Bøger udgivet af Foster Academics

Sarcoma is a rare form of cancer. It grows in connective tissue. It can affect all age groups of people. Some sarcomas such as chondrosarcoma, leiomyosarcoma and gastrointestinal stromal tumor occur more commonly in adults than children, while high-grade bone sarcomas such as osteosarcoma and Ewing's sarcoma occur more in children and young adults. Scientists have made remarkable progress in the understanding of how gene changes cause sarcomas to develop. Such insights are crucial in developing tests for the diagnosis and classification of sarcomas. Active research is being conducted in the formulation and combinations of different therapies for the treatment of sarcomas. Vaccines, T-cell therapies, hyperthermia and cryosurgery are being explored for the destruction of tumors. This book explores all the important aspects of sarcoma in the present day scenario. The various studies that are constantly contributing towards the management of sarcoma are examined in detail. The readers would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective about oncology and oncological medicine.

A sarcoma is a cancer which arises from the transformed cells of mesenchymal origin. Some types of sarcoma are chondrosarcoma, malignant hemangioendothelioma, chondrosarcoma, osteosarcoma, malignant schwannoma, soft tissue sarcomas, etc. Surgery is a recommended strategy for most cases of osteosarcoma. Amputation and limb-sparing surgery can be used for extremity tumor cases. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can be administered before or after surgery. Prognosis is reasonably improved with chemotherapy, especially for bone sarcomas. Research in sarcoma explores ways to prevent, treat and manage sarcomas. New medications are being developed that are effective in the treatment of different subtypes of soft tissue sarcoma. Developing strategies for improved drug delivery and exploring new immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapies are active areas of focus in sarcoma research. This book unravels the recent studies in sarcoma. The topics included herein are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. Students, researchers, experts and oncologists will benefit alike from this book.

Gene expression can be regulated by the action of nuclear receptor proteins called peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). These function as transcription factors. They regulate cellular differentiation, nutrient metabolism and tumorigenesis. Three kinds of PPARs have been identified- PPARα, PPARβ/δ and PPARγ. PPARα is a nuclear receptor protein, which is important for the regulation of lipid metabolism in the liver. It is necessary for ketogenesis and is activated during a state of energy deprivation. By altering gene expression of a large number of target genes it influences biological processes. PPARδ is a nuclear hormone receptor, which may be involved in the pathogenesis of several chronic disease conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis and cancer. PPARγ may be expressed in three distinct forms- PPARγ1, PPARγ2 and PPARγ3. It is responsible for the storage of fatty acid and glucose metabolism. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the understanding of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. It presents this complex subject in the most comprehensible and easy to understand language. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make this book an invaluable source of knowledge.

Radiology is a field concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, using medical imaging. Radiological imaging techniques include ultrasonography, X-ray radiography, nuclear medicine, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, etc. Advanced imaging techniques allow the meaningful acquisition of images of the interior of the body with a high degree of accuracy. Such techniques are of immense use in neuroradiology, musculoskeletal imaging, abdomen imaging, pediatric radiology, interventional radiology, breast imaging, etc. Perfusion MRI techniques are useful for the characterization of tumors and assessment of the hemodynamic state of brain tissue. MR elastography allows examination of the viscoelastic properties of the liver. Digital subtraction angiography is the best method for the evaluation of cerebral aneurysms. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of radiology and the recent researches in this domain. The various studies that are constantly contributing towards advancing techniques, applications and evolution of this field are examined in detail. Scientists and students actively engaged in this field will find this book full of crucial and unexplored concepts.

The human reproductive system is a collection of sex organs operating together in association with hormones, pheromones and other fluids for the purpose of reproduction. The female reproductive system is responsible for the production of egg cells along with the protection and nourishment of offspring till the time of birth. The male reproductive system has one function only- the production and deposition of sperm. Reproductive biology encompasses all aspects of the reproductive system, sexual development, sexual maturity, fertility, endocrinology and reproduction. The field of obstetrics and gynecology is concerned with the clinical aspects of pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period, and the health of the female reproductive system. Hormonal dysfunctions, infertility and anatomical reproductive disorders are treated under the sub-field of reproductive endocrinology and infertility. This book unravels the recent studies in the field of reproductive biology. The topics included herein are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. They would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective about reproductive biology.

