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Cells maintain uneven distribution of Na, K and Ca ions across the cell membrane and membranes of intracellular organellae. Cells exert their functions by allowing for some ion to cross the membrane through ion channels which either produces an electrical effect across the membrane or switches on a series of chemical or physicochemical reactions. This is a comprehensive book about these vitally important ion channels with detailed description of the molecular structure and function and especially of activators and inhibitors. All chapters are written by renowned specialists in their field.

With recent studies using genetic, epigenetic, and other molecular and neurochemical approaches, a new era has begun in understanding pathophysiology of suicide. Emerging evidence suggests that neurobiological factors are not only critical in providing potential risk factors but also provide a promising approach to develop more effective treatment

NEUROTOX'91 was the fourth meeting in a series which started in 1979. The'91 meeting, like its predecessors, was held under the patronage of the Society of Chemical Industry, and despite the unfortunate proximity of hostilities in the Arabian Gulf attracted a truly international mix of industrial and academic pesticide scientists. This volume contains the text of invited papers read at the meeting and presents the dramatic developments which so excited those who attended. The potential of molecular neurobiology for gaining knowledge of target sites for neurotoxicants is now starting to be realised. These studies, in conjunction with developments in molecular imaging and modelling, provide new oppor­ tunities for chemists and biologists to gain insights into molecular interactions underlying intoxication. Molecular techniques have also enabled rapid ad­ vances on a second front, where the cloning of genes controlling pesticide resistance should have a profound impact on our understanding of this commercially important problem. The understanding of molecular events will undoubtedly be vital in future developments in chemical control of pests; however, the value of understand­ ing the way in which the nervous system controls behaviour and how behaviour can be modified by chemicals of bath synthetic and natural origins was highlighted. Natural products and their synthetic analogues have continued to provide new and interesting molecules which are already proving their worth as tools for the neuroscientist and may offer leads for commercial synthesis.

This Festschrift volume in honor of Professor Alexander Karczmar is the outcome of a three-day symposium entitled'Neurobiology of Acetylcholine'held at Loyola University Medical Center from June 3 to 5, 1985. This volume serves two purposes. It expresses the respect and admiration of the contributors to Alex Karczmar, and it provides a forum for detailing recent advances in the cholinergic field which has attracted the undivided and untiring attention of Dr. Karczmar over some 40 years. During this period, the cholinergic system has grown from its infancy to become one of the most studied and understood transmitter systems today. Dr. Karczmar's interest in cholinergic system is appropriately reflected by the range of topics, molecular, cellular, developmental, behavioral and toxicological, that were discussed here. A detailed synopsis of Dr. Karczmar's research and his contributions to the field of cholinergic systems can be found in the following chapter by his close friend and colleague, Dr. George Koelle. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the enthusiastic responses of the participants making this Festschrift a memorable event.

Intoxication of humans and animals has become increasingly important in recent years as has contamination of the environment by a variety of chemicals. In order to develop effective means by which such intoxication and contamination can be properly handled, it is imperative to know how these environmental agents act in humans and animals. Despite studies conducted by various investigators, the mechanisms of action of these environmental agents have not been fully elucidated. Insecticides are by no means an exception in terms of the seriousness of the problem and of the urgency of the need for such information. In order to complete a picture of the effects of any particular insecticide, it is of utmost importance that its actions at various levels ranging from those of molecules to whole animals be analyzed and synthesized. To understand the toxicological action on animals or humans, it is not sufficient to know the action at each level only. The actions at various levels must be integrated to construct a picture of the toxic effect on the intact organism. However, in spite of the large body of information that has been accumulated during the past few decades, little or no attempt has been made to integrate experimental data obtained at the molecular, cellular, organ, and animal levels together in order to define the whole picture of insecticidal action.

