more dry science that forms the meat of the argument."--Alfonso Martinez Arias, Development JournalTable of ContentsINTRODUCTION: A RECIPE FOR CHANGE 1 History and Form 3 Life's Creative Recipe 8 CHAPTER ONE: LOOPS AND LOTTERIES 13 Principle of Population Variation 16 Principle of Persistence 20 Principle of Reinforcement 23 Principle of Competition 24 Combining Principles 29 CHAPTER TWO: FROM GENES TO ECOSYSTEMS 34 Principle of Cooperation 36 Principle of Combinatorial Richness 40 Wandering Clouds 44 Principle of Recurrence 48 The Origin of Species 52 Species and Ecosystems 57 A Recipe for Evolution 58 CHAPTER THREE: CONVERSATIONS OF AN EMBRYO 61 Turing's Principles 63 Patterning a Cell 68 Switching Genes On and Off 70 A Molecular Fight 73 Looking into Gradients 76 A Common Form 80 CHAPTER FOUR: COMPLETING THE PICTURE 84 An Embryonic Cocktail Party 85 A Cooperative Eff ort 87 Regulatory Riches 88 Building on the Past 90 The Expanding Canvas 93 Deformation 97 The Three-Dimensional Canvas 105 A Common Recipe 108 CHAPTER FIVE: HISTORY IN THE MAKING 111 Unicellular Beginnings 114 Moving up a Scale 115 Zooming and Growing 118 A Recipe within a Recipe 120 CHAPTER SIX: HUMBLE RESPONSES 122 Making Adjustments 124 Flora's Story 127 The Bite of Venus 132 The Sensible Sea Slug 135 Patterns in Time 140 Human Responses 143 Carving up the World 147 CHAPTER SEVEN: THE NEURAL SIBYL 150 The Prophetic Dog 152 Predictive Neurons 155 Learning from Discrepancies 157 Pavlov and Punishments 163 Core Principles 164 A Neural Journey 168 Staying on the Move 169 A Recipe for Learning 173 CHAPTER EIGHT: LEARNING THROUGH ACTION 175 Calibration 176 Jumping Eyes 178 Visual Shifts 181 Learning to Calibrate 184 Action-Learning Loops 187 Smooth Movements 188 An Active Journey 193 Learning with Others 197 CHAPTER NINE: SEEING AS 200 The Neural Eye 204 Multiple Eyes 208 Seeing through Models 211 Learning at Many Levels 213 Top-down and Bottom-up 216 Competing Interpretations 217 A Question of Style 220 Creative Acts 228 CHAPTER TEN: FRAMING RECIPES 232 Development of Learning 233 Basic Instincts 237 Flexibility versus Directness 242 CHAPTER ELEVEN: THE CRUCIBLE OF CULTURE 244 The Apprentice 245 Fruitful Populations 248 Lasting Change 250 Cultural Reinforcement 252 The Force of Competition 254 Cooperative Eff orts 255 A Cultural Mix 257 Propelled by the Past 260 A Cultural Recipe 263 CHAPTER TWELVE: THE GRAND CYCLE 266 Cultural Origins 267 Possible Worlds 270 Nature's Self-Portrait 275 Acknowledgments 281 Notes 283 References 299 Illustration Credits 307 Index 313

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Book SynopsisConsciousness, ''the last great mystery for science'', remains a hot topic. How can a physical brain create our experience of the world? What creates our identity? Do we really have free will? Could consciousness itself be an illusion? Exciting new developments in brain science are continuing the debates on these issues, and the field has now expanded to include biologists, neuroscientists, psychologists, and philosophers. This controversial book clarifies the potentially confusing arguments, and the major theories, whilst also outlining the amazing pace of discoveries in neuroscience. Covering areas such as the construction of self in the brain, mechanisms of attention, the neural correlates of consciousness, and the physiology of altered states of consciousness, Susan Blackmore highlights our latest findings.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewFascinating. * Jonathan Cowie, Science Fact & Science Fiction Concatenation *Table of ContentsREFERENCES; FURTHER READING; INDEX

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Book SynopsisTurning conventional thinking about gender differences on its head, Lise Eliot issues a call to close the troubling gaps between boys and girls and help all children reach their fullest potential. Drawing on years of exhaustive research and her own work in the field of neuroplasticity, Eliot argues that infant brains are so malleable that small differences at birth become amplified over time as parents, teachers, and the culture at large unwittingly reinforce gender stereotypes. Indicating points of intervention where social pressures can be minimised, she offers concrete solutions for helping everyone grow into wellrounded individuals.Trade Review“A refreshingly reasonable and reassuring look at recent alarming studies about sex differences in determining the behavior of children … Eliot's work demonstrates a remarkable clarity of purpose.” * Publishers Weekly *“This is an important book and highly recommended for parents, teachers, and anyone who works with children.” * Library Journal *"Read her masterful book and you'll never view the sex-differences debate the same way again." * Newsweek *"This meticulous book should challenge everyone's assumption about the role of sex and gender." Sue Blackmore * BBC Focus *“Gender is strongly affected by environment and stereotyping after all, [Eliot] maintains in this absorbing book.” * The Bookseller *"A passionate plea for all of us to look beyond the confines of the pink/blue tyranny of childhood... To use the latest brain science to maximise outcomes for both genders, to the greater glorification of both." * Culture (supplement to the Sunday Times) *"Read her masterful book and you'll never view the sex-differences debate the same way again." * Newsweek *“A refreshingly reasonable and reassuring look at recent alarming studies about sex differences in determining the behavior of children … Eliot's work demonstrates a remarkable clarity of purpose.” * Publishers Weekly *“This is an important book and highly recommended for parents, teachers, and anyone who works with children.” * Library Journal *"[a] sharp, information-packed, and worderfully readable book" * Mother Jones *10 out of 10 review: "it is difficult to see how Pink Brain, Blue Brain can become anything other than the definitive text on sex differences." * The Times Higher Educational Supplement *"She tells her story authoritatively but modestly, with frequent references to her experience as a mother, and illuminates a very accessible pathway through the science." Marek Kohn * The Independent *"She tells her story authoritatively but modestly, with frequent references to her experience as a mother, and illuminates a very accessible pathway through the science." Marek Kohn * The Independent *10 out of 10 review: "it is difficult to see how Pink Brain, Blue Brain can become anything other than the definitive text on sex differences." * The Times Higher Educational Supplement *