Airborne particles when inhaled, can lead to pathological changes in the respiratory tract. Therefore, toxicological studies on the effects of inhalable fibers and particles involve an assessment of the histopathological alterations in the trachea, lungs and the upper respiratory tract. The pathology of particle and fibre toxicology depends on the exposure source, duration, concentration and individual predisposition. Particles such as combustion-derived particles, engineered nanoparticles, ultrafine particles, silica, asbestos, etc. can induce an inflammatory response. There may be long term effects of chronic particle exposure, such as allergic airway inflammation, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, fibrosis or neoplasms. The extent of tissue damage and pulmonary inflammation can be addressed and studied via pulmonary histopathology as well as diverse histopathological inflammatory parameters. This book unfolds the innovative aspects of particle and fibre toxicology which will be crucial for the progress of this field in the future. It will also provide interesting topics for research which interested readers can take up. It attempts to assist those with a goal of delving into toxicology.

A pharmaceutical drug is a drug that is used to diagnose, treat or prevent disease. Pharmaceuticals are classified based on the level of control, mode of action, therapeutic effects, biological system affected or route of administration. Some classes of drugs are analgesics, antipyretics, antibiotics, antiseptics, oral contraceptives, tranquilizers, hormone replacements, etc. Drugs can be administered in various dosages in the form of pills, capsules or tablets, and their administration can be parenteral, enteral, topical, intranasal, rectal, etc. Drug discovery, drug development and drug delivery are important areas of research in pharmaceutical science. Biotechnology is a major driver in the discovery of biopharmaceuticals. There has been constant research around the development of novel antibiotics and antibacterials as well as on the use of biological agents for antibacterial therapy. This facilitates better drug design and development. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the field of pharmacology. From theories to research to practical applications, case studies related to all contemporary topics of relevance to pharmaceuticals have been included in this book. It will help the readers in keeping pace with the rapid changes in this field.

Oxidative stress arises when there exists an imbalance between the biological system's inability to detoxify reactive intermediates and thereby repair the damage, and the systemic manifestation of reactive oxygen species. Aging is a physiological state in which there is a progressive decline of organ function along with the incidence of age-related diseases. The oxidative stress theory of aging suggests that free radicals or reactive oxygen species create damage which gives rise to symptoms of aging. It is claimed that the oxidative stress within mitochondria may lead to a progression of events in which damaged mitochondria produces increased number of reactive oxygen species, which leads to further damage. This book covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around oxidative stress and aging. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on the role of oxidative stress in aging have been included herein. This book, with its detailed analyses and data, will prove immensely beneficial to professionals and students involved in this area at various levels.

Particle toxicology is the field concerned with the toxicity of particles and fibers. The characteristics of different particles are investigated to determine their levels of toxicity and the pathobiological mechanism of that lethality. This enables the assessment of risks relative to exposures and the development of interventions to prevent progression. Historically, coal, quartz, asbestos, glass fibres and environmental particles have had a negative impact on human health. In the era of nanotechnology, nanotoxicology has emerged as a new domain in particle toxicology. Of all possible hazards, inhalation exposure presents the most concern with researches showing pulmonary conditions such as fibrosis, inflammation and carcinogenicity being the most likely outcomes of exposure to nanomaterials. Ingestion exposure and skin contact are the other major concerns. This book elucidates new techniques and applications of particle toxicology in a multidisciplinary manner. It explores all the important aspects of particle toxicology in the present day scenario. It will prove to be immensely beneficial to students and researchers in this field.

An emerging approach to the study of diseases is through an examination of molecular structures and mechanisms, identification of the molecular and genetic errors of disease, and the formulation of molecular interventions to correct these. This approach is what characterizes the field of molecular medicine. An understanding of disease pathogenesis at the molecular level and normal body functioning is crucial for the development of the field. It integrates the domains of molecular genetics and molecular biology for a comprehension of human health and disease. Some of its key focuses are cancer research, immunology, gene expression, proteins, biotechnology, etc. This book covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around molecular medicine. The various advancements in molecular medicine are glanced at and their applications as well as ramifications are looked at in detail. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.

Radiology is a field concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, using medical imaging. Radiological imaging techniques include ultrasonography, X-ray radiography, nuclear medicine, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, etc. Advanced imaging techniques allow the meaningful acquisition of images of the interior of the body with a high degree of accuracy. Such techniques are of immense use in neuroradiology, musculoskeletal imaging, abdomen imaging, pediatric radiology, interventional radiology, breast imaging, etc. Perfusion MRI techniques are useful for the characterization of tumors and assessment of the hemodynamic state of brain tissue. MR elastography allows examination of the viscoelastic properties of the liver. Digital subtraction angiography is the best method for the evaluation of cerebral aneurysms. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of radiology and the recent researches in this domain. The various studies that are constantly contributing towards advancing techniques, applications and evolution of this field are examined in detail. Scientists and students actively engaged in this field will find this book full of crucial and unexplored concepts.

