In contrast to other texts of developmental biology, Mechanisms of Cor tical Development integrates information on regulatory processes at th e levels of molecules, cells and metworks. The authors draw together a n extensive literature on cellular development and structural morpholo gy, biochemical and genetic events and hypotheses that have been subje ct to mathematical modelling. Important metholdogies, such as transgen ics and formal modelling, are explained for the non-specialist. Major future challenges are clearly identified. This is a unique contributio n to the literature, combining...

This book summarizes the most recent data on the molecular and cellula r mechanisms that determine the unique properties of nerve cells-their ability to differentiate, establish connections to each other, and to form the nervous system with its immense capability for receiving, an alyzing, and storing information about one's external and internal wor ld. The author underscores the key role of calcium ions in this proces s, as well as nervous system function in aging and neural pathology. D rawing from significant new research that has never been punlished, Pl asticity in Nerve Cell Function...

This book presents a state-of-the-art summary of knowledge concerning the motoneurones, vital for innervating and commanding skeletal muscles. It summarizes both classical and recent knowledge concerning the motoneurone. This is the first time that so many aspects of this broad subject have been treated in one comprehensive monograph.

First printed in 1983, this book concerns the comparative physiological adaptations of vertebrate animals, especially mammals, to cessation of breathing. These adaptations were originally identified in species living in aquatic habitats. The argument is presented that the natural divers display a well-developed and conveniently studied example of a more general defence against asphyxia. The topics considered include the diving response, metabolic and cardiovascular adaptations, variations in resistance to asphyxia, neural control mechanisms, which govern the respiratory and circulatory...

Air temperature alone is not an adequate indication of environmental warmth. Wind, sunshine and humidity are also important. The notion that all these factors might be combined into a single figure indicating warmth is attractive. In this 1972 monograph, the problem of constructing such an index of heat stress is examined from a theoretical point of view. The approach involves a step-by-step examination of the physical principles which govern heat exchange at the skin surface. Mathematical terms are carefully defined and the physical concepts explained and illustrated. A great deal of...