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE ROYAL SOCIETY SCIENCE BOOK PRIZE AN INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER'Refreshingly clear'Sunday Times'A hugely enjoyable slice of popular science'Daily Mail__________ A journey from the farthest reaches of the globe to the most cutting-edge research to explore everything the natural world and science have to offer on the mystery of ageing.From the backwards-ageing jellyfish to the woman who successfully edited her own DNA, biologist Nicklas Brendborg follows the thread of every experiment, story and myth in search of immortality. With mind-bending discoveries and physiological gifts that feel closer to magic than reality, Jelly­fish Age Backwards will reshape everything you thought you knew about ageing - and reveal nature's secrets to unlocking your own longevity.Trade ReviewIn a field characterised by overclaiming and wishful thinking, it is judicious, sensible and refreshingly clear. And fascinating. * Sunday Times *Nicklas Brendborg takes us on a whistle-stop tour of the science of ageing... he navigates this bustling discipline with graceful clarity, dispelling common myths along the way. * New Scientist *A hugely enjoyable slice of popular science, full of memorable facts and sound advice. * Daily Mail *Some species are effectively immortal, others induce suspended animation, others age backwards. And all humans do is senesce, so that everything from our minds down to each cell becomes more fragile and less resilient. Nicklas Brendborg accessibly guides the non-scientist through the science of aging and what's known about making it slower and gentler (along with judiciously debunking the ample pseudo-science). All written with a fun, appealing voice, making for a surprisingly upbeat read. -- Dr Robert Sapolsky, bestselling author of BEHAVEThis book will make readers marvel at the possibilities held by scientific discovery, and most of all at nature * Nature Aging *I loved it. Bursting with insight and fabulous facts. The brain boost it gives you is enough to make you feel ten years younger on its own! -- Matt Warren, editor of The ConversationBrendborg explores what could be a complicated and heavy subject so intriguingly, funnily and in such an accessible manner, that the end result is something that even traditionally fiction readers would enjoy. * Publishing Post *Clear and fascinating * The Sunday Times, Best Summer Reads *A highly-entertaining journey through the science of longevity. Why we age, and what we can do about it, explained in a clear and captivating way. A wonderful book * Dr Kris Verbugh, Author of The Longevity Code *Aging can be delayed, prevented, and even reversed in several examples. Brendborg's book is storytelling that spans history and science, goes from nature to the laboratories, and discusses how we got here, what the future is and where we are going. Nicklas is young enough to grasp the details and connectivity yet mature enough to practice wisdom and manage expectations like a true geroscientist * Dr Nir Barzilai, author of Age Later *

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Book SynopsisIn this enchanting work of scientific exploration, acclaimed science author Frank Ryan explains how metamorphosis - the intricate trick of nature by which caterpillars transform into butterflies - reveals secrets that are shaking the scientific world. Ryan brings to life the work of pioneering naturalists who have traced metamorphosis in myriad species, from amphibians to marine creatures, even human puberty, to rewrite some of our longest-held beliefs about evolution. Lyrical and provocative, The Mystery of Metamorphosis offers a new understanding of some of the most ancient miracles of the nature.Trade Review"A well-researched piece of popular science... Ryan successfully shows that a deeper knowledge of metamorphosis could have far-reaching consequences." * The Big Issue *“A brilliant book…a superb story, some excellent scientific insights, and a fascinating theory. Recommended.” Brian Clegg * PopularScience.co.uk *

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsPreface to the second editionReproduction of altas figures in other publicationsAcknowledgementsIntroductionHistologyPreparation of photographs and drawingsThe construction of abbreviations in the Paxinos/Watson nomenclatureIdentification of structuresReferencesList of structuresIndex of abbreviationsFigures

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Book SynopsisThe scientist who has been dubbed the “Father of Intelligent Design” and author of the groundbreaking book Darwin’s Black Box contends that recent scientific discoveries further disprove Darwinism and strengthen the case for an intelligent creator. In his controversial bestseller Darwin’s Black Box, biochemist Michael Behe challenged Darwin’s theory of evolution, arguing that science itself has proven that intelligent design is a better explanation for the origin of life. In Darwin Devolves, Behe advances his argument, presenting new research that offers a startling reconsideration of how Darwin’s mechanism works, weakening the theory’s validity even more. A system of natural selection acting on random mutation, evolution can help make something look and act differently. But evolution never creates something organically. Behe contends that Darwinism actually works by a process of devolution—d

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Trade ReviewPraise for the Series: "Outstanding both in variety and in the quality of its contributions." --NatureTable of ContentsPart-1 Craniofacial Morphogenesis and Regeneration: From Cells to Tissues to Organs 1. Craniofacial Muscle Development Inbal Michailovici, Tamar Eigler and Eldad Tzahor 2. Mandible and Tongue Development Carolina Parada 3. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Palatogenesis Yu Lan, Jingyue Xu and Rulang Jiang 4. Genetic Influences on Temporomandibular Joint Development and Growth Robert J Hinton, J Jing and JQ Feng 5. Regulatory Mechanisms Driving Salivary Gland Organogenesis Belinda R. Hauser and Matthew P. Hoffman 6. The Development of the Calvarial Bones and Sutures and the Pathophysiology of Craniosynostosis Mamoru Ishii, Jingjing Sun, Man-Chun Ting and Robert E. Maxson 7. Tissue Interactions Regulating Tooth Morphogenesis and Renewal Anamaria Balic and Irma Thesleff 8. Stem Cells in to Toth Development, Repair and Regeneration Tian Yu, Ana Angelova Volponi, Rebecca Babb, Zhengwen An and Paul T Sharpe 9. Development and integration of the Ear Jennifer C. Fuchs and Abigail S. Tucker Part- 2 Craniofacial Patterning and Signaling Mechanisms 10. Zebrafish Craniofacial Development: A Window Into Early Patterning Lindsey Mork and Gage Crump 11. Regulation of Jaw Length During Development, Disease, and Evolution Richard A. Schneider 12. Facial Morphogenesis: Physical and Molecular Interactions Between the Brain and Face Ralph Marcucio, Benedikt Hallgrimsson and Nathan M. Young 13. Developmental Plasticity of Patterned and Regenerating Oral Organs J. Todd Streelman, Ryan F. Bloomquist and Teresa E. Fowler 14. Regulating Craniofacial Development at the 3’ End: MicroRNAs and their Function in Facial Morphogenesis Andre L.P. Tavares, Kristin B. Artinger and David E. Clouthier 15. Transcription Factors in Craniofacial Development: From Receptor Signaling to Transcriptional and Epigenetic Regulation Yongchao Gou, Tingwei Zhang and Jian Xu Part- 3 Disease Models, Human Genetics, Genomics and Dynamic Imaging 16. Mouse Models of Rare Craniofacial Disorders Annita Achilleos and Paul A. Trainor 17. From Bench to Bedside and Back: Improving Diagnosis and Treatment of Craniofacial Malformations Utilizing Animal Models Alice F. Goodwin, Rebecca Kim, Jeffrey O. Bush and Ophir D. Klein 18. Signaling Pathways in Craniofacial Development: Insights from Rare Skeletal Disorders Cynthia L. Neben and Amy E. Merrill 19. Clinical and Genomic Approaches for the Diagnosis of Craniofacial Disorders Pedro A.Sanchez-Lara 20. Morphometrics, 3D Imaging, and Craniofacial Development Benedikt Hallgrimsson, Christopher J. Percival, Rebecca Green ,Nathan M. Young, Washington Mio and Ralph Marcucio 21. Imaging the Cell and Molecular Dynamics of Craniofacial Development Le A. Trinh and Scott E. Fraser