The cancer that arises from the skin is termed as skin cancer. It occurs due to the development of abnormal cells which can invade or spread to other parts of the body. Melanoma, basal-cell skin cancer and squamous-cell skin cancer are the primary types of skin cancers. Basal-cell carcinomas are those that appear on the sun-exposed areas of the skin, particularly the face. They rarely metastasize and are easily treated with radiation or surgery. Squamous-cell skin cancer metastasizes. Melanomas are the rarest of all skin cancers but frequently metastasize. They can potentially cause death once they spread. Ulcering of the skin, changes in existing moles, patch on skin, enlargement of mole, etc. are some of the signs of skin cancer. It can be diagnosed through a biopsy, histopathological examination, dermoscopy, sonography, etc. The treatment of skin cancer is determined by an assessment of the location of the tumor, specific type of cancer, age and whether it is a primary cancer or a recurrence. Melanomas usually respond poorly to radiation or chemotherapy. Radiation therapy, topical chemotherapy, cryotherapy, electrodesiccation and curettage, photodynamic therapy, Mohs surgery, etc. are some of the strategies in the treatment of skin cancer. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to skin cancer. It brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the unexplored aspects of oncology. It aims to equip students and experts with the advanced topics and upcoming concepts in this domain.

Stem cells are the cells with the unique ability to differentiate into specialized cell types. The bone marrow, blood and adipose tissue are the three known accessible sources of adult stem cells in humans. Such adult stem cells are of use in various medical therapies for the treatment and prevention of diseases or conditions. Bone marrow transplant is the most common stem-cell therapy. Research is being done to apply stem-cell treatments for the management of neurodegenerative diseases, heart disease, diabetes, etc. Alternative sources of stem cells and innovative techniques for generating organoids using stem cells are being explored. These will enable the understanding of organogenesis, human development and modeling of human diseases. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of stem cells and the recent researches in this field. The various advancements in stem cell therapy are glanced at and their applications as well as ramifications are looked at in detail. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make this book an invaluable source of knowledge.

Mitochondrial diseases refer to a group of disorders that are caused due to dysfunctional mitochondria. They may arise due to mutations in the mitochondrial DNA or in nuclear genes which code for mitochondrial components. Some of the conditions for which there exists evidence for the association of mitochondrial dysfunction are Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's disease, bipolar disorder, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, etc. When defective mitochondria occur in the muscles, nerves or cerebrum, they lead to debilitating conditions. The symptoms of mitochondrial disease are loss of muscle coordination, poor growth, muscle weakness, hearing and learning disabilities, visual difficulties, liver disease, heart disease, kidney disease, gastrointestinal disorders, etc. The most common diagnostic tests for the detection of mitochondrial diseases are PCR and specific mutation analysis, southern blot and sequencing. Spindle therapy, embryonic mitochondrial transplant and protofection are potential treatments for inherited mitochondrial diseases. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to mitochondrial diseases. It consists of contributions made by international experts. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of medical genetics, this book targets students and professionals.

Leukemia refers to the group of cancers that arise in the bone marrow. It results in the production of a high number of abnormal white blood cells. There are four chief kinds of leukemia- acute lymphoblastic leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), acute myeloid leukemia and chronic myeloid leukemia. The risk factors for leukemia are ionizing radiation exposure, prior chemotherapy, Down syndrome and smoking. Leukemia manifests with symptoms such as bruising and bleeding, fever, frequent infections, and persistent tiredness. The diagnosis of leukemia is typically determined through a bone marrow biopsy and blood tests. Its treatment involves a combination of targeted therapy, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and bone marrow transplant. Besides these, supportive and palliative care may also be provided. This book explores all the important aspects of leukemia in the present day scenario. The various studies that are constantly contributing towards the management of leukemia are examined in detail. The readers would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective about oncology and oncological medicine.