The attractions of invertebrate nervous systems have long been appreciated by neurophysiologists. Indeed some of the milestones in our understanding of nervous systems have their foundations in experiments done on invertebrate preparations, typified by the role of the squid axon in dissect­ ing the events that constitute the action potential. More recently we have seen how the relatively simple nervous system of Aplysia has permitted new insights into the molecular mechanisms of memory and learning. Neurochemists, however, have not been enthusiastic about invertebrate tissues as their experimental material. Much of the biochemical information on invertebrate nervous systems that has accrued has been incidental, almost as a by-product of what were primarily physiological investigations. Fortunately the field is changing, and research groups are making a positive choice to turn to invertebrate tissues. Two important factors have contributed to this. First, the study of analogous systems in invertebrates and vertebrates can tell us much about the evolution of nervous systems. The application of the techniques of molecular genetics to the study of such molecules as receptors and ion channels can provide detailed information about their composition that, in turn, allows us to better understand their function. By extending such studies to the invertebrates we should be able to understand how such systems have developed. Secondly, invertehrate pests are responsible for enormous losses of agricultural crops and are major vectors of disease in man.

This volume comprises the proceedings of the First International Rehovot Conference on Modem Agriculture and the Environment, held at the Rehovot Campus of the Faculty of Agriculture, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel, 2-6 October 1994. The conference, first in a series intended to be convened in Rehovot at 4-5 year intervals to address various aspects of the interaction of agriculture and the environment, was initiated, organised and carried out under the auspices of the Faculty of Agriculture, the leading academic institution in agricultural and environmental studies in Israel. It featured four keynote addresses, 39 invited lectures, 40 submitted papers, and 62 posters. Of these, 51 articles, written by 122 contributing authors from 14 countries, were selected by the editors to be presented in this book. All through the twentieth century, and especially ever since the advent of the Green Revolution, modem agriCUlture has been striving to feed and clothe the ever­ increasing multitudes of the human species through improved technology, relying heavily on tremendous inputs of fertilisers, pesticides, and various other agrochemicals. Undoubtedly, this has been a great blessing to mankind, and enormous strides have indeed been made in the never-ending struggle against starvation, but these have been achieved at a very steep price of increased environmental deterioration. In fact, modem agriculture has become one of the major factors contributing to the degradation of the world's fragile biosphere.

Biophysics is a rapidly-evolving interdisciplinary science that applies theories and methods of the physical sciences to questions of biology. Biophysics encompasses many disciplines, including physics, chemistry, mathematics, biology, biochemistry, medicine, pharmacology, physiology, and neuroscience, and it is essential that scientists working in these varied fields are able to understand each other's research. Comprehensive Biophysics, Nine Volume Set will help bridge that communication gap. Written by a team of researchers at the forefront of their respective fields, under the guidance of Chief Editor Edward Egelman, Comprehensive Biophysics, Nine Volume Set provides definitive introductions to a broad array of topics, uniting different areas of biophysics research - from the physical techniques for studying macromolecular structure to protein folding, muscle and molecular motors, cell biophysics, bioenergetics and more. The result is this comprehensive scientific resource - a valuable tool both for helping researchers come to grips quickly with material from related biophysics fields outside their areas of expertise, and for reinforcing their existing knowledge. - Biophysical research today encompasses many areas of biology. These studies do not necessarily share a unique identifying factor. This work unites the different areas of research and allows users, regardless of their background, to navigate through the most essential concepts with ease, saving them time and vastly improving their understanding - The field of biophysics counts several journals that are directly and indirectly concerned with the field. There is no reference work that encompasses the entire field and unites the different areas of research through deep foundational reviews. Comprehensive Biophysics fills this vacuum, being a definitive work on biophysics. It will help users apply context to the diverse journal literature offering, and aid them in identifying areas for further research - Chief Editor Edward Egelman (E-I-C, Biophysical Journal) has assembled an impressive, world-class team of Volume Editors and Contributing Authors. Each chapter has been painstakingly reviewed and checked for consistent high quality. The result is an authoritative overview which ties the literature together and provides the user with a reliable background information and citation resource

This book disseminates current information pertaining to the modulatory effects of foods and other food substances on behavior and neurological pathways and, importantly, vice versa. This ranges from the neuroendocrine control of eating to the effects of life-threatening disease on eating behavior. The importance of this contribution to the scientific literature lies in the fact that food and eating are an essential component of cultural heritage but the effects of perturbations in the food/cognitive axis can be profound. The complex interrelationship between neuropsychological processing, diet, and behavioral outcome is explored within the context of the most contemporary psychobiological research in the area. This comprehensive psychobiology- and pathology-themed text examines the broad spectrum of diet, behavioral, and neuropsychological interactions from normative function to occurrences of severe and enduring psychopathological processes.