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Book SynopsisHow does death help us understand the living? Death is more than the last event of life; it is interwoven into our growth, development, protection against disease, and more. It influences the direction of entire species via the cycle of a lifespan, and it involves asking many fascinating questions. How do we differentiate between life and death, though? How do we know when a person, animal, or cell is really dead? How much grey area is there in the science? Why do we age? Can we do anything about it? Scientifically, there''s much we can learn about a living thing from its cells. In all living things, cells seem to carry death gene programs. Some living organisms have created systems to use these to their own advantage. Humans, for example, use the death of specific cells to hone our immune system and to give us fingernails and hair. Perhaps the most dramatic use occurs during the metamorphosis of insects and frogs. Even single-celled organisms use quorum sensing to eliminate some cellsTrade ReviewThe book is valuable for its encyclopedic scope and impressive information content * Richard A. Richards, The Quarterly Review of Biology *This is an expansive, nearly encyclopedic, review of the end of life, ranging from the life and death of cells to mass extinctions of species. Death is necessary for life to continue, and Gary C. Howard discusses all major categories of organisms, from bacteria, fungi, and plants to human beings. By reading Howard's book, readers will discover aspects of life they never before appreciated. * John Mayfield, Professor Emeritus, Genetics, Development, and Cell Biology, Iowa State University *This remarkably interesting book explores a series of fascinating questions about life and death. Why do we age and what can we do about it? Gary C. Howard approaches these questions and, most amazingly, discusses how living organisms have evolved to use selective death to their advantage. Biology uses selective cell death to refine our immune system, to give us fingers, to allow fruit to drop from trees and tadpoles to become frogs. * Eric Verdin, CEO and President, The Buck Institute for Research on Aging *Table of ContentsPreface Chapter 1: Death in Life Chapter 2: Defining Life and Death Chapter 3: What Kills Humans Chapter 4: Aging and Senescence Chapter 5: Dying Chapter 6: Ashes to Ashes and Dust to Dust Chapter 7: Genetics of Life and Death Chapter 8: Death of Cells Chapter 9: Programmed Cell Death in Humans Chapter 10: Death in Plants Chapter 11: Death in Bacteria, Fungi, and Protista Chapter 12: Death on a Grand Scale Chapter 13: Last Hominid Standing Chapter 14: Bioethics Chapter 15: Future of Death Chapter 16: Death Is More than Dying Glossary References Index

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Book SynopsisExplores the possiblity and process of evolution beyond the standard and established scientific principles.Trade ReviewA World Beyond Physics, broken into short chapters and written with infectious enthusiasm and exclamation marks, is meant as an introduction to the importance of emergence in biology. * Kevin Schilbrack, Journal for the Study of Religion, Nature and Culture *makes for stimulating reading . . . [Kauffman's] prose is reader-friendly and thought-provoking . . . I highly recommend Kauffman's book to anyone interestedin the ongoing scientific enterprise to model the transition from physical to living systems. * Ragnar van der Merwe, University of Johannesburg, Metascience *This is a delightful little book that considers the classic question, "What is life?" * P. K. Strother, CHOICE *A World Beyond Physics is a well-written and thought provoking book. It should prove a worthwhile read for anyone with an undergraduate knowledge of biology and physics who is interested in amore philosophical take on the origins, complexities, and evolution of life. * Rebekah Hall, Mathematical & Statistical Sciences and Daniel A. Charlebois, Physics, University of Alberta, The Quarterly Review of Biology *For persons with the requisite scientific background, the book will be very rewarding to read...The book has many applications to the science and theology interchange... * Jay R. Feierman, European Society for the Study of Science and Theology News and Reviews *Table of ContentsPROLOGUE CHAPTER 1: The World Is Not a Machine CHAPTER 2: The Function of Function CHAPTER 3: Propagating Organization CHAPTER 4: Demystifying Life CHAPTER 5: How to Make a Metabolism CHAPTER 6: Protocells CHAPTER 7: Heritable Variation CHAPTER 8: The Games We Play CHAPTER 9: The Stage is Set CHAPTER 10: Exaptations and Screwdrivers CHAPTER 11: AWorld Beyond Physics EPILOGUE: The Evolution of the Economy

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Book SynopsisAnswers to practical questions about plant growth are sought with increasing urgency. Climate change is affecting the stability of vegetation, the yield of many important crops, and there is a continual need for ever more productive varieties to feed a growing global population. Answering questions posed by these problems requires a more integrated understanding of how plants function in producing growth. This book shows how this understanding can be achieved. First and foremost, plant growth must be defined as a dynamic system with developmental, morphological, and physiological processes responding to fluctuations in the environment due to weather, changes in the architecture of the plant as it grows, and the effects of plants on their environment: connecting these processes in a complete system is the essential integration. Part I shows, for contrasting plant types, that developmental, morphological, and physiological processes must all be considered to explain differences in growthTable of ContentsPreface 1: Introduction Part I:Variation in Plant Structure and Physiology During Growth 2: Effects of changes in development and plant form on growth 3: Multiple effects of variation in light on the photosynthesis system Part II: Plant Control Systems 4: Control processes of plant growth 5: Processes producing organisation in the plant 6: Stability of the photosynthesis system Part III: The Dynamics of the Relationship Between Architecture and Growth 7: Variation in architectural dynamics and its effects on growth 8: Growth within foliage canopies Part IV: Growth Responses to Environmental Change 9: Growth in a fluctuating environment 10: The aging plant 11: Conclusion