The inflammation of the nervous tissue is termed as neuroinflammation. It is generally regarded as a chronic inflammation. It is initiated as a response to infection, aging, toxic metabolites, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or autoimmunity. Microglia are activated in response to such stimuli in the central nervous system. The class of proteins called cytokines regulate inflammation, cell signaling and other cell processes such as cell growth and survival. Neuroinflammation is strongly associated with several neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease. Drug therapy and exercise are some potential treatment strategies for the management of neuroinflammation. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in neuroinflammation. It presents this complex subject in the most comprehensible and easy to understand language. This book, with its detailed analyses and data, will prove immensely beneficial to professionals and students involved in neurology at various levels.

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a medical condition characterized by persistently elevated levels of blood pressure in the arteries. It can contribute to the incidence of heart failure, stroke, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, chronic kidney disease, etc. Some people with hypertension experience headaches, lightheadedness, tinnitus, vertigo, fainting episodes or altered vision. Blood pressure rises with age. Several environmental and genetic factors influence blood pressure. 35 genetic loci have been identified so far with an influence on blood pressure. Lack of exercise, obesity, high salt intake and depression contribute to hypertension. Various clinical conditions may also cause hypertension, such as kidney disease, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, Cushing's syndrome, Conn's syndrome, renal artery stenosis, etc. Lifestyle changes are considered as effective as antihypertensive medication. Adopting physical exercise regimens, use of stress reduction techniques, dietary changes with increased potassium and low sodium, etc. are some of the changes for the management of this condition. In case of extremely elevated blood pressure, it should be reduced rapidly in order to stop organ damage. The various studies that are constantly contributing towards advancing management strategies for hypertension are examined in detail in this book. In this book, using case studies and examples, constant effort has been made to make the understanding of hypertension as easy and informative as possible, for the readers.

Biomedical sciences refer to a group of applied sciences that apply aspects of natural science for use in healthcare and public health. These applied sciences include medical microbiology, biomedical engineering, clinical virology and clinical epidemiology, among others. These sciences are focused on the study of human health and disease, as well as areas such as human physiology, human nutrition and pharmacology. Laboratory diagnosis is an important aspect of biomedical science. The specializations in biomedical science fall within the array of life sciences, physiological science, and medical physics or bioengineering. Advances in biomedical science have been possible due to an integration of biomedical technologies, biomedical engineering, bioengineering, biotechnology and biomedical informatics. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of biomedical science and the recent researches in this field. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to this discipline. It is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver cancer occurring in adults. It is also the leading cause of deaths in patients with liver cirrhosis. Some of the risk factors for this condition are exposure to alcohol or aflatoxin, hepatitis infection, alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency, hemochromatosis, NASH, metabolic syndrome, etc. HCC may present symptoms such as abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup in the abdominal cavity, yellow skin, loss of appetite, easy bruising, nausea, vomiting, etc. HCC is generally diagnosed at an advanced stage and is thus associated with a high rate of mortality. CT scan, MRI and ultrasound are ideal for liver analysis and detection of HCC. The treatment of HCC is based on a review of the stage of the disease, availability of liver transplant and a person's likelihood of tolerating surgery. Accordingly, a patient may be recommended for a partial hepatectomy, orthotopic liver transplantation, targeted therapies, loco-regional therapy, etc. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the field of clinical oncology. It discusses the fundamentals as well as modern approaches in the diagnosis and treatment of this cancer. This book aims to serve as a resource guide for students and experts alike and contribute to the growth of the discipline.

An important dimension in the study of human health and healthcare is the adoption of a geographical perspective to the study of disease. Medical geography focuses on the analysis of spatial patterns of disease and the provision of healthcare. Medical geographic studies place diseases in the theoretical context of disease ecology. The study of health services and the spatial access to healthcare, health services planning and healthcare delivery are encompassed within this field. Health geography can be divided into two distinct segments. The first focuses on the geographies of disease and sickness, using disease statistics and distributions, and analytical research that strives to determine the factors that make individuals and a population susceptible to disease. The second component uses spatial analysis and behavioral economics to the study of health facility location, healthcare accessibility and utilization. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of the geographies of health and the recent researches in this field. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on medical and health geography have been included herein. It is a collective contribution of a renowned group of international experts.