This volume critically examines the functional actions of the kainate‑type glutamate receptors (KARs). Following on from the larger body of work on the NMDA‑ and AMPA-type ionotropic glutamate receptors (GluRs), studies with KARs have consistently thrown up exceptions to general rules about synaptic modulation. Contributors herein provide an insight to the idiosyncracies that now almost typify the KAR field. The fascinating insights provided in this volume serve to encourage searching mechanistic questions.

This volume of The Enzymes features high-caliber thematic articles on the topic of glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchoring of proteins. - Contributions from leading authorities - Informs and updates on all the latest developments in the field

Circulation of blood is vital for the survival of vertebrates, including man. Mainly, it plays an important role in carrying food nutrients and oxygen to every tissue and organ and in removing all waste products and carbon dioxide. Any imbalance in the hemostatic and cardiovascular systems can lead to death and severe debility. A number of animals have developed mechanisms to target these systems and exploit the vulnerability. In some species (for example, snakes), such mechanisms are used to immobilize and kill the victim/prey, whereas in others (for example, insects, such as leaches, mosquitoes and ticks), they are used to provide a continuous supply of blood. These mechanisms include, but are not limited to, procoagulant and anticoagulant actions that affect the coagulation cascade and platelet aggregation, as well as altering vasodilatory responses. In all these various animals, these mechanisms have evolved to perfection over millions of years to support their survival. In last 3-4 decades, due to the efforts of scientists from various backgrounds including biology, protein chemistry, molecular biology, pharmacology, hematology, and structural biology, significant progress in understanding the structure-function relationships, as well as the mechanism of action have been made in a number of exogenous factors that affect blood coagulation, platelet aggregation and vasodilation from various animals. These exogenous factors have contributed significantly to the development of research tools as well as providing new therapeutic agents. With the increase average age of the population coupled with changes in life style in recent years, there has been a significant increase in cardiovascular and hematological disorders. Thus scientists in both academic institutions as well as the pharmaceutical industry are developing better therapeutic agents to improve the quality of life. This impetus has lead to the search for novel agents from various sources that interfere withcardiovascular and hematalogical processes. Although at first glance exogenous factors appear to function as ‘villains', several life-saving drugs have been developed based upon these factors. Such drugs or drug leads include those that inhibit the angiotensin converting enzymes (Captopril and Enalapril), that block platelet receptors (Eptifibatide and Tirofiban), or that digest thrombotic plugs (Alfimeprase and bat plasminogen activator) to name a few. Several new and exciting success stories are currently unfolding. In this book, recent studies on some of the exogenous factors that play crucial roles in cardiovascular and hematological disorders are reviewed in order to consolidate the efforts in this area of research and to recruit new, talented researchers. The 25-30 review chapters, each written by experts in their field, compiled herein are devoted to exogenous factors affecting platelet aggregation, anticoagulant and procoagulant proteins, fibrinolytic proteins and hypotensive agents (For details see, Contents of the Book). This book is intended to help to create elevated awareness and enthusiasm in the field of exogenous factors. I believe that this book will provide greater impetus to the search for novel proteins based on naturally occurring exogenous factors. This will be the first book dealing extensively with exogenous factors in the last 25 years. The book will provide a ready reference to the different approaches used to solve complex problems in protein chemistry and pharmacology of exogenous factors. The book will update our understanding of the structure-function relationships and mechanisms of action of exogenous factors and provide great insights into future directions for solving the remaining challenges.

Rich in detail, Hippocampal Microcircuits: A Computational Modeler's Resource Book provides succinct and focused reviews of experimental results. It is an unparalleled resource of data and methodology that will be invaluable to anyone wishing to develop computational models of the microcircuits of the hippocampus. The editors have divided the material into two thematic areas. Covering the subject's experimental background, leading neuroscientists discuss the morphological, physiological and molecular characteristics as well as the connectivity and synaptic properties of the various cell types found in the hippocampus. Here, ensemble activity, related to behavior, on the part of morphologically identified neurons in anesthetized and freely moving animals, lead to insights into the functions of hippocampal areas. In the second section, on computational analysis, computational neuroscientists present models of hippocampal microcircuits at various levels of detail, including single-celland network levels. A full chapter is devoted to the single-neuron and network simulation environments currently used by computational neuroscientists in developing their models. In addition to the above, the chapters also identify outstanding questions and areas in need of further clarification that will guide future research by computational neuroscientists.

