Based on the mature development of microfabrication technology, micro-scale electrodes, i.e., microelectrodes, for the electrical observation of activities in micro-scale environment become realizable. This technique opened a new avenue for micro-scale observation and measurement besides the optical technique. This book presents the techniques, structures, and applications of using microelectrodes in a micro-scale environment. It covers a broad spectrum of topics and the state of the art techniques in the field. As such, the book is divided into four sections, comprising 11 chapters written by recognized experts from leading groups around the world. The reader will gain a unique perspective on the challenges and emerging opportunities in the technology of microelectrodes.

The importance of microelectrodes is widely recognised and interest in their application in diverse areas of research has been increasing over the past ten years. In fact, several meetings organized by the International Society of Electrochemistry, The American Chemical Society and The U. S. Electrochemical Society have analysed various aspects of their theory and applications. For this reason it seemed that the time had arrived when scientists from around the world, actively concerned with research in the area of microelectrodes, should meet, exchange ideas and assess the direction of future developments. Furthermore, it seemed appropriate that this meeting should be held as a NATO Advanced Study Institute, so that students and young scientists with research interests in microelectrodes would have the opportunity to interact with experts in the field, establish future collaboration and, hopefully, catalyse new developments in the area. The meeting was held in Alvor, Portugal, in May 1990. This book compiles the lectures delivered in the Institute. It reviews the most important aspects of microelectrodes and points out directions for future research in this field. Several contributions discuss recent developments in theoretical aspects such as the properties of various geometries and computational procedures for solving the equations describing the coupling of mass transport to microelectrodes with heterogeneous electron tranfer and homogeneous chemistry. The materials and methods available for microelectrodes manufacture are presented in some detail. Both steady state and transient techniques are covered and the interaction of theory with experiment is discussed.

The critically acclaimed laboratory standard, Methods in Enzymology, is one of the most highly respected publications in the field of biochemistry. Since 1955, each volume has been eagerly awaited, frequently consulted, and praised by researchers and reviewers alike. The series contains much material still relevant today--truly an essential publication for researchers in all fields of life sciences. * * Major topics covered include: * Cell-cell fusion mediated by viruses and viral proteins * Conformational changes of proteins during membrane fusion * Membrane fusion during exocytosis * Intracellular membrane fusion * Membrane fusion in fertilization * Introduction of macromolecules into cells by membrane fusion * Protoplast fusion.

The number of scientists and laboratories involved with brain mapping is increasing exponentially; and the second edition of this comprehensive reference has also grown much larger than the first (published in 1996), including, for example, five chapters on structural and functional MRI where the fi