знания и навыки

учебная и научная литература

научно-популярная литература

медицина / здравоохранение

зарубежная образовательная литература

Antibiotic Resistance: Origins, Evolution, Selection and Spread Chairman: Stuart B. Levy, 1997 Over the last 50 years, the rapid increase in the use of antibiotics, not only in people, but also in animal husbandry and agriculture, has delivered a selection unprecedented in the history of evolution. Consequently, society is facing one of its gravest public health problems-the emergence of infectious bacteria with resistance to many, and in some cases all, available antibiotics. This book brings together a multidisciplinary group of experts to discuss this problem. It begins by examining the origins of resistance and goes on to look at how the use of antibiotics in human medicine and farming/agriculture has selected for resistant bacteria. Separate chapters describe the evolution of resistance determinants and how these are spread both within and between bacterial species. Finally, the book contains discussions on strategies for countering the threat of antibiotic resistance. A major re-thinking of our approach to the treatment of infectious diseases is proposed-that antibiotic resistance should be seen as a problem created by the disruption of normal microbial ecology. To restore efficacy to earlier antibiotics, and to maintain the success of new antibiotics that are introduced, we need to use these drugs in a way that ensures an ecological balance that favours the predominance of susceptible bacteria.

ценные бумаги / инвестиции

экономика

личные финансы

зарубежная старинная литература

гуманитарные и общественные науки

книги по экономике

Antibiotic Resistance

Seemingly simple behaviours turn out, on reflection, to be discouragingly complex. For many years, cognitive operations such as sensation, perception, comparing percepts to stored models (short-term and long-term memory), decision-making and planning of actions were treated by most neuroscientists as separate areas of research. This was not because the neuroscience community believed these operations to act independently—it is intuitive that any common cognitive process seamlessly interweaves these operations—but because too little was known about the individual processes constituting the full behaviour, and experimental paradigms and data collection methods were not sufficiently well developed to put the processes in sequence in any controlled manner. These limitations are now being overcome in the leading cognitive neuroscience laboratories, and this book is a timely summary of the current state of the art. The theme of the book is how the brain uses sensory information to develop and decide upon the appropriate action, and how the brain determines the appropriate action to optimize the collection of new sensory information. It addresses several key questions. How are percepts built up in the cortex and how are judgments of the percept made? In what way does information flow within and between cortical regions, and what is accomplished by successive (and reverberating) stages of processing? How are decisions made about the percept subsequently acted upon, through their conversion to a response according to the learned criterion for action? How does the predicted or expected sensation interact with the actual incoming flow of sensory signals? The chapters and discussions in the book reveal how answering these questions requires an understanding of sensory–motor loops: our perception of the world drives new actions, and the actions undertaken at any moment lead to a new ‘view’ of the world. This book is a fascinating read for all clinical and experimental psychologists and neuroscientists, as well as anyone interested in how we perceive the world and act within it.

Percept, Decision, Action

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) comprises a group of idiopathic diseases of the intestine characterized by chronic inflammation of the bowel with periods of exacerbation and remission. Although the exact cause of IBD remains undetermined, the condition appears to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors resulting in an aberrant activation of the mucosal immune system. This book contains a series of interdisciplinary discussions between clinical and basic scientists focusing on key issues such as: Epithelial cell and molecular biology, including apoptosis, necrosis and cell survival The role of bacterial milieu and mucosal bacteria in the IBD and of prebiotic and probiotic therapy The progress towards the identification of susceptibility genes and phenotype-determining genes The pharmacogenetics of IBD Mucosal immunology and therapeutic strategies stemming therefrom

природа и животные

естественные науки

детская познавательная и развивающая литература

экология

интересные факты

живая природа

природа России

охрана природы

редкие животные

редкие птицы

иллюстрированное издание

дом, дача

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Gramicidin channels have been studied intensively for more than 25 years. They serve as model transport systems for large protein ion channels, since it is difficult to glean high-resolution structural information on the latter. This book includes contributions from virtually all the major scientists studying gramicidin channels and is the only compilation of work in this field. It discusses crystallographic, spectroscopic, electrophysiological and computational studies, especially in the light of the recent availability of high-resolution structural data, and it compares these with insights derived from larger systems. As well as drawing together much new and exciting work in this field, it provides pointers to promising new research directions.