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Book SynopsisAnswers to practical questions about plant growth are sought with increasing urgency. Climate change is affecting the stability of vegetation, the yield of many important crops, and there is a continual need for ever more productive varieties to feed a growing global population. Answering questions posed by these problems requires a more integrated understanding of how plants function in producing growth. This book shows how this understanding can be achieved. First and foremost, plant growth must be defined as a dynamic system with developmental, morphological, and physiological processes responding to fluctuations in the environment due to weather, changes in the architecture of the plant as it grows, and the effects of plants on their environment: connecting these processes in a complete system is the essential integration. Part I shows, for contrasting plant types, that developmental, morphological, and physiological processes must all be considered to explain differences in growthTable of ContentsPreface 1: Introduction Part I:Variation in Plant Structure and Physiology During Growth 2: Effects of changes in development and plant form on growth 3: Multiple effects of variation in light on the photosynthesis system Part II: Plant Control Systems 4: Control processes of plant growth 5: Processes producing organisation in the plant 6: Stability of the photosynthesis system Part III: The Dynamics of the Relationship Between Architecture and Growth 7: Variation in architectural dynamics and its effects on growth 8: Growth within foliage canopies Part IV: Growth Responses to Environmental Change 9: Growth in a fluctuating environment 10: The aging plant 11: Conclusion

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Book SynopsisNeither cellular/molecular nor ecosystem processes can be fully understood without a detailed understanding of the biology of the whole organism. Despite this, much of modern biology teaching tends to be focused on the cellular and molecular level, with the organism often neglected. This is particularly noticeable in many undergraduate biology programs, where introductory courses in animal biology are either given with limited evolutionary context or else use an outdated view of animal phylogeny. This accessible textbook provides a general conceptual framework for understanding the organismic level. It provides a broad overview of the diversity of animal life while focusing on general organizational principles with a few, carefully chosen examples rather than providing exhaustive specific details. The book adopts two parallel tracks, with most chapters focusing on one or the other. The first follows the general principles of organismic biology and animal organization, starting with theTable of ContentsPreface 1: The Hierarchical Nature of Biology 2: Species Concepts and Speciation 3: What Is an Organism? The Simplest Organisms 4: The Concept of Evolutionary Change 5: Multicellularity 6: Sponges: The Simplest Multicellular Organisms 7: Germ Layers: Inside and Outside 8: Motility and Symmetry 9: Diploblastic Organisms: Cnidaria and Ctenophora 10: Colonial Organisms and Complex Life Cycles 11: Bilateria 12: Sensory Systems 13: Platyhelminthes 14: Parasitism 15: Mollusca 16: Coeloms and Skeletons 17: Annelida 18: Segmental Organization of the Body 19: Size and Complexity 20: Molting Animals 21: Arthropoda I: General Introduction and Chelicerata 22: Terrestrialization 23: Arthropoda II: Mandibulata 24: Transport and Gas Exchange Systems 25: Embryogenesis 26: Echinodermata 27: Chordata and Hemichordata 28: Excretory Systems 29: Vertebrate Characteristics 30: Vertebrate Diversity 31: Vertebrate Organogenesis 32: Organismic Biology in the Twenty-First Century

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Book SynopsisThe goal of this primer is to raise awareness, knowledge and understanding amongst 16-19-year-old students of climate-linked changes in nature and biodiversity affecting the plants and animals in our seas, coastlines, lakes and terrestrial habitats. It demonstrates how a substantial array of biological observations, research experiments and models provide confidence in the accuracy and validity of current and future predictions. All levels of biological organisation from individual organisms to ecosystems are being influenced and changes are projected to increase in coming decades. However, much remains to be discovered and this primer highlights potential future roles for 16-19 students -- from volunteers to career researchers - through which they can help in transforming and mitigating future impacts.Digital formats and resourcesThe book is available for students and institutions to purchase in a variety of formats, and is supported by online resources: The e-book offers a mobile-com

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Book SynopsisDevelopmental Plasticity and Evolution is the first comprehensive synthesis on development and evolution: it applies to all aspects of development, at all levels of organization and in all organisms, taking advantage of modern findings on behaviour, genetics, endocrinology, molecular biology, evolutionary theory and phylogenetics to show the connections between developmental mechanisms and evolutionary change. This book solves key problems that have impeded a definitive synthesis in the past. It uses new concepts and specific examples to show how to relate environmentally sensitive development to the genetic theory of adaptive evolution and to explain major patterns of change.In this book development includes not only embryology and the ontogeny of morphology, sometimes portrayed inadequately as governed by regulatory genes, but also behavioural development and psychological adaptation, where plasticity is mediated by genetically complex mechanisms like hormones and learning. The book Trade ReviewNo other treatment of development and evolution since Darwin's offers such a comprehensive and critical discussion of the relevant issues. * Ethology Ecology & Evolution *The arguments of this book call for a new view of the major themes of evolutionary biology. * Ethology Ecology & Evolution *This book satisfies the need for a truly general book on development, plasticity and evolution that applies to living organisms in all of their life stages and environments. * Ethology Ecology & Evolution *This book solves key problems that have impeded a definitive sythesis in the past. * Ethology Ecology & Evolution *The first comprehensive synthesis on development and evolution. * Ethology Ecology & Evolution *Table of ContentsPart 1: Framework for a Synthesis ; 1. Gaps and Inconsistencies in Modern Evolutionary Thought ; 2. Material for a Synthesis ; 3. The Nature of the Phenotype: Plasticity ; 4. The Nature of the Phenotype: Modularity ; 5. Development ; 6. Adaptive Evolution ; 7. General Principles of Development and Evolution ; 8. Darwin's Theory of Development and Evolution ; Part 2: The Origins of Novelty ; 9. The Nature and Analysis of Phenotype Transitions ; 10. Duplication ; 11. Deletion ; 12. Reversion ; 13. Heterochrony ; 14. Heterotopy ; 15. Cross-sexual Transfer ; 16. Correlated Shifts in Quantitative Traits ; 17. Combinational Evolution at the Molecular Level ; 18. Phenotypic Recombination by Learning ; 19. Recurrent Phenotypes ; Part 3: Alternative Phenotypes ; 20. Alternative Pheontypes as a Phase of Evolution ; 21. Divergence without Speciation ; 22. Maintenance without Equilibrium ; 23. Assessment ; Part 4: Developmental Plasticity and the Major Themes of Evolutionary Biology ; 24. Gradualism ; 25. Homology ; 26. Environmental Modifications ; 27. Speciation ; 28. Adaptive Radiation ; 29. Macroevolution ; 30. Punctuation ; 31. One Final Word: Sex