The need for information in the understanding of membrane systems has been caused by three things - an increase in computer power; methodological developments and the recent expansion in the number of researchers working on it worldwide. However, there has been no up-to-date book that covers the application of simulation methods to membrane systems directly and this book fills an important void in the market. It provides a much needed update on the current methods and applications as well as highlighting recent advances in the way computer simulation can be applied to the field of membranes and membrane proteins. The objectives are to show how simulation methods can provide an important contribution to the understanding of these systems. The scope of the book is such that it covers simulation of membranes and membrane proteins, but also covers the more recent methodological developments such as coarse-grained molecular dynamics and multiscale approaches in systems biology. Applications embrace a range of biological processes including ion channel and transport proteins. The book is wide ranging with broad coverage and a strong coupling to experimental results wherever possible, including colour illustrations to highlight particular aspects of molecular structure. With an internationally respected list of authors, its publication is timely and it will prove indispensable to a large scientific readership.

This brand new Annual Plant Reviews volume is the second edition of the highly successful and well-received Functions of Plant Secondary Metabolites and their Exploitation in Biotechnology (Annual Plant Reviews, Volume 3). This exciting new volume provides an up-to-date survey of the functions of plant secondary metabolites, their modes of action and their use in pharmacology as molecular probes, in medicine as therapeutic agents, and in agriculture as biorational pesticides. The possibilities to produce valuable natural products in plant cell and tissue culture and even in recombinant microorganisms are also reviewed. This carefully compiled new edition brings together chapters from some of the world's leading experts in plant secondary metabolites. Completely revised and brought right up to date with much new information, this volume is an essential purchase for advanced students, researchers and professionals in biochemistry, physiology, molecular biology, genetics, plant sciences, agriculture, medicine, pharmacology and pharmacy, working in the academic and industrial sectors, including those working in the pesticide and pharmaceutical industries. Libraries in all universities and research establishments where these subjects are studied and taught will need copies of this excellent volume on their shelves. A companion volume Annual Plant Reviews Volume 40, Biochemistryof Plant Secondary Metabolism, Second Edition, Edited by M. Wink, is also available.

The Encyclopedia of Animal Behavior, Three Volume Set has engaged with great success the efforts of many of the best behavioral biologists of the 21st century. Section editors drawn from the most accomplished behavioral scientists of their generation have enrolled an international cast of highly respected thinkers and writers all of whom have taken great care and joy in illuminating every imaginable corner of animal behavior. This comprehensive work covers not only the usual topics such as communication, learning, sexual selection, navigation, and the history of the field, but also emerging topics in cognition, animal welfare, conservation, and applications of animal behavior. The large section on animal cognition brings together many of the world's experts on the subject to provide a comprehensive overview of this rapidly developing area. Chapters relating to animal welfare give a full view of behavioral interactions of humans with companion animals, farm animals, and animals in the wild. The key role of animal behavior in conservation biology receives broad attention, including chapters on topics such as the effects of noise pollution, captive breeding, and how the behavioral effects of parasites interacts with conservation issues. Animal behavior in environmental biology is highlighted in chapters on the effects of endocrine disruptors on behavior and a large number of chapters on key species, such as wolves, chimpanzees, hyenas and sharks. Clear, accessible writing complements a wealth of information for undergraduate college students about the essential concepts of animal behavior and the application of those concepts across the field. In-depth coverage of concepts, methods, and exemplar organisms serves the needs of graduate students and professionals in the field. From the use of behavior in assessing the welfare of pigs to the social behavior of insects, from animal empathy to bat brains, this authoritative reference, with its in-depth introductory articles, rich array of illustrations, interactive cross-referenced links, and numerous suggested readings, can guide the student or the professional to an expanded appreciation of the far-flung world of animal behavior. An invaluable tool for teaching and a source of enrichment and detail for any topic covered in an animal behavior course, the Encyclopedia of Animal Behavior is the definitive reference work in its field and will be for years to come. - Comprehensive work which covers the usual topics along with emerging areas of animal behavior - This encyclopedia contains clear, accessible writing and is well illustrated, including an online video, complimenting a wealth of information - As an online reference, this work will be subject to period updating. This ensures that the work always remains current - Contains in-depth introductions to the material that make each well-illustrated section come alive with the best the new content the discipline has to offer - Glossary includes a compendium of behavioral terms that form a succinct mosaic of virtually every concept and phenomenon related to animal behavior - Section editors, drawn from around the world, represent the best and the brightest among today's behavioral biologists and have recruited a broad range of internationally recognized experts - Editors-in-Chief are experienced scientists and writers who between them have authored or edited eight books and teach courses in animal behavior at their respective universities