Gramicidin and Related Ion Channel-Forming Peptides

ATP, the intracellular energy source, is also an extremely important cell–cell signalling molecule for a wide variety of cells across evolutionarily diverse organisms. The extracellular biochemistry of ATP and its derivatives is complex, and the multiple membrane receptors that it activates are linked to many intracellular signalling systems. Purinergic signalling affects a diverse range of cellular phenomena, including ion channel function, cytoskeletal dynamics, gene expression, secretion, cell proliferation, differentiation and cell death. Recently, this class of signalling molecules and receptors has been found to mediate communication between neurons and non-neuronal cells (glia) in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Glia are critical for normal brain function, development and response to injury. Neural impulse activity is detected by glia and purinergic signalling is emerging as a major means of integrating functional activity between neurons, glia and vascular cells in the nervous system. These interactions mediate effects of neural activity on the development of the nervous system and in association with injury, neurodegeneration, myelination and cancer. Bringing together contributions from experts in diverse fields, including glial biologists, neurobiologists and specialists in purinergic receptor structure and pharmacology, this book considers how extracellular ATP acts to integrate communication between different types of glia, and between neurons and glia. Beginning with an overview of glia and purinergic signalling, it contains detailed coverage of purine release, receptors and reagents, purinergic signalling in the neural control of glial development, glial involvement in information processing, and discussion of the interactions between neurons and microglia.

Purinergic Signalling in Neuron-Glia Interactions

современная русская литература

Oxygen sensing is a key physiological function of many tissues, but the identity of the sensor, the signalling pathways linking the sensor to the effector, and the endpoint effector mechanisms are all subjects of controversy. This book evaluates the various mediators that have been proposed, including the mitochondria, NAD(P)H oxidases, cytochrome p450 enzymes, and direct effects on enzymes and ion channels. There has been a resurgence of interest in the role of mitochondria, based partly on the ability of mitochondrial inhibitors to mimic hypoxia, but there is little consensus concerning mechanisms. Some favour the view that the primary signalling event is a reduction in cell redox state and reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to general inhibition of the electron transport chain (ETC); others support a key role for complex III of the ETC and an increase in ROS generation, while others doubt either of these components is the key intermediary. All these hypotheses are discussed in the book, together with conceptual problems concerning the ability of mitochondria to respond to physiological hypoxia. The other area of controversy covered in the book is the identity of the endpoint effector(s). Some authors favour K+ channel inhibition, followed by depolarization and Ca2+ entry via L-type channels, while others propose that release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores, or capacitative Ca2+ entry and other voltage-independent pathways may be more important. The book also describes evidence for an endothelium-dependent Ca2+-sensitizing pathway involving Rho and possibly other kinases. While some of these differences can be attributed to variation between tissues, many must be related to differences in interpretation or methodology. In this book, experts in the field of acute oxygen sensing working in different tissues address these controversies and their possible origins, and discuss possible approaches whereby these controversies might be resolved. The book will be of great interest to all those working in fields where oxygen sensing is important, particularly cancer and wound healing, as well as researchers in drug discovery and biotechnology.

Signalling Pathways in Acute Oxygen Sensing

The ability at the molecular level to keep track of time is a property shared by organisms ranging from the simplest unicells to humans. The primary feature of these biological clocks is their ability to entrain to environmental stimuli. The dominant stimulus comes from environmental light cues, which requires the existence of photopigments sensitive to light. The exact identity of the molecules involved in circadian photoreception has remained elusive. The classical view of the circadian system is of diverse physiological rhythms regulated by a centralized clock structure. This book presents evidence that challenges this view. Experiments in both vertebrate and invertebrate systems demonstrate that the circadian timing system is dispersed throughout the animal and suggest that possibly every cell contains an autonomous clock mechanism. A variety of tissues and cells contain have been shown to maintain an oscillation when placed in vitro and removed from any external cues or signals that originate from the classical clock structures and/or the environment. This book draws together contributions from an international and interdisciplinary group of experts whose work is focused on all aspects of the topic. Coverage includes the mechanisms of light signalling to the vertebrate clock, the connections between central and peripheral clocks, circadian gene expression patterns and output pathways of clock mechanisms.

биографии и мемуары

Molecular Clocks and Light Signalling

Drawing together contributions from a diverse group of international experts in the field, this collection of papers examines the biology and pathology of elastin at the molecular level. Topics include the structure, ultrastructure and function of elastin; elastin regulation; elastin's role in aging, lung development and disease and atherosclerosis; as well as related aspects of pharmacology and nutrition.

The Molecular Biology and Pathology of Elastic Tissues

A compilation of articles by prominent experts in their respective fields on compensation for and collaboration with indigenous people in regard to their knowledge and provision of rare plants which are used for some of the most potent drugs in Western medicine.

Ethnobotany and the Search for New Drugs

This book describes a diverse analysis of the five somatostatin receptors; somatostatin gene regulation; promatostatin processing; mechanisms of signal transduction; and the design and use of somatostatin analogues, including their possible clinical implications. The book will provide a comprehensive summary of the cellular and molecular biology of somatostatin and its recently isolated receptors. The book will review the design and use of specific somatostatin analogues both biochemically to characterize the specific functions of somatostatin and clinically in the treatment of various tumors.

