Brain, the Nervous System, and Their Diseases [3 volumes]

Written to be accessible to high school and college students and general readers, this three-volume encyclopedia provides a sweeping overview of the brain, nervous system, and their diseases. Bringing together contributions from leading neuroscientists, neurologists, family physicians, psychologists, and public health professionals, the work covers both brain anatomy and function and neurological disorders, addressing how underlying processes-whether biological, developmental, environmental, or neurodegenerative-manifest themselves. Roughly a third of the entries are about neuroscience and how neurons "talk" to each other in brain circuits to provide normal function. Another group of entries discusses abnormalities or dysfunctions of the brain that develop into disorders or diseases, while a third group focuses on research and experimental procedures commonly used to study the nervous system. The encyclopedia also explores its subject from a wellness perspective, explaining actions that can prevent neurological disorders and injuries and promote general nervous system health. By addressing both ends of the spectrum, the work presents a holistic perspective that will appeal to a broad range of readers.