While some of the most commonly investigated- and most notorious- chemicals in the world are alkaloids, many modern medicines are also based on alkaloid structures. Chemists continue to explore new synthetic routes and alkaloid derivatives in search of drug candidates for fighting disease. Drawn from the venerable Dictionary of Natural Products, th

Marine organisms produce a wide array of toxins, many of which are not only structurally unusual, but also show potent and interesting modes of action. Since the discovery of tetrodotoxin, a pufferfish toxin, as a potent and selective blocker of Na+ channels in 1964, it has been widely used as a research tool in pharmacological and physiological research. This has led to the identification of a number of important biological functions for Na+ channels. In recent years, much biological research has been carried out at molecular and cellular levels, and therefore selective inhibitors of enzymes and selective antagonist/agonists of receptors and channels have become increasingly important research tools. Accordingly, interest in using such compounds as reagents has increased. Marine toxins are some of the most popular research tools and have already contributed much to our understanding of biological processes and disease mechanisms.

The new, therapeutically-focused Botulinum Toxin presents comprehensive, cross-disciplinary guidance on current practices, covering more than 100 non-cosmetic conditions that occur in neurology, physical medicine and rehabilitation, pain medicine, ophthalmology, gastroenterology, urology, orthopedics, and surgery. International contributors review the current understanding of the biology and cellular mechanisms along with relevant research so you can easily apply them to the pathophysiology of the numerous disorders that botulinum toxin is used to treat—such as botulinum toxin applications for the treatment of cranial-cervical dystonias, motor disorders in cerebral palsy, bruxism and temporomandibular disorders, headache, overactive bladder, chronic pelvic pain syndromes, arthritis joint pain, and wound healing. With discussions of the latest in approved treatment practices as well as new and emerging uses, you'll get in-depth management guidance on the application of the toxin.Provides clinical applications of botulinum toxin for over 100 disorders for immediate access and easy reference during practice and treatment. Covers a broad array of hot topics, including botulinum toxin applications for the treatment of cranial-cervical dystonias, motor disorders in cerebral palsy, bruxism and temporomandibular disorders, headache, overactive bladder, chronic pelvic pain syndromes, arthritis joint pain, and wound healing. Focuses on approved uses with expert advice on thoroughly tested applications but also discusses new and emerging applications to expose you to additional treatment options. Presents the most comprehensive and up-to-date material available so you get all the information you need from this one resource. Offers the cross-disciplinary guidance of the best world-class expertise through an authoritative, international group of authors who demonstrate the applications of botulinum toxin across various specialties.

This volume provides a broad overview of important new advances in the field of Neuropharmacology. In 20 chapters, a selection of international contributors discuss topics including endocannabinoid function, pain, stress, astrocytes etc, and new possibilities for treatments of neurological diseases with neuropharmacological approaches. - Cutting-edge articles in neuropharmacology - Discusses new possibilities for treatments of neurological disorders - Very international authorship providing a global view of the state of research

'A Lange medical book.'

Intercellular communication is part of a complex system of communication that governs basic cellular activities and coordinates cell actions. The ability of cells to perceive and correctly respond to their environment is the basis of growth and development, tissue repair, and immunity as well as normal tissue homeostasis. Errors in cellular information processing are responsible for diseases such as cancer, autoimmunity, diabetes, and neurological and psychiatric disorders. There is substantial drug development concentrating on this and intercellular communication is the basis of much of neuropharmacology. By understanding cell signaling, diseases may be treated effectively and, theoretically, artificial tissues may be yielded. Neurotransmitters/receptors, synaptic structure and organization, gap junctions, neurotrophic factors and neuropeptides are all explored in this volume, as are the ways in which signaling controls neuroendocrinology, neuroimmunology and neuropharmacology. Intercellular Communication in the Nervous System provides a valuable desk reference for all scientists who consider signaling. - Chapters offer impressive scope with topics addressing neurotransmitters/receptors, synaptic structure and organization, neuropeptides, gap junctions, neuropharmacology and more - Richly illustrated in full color with over 200 figures - Contributors represent the most outstanding scholarship in the field, with each chapter providing fully vetted and reliable expert knowledge