о бизнесе популярно

зарубежная деловая литература

финансовые инструменты

просто о бизнесе

экономические системы

финансовые системы

биткойн

криптовалюта

Somatostatin and Its Receptors

The use of oligonucleotides as therapeutic agents rests upon their ability to interfere, in a sequence-specific manner, with the fundamental machinery of protein synthesis either by binding to the mRNAs transcribed from a gene or by binding directly to a target gene. This approach can be used not only for inhibition of the synthesis of host proteins but also of those required by invading pathogens. Potential therapeutic applications are enormous, ranging over hypertension, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, vital and other parasitic infections (especially HIV), and cancer. This book discusses the chemistry and pharmacokinetics of oligonucleotides and their analogues, and surveys the results of structure-activity studies and current clinical trials. It also critically reviews the problems with antisense therapy, such as the enzymatic destruction of oligonucleotides, the doses required for a therapeutic response, the difficulty in directing oligonucleotides to particular target tissues and cells, the need for parenteral administration, and doubts concerning the mechanism of action (especially problems associated with non-specific binding to proteins) and long-term effects.

боевики, остросюжетная литература

боевая фантастика

героическая фантастика

спецслужбы

параллельные миры

ксенофантастика

далёкое будущее

борьба за выживание

Oligonucleotides as Therapeutic Agents

Cl- absorption and HCO3- secretion are intimately associated processes vital to epithelial function, itself a key physiological activity. Until recently the transporters responsible remained obscure, but a breakthrough occurred with the discovery of the SLC26 transporters family. It is now clear that the SLC26 transporters have broad physiological functions since mutations in several members are linked to a variety of diseases. This book describes the properties of this family in detail, with contributions from the leading global researchers in the field. Complementary views from experts on other ion channels are offered in the discussions, which make fascinating reading. This family consists of at least 10 genes, each of which has several splice variants. Most members of the family are expressed in the luminal membrane of epithelial cells. Characterization of anion transport by three members has revealed that all function as Cl-/HCO3- exchangers, suggesting that SLC26 transporters are responsible for the luminal Cl-/HCO3- exchange activity. The SLC26 transporters are activated by the CF transmembrane conductance regulator and activate it in turn, leading to a model in which these molecules act together to mediate epithelial Cl- absorption and HCO3- secretion. The book includes chapters on the transport of other molecules by the SLC26 family, including oxalate in the kidney and sugars in cochlear hair cells amongst others. It also describes recent discoveries that most SLC26 transporters bind to scaffold proteins and that they all contain a conserved domain predicted to participate in protein-protein interactions. These suggest the SLC26 transporters exist in complexes with other Cl- and HCO3- transporters, and possibly other regulatory proteins. This book explores the functional role of these interactions, leading to better understanding of transepithelial fluid and electrolyte secretion and the diseases associated with it.

детективы

современные детективы

Epithelial Anion Transport in Health and Disease

Recent application of the techniques of molecular biology and patch-clamp physiology has led to rapid advances in understanding the molecular events in chemosensory transduction. In this book, the latest results are presented and discussed by leading scientists. The extensive coverage encompasses many important topics, including mucous domains; microchemical heterogeneity in the mucociliary complex of the olfactory epithelium; membrane currents and mechanisms of olfactory transduction, and genetic and pathological taste variation.

книги по психологии

общая психология

пьесы и драматургия

серьезное чтение

пьесы, драматургия

The Molecular Basis of Smell and Taste Transduction

The heat shock, or cell stress, response was first identified in the polytene chromosomes of Drosophila. This was later related to the appearance of novel proteins within stressed cells, and the key signal stimulating this appearance was identified as the presence of unfolded proteins within the cell. It is now known that this is a key mechanism enabling cells to survive a multitude of physical, chemical and biological stresses. Since the promulgation of the ‘molecular chaperone’ concept as a general cellular function to control the process of correct protein folding, a large number of molecular chaperones and protein folding catalysts have been identified, and it has been recognized that not all molecular chaperones are stress proteins and vice versa. The discovery of molecular chaperones as folding proteins went hand-in-hand with their recognition as potent immunogens in microbial infection. It was subsequently shown that administration of molecular chaperones such as Hsp60, Hsp70 or Hsp90 could inhibit experimental autoimmune diseases and cancer. More recently evidence has accumulated to show that certain molecular chaperones are also present on the surface of cells or in extracellular fluids. A new paradigm is emerging: at least some molecular chaperones are secreted proteins with pro- or anti-inflammatory actions, regulating the immune response in human diseases such as coronary heart disease, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition to having direct effects on cells, molecular chaperones can bind peptides and present them to T cells to modulate immune responses. This may be significant in the treatment of cancer. This is the first book bringing leading researchers in this field together to review and discuss: our current knowledge of cell stress response and molecular chaperones the changing paradigms of protein trafficking and function cell stress proteins as immunomodulators and pro- and anti-inflammatory signalling molecules the role of these proteins in various chronic diseases and their potential as preventative or therapeutic agents. The Biology of Extracellular Molecular Chaperones is of particular interest to immunologists, cell and molecular biologists, microbiologists and virologists, as well as clinical researchers working in cardiology, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.