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Book SynopsisWhy do we age? Is aging inevitable? Will advances in medical knowledge allow us to extend the human lifespan beyond its present limits? Because growing old has long been the one irreducible reality of human existence, these intriguing questions arise more often in the context of science fiction than science fact. But recent discoveries in the fields of cell biology and molecular genetics are seriously challenging the assumption that human lifespans are beyond our control. With such discoveries in mind, noted cell biologist William R. Clark clearly and skillfully describes how senescence begins at the level of individual cells and how cellular replication may be bound up with aging of the entire organism. He explores the evolutionary origin and function of aging, the cellular connections between aging and cancer, the parallels between cellular senescence and Alzheimer''s disease, and the insights gained through studying human genetic disorders--such as Werner''s syndrome--that mimic theTrade Review"Clark effortlessly takes readers from the simple to the complex, from a discussion of single-celled organisms to human beings.... He also does a nice job of exploring the causes of Alzheimer's disease, various forms of cancer and an array of genetic disorders that afflict the young by making them age prematurely.... Neatly informative."--Publishers Weekly"Why in spite of healthy, well-fed, well-watered lives do people age and die? The well-informed physician-researcher, William R. Clark, excitedly reveals new studies of progeric and normal mammals as he tracks the inevitable corollary to human life: the inexorable rhythmic march to human death."--Lynn Margulis, Distinguished University Professor, Department of Geosciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst and co-author of What is Life" and What is Sex""Fascinating and informative.... One of the book's most engaging elements is Clark's ability to show how scientists think about problems and approaches in the field."--BooklistTable of ContentsINTRODUCTION ; 1. Aging, Senescence, and Lifespan ; 2. The Nature of Cellular Senescence and Death ; 3. The Evolution of Senescence and Death ; 4. Of Embryos and Worms and Very Old Men: The Developmental Genetics of Senescence and Lifespan ; 5. Human Genetic Diseases that Mimic the Aging Process ; 6. Cycling to Senescence ; 7. Replicative Immortality: Cancer and Aging ; 8. Caloric Restriction and Maximum Lifespan ; 9. With Every Breath We Take: Oxidative Stress and Cellular Senescence ; 10. The Aging Brain ; 11. A Conditional Benefit

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Book SynopsisA new voice in the nature-nurture debate can be heard at the interface between evolution and development. Phenotypic integration--or, how large numbers of characteristics are related to make up the whole organism, and how these relationships evolve and change their function--is a major growth area in research, attracting the attention of evolutionary biologists, developmental biologists, and geneticists, as well as, more broadly, ecologists, physiologists, and paleontologists. This edited collection presents much of the best and most recent work the topic.Trade ReviewI think this volume will provide stimulating reading for most students, teachers and researchers in a variety of biological disciplines. HeredityTable of ContentsForeword: The diversity of complexity ; Phenotypic Integration: Studying the Ecology and Evolution of Complex Phenotypes ; SECTION I: ADAPTATION AND CONSTRAINTS ; 1. Floral integration, modularity, and accuracy: distinguishing complex adaptations from genetic constraints ; 2. Integration and modularity in the evolution of sexual ornaments: An overlooked perspective ; 3. the Evolution of allometry in modular organisms ; 4. Phenotypic integration as a constraint and adaptation ; 5. Evolvability, stabilizing selection, and the problem of stasis ; SECTION II: PHENOTYPIC PLASTICITY AND INTEGRATION ; 6. Studying the plasticity of phenotypic integration in a model organism ; 7. Integrating phenotypic plasticity when death is on the line: Insights from predator-prey systems ; SECTION III: GENETICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY OF PHENOTYPIC INTEGRATION ; 8. QTL Mapping: a first step towards an understanding of molecular genetic mechanisms behind phenotypic complexity/integration ; 9. Integration, modules, and development: molecules to morphology to evolution ; 10. Studying mutational effects on G-matrices ; SECTION IV: MACROEVOLUTIONARY PATTERNS IN PHENOTYPIC INTEGRATION ; 11. the Macroevolution of phenotypic integration ; 12. Form, Function and Life-History: Spatial and Temporal Dynamics of Integration ; 13. Morphological Integration in Primate Evolution ; SECTION V: THEORY AND ANALYSIS OF PHENOTYPIC INTEGRATION ; 14. Phylogenetic comparative analysis of multivariate data ; 15. The Evolution of genetic architecture ; 16. Multivariate phenotypic evolution in developmental hyperspace ; 17. the Relativism of constraints on phenotypic evolution ; 18. The Developmental Systems Perspective: Organism-environment systems as units of development and evolution ; Conclusion

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Book SynopsisThis classic text takes a balanced and modern approach, presenting the exciting developments in the field, and making the most complex topics understandable to a new generation of students. Developmental Biology, Thirteenth Edition, accommodates the needs of both beginners and advanced students by clearly distinguishing the main subject matter from the details needed by advanced students.An enhanced eBook contains videos, interviews, tutorials, and interactive features. This market-leading text embodies the breadth, intellectual rigor, and wonder of contemporary developmental biology.

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Book SynopsisOffering an inside look into the world around us, microbiologist Franklin M. Harold makes life intelligible for readers interested in biology. The book traces living things and how they operate, focusing on questions about the interaction between physics, chemistry, and biology.Trade ReviewThe great success of this book is that it brings together evolution and cell biology into a popular science format. It strongly contributes to biology education and communication, especially in the context of its approach to explaining the evolution of complexity * Franklin M. Harold, Quarterly Review of Biology *Readers finish the book in awe at the still-unanswered questions that continue to confound understanding of the earliest steps toward cellular life and the greater complexity of multicellular organisms. * S. K. Sommers Smith, CHOICE *Franklin M. Harold is a master at finding the humane boundaries of human knowledge. On Life is a finely cut gem for those who are curious about life's biggest questions. His prose is at once clear and poetic, folksy and inspiring. This is the zenith of a lifetime's quest to seek meaning in science. * Nick Lane, Professor of Evolutionary Biochemistry, University College London and author of The Vital Question: Why Is Life the Way it Is? *Writing about 'life' can be tricky, but it is a topic I look forward to diving into when it's written by someone like Franklin M. Harold. He has such a long a record of scientific thought and experimentation, and he is able to cover both hard evidence as well as philosophical implications in an accessible way. On Life is an admirable contribution to the field worth reading * Ben McFarland, Professor of Biochemistry, Seattle Pacific University and author of A World from Dust *Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgments Part I: The Nature of Living Things Chapter 1: Strange Objects Chapter 2: Living Cells, Lifeless Molecules Chapter 3: Life Makes Itself Chapter 4: Putting the Cell in Order Part II: The Web That Weaves Itself Chapter 5: The Darwinian Outlook Chapter 6: Evolution of the Cell Chapter 7: The Perennial Riddle of Life's Origin Part III: The Gyre of Complexity Chapter 8: The Expansion of Life Chapter 9: The Tangled Bank Chapter 10: From Egg to Organism Chapter 11: The Outer Banks of Order Epilogue: Comprehensive, but Complex and Perplexing Glossary Notes References Index

