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The subject matter of animal physiology is also linked to topics in human affairs, such as athletic training and global warming. With this edition, coverage of physiologically relevant genomics has been greatly expanded. The book's extensive coverage of genomics and cellular-molecular biology is therefore carefully linked to whole-animal biology. The whole animal is the principal focus of this book. Concepts and integrative themes are emphasized while giving students the specifics they need. Whereas mammalian physiology is consistently treated in depth, emphasis is also given to the other vertebrate groups, arthropods, and molluscs. The book is committed to a comparative approach throughout. The book includes five additional, briefer "At Work" chapters that apply students' newfound physiological knowledge to curiosity-provoking and important topics, including diving by marine mammals, the mechanisms of navigation, and muscle plasticity in use and disuse. Each of the twenty-five main chapters starts with an animal example to engage student interest and demonstrate the value of the material that will be learned. Its full-color illustrations include many novel, visually-effective features to help students learn. The book takes an entirely fresh approach to each topic. Integration extends from genes to organ systems and from one physiological discipline to another.
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Animal Physiology, Fourth Edition, presents all the branches of modern animal physiology with a strong emphasis on integration of physiological knowledge, ecology, and evolutionary biology.
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