Ideal as a graduate textbook, this title is aimed at helping design effective biomaterials, taking into account the complex interactions that occur at the interface when a synthetic material is inserted into a living system. Surface reactivity, biochemistry, substrates, cleaning, preparation, and coatings are presented, with numerous case studies and applications throughout. Highlights include: Starts with concepts and works up to real-life applications such as implantable devices, medical devices, prosthetics, and drug delivery technology Addresses surface reactivity, requirements for surface coating, cleaning and preparation techniques, and characterization Discusses the biological response to coatings Addresses biomaterial-tissue interaction Incorporates nanomechanical properties and processing strategies

​The collection of chapters in this proceedings volume brings together research from academic and industry scientists and clinical development experts who are focused on contemporary and emerging aspects of improving treatments employing biosurfaces. Interactions between biomaterial implants, devices, cell therapies, and whole organ transplants frequently trigger activation of body defense systems and responses that negatively affect the clinical outcome. Optimal tissue integration and modulation of foreign body reactions is therefore essential for preserving anticipated functions and avoiding adverse effects. Topics covered include mechanistic and applied research within the fields of extracorporeal devices, soft and hard tissue implants, tissue and biomaterial-targeting, therapeutic modulation of foreign body reactions, cell encapsulations, as well as cell and whole organ transplantation.

Ideal as a graduate textbook, this title is aimed at helping design effective biomaterials, taking into account the complex interactions that occur at the interface when a synthetic material is inserted into a living system. Surface reactivity, biochemistry, substrates, cleaning, preparation, and coatings are presented, with numerous case studies and applications throughout. Highlights include: Starts with concepts and works up to real-life applications such as implantable devices, medical devices, prosthetics, and drug delivery technology Addresses surface reactivity, requirements for surface coating, cleaning and preparation techniques, and characterization Discusses the biological response to coatings Addresses biomaterial-tissue interaction Incorporates nanomechanical properties and processing strategies

Extracorporeal circulation has become firmly established as an invaluable and routine adjunct to cardiac and vascular surgery. Since its introduction in 1953, the technique has evolved rapidly with advancing technology leading to improvements in and simplification of the equipment involved. Developments in the understanding and application of basic science have also had a huge impact as our understanding of the complex anatomy, biochemistry, pharmacology and pathophysiology of the heart continues to grow. It is these advances in both technology and science that form the basis of this fourth edition of Techniques in Extracorporeal Cirulation. The book continues to provide a comprehensive overview of the field, covering both established techniques for those new to the field of extracorporeal circulation, and current and future developments. It attempts to answer some of the innumerable practical problems associated with the routine use of artificial circulation and oxygenation, and hopes to stimulate thought and debate among its readers regarding more complex or controversial issues. Topics new to the fourth edition include robotic surgery and off-pump surgery, while other chapters have been thoroughly revised and updated to take into account developments and changes in the field. With its multidisciplinary approach, the book will remain an essential reference for all health care professionals working in the cardiac surgical operating room, in particular cardiothoracic surgeons, anaesthetists and perfusionists.

A reconceptualization of origins research that exploits a modern understanding of non-covalent molecular forces that stabilize living prokaryotic cells. Scientific research into the origins of life remains exploratory and speculative. Science has no definitive answer to the biggest questions--"What is life?" and "How did life begin on earth?" In this book, Jan Spitzer reconceptualizes origins research by exploiting a modern understanding of non-covalent molecular forces and covalent bond formation--a physicochemical approach propounded originally by Linus Pauling and Max Delbrück. Spitzer develops the Pauling-Delbrück premise as a physicochemical jigsaw puzzle that identifies key stages in life's emergence, from the formation of first oceans, tidal sediments, and proto-biofilms to progenotes, proto-cells and the first cellular organisms.

The optical spectra of molecular membrane probes can be interpreted terms of the structure, dynamics, and the physiological state of the membrane. The general picture we have of membranes and of the properties of the proteins imbedded in them, has, arguably, emerged directly from probe studies over the last 20 years. This work is designed to make these techniques accessible to a broad audience of cell biologist. The techniques discussed revolve primarily around the fluorescence of membrane probes, but applications of light absorption and Raman scattering are included. In addition to reviews of the major applications, most chapters include information on required apparatus, experimental design, data analysis, and potential pitfalls.