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Book SynopsisWritten primarily for 16-19-year-old students, this primer introduces the subject of developmental biology through a wide range of organisms, offering insights into the fundamental principles that shape life''s diverse and extraordinary forms. It covers all the essential topics, including cell biology, cell signalling, cell specialization, genomic control of development, evidence for evolution, and cell ageing and death.The author guides students carefully and gradually through the concise contents, providing a robust basis for understanding the molecular and morphological events that occur during embryo development, but that are also important in adult homeostasis, regeneration, and disease. Students will delve into the secrets of stem cells, the marvels of regeneration, and the paradox of how a broadly conserved genome can support the biodiversity we see throughout the natural world. Engaging case studies and ''scientific approach'' boxes challenge the reader to think critically and Table of Contents1: Why aren't we all worms? 2: How and why do cells talk to each other? 3: The secret lives of stem cells 4: Embryo origami 5: Creating diverse and extreme body plans 6: The good, the bad, and the old: developmental principles in regeneration and ageing

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Book SynopsisSignalling within and between cells is one of the most important aspects of modern biochemistry and cell biology. An understanding of signalling pathways is vital to a wide range of biologists, from those who are investigating the causes of cancer, to those who are concerned about the impact of environmental pollutants on the ecosystem. The way cells adapt to changing environments, and the way cell dysfunction causes disease, is underpinned by cell signalling events. Cell Signalling presents a carefully structured and highly accessible introduction to this intricate and rapidly growing field. Starting with an overview of cell signalling and highlighting its importance in many biological systems, the book goes on to explore the key components of extracellular and intracellular signalling mechanisms, before examining how these components come together to create signalling pathways. A focus on common components and concepts, rather than mechanistic detail, allows the reader to gain a thorough understanding of the principles that underpin cell signalling. Online Resource CentreThe Online Resource Centre to accompany Cell Signalling features:For students:- Links to useful websitesFor registered adopters of the text:- Journal Clubs: suggested research papers and discussion questions linked to topics featured in the book- Figures from the book in electronic format for use in lecturesTrade ReviewA good overview of the key underlying concepts and principles, allowing students to gain a solid grounding in the subject. I like the Case Study sections which link to research findings; these provide relevant context and help students to understand the key message in complex scientific articles. * Dr Andrew Chantry, University of East Anglia *It is really the best specialist text for undergraduates on this topic I have seen. * Dr Fergus Doherty, University of Nottingham *Review from previous edition: John Hancock's Cell Signalling is a straightforward introduction to a rapidly expanding field of biology. Its unintimidating writing style, simple and uncluttered figures, and competitive price make it a wonderful introductory text for undergraduates. * Dr Laura K. Palmer, Penn State University *Review from previous edition: Complexity and specificity are the hallmarks of cell signalling, yet Hancock in this third edition has gone a long way to simplify these complicated processes. His signalling examples are clever and well-conceived, his writing descriptive and his passion for his subject infectious ... this is marvellous value for money and is a worthy companion to an undergraduate/postgraduate reference library. * John P. Phelan, Waterford Institute of Technology, Ireland in The Biochemist *Table of ContentsPART 1: AN OVERVIEW OF SIGNALLING; PART 2: COMPONENTS THAT COMPRISE SIGNALLING PATHWAYS; PART 3: SELECTED EXAMPLES OF SIGNALLING PATHWAYS AND EVENTS; PART 4: FINAL THOUGHTS

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Book SynopsisIn this authoritative three-volume reference work, leading researchers bring together current work to provide a comprehensive analysis of the comparative morphology, development, evolution, and functional biology of the skull.

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Book SynopsisJust as Darwin's ideas continue to propel the modern study of adaptation, so too Richard Owen's contributions fuel the interest in homology, organic form, and evolutionary developmental biology. This title offers his theory of the archetype and his views on species origins.Trade Review"I look at Owen's Archetypes as more than ideal, as a real representation as far as the most consummate skill and loftiest generalization can represent the parent form of the Vertebrata." - Charles Darwin, marginalia in his copy of On the Nature of Limbs"

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Book SynopsisJust as Darwin's ideas continue to propel the modern study of adaptation, so too Richard Owen's contributions fuel the interest in homology, organic form, and evolutionary developmental biology. This title offers his theory of the archetype and his views on species origins.Trade Review"I look at Owen's Archetypes as more than ideal, as a real representation as far as the most consummate skill and loftiest generalization can represent the parent form of the Vertebrata." - Charles Darwin, marginalia in his copy of On the Nature of Limbs"

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Book SynopsisA data-driven exploration of how children's language learning varies across different languages, providing both a theoretical framework and reference.The Wordbank Project examines variability and consistency in children's language learning across different languages and cultures, drawing on Wordbank, an open database with data from more than 75,000 children and twenty-nine languages or dialects. This big data approach makes the book the most comprehensive cross-linguistic analysis to date of early language learning. Moreover, its data-driven picture of which aspects of language learning are consistent across languages suggests constraints on the nature of children's language learning mechanisms. The book provides both a theoretical framework for scholars of language learning, language, and human cognition, and a resource for future research.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Not only a very engaging book, but one that provokes thought. . . . Fuentes . . . offers what is, to my knowledge, the first comprehensive etiological view of the origins and evolution of belief as an essential component of the human niche.”—Luis Oviedo, ESSSAT News & ReviewsAwarded the Popular Book Award sponsored by the International Society for Science and Religion“A wholly impressive look at how our capacity for belief evolved, with fresh insights, especially about early Homo sapiens. I found Fuentes’ case studies on religion, economics, and love fascinating.”—Barbara J. King, author of Evolving God“We are the believing species. Much of what we are and what we do is driven by belief of one kind or another. Agustin Fuentes, a gifted writer and teacher, helps us understand both the power and role of belief in this brilliant book. Why We Believe is an exciting intellectual tour through culture, neurobiology, prehistory, religion, economies, love, war, and more. Read it to better know yourself and your species.”—Guy P. Harrison, author of At Least Know This: Essential Science to Enhance Your Life and Think: Why You Should Question Everything