The Biology of Extracellular Molecular Chaperones

Examines the establishment of the germ layers and other cell lineages in the early embryo including details of cell movements during the beginning stages of primitive streak formation. Discusses patterns of gene expression during the development of such tissues as the limb bud, skeletal, muscle and the central nervous systems placing special emphasis on commitment to particular cell types. Although it concentrates on the mouse as an example of mammalian development–chick, amphibian and Drosophila embryogenesis are employed whenever these organisms are more applicable to the study of a particular problem.

Postimplantation Development in the Mouse

Prestigious contributors describe the genetic, molecular, anatomical and neurochemical mechanisms and pathways that operate to regulate and control circadian rhythmicity and functioning in organisms ranging from unicellular algae to human beings. Also considers the implications of the basic and clinical research for humans.

Circadian Clocks and Their Adjustment

Useful throughout history for their medical as well as other benefits, plant-derived compounds have gained particular importance recently, due to environmental factors. The isolation and characterization of plant products, the identification of their role in the plant, and ways of synthesizing identical compounds or more potent analogues are covered. Also includes methods of culturing plant tissues and genetic engineering as a means of increasing the yield of desired substances from plants. Special emphasis is placed on plants previously unknown to Western scientists.

историческая литература

история Руси

Древняя Русь

русские князья

великие правители

исторические романы

об истории серьезно

Bioactive Compounds from Plants

With the recent renaissance in mitochondrial biology and increasing recognition of their role in many diseases, this book provides a timely summary of the current state-of-the-art in mitochondrial research. The book opens with the regulation of mitochondrial replication and biogenesis and reviews the mechanisms and functional consequences of mitochondrial fission and fusion. Further chapters address mitochondria and oxidative stress and their roles in cell signalling and cell death. The book includes extensive, fascinating discussion of the biochemistry of mitochondrial cell signalling (especially involving calcium) and of oxidative stress. The nature of the proteins engaged in these processes, many only recently discovered, is covered in detail. Mitochondria have been strongly implicated in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, Huntington’s and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. They are also affected in cancer, ageing and cardiovascular disease. The final section of the book reviews mitochondrial mutations and their consequences in ageing and other phenotypic manifestations. The authors discuss how mitochondrial proteins might constitute important therapeutic targets and describe initial attempts to develop compounds that can regulate their function.

Mitochondrial Biology

The increase in the world population and changes in welfare have led to an enormously expanding demand for food. In the industrialized world, food surpluses rather than shortages are a problem together with adverse environmental impacts from the overuse of chemicals and excessive exploitation of agricultural land. In the developing world, food production cannot keep up with population growth and the gap between demand and supply is growing. This book explores the theme of sustainable agricultural development in the developing world, with a particular focus on crop protection. Includes chapters on the ecology of food production, on sustainable agriculture and crop protection methods, on the economics of food production and more.

Crop Protection and Sustainable Agriculture

Microbial responses to acidic and alkaline pH are important in many areas of bacteriology. For example, the mechanisms of resistance to acidic pH are important in the understanding of the passage of human pathogens through the acid of the stomach; and an understanding of microbial degradation of alkaline industrial waste is important for the environment. Bringing together contributions from an international and interdisciplinary group of experts working on the many aspects of bacterial cellular responses to pH, this stimulating volume draws together new and innovative work in this area. It delineates both similarities and differences between mechanisms of tolerance and response, providing readers with an invaluable resource on the subject.

Bacterial Responses to pH

книги для детей

This exciting book brings together an international and interdisciplinary group of experts to discuss the importance of pulsatile signalling in the induction of biological responses. Coverage includes the basic mechanisms involved in hormone pulsatility, the significance of pulsatility in normal and disease conditions, the relevance of circadian rhythms, changes with ageing, and detailed consideration of specific peptide hormone systems. This book includes contributions from professionals working in both basic and clinical research and reveals much new and exciting work in this area and promises new research directions.