Neurovascular Medicine: Pursuing Cellular Longevity for Healthy Aging provides a unique perspective from a diverse group of international recognized investigators with a broad range of experience in neuronal, vascular, and immune mediated disease processes to translate previously unexplored pathways of cell biology into robust and safe therapeutic measures.

The Encyclopedia of the Neuroscience explores all areas of the discipline in its focused entries on a wide variety of topics in neurology, neurosurgery, psychiatry and other related areas of neuroscience. Each article is written by an expert in that specific domain and peer reviewed by the advisory board before acceptance into the encyclopedia. Each article contains a glossary, introduction, a reference section, and cross-references to other related encyclopedia articles. Written at a level suitable for university undergraduates, the breadth and depth of coverage will appeal beyond undergraduates to professionals and academics in related fields.

The groundbreaking Encyclopedia of Ecology provides an authoritative and comprehensive coverage of the complete field of ecology, from general to applied. It includes over 500 detailed entries, structured to provide the user with complete coverage of the core knowledge, accessed as intuitively as possible, and heavily cross-referenced. Written by an international team of leading experts, this revolutionary encyclopedia will serve as a one-stop-shop to concise, stand-alone articles to be used as a point of entry for undergraduate students, or as a tool for active researchers looking for the latest information in the field.Entries cover a range of topics, including:Behavioral EcologyEcological ProcessesEcological ModelingEcological EngineeringEcological IndicatorsEcological InformaticsEcosystemsEcotoxicologyEvolutionary EcologyGeneral EcologyGlobal EcologyHuman EcologySystem Ecology - The first reference work to cover all aspects of ecology, from basic to applied - Over 500 concise, stand-alone articles are written by prominent leaders in the field - Article text is supported by full-color photos, drawings, tables, and other visual material - Fully indexed and cross referenced with detailed references for further study - Writing level is suited to both the expert and non-expert - Available electronically on ScienceDirect shortly upon publication

Glutamate receptors are critically important for normal brain function. The preceding decade has seen remarkable advances in our understanding of the physiological function and molecular structure of these proteins. The Glutamate Receptors provides an expansive review of the field with a topical update to two excellent books - The Ionotropic Glutamate Receptors and The Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors. An exciting primer to the study of glutamate receptors and their central role in neurotransmission, The Glutamate Receptors covers the extraordinary research and significant developments in the decade since the previous books were published and gives a snapshot of how prominent scientists look to the future of research in the field. Both insightful and comprehensive, The Glutamate Receptors provides an invaluable reference to students and scientists on nearly every aspect of glutamate receptor structure and function.

This mini-encyclopedia contains more than 1,500 alphabetical entries from the entire field of peptide science in one handy volume, as well as the technical terms, acronyms and concepts used in peptide chemistry. It also features the complete sequence of more than 800 peptides, numerous illustrations and numerous cross-references. Areas covered include: - biological peptides and small proteins - peptide hormones - pharmaceutical peptides - peptide antibiotics - peptide inhibitors - peptide reagents - peptide tags - structural classes - synthesis and purification - analytical methods - proteomics and peptidomics. Condensed yet accessible, only essential information is displayed, extensively linked via references to the recent scientific literature for further study.

This selection of reviews gives an up-to-date picture of memory research. Great progress has been made in identifying the memory trace at the molecular and cellular level and individual reviews address the major mechanisms by which changes in synaptic strength can persist. Exciting research at the systems level is also reviewed including the growing importance of changes in inhibitory interneurons and how they play a role in memory formation. Finally, reviews present cognitive and neurobiological models of human memory that explain, characterize and organize the act of memory within a coherent framework. - Provides an unique overview that covers all perspectives and methodological approaches to memory - Broad coverage of memory research from molecular to human studies in one source - Up-to-date reviews give the latest important ideas on memory formation

Expert systems allow scientists to access, manage, and apply data and specialized knowledge from various disciplines to their own research. Expert Systems in Chemistry Research explains the general scientific basis and computational principles behind expert systems and demonstrates how they can improve the efficiency of scientific workflows

This volume describes the preparation and important reactions of arene derivatives [Ar1-X, where X is a functional group in which the atom bonded to the arene ring is either nitrogen or phosphorus].

