Bøger udgivet af Foster Academics

The agents that carry and transmit infectious pathogens to other living organisms are called vectors. Such agents are usually intermediate parasites or microbes. Parasite refers to the organism which either lives in or on some other organism, benefitting itself by causing harm to that organism. Some common parasites are hookworms, protozoans, mosquitoes, lice, honey fungus, broomrapes, mistletoe and dodder. As they interact with other species, they are well placed to act as vectors of pathogens, which cause diseases. Dengue fever, plague, Lyme disease and West Nile fever are some examples of vector-borne zoonotic diseases. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the role of parasites and vectors in health and diseases. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. The book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.

Any type of injury in which the skin gets cut, torn, punctured or results in a contusion is known as a wound. It can be either open or closed. The examples of open wounds are incisions, abrasions, avulsions and lacerations. Wounds caused by hematomas and crush injury are common examples of closed wounds. The process in which the skin and its tissues repair themselves after injury is called wound healing. Some of the main factors affecting it include moisture, edema, ischemia, low oxygen tension, smoking, alcohol, immunosuppression, etc. Blood clotting, inflammation, tissue growth and tissue remodeling are the