Mechanisms and Biological Significance of Pulsatile Hormone Secretion

Smooth muscle contraction is a vital component of the functioning of blood vessels, the uterus, airways and the bladder. Its malfunction can lead to serious pathological conditions, such as hypertension and pre-term labour. The calcium ion plays a central role in smooth muscle function, increasing in concentration for contraction and decreasing for relaxation. Calcium entry into the cell is facilitated by the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). This book explores the latest research on the role of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) in smooth muscle function. It examines the control and modulation of the SR and how this may vary among smooth muscle types. Potential therapeutic implications are also discussed. Discusses new and exciting work in this area and identifies promising new research directions. Considers the advances in this relatively unexplored field, offering new insights into the role of the SR muscle. Brings together contributions from key workers, both in basic and clinical science, whose studies range from physiological to pathological and molecular to whole animal.

Role of the Sarcoplasmic Reticulum in Smooth Muscle

The pacemaking and conduction system (PCS) is vital for generating and synchronizing the heart beat. Dysfunction of this system can be a direct cause of cardiac conduction disturbance, arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. A wealth of information has been collected over many years on the unique histological, morphological and phenotypic characteristics of specialized cardiac tissues. The cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern development of the PCS are now starting to be understood. This book draws together contributions from an international and interdisciplinary group of experts working on both basic and clinical aspects of cardiac development. It features reviews of the structure and function of the developing PCS, discussion of the molecular and cellular mechanisms regulating embryological development of this system and studies on the fundamental basis of PCS pathology. The book also considers how novel therapeutic interventions based on understanding of the developmental biology of cardiac pacemaking and conduction tissues might ultimately impact on clinical medicine.

астрология

практическая эзотерика

зарубежная эзотерическая литература

полезные советы

лунные календари

биоритмы

Development of the Cardiac Conduction System

The field of neural transplantation is at a crucial stage, with important clinical trials on transplantation in patients with Parkinson's disease nearing completion and novel, alternative approaches to fetal transplantation being developed. This timely book brings together leading neuroscientists, clinicians, and cell and developmental biologists to discuss the use of neural transplants in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, Huntington's chorea, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury. There is also extensive coverage of the potential alternatives to freshly derived fetal tissue as the source of transplants, for example xenografts, encapsulated cells and immortalized stem cells. With authoritative contributions and lively discussion sections, this book presents much new and exciting work in this field and identifies promising new research directions.

историческая фантастика

научная фантастика

триллеры

Neural Transplantation in Neurodegenerative Disease

Working on Corticotropin-Releasing Factor in a variety of systems, experts present a coherent depiction of this peptide's role in the control and coordination of the response to stress-inducing situations.

Corticotropin-Releasing Factor

Prestigious contributors summarize current knowledge regarding the biosynthesis of tetrapyrrole pigments–chlorophyll, haem, vitamin B12. Describes the structure and regulation of key enzymes along with various pathways, molecular genetic studies and structural characterization of the natural biosynthetic intermediates.

The Biosynthesis of the Tetrapyrrole Pigments

Composed of contributions from experts in the chemical and biological sciences, it explores host-guest molecular interactions leading to the formation of molecular assemblies containing two or more species. Exciting applications are emerging in this field and it is expected that improved understanding of the interactions in synthetic host molecule complexes will lead to a better understanding of the more complex biological systems. Topics include biomimetic chemistry, preorganization, self-assembly, template-directed synthesis, antibiotic binding to peptides and DNA, interactions between proteins and other molecules.

Host-Guest Molecular Interactions

Telomeres and Telomerase Chairman: Sydney Brenner, 1997 Telomeres are the protective genetic elements located at the ends of chromosomes and are essential for correct chromosomal structure and function. They are not fully replicated by the conventional DNA polymerase system because DNA synthesis occurs only in the 5' to 3' direction and requires an RNA primer for initiation. Consequently, cells require a special enzyme to maintain the telomeric ends of chromosomes during each round of replication. This enzyme, telomerase, is a ribonucleoprotein that extends chromosome ends by adding short stretches of nucleotide repeats using a portion of its integral RNA component as the template. Recently, much excitement has been generated by the suggestion that telomerase, or rather the absence of telomerase and the resultant loss of terminal DNA, is a cause of human ageing. The evidence for this is twofold: the telomeres of certain cells in culture shorten during their lifespan; and immortalization of cells is associated, at least in some cases, with the maintenance of telomeres and telomerase activity. The latter observation prompted the analysis of clinical samples from patients with cancer and the demonstration that, in contrast to normal somatic cells, malignant cells possess telomerase activity. This is a unique book. Not only does it contain the latest experimental results from an international group of experts, but it also includes critical examinations of the current evidence, and discussions that attempt to identify the central and underlying concepts of this rapidly expanding field.

