Advances in Biological and Medical Physics

Advances in Biological and Medical Physics, Volume 13 covers articles on the advances in biological and medical physics. The book presents papers on the solid-state physics of electron and ion transport in biology; on microelectrophoretic studies on the surface chemistry of erythrocytes; and on a specific common chromosomal pathway for the origin of human malignancy, including an evaluation of long-term human hazards of potential environmental carcinogens. The text then discusses the instantaneous radiation levels at different altitudes and latitudes; the accumulated radiation exposures to crew members and passengers; and the resulting radiation burden to the entire population. The theory and practical application of the selective destruction of cell organelles by laser beam, as well as some aspects of radiation effects on cell membranes are also considered. The book further tackles the effects of radiation on artificial lipid membranes; the role of bacterial membranes in radiosensitization; and the effects of ionizing radiation on lysosomes and other intracellular membranes. The text also describes the high oxygen effect for the release of enzymes from isolated mammalian lysosomes after treatment with ionizing radiation; as well as the effects of ultraviolet and visible light on nerve fibers and changes in optical properties during nervous activity. The effects of ultraviolet radiation on isolated nerve fibers are also looked into. Biological and medical physicists and students taking these courses will find the book invaluable.