With contributions by numerous experts

The hippocampus is one of a group of remarkable structures embedded within the brain's medial temporal lobe. Long known to be important for memory, it has been a prime focus of neuroscience research for many years. The Hippocampus Book promises to facilitate developments in the field in a major way by bringing together, for the first time, contributions by leading international scientists knowledgeable about hippocampal anatomy, physiology, and function. This authoritative volume offers the most comprehensive, up-to-date account of what the hippocampus does, how it does it, and what happens when things go wrong. At the same time, it illustrates how research focusing on this single brain structure has revealed principles of wider generality for the whole brain in relation to anatomical connectivity, synaptic plasticity, cognition and behavior, and computational algorithms. Well-organized in its presentation of both theory and experimental data, this peerless work vividly illustrates the astonishing progress that has been made in unraveling the workings of the brain. The Hippocampus Book is destined to take a central place on every neuroscientist's bookshelf.

Glutamate is the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS). It regulates normal CNS function, is a major participant in pathology, and serves learning, memory, and higher cognitive functions. The 12 chapters of this book provide the first comprehensive coverage of all the major features of glutamate as excitatory neurotransmitter. The book begins with a valuable historical backdrop. Building from a chapter on the common structure of glutamate receptors, several others cover the major ionotropic receptors, their structure, function, and pharmacology. A follow-up chapter discusses the metabotropic receptors that are directly coupled to second messenger metabolism. A central theme of the book is the capacity of the excitatory amino acid system to contribute to the diverse array of signaling systems in the CNS as a direct result of the large assortment of receptors (including, for the ionotropic receptors, various subunits) the combination of which determine distinct functional properties. A recent development in the field discussed in several chapters is the biochemical characterization of a supermolecular protein complex, the post-synaptic density, that makes the unique structure of excitatory synapses. This complex subserves the experience-dependent modulation of synaptic strength and synaptic plasticity, and gives the synapse the capacity to change dynamically in both structure and receptor composition. Drawing on the individual properties of the receptors, transporters, and functional architecture of the synapse, the concluding chapters describe the functional integration of these components in the more complex physiological processes of plasticity and pathology. Recognition that the regulation of excitatory amino acid receptor activity underlies the pathology of many neurological diseases, including stroke, Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia, has opened up an exciting frontier that will allow the translation of our understanding of these basic mechanisms into new concepts of pathology and new therapeutic strategies. This book will be invaluable for neuroscientists, pharmacologists, neurologists, and psychiatrists, and for their students and trainees.

Traditionally, the search for new compounds from natural products has been a time- and resource-intensive process. The recent application of combinatorial methods and high-throughput synthesis has allowed scientists to generate a range of new molecular structures from natural products and observe how they interact with biological targets. Combinato

There has been an explosion of interest in the field of neuroendocrinology over the last twenty years with the discovery of neurohormones regulating virtually everything from growth and development to sexual and aggressive behavior. This book provides a much-needed introduction to neuroendocrinology from a zoological and evolutionary perspective. It covers the evolution, development and description of the neuroendocrine system throughout the animal kingdom. Specific topics covered include: The Evolution of early neuroendocrine systems in primitive animals Structural characterisation, molecular biology and biochemistry of neuroendocrine agents A profiles section on unusual aspects of neuroendocrine physiology written by leaders in the field A unique section on the actions of environmental chemicals effect neuroendocrine systems in various species

Insects are among the most diverse and adaptable organisms on Earth. They have long been our chief competitors for food and are responsible for spreading devastating afflictions such as malaria and encephalitis. The insects'ability to thrive is due in large part to their well-developed sensory systems, which present a host of novel physiological,

This is a 3-in-1 reference book. It gives a complete medical dictionary covering hundreds of terms and expressions relating to acetylcholine. It also gives extensive lists of bibliographic citations. Finally, it provides information to users on how to update their knowledge using various Internet resources. The book is designed for physicians, medical students preparing for Board examinations, medical researchers, and patients who want to become familiar with research dedicated to acetylcholine. If your time is valuable, this book is for you. First, you will not waste time searching the Interne.