Telomeres and Telomerase

Chronic inflammation predisposes to some forms of cancer and the host response to malignant disease shows several parallels with inflammation and wound healing. The cells involved in inflammation are detected in a range of common cancers, together with the inflammatory cytokines and members of the chemokine ligand/receptor systems. Neutralization or deletion of the gene for some inflammatory cytokines confers resistance to tumour induction and experimental metastasis. Over-expression of such cytokines in tumour cells may enhance malignant potential. Certain chemokines are likely to subvert antitumour immunity by favouring development of ineffective Type 2 responses. Tumour cells may even utilize chemokine receptors in homing to lymph nodes and other organs. Thus, the cells, cytokines and chemokines found in tumours are more likely to contribute to tumour growth, progression and immunosuppression than they are to mount an effective host antitumour response. This book draws together contributions from an international group of scientists and clinicians from diverse disciplines, ranging from epidemiology to immunology, cell biology, molecular oncology, molecular medicine and pharmacology to debate these and related issues. Topics covered include the epidemiological links between cancer and inflammation, the parallels between inflammation and cancer, the role of inflammation in cancer, inflammatory genes as risk factors for cancer initiation and progression, inflammation and cancer angiogenesis, and preventative and therapeutic strategies. Related Novartis Foundation symposia: 252 Generation and Effector Functions of Regulatory Lymphocytes Chair: Jean-François Bach 254 Immunoinformatics: Bioinformatic Strategies for Better Understanding of Immune Function Chair: Hans-Georg Rammensee

любовные романы

современные любовные романы

короткие любовные романы

любовные отношения

Китай и Россия

восточная культура

неразделенная любовь

Cancer and Inflammation

Rice is the most important food crop for half the world's population. Over the last three decades, the imporvement in human nutrition and health in Asia has largely been attributable to a relatively stable and affordable rice supply. The challenge to produce enough rice for the future, however, remains daunting, as the current rate of population growth outpaces that of increases in rice production. Science has a central role to play in raising rice productivity and this book highlights areas of plant science that are particularly relevant to solving the major constraints on rice production. Examining molecular, genetic and cellular techniques, it considers recent advances in four research approaches for increasing yields and improving the nutritional quality of rice. Plant genomics: knowing the identity and location of each gene in the rice genome is of immense value in all aspects of rice science and cultivar improvement. Molecular biological approaches to increase yield: to produce more biomass by increasing photosynthetic rate and duration, and by improving grain filling. Enhancing tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses: with new DNA array technologies, it is now possible to assess global genomic response to stresses. Understanding the relationships among stress pathways may create new opportunities for gene manipulation to enhance tolerance to multiple biotic and abiotic stresses. Improving nutritional quality in the grain: knowledge of the biosynthesis of micronutrients in plants permits genetic engineering of metabolic pathways to enhance the availability of micronutrients.

Rice Biotechnology

T cells are a specialized population of immune cells that aid the immune system in combating various types of invading pathogens. This book presents up-to-the-minute data on the role of T cells in autoimmune diseases.

T Cell Subsets in Infectious and Autoimmune Diseases

The mapping of human genes is proceeding rapidly. Genes associated with specific inherited diseases are being identified, often providing insight into the molecular cause of the disease. At the moment, however, little consideration is being given to the variation present in different human populations. Variation in the Human Genome discusses methods of analysing population genetic data and how contemporary genetic heterogeneity arises during the evolution and migration of human populations. Specific disorders such as cystic fibrosis, beta-thalassaemia, fragile X, phenylketonuria and tumour development susceptibility are used to illustrate this genetic variability and mechanisms of gene mutation and evolution.

Variation in the Human Genome

A number of chronic respiratory diseases including chronic bronchitis, asthma, cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis are characterized by mucus hypersecretion. Following damage to the airway epithelium, a repair process of dedifferentiation, regenerative proliferation and redifferentiation takes place that is invariably accompanied by mucus hypersecretion as a key element in the host defence mechanism. In chronic respiratory diseases, however, excessive mucus production leads to a pathological state with increased risk of infection, hospitalization and morbidity. An understanding of the mechanisms that underlie and maintain this hypersecretory phenotype is therefore crucial for the development of rational approaches to therapy. Despite a high and increasing prevalence and cost to healthcare services and society, mucus hypersecretion in chronic respiratory disease has received little attention until recently, probably because of the difficulties inherent in studying this pathology. Only in the last few years have some of the genes involved in mucus secretion been characterized. The recent availability of genomic sequence information and specific antibodies has led to an explosion of interest in this area making this publication particularly timely. This book draws together contributions from an international and interdisciplinary group of experts, whose work is focused on both basic and clinical aspects of the problem. Coverage includes epidemiology, airways infection and mucus hypersecretion, the genetics and regulation of mucus production, models of mucus hypersecretion, and the implications of new knowledge for the development of novel therapies.