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Book SynopsisHealth and welfare issues of brachycephalic (flat-faced) animals are one of the most pressing problems facing companion animals right now. Dogs, in particular, are suffering from a brachycephalic crisis' resulting from a perfect storm where predispositions to an array of health issues are amplified by a population boom for certain brachycephalic breeds such as the French Bulldog and Pug. But yet, for many owners, these dogs represent the perfect companion: endearing personas and cute looks in a socially desirable package. So where is the truth in all of this? This book will equip veterinary professionals, animal welfare scientists, breeders and owners with the fuller story about brachycephalic health and welfare. The first half of the book provides the context of how and why we are in this crisis, offering in-depth historical, social, ethical, communication, nursing, welfare, epidemiological, genetics and international perspectives. The second half shifts towards the clTrade ReviewThere is absolutely no doubt that the collective expertise that this book brings to the reader is immense. If you are facing clinical issues in these patients — notably dogs — as so many vets and nurses are worldwide, then I doubt you could come up with a question or scenario that isn’t covered in an in-depth and comprehensive way from ophthalmology and neurology, to BOAS surgery, to GI and dermatological issues. So many of us talk about BOAS and so much CPD is dedicated to it but it’s great to have a book that acknowledges the multitude of diseases that these animals suffer besides their respiratory difficulties. Anyone questioning whether it is morally wrong to continue the breeding of these animals would be hard pushed to argue with this weight of evidence I think. And, for me, this is where the book is really excellent — the first half, diplomatically entitled Wider viewpoints, really is a wonderful ethical discussion around the whole issue that had me immersed from the start. We need the clinical education but we, very much, also need to consider the deeper issues, which this book certainly does. Rowena and Dan should be rightly proud of this work and the outstanding expertise they have gathered to bring it together. Whether we like the status quo or not, this book is an essential and invaluable resource for anyone working with these animals or interested in the wider ethics of such extreme conformation.- Emma Milne, Veterinary Surgeon, in UFAW's Animal Welfare journal, Volume 31, Issue 2, May 2022The conundrum of flat-faced pets is that people love them despite – and sometimes because of – the features that may cause health issues. At a time of heightened concern about the welfare and popularity of brachycephalic breeds, this comprehensive volume brings together the world’s experts to consider the history, human psychology, ethics, genetics, and veterinary aspects of caring for them. Surprising, thoughtful, and practical, this book is essential reading for anyone who cares about animal welfare.- Zazie Todd, PhD, Canisius College, Companion Animal Psychology websiteFinally. A much-needed, comprehensive, science-based look at flat-faced dogs--how they came to be and how we can, and must, improve their wellbeing. This is an essential book for veterinary professionals and dog owners alike. -- Mia Cobb, PhD, and Julie Hecht, MSc, of Do You Believe in Dog?Health and Welfare of Brachycephalic Companion Animals is an excellent and unique resource for all veterinary professionals working with these breeds. As the popularity of these dogs continues to increase, this book provides a detailed exploration of the history of the breeds, the unique nature of owner/ patient relationships and the genetics and ethics of breeding. The second part of the book is dedicated to discussion of the management of the wide range of conformational abnormalities which occur frequently in these breeds. Having all this information gathered together in to a single text will be an invaluable source for reference both in and out of the clinic.-- Rachel Hattersley, BVetMed(Hons), CertSAS, DECVS, MRCVS, Specialist in Soft Tissue Surgery, Dick White Referrals Ltd This book is a vital tool for both veterinary and animal welfare professionals, as well as those simply looking to be better informed. It provides the reader with a broad understanding of the complex drivers and consequences of breeding companion animals for brachycephalic features. Most importantly, it also proposes integrated mechanisms for management and change of what continues to be a contentious and intractable problem.-- Mark J Farnworth PhD., Associate Professor (Animal Welfare), Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, UKThere is absolutely no doubt that the collective expertise that this book brings to the reader is immense. If you are facing clinical issues in these patients — notably dogs — as so many vets and nurses are worldwide, then I doubt you could come up with a question or scenario that isn’t covered in an in-depth and comprehensive way from ophthalmology and neurology, to BOAS surgery, to GI and dermatological issues. So many of us talk about BOAS and so much CPD is dedicated to it but it’s great to have a book that acknowledges the multitude of diseases that these animals suffer besides their respiratory difficulties. Anyone questioning whether it is morally wrong to continue the breeding of these animals would be hard pushed to argue with this weight of evidence I think. And, for me, this is where the book is really excellent — the first half, diplomatically entitled Wider viewpoints, really is a wonderful ethical discussion around the whole issue that had me immersed from the start. We need the clinical education but we, very much, also need to consider the deeper issues, which this book certainly does. Rowena and Dan should be rightly proud of this work and the outstanding expertise they have gathered to bring it together. Whether we like the status quo or not, this book is an essential and invaluable resource for anyone working with these animals or interested in the wider ethics of such extreme conformation.- Emma Milne, Veterinary Surgeon, in UFAW's Animal Welfare journal, Volume 31, Issue 2, May 2022The conundrum of flat-faced pets is that people love them despite – and sometimes because of – the features that may cause health issues. At a time of heightened concern about the welfare and popularity of brachycephalic breeds, this comprehensive volume brings together the world’s experts to consider the history, human psychology, ethics, genetics, and veterinary aspects of caring for them. Surprising, thoughtful, and practical, this book is essential reading for anyone who cares about animal welfare.- Zazie Todd, PhD, Canisius College, Companion Animal Psychology websiteFinally. A much-needed, comprehensive, science-based look at flat-faced dogs--how they came to be and how we can, and must, improve their wellbeing. This is an essential book for veterinary professionals and dog owners alike. -- Mia Cobb, PhD, and Julie Hecht, MSc, of Do You Believe in Dog?This book is a vital tool for both veterinary and animal welfare professionals, as well as those simply looking to be better informed. It provides the reader with a broad understanding of the complex drivers and consequences of breeding companion animals for brachycephalic features. Most importantly, it also proposes integrated mechanisms for management and change of what continues to be a contentious and intractable problem.-- Mark J Farnworth PhD., Associate Professor (Animal Welfare), Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, UKHealth and Welfare of Brachycephalic Companion Animals is an excellent and unique resource for all veterinary professionals working with these breeds. As the popularity of these dogs continues to increase, this book provides a detailed exploration of the history of the breeds, the unique nature of owner/ patient relationships and the genetics and ethics of breeding. The second part of the book is dedicated to discussion of the management of the wide range of conformational abnormalities which occur frequently in these breeds. Having all this information gathered together in to a single text will be an invaluable source for reference both in and out of the clinic.-- Rachel Hattersley, BVetMed(Hons), CertSAS, DECVS, MRCVS, Specialist in Soft Tissue Surgery, Dick White Referrals LtdTable of Contents1. Introduction: The brachycephalic boom – where are we now and how have we got here? Part 1 Wider viewpoints 2. A historical perspective of brachycephalic breed health and the role of the veterinary profession. 3. Human factors. 4. Ethical challenges of treating brachycephalic dogs. 5. Discussing brachycephalic health with current and prospective dog owners. 6. Nurses and the brachycephalic patient – practical considerations and the role of veterinary nurses in improving brachycephalic health. 7. The epidemiology of brachycephaly – prevalence and risk factors of common disorders, and implications of changing demographics. 8. The genetics of brachycephaly, population genetics and current health testing for brachycephalic breeds. 9. International and national approaches to brachycephalic breed health reforms. Part 2 Clinical viewpoints. 10. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) – Clinical assessment and decision making. 11. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome - surgical management and post-operative management. 12. Ophthalmology in practice for brachycephalic breeds. 13. Dermatological problems in the brachycephalic patient. 14. Dental and Oral Health for the Brachycephalic Companion Animal. 15. Brain disorders associated with brachycephaly. 16. Vertebral malformations and spinal disease in brachycephalic breeds. 17. Obesity and weight management of brachycephalic breeds. 18. Reproduction in brachycephalic companion animal species. 19. Anaesthesia for the brachycephalic patient. 20. Conclusion: Can a brachycephalic dog be a healthy dog, and how do we achieve this?