In the field of medicine, the emerging frontier of gene therapy holds great potential in the treatment of many human diseases and conditions. It is characterized by the intent of direct therapeutic effect and the precision of the procedure. In this model, nucleic acid is delivered into a patient's cells which results in the replacement or knocking out of genes that cause a disease. Gene therapy can be classified into somatic and germline gene therapy. In somatic cell gene therapy, therapeutic genes are transferred into the somatic cells of the body and the resulting modifications affect the patient only, without being passed on to the offspring. In germline gene therapy, the germline itself is modified due to the introduction of functional genes into the genome of germ cells. Such changes are inherited by generations of individuals. This book covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around gene therapy. Some of the diverse topics covered in this book address the varied biomedical applications of gene therapy. As this field is emerging at a fast pace, this book will help the readers to better understand the advanced concepts of this field.

Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited disorder that causes death of brain cells. The progression of the disease presents itself with increasingly debilitating signs such as lack of coordination, unsteady gait, jerky body movements, inability to talk and dementia. HD is considered to be an inherited disease, but 10% of all cases of HD may be due to acquired mutations of genes. It is caused due to an autosomal dominant mutation in either of the two copies of the Huntingtin gene of an individual. There exists no cure for HD. Towards the later stages of the disease, the patient requires full-time care. Nutrition management becomes increasingly important as dysphagia and muscle discoordination lead to eating difficulties and weight loss. Therapy seeks to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Tetrabenazine, neuroleptics and benzodiazepines are certain medications with proven results for treatment of chorea in HD. This book presents the causes, diagnosis and therapeutic advances in Huntington's disease in the most comprehensible language. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on HD have been included in this book. As the field of neurology is emerging at a fast pace, this book will help the readers to better understand the latest research and therapeutic advances.

Any malignancy of the blood, bone marrow, lymph or lymphatic system is called a hematologic cancer. These elements are closely connected through the immune and circulatory system. Therefore, a disease that affects one element affects others as well. This makes lymphoproliferation and myeloproliferation related and overlapping problems. Some hematologic cancers are lymphomas, leukemias, myelomas, myelogenous leukemia, lymphoid neoplasms, myeloid neoplasms, etc. A common cause of hematologic cancer is chromosomal translocations. As malignant cells are detected in light microscopy, a suspected hematological malignancy is usually analyzed using a complete blood count and blood film. The treatment of B-cell-derived hematologic malignancies, such as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma, are treated using rituximab. Treatment may also involve immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, blood transfusions or bone marrow transplant. This book traces the progress in the field of hematologic cancer research and highlights some of the latest developments. It will also provide interesting topics for research, which interested readers can take up. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.

Electroencephalography (EEG) is an electrophysiological monitoring technique which is used to record the electrical activity of the brain. It measures voltage fluctuations generated due to neuronal activity in the brain. The event-related potentials and the spectral content of an EEG are vital for making medical diagnosis. This includes the diagnosis of epilepsy, sleep disorders, coma, encephalopathies, brain death, etc. It can also be used in intensive care units to monitor brain function and the effect of anesthesia/sedation in coma-induced patients, detect any secondary brain damage, and non-convulsive seizures or status epilepticus. EEG has extensive use in cognitive science and psychology, neuroscience, neurolinguistics and psychophysiological studies. This book elucidates new techniques and applications of electroencephalography in a multidisciplinary manner. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to electroencephalography. As this field is emerging at a rapid pace, the contents of this book will help the readers understand the modern concepts and applications of the subject.

Biomedical sciences are the disciplines whose primary objective is the study of the human biology and diseases pathology. The scope of these fields extends beyond elementary studies to specialized domains of pharmacology, human nutrition and physiology. Various basic sciences are associated with biomedical sciences, such as biochemistry, genetics and molecular biology, anatomy, physiology, immunology, bioinformatics, mathematics and statistics. Biomedical engineering bridges the gap between medicine and engineering, by integrating the problem solving skills of engineering with medical biological sciences. Some significant biomedical engineering applications are diagnostic and therapeutic medical devices, common imaging equipment such as EKG/ECGs and MRIs, pharmaceutical drugs, regenerative tissue growth, etc. Studies in biomedical science are aided by advanced computational and mathematical models. An example of this is the field of bioinformatics which uses computer programming for biological studies, particularly in the field of genomics, for developing an understanding of the genetic basis of diseases, their adaptations, and differences between populations. This book covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around biomedical science. It brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the computational and mathematical methods of use in biomedical science. Students, researchers, experts and all associated with this field will benefit alike from this book.