Mucus Hypersecretion in Respiratory Disease

The formation of blood vessels is an essential aspect of embryogenesis in vertebrates. It is a central feature of numerous post-embryonic processes, including tissue and organ growth and regeneration. It is also part of the pathology of tumour formation and certain inflammatory conditions. In recent years, comprehension of the molecular genetics of blood vessel formation has progressed enormously and studies in vertebrate model systems, especially the mouse and the zebrafish, have identified a common set of molecules and processes that are conserved throughout vertebrate embryogenesis while, in addition, highlighting aspects that may differ between different animal groups. The discovery in the past decade of the crucial role of new blood vessel formation for the development of cancers has generated great interest in angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones), with its major implications for potential cancer-control strategies. In addition, there are numerous situations where therapeutic treatments either require or would be assisted by vasculogenesis (the de novo formation of blood vessels). In particular, post-stroke therapies could include treatments that stimulate neovascularization of the affected tissues. The development of such treatments, however, requires thoroughly understanding the developmental properties of endothelial cells and the basic biology of blood vessel formation. While there are many books on angiogenesis, this unique book focuses on exactly this basic biology and explores blood vessel formation in connection with tissue development in a range of animal models. It includes detailed discussions of relevant cell biology, genetics and embryogenesis of blood vessel formation and presents insights into the cross-talk between developing blood vessels and other tissues. With contributions from vascular biologists, cell biologists and developmental biologists, a comprehensive and highly interdisciplinary volume is the outcome.

Vascular Development

Part of the prestigious Novartis Foundation, this is the first book to review the pathology associated with acetaldehyde, a known toxic agent found in cigarette smoke and other pollutants and derived from ingested alcohol, amongst other sources. In the body, acetaldehyde affects several tissues, particularly the brain and liver, causing various diseases, including cancer, alcoholic liver disease and Alzheimer’s. Acetaldehyde-Related Pathology describes the toxic effects of acetaldehyde at the tissue and cellular levels, reviewing enzyme biochemistry, transgenic mouse models of alcohol dehydrogenase mutants, and the cell-signalling pathways implicated in alcohol-related pathology. It explores the mechanisms of acetaldehyde-induced damage to tissues, often a first step in carcinogenesis, including the oral cavity, the human airway, and the GI tract. The book considers pharmacological strategies and treatments for reducing oral and intestinal acetaldehyde. Acetaldehyde-Related Pathology features in-depth, round-table discussions by an international array of scientists from major laboratories worldwide involved in studies of acetaldehyde-related pathology. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in the effects of this compound – pathologists, biochemists, toxicologists, cell and molecular biologists.

стихи и поэзия

сборники стихотворений

русская поэзия

современная русская поэзия

философская поэзия

cтихи, поэзия

Acetaldehyde-Related Pathology

Reviews recent basic research into IgE, mast cells, and the allergic response and the relevance of this work to human pathophysiology, and discusses new methods of treatment. This symposium is unique in the IgE field for its breadth of coverage and interdisciplinary nature, and it shows the benefits from the current rapid expansion of knowledge in cell biology, immunology, and molecular genetics, as well as the potential clinical significance of this research to clinical immunologists and allergologists.

IgE, Mast Cells and the Allergic Response

Part of the prestigious Novartis Foundation series, this volume uniquely addresses the use of innate immunity to treat or prevent infectious diseases of the lung. Innate Immunity to Pulmonary Infection: Provides a comprehensive overview of pulmonary infectious diseases, including basic pathology, current and potential therapies, and detailed consideration of the innate biological resistance mechanisms in the lung Thoroughly examines the major topic of innate immunity in immunology, which is now seen as key to the pathogenesis of and vaccination strategies for infectious diseases Describes the genetic and environmental factors which determine the outcome of infection, such as latency of Tuberculosis, blood stream invasion from local infection, and local target tissue damage Covers the roles of cells such as neutrophils, macrophages and dendritic cells and of molecular components such as Toll-like receptors Discusses the clinical applications of the new knowledge regarding innate immunity and how this can be used in both treatment and prevention (vaccination) strategies Includes contributions from an international and interdisciplinary group of experts Innate Immunity to Pulmonary Infection is an essential resource for researchers in both industry and academia. It is of interest for all those interested in the disciplines of immunology, virology, biology, biotechnology and genetics.

Innate Immunity to Pulmonary Infection

Details the application of positron emission tomography (PET) to the mapping of human cerebral cortical function. Coverage includes all aspects of PET technology. Includes chapters on somatosensory, motor and visual systems, and higher-order processes such as attention, memory, learning, intention and language. The clinical usefulness of PET is discussed in relation to psychiatric illness and to functional recovery after brain injury.

