Amazon.com description: Product Description: Thirty years have passed since the last edition of this volume was published. Since then, many advances have occurred in the field of environmental physiology. Established areas of research have been expanded by the application of new concepts and the use of more modern tools, while other areas, then in their infancy, have developed into important subjects of current research. The latter include, for example, research in the physiological adaptations and acclimations to underwater and space environments, to microorganisms responsible for acute inflammatory diseases, and to psychosocial stress. All of the chapters in this book were written by international investigators noted for their individual contributions to the areas that they cover. The focus of their presentations addresses the regulatory mechanisms of the physiological responses to the many factors constituting the external environment. Each contribution has been subjected to a rigorous review process in order to ensure its relevance and timeliness. At the same time, innovative and even controversial interpretations were not rejected, so that the material in this volume represents the most up-to-date understanding of, and debate over, the physiological adaptation to the environment.