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Book SynopsisAn understanding of gonorynchiform morphology and systematic inter- and intra-relationships has proven vital to a better understanding of the evolution of lower teleosts in general, and more specifically of groups such as the clupeiforms (e.g., herrings and anchovies), and ostariophysans (e.g., carps, minnows and catfishes). This book examines the current knowledge of gonorynchiform biology, including comparative osteology, myology, epibranchial morphology and development. Phylogenetic interrelationships among gonorynchiform fishes are reexamined.Table of ContentsReassessment and Comparative Morphology of the Gonorynchiform Head Skeleton; Morphological Analysis of the Gonorynchiform Postcranial Skeleton; Early Ossification and Development of the Cranium and Paired Girdles of Chanos chanos (Teleostei, Gonorynchiformes; A Review of the Cranial and Pectoral Musculature of Gonorynchiform Fishes, with Comments on Their Functional Morphology and a Comparison with Other Otocephalans; The Epibranchial Organ and Its Anatomical Environment in the Gonorynchiformes, with Functional Discussions; The Fossil Record of Gonorynchiformes; Gonorynchiform Interrelationships: Historic Overview, Analysis, and Revised Systematics of the Group; A New Teleostean Fish from the Early Late Cretaceous (Cenomanian) of SE Morocco, with a Discussion of its Relationships with Ostariophysans; Gonorynchiformes in the Teleostean Phylogeny: Molecules and Morphology Used to Investigate Interrelationships of the Ostariophysi; Systematics and Phylogenetic Relationships of Cypriniformes; Review of the Phylogenetic Relationships and Fossil Record of Characiformes; State of the Art of Siluriform Higher-level Phylogeny; The Mitochondrial Phylogeny of the South American Electric Fish (Gymnotiformes) and an Alternative Hypothesis for the Otophysan Historical Biogeography; A Nomenclatural Analysis of Gonorynchiform Taxa

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Book SynopsisFew, if any, genes have had the same level of impact on the field of evolutionary-developmental biology (evo-devo) as the Hox genes. These genes are renowned for their roles in patterning the body plans and development of the animal kingdom. This is complemented by the distinctive organisation of these genes in the genome, with them frequently being found as clusters in which gene position is linked to when and where the individual genes are expressed, particularly during embryogenesis. This book provides the latest overviews of Hox gene organisation and function for major clades of animals from across the animal kingdom. With the rapidly increasing availability of high-quality whole genome sequences from an ever-expanding range of species, it is becoming increasingly evident that there is great diversity in the organisation of Hox genes. These great strides in genome sequencing are wedded to important developments in our ability to detect expression and disrupt gene function in speTable of ContentsSeries Preface. Preface. About the Editor. Contributors. Introduction to Hox Modules in Evolution and Development. Multiple Layers of Complexity in the Regulation of the Bithorax Complex of Drosophila. The Role of Hox Genes in the Origins and Diversification of Beetle Horns. Duplication and Evolution of Hox Clusters in Chelicerata (Arthropoda). Structural Constraints in Hox Clusters: Lessons from Sharks and Rays. Evolution of Cyclostome Hox Clusters. Hox Genes in Echinoderms. Hox Genes in Mollusca. The Evolution of Hox Genes in Spiralia. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis monograph presents a general mathematical theory for biological growth. The author herein presents the first major technical monograph on the problem of growth since D’Arcy Wentworth Thompson’s 1917 book On Growth and Form.The emphasis of the book is on the proper mathematical formulation of growth kinematics and mechanics.Trade Review“Goriely’s book is self-contained and provides sufficient review of the background material necessary to understand the mathematics employed in the study of phenomena he describes. … Overall, the text is well written, richly illustrated, and enjoyable to read, although the monograph is lengthy. I applaud Prof. Goriely on his impressive text.” (Bhargav Karamched, SIAM Review, Vol. 61 (1), March, 2019)“The book grasps the conceptual and technical aspects underpinning the role of mechanics in the growth of biological tissues. It is the first major modern monograph on the subject, which synthesizes the research activity in this vivid field of the mathematics and mechanics of growth since now more than two decades. … The monograph is overall well-structured and rich in illustrations and will be accessible and appealing to readers with different interest and background, including life scientists … .” (Jean-François Ganghoffer, Journal of Geometry and Symmetry in Physics JGSP, Vol. 49, 2018)“The book is very informative, it is written in an easy readable and intriguing way. It has a large reference list of 1369 bibliographic descriptions and a carefully prepared index. The book should be helpful for researchers who work in the multidisciplinary fields of theoretical biology, biomechanics, biomedical engineering, biophysics and applied mathematics.” (Svetoslav Markov, zbMATH 1398.92003, 2018)Table of ContentsBasic aspects of growth.- Mechanics and growth.- Discrete computational models.- Growing on a line.- Elastic rods.- Morphoelastic rods.- Accretive growth.- Membranes and shells.- Growing membranes.- Morphoelastic plates.- Nonlinear elasticity.- The kinematics of growth.- Balance laws.- Evolution laws and stability.- Growing spheres.- Growing cylinders.- Ten challenges.- References.- Index.

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