Exploring Brain Functional Anatomy with Positron Tomography

Insect-Plant Interactions and Induced Plant Defence Chair: John A. Pickett, 1999 This book examines the sophisticated mechanisms that plants use to defend themselves against attack by insects and pathogens, focusing on the networks of plant signalling pathways that underlie these defences. In response to herbivory, plants release a complex blend of as many as 100 volatile chemicals, known as semiochemicals ('sign chemicals'). These act as an airborne SOS signal, revealing the presence of the herbivore to the predators and parasitoids that are its natural enemies. Plants also have endogenous defence mechanisms that can be induced in response to pathogens, and separate chapters deal with systemic acquired resistance, phytoalexins, and the interacting pathways in pathogen and pest resistance. The book discusses underlying biochemical mechanisms by which plant stress leads to the biosynthesis of chemical signals from pools of secondary metabolite precursors, or even from the primary metabolism source. Finally, consideration is given to the possibilities for exploiting these signalling pathways by plant molecular genetics. The use of plant signals and their analogues to switch on defence pathways in crop plants is covered in depth. Bringing together contributions from entomologists, chemical ecologists, molecular biologists and plant physiologists this book is truly interdisciplinary, and will be essential reading for anyone with an interest in agricultural pest control.

Insect-Plant Interactions and Induced Plant Defence

The recent identification of susceptibility genes for schizophrenia, depression and learning and memory dysfunction suggest that psychiatric disorders may be influenced by a small number of genes with multiple actions. This is the first book to investigate the role of growth factors in these disorders, which should provide clues to the underlying biochemical mechanisms. For example, recent studies have substantiated the provocative finding that neuregulin 1 (NRG1)is a candidate gene for schizophrenia. Neuregulin and its receptors, the ErbB tyrosine kinases, are essential for development of the cardiovascular and nervous systems. Lack of NRG1 function may be involved in dysregulation of synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity in the adult mediated through glutamate receptor function. Polymorphisms for BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) have also been implicated in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. BDNF is a prevalent neurotrophic factor that plays an important role in the pathophysiology of depression, bipolar disease and other psychiatric disorders. Other topics addressed in this book include neuroplasticity and neurotrophic factors, signal transduction by neurotrophins, intracellular trafficking of growth factors, trophic factors and cognitive functions, neurotrophins and depression, and pharmacological treatments of schizophrenia.

Growth Factors and Psychiatric Disorders

Contains the presentations and discussions that took place during a symposium at the CIBA Foundation on October 1-3, 1990 on the subject of catalytic antibodies. The recognition that monoclonal antibodies can possess catalytic activity is a recent advance with profound ramifications for chemistry. In addition to their potential commercial applications as catalysts for reactions, for which there are no known enzymes, antibodies promise to provide valuable insight into the detailed mechanisms of biological catalysis and organic chemistry.

зарубежная классика

Catalytic Antibodies

Classical studies of steroid hormones are concerned with their regulation of protein synthesis via the modulation of genomic transcription. But many of the actions of these hormones occur too rapidly to be explained in this manner, particularly their effects on the central nervous system. This text deals with recent discoveries showing that steroids can modulate the activity of some neurotransmitters. It explores the role of GABA as an important regulator of neuronal activity in the central nervous system and its inhibitory action as mediated via the GABA receptor and potentiated by steroids. In addition, the binding of steroids to cell membranes, the components involved and the outcome of such interactions are described. Also discusses possible uses of steroids as anesthetics and anticonvulsants.

Steroids and Neuronal Activity

Although normally thought of as a sex hormone, recent research has highlighted the numerous and significant effects that oestrogen has on the CNS, extending far beyond its important reproductive role. It has been shown that oestrogen acts as a neural growth factor with important influences on the survival, plasticity, regeneration and ageing of the mammalian brain. This exciting book brings together leading clinicians and researchers to discuss oestrogen's basic mechanisms of action, the extrahypothalmic brain regions it affects, and its influence on cognitive functions in animals and humans. Finally, recent research on the role of oestrogens in ageing and dementia, including the significance of oestrogen action in Alzheimer's disease, is discussed. The 15 papers contained in this book, together with the extensive discussion sessions that follow them, reveal much new and exciting work in this area, and identify promising new research directions.

Neuronal and Cognitive Effects of Oestrogens

Both timely and topical, this book examines the most important aspects of the relationship between alcohol consumption and health. Drawing together much new and exciting work in this area, it reviews this emotive subject from a dispassionate perspective. It will provide a firm base for further research into the effects of alcohol on the cardiovascular system, and into public health attitudes to what is both a universal pleasure and problem.

Derek J. Chadwick