The field of biomedical science studies the mechanisms that are at the core of the function and formation of living organisms. It ranges in scope from the study of individual molecules to complex human functions. This contributes to our understanding of how different diseases, traumas and genetic defects alter physiological and behavioral processes. Modern biomedical science works at the cellular, molecular and systems level with the aid of techniques of molecular biology and genome characterization. Such studies have implications on potential medical therapies and clinical studies, and the understanding of disease mechanisms. The integration of mathematics with biomedical sciences has led to many such applications and innovations. Mathematical modeling and analysis, optimization techniques and computational methods, numerical analysis, applied statistics or a combination of these are used for solving problems in this field. Mathematical models and methods also form the basis for the construction of imaging techniques in biomedical science. This has transformed the practice of medicine and furthered the scope of non-invasive diagnosis and surgical planning for guiding surgery, biopsy and radiation therapy. The field of biomedical science and engineering has undergone rapid development over the past few decades. This book elucidates the mathematical concepts and models that have led to advancements in biomedical science. It is an essential guide for both academicians and those who wish to pursue this discipline further.

A congenital heart defect (CHD) refers to a congenital anomaly in the structure of the heart. It may manifest as abnormalities in the heart valves, the interior walls of the heart, and the large blood vessels that lead from and to the heart. The symptoms include poor weight gain, rapid breathing, feeling of exhaustion and bluish skin. It may be caused due to infections during pregnancy, use of certain drugs or medications, obesity or poor nutritional status in the mother and parents being closely related. CHDs can be classified into two main groups- cyanotic and non-cyanotic heart defects. Genetic conditions such as Down syndrome, Marfan syndrome and Turner syndrome are associated with such heart defects. Most CHDs can be diagnosed prenatally using fetal echocardiography. In other cases, the diagnosis can be made shortly after birth or sometimes several months and years after birth. A CHD is generally serious and requires surgery, medications or a combination of both. Most individuals with CHDs need specialized care throughout their lifetime. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the assessment and management of congenital heart defects. It aims to present researches that have transformed the field of cardiology and aided its advancement. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.

Hematology is a branch of medicine that studies the cause, treatment, prognosis and prevention of diseases of the blood. There are various diseases that affect the production of blood and blood constituents. Some of these diseases are rare leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma. Depending on the pathologies addressed, specializations exist in this field such as the treatment of hemoglobinopathies, hematological malignancies and bleeding disorders as well as bone marrow and stem cell transplantation. The field of hematology also encompasses the examination of bone marrow slides and blood films, and the interpretation of blood clotting and other hematological test results. This book elucidates new techniques and applications of hematology in a multidisciplinary manner. It covers in detail some major hematological disorders and their clinical diagnosis and management. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.

Sarcomas are rare tumors arising from transformed cells of mesenchymal origin. These tumors occur more commonly in the bones and muscles, cartilage, tendons, nerves, fat and blood vessels of the limbs. These can however occur in other areas of the body as well. More than 50 types of sarcoma exist, which can be categorized under bone sarcoma (osteosarcoma) and soft tissue sarcoma. The susceptibility to sarcoma depends on a number of factors, such as family history of sarcoma, Paget's disease, genetic disorders such as Gardner syndrome, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, neurofibromatosis or retinoblastoma. Soft tissue sarcomas can grow anywhere in the body and may be difficult to detect. Osteosarcoma is comparatively easier to diagnose and presents symptoms such as swelling, pain in the affected bone and a limp. The treatment of sarcoma depends on the type of sarcoma, its location, and the extent of growth and metastasis. Surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapies and radiation are the primary treatments for the management of sarcomas. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the diagnosis and treatment of sarcoma. It is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in oncology. It aims to serve as a resource guide for students and experts alike and contribute to the growth of the discipline.

Cancer refers to a family of diseases, which involves an abnormal growth of cells that can invade or spread to other parts of the body. Survival rates in people suffering from cancer vary according to the cancer type and stage in which it is diagnosed. The prognosis is worse for cancers that have metastasized. Cancer survivors often develop a second primary cancer. Cancer research strives to identify possible causes and strategies for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer. It involves various aspects of molecular bioscience, cancer epidemiology and clinical trials for evaluating and comparing outcomes of different cancer therapies. Translational research in cancer seeks to understand the mechanisms of cancer development and progression, and translate such scientific findings into formulating approaches in the treatment and prevention of cancer. Clinical cancer research is devoted to the development of surgical procedures, pharmaceutical agents and medical technologies for the treatment of cancer. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the field of cancer management. The topics covered herein deal with the clinical and translational research in the field of oncology. For all readers who are interested in this field, the case studies included herein will serve as an excellent guide to develop a comprehensive understanding.