When introduced to the human body, bioactive metabolites produced by plants for self defense bind to particular biochemical targets, most notably to proteins involved in signaling by hormones and neurotransmitters. This, essentially, is the basis for the effects of herbal medicine. While herbal medicine preparations may act by complex synergistic i

This is the first book to describe the synthesis and characterization of the materials used in polymer-supported synthesis. The authors cover not only the classical polymers and their use in homogeneous, heterogeneous and micellar catalysis, but also such new developments as'enzyme-labile linkers', illustrating how to simplify the purification process and avoid waste. The result is a wealth of useful information -- for beginners and experts alike - in one handy reference, removing the need for difficult and time-consuming research among the literature.

Calcium and comparable cations are fast being recognised for their role as vital components of animal physiology. When trying to answer questions such as why salmon can adjust to life in fresh water as well as seawater, or why chilli peppers taste hot to humans but evoke little response from chickens, we often find the answers lie in patterns of movement of these ions and their roles in sensing, transmitting and collecting messages. Bringing together scattered literature on calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium in biology, this book examines important biological contributions of these ions including enzyme activation, effects in all types of muscle and biomineralization. Attention is focused on: channel construction and ion movement; calcium as a second messenger and in the construction of solids and ion channelopathies, with the help of personalities such as Agatha Christie, van Gogh and Captain Cook. The Role of Calcium and Comparable Cations in Animal Behaviour will be valued by a wide-range of readers including students of bioinorganic chemistry and animal behavioural studies, teachers and other professionals in academia.

The Porphyrin Handbook, Volume 11: Bioinorganic and Bioorganic Chemistry presents the fundamental aspects of the synthesis, structure, chemistry, and spectroscopy of phthalocyanines. This book discusses the biology and medical implications of porphyrin systems. Organized into seven chapters, this volume begins with an overview of the design, synthesis, and study of the structural and functional models of heme/copper terminal oxidases. This text then examines the proteins containing iron-protoporphyrin IX (heme), which play key roles in photosynthesis and respiration. Other chapters consider the syntheses of chiral porphyrin derivatives and summarize the uses of such compounds in enantioselective control. This book discusses as well the reactivity and synthesis of synthetic carbine metalloporphyrins. The final chapter deals with the B12-coenzymes, which is the most complex and physiologically important organometallic enzymatic reactions that directly depend on the reactivity of metal coordinated organic ligands. This book is a valuable resource for research scientists, clinicians, and engineers.

This thoroughly indexed book summarizes a wealth of information on the biochemical targets of plant defensive compounds, and is an an invaluable reference for all biomedical professionals.

The Porphyrin Handbook, Volume 20: Phthalocyanines: Structural Characterization provides information pertinent to every aspect of the chemistry, synthesis, spectroscopy, and structure of phthalocyanines. This book examines the biology and medical implications of porphyrin systems. Organized into one chapter, this volume begins with an overview of the molecular and crystal structures of phthalocyanine and related complexes followed by a database section. This text then examines the crystallographic data that provided many researchers with the foundation to conduct their own research on phthalocyanine crystal structures. This book considers the structural basis for the prediction or calculation of the phthalocyanine physical properties. This book discusses as well the fundamental structure of a phthalocyanine molecule that consists of four isoindole units, circularly linked via azamethine bridges. This book is a valuable resource for research scientists, engineers, and clinicians.

The ubiquitous presence of glutamate and GABA receptors in the nervous system makes these receptor systems pivotal to our understanding of neurotransmission. Cloning of the molecular components of these receptor systems has provided insights to the selectivity of many drugs and detailed characterisation at the molecular level is emerging. Moreover,

'This work is reprinted from the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, volume 97, pp. 11690-11857, October 24, 2000, and includes articles from the National Academy of Sciences colloquium on Auditory Neuroscience: Development, Transduction, and Integration, held at the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Center in Irvine, California, May 19-21, 2000'--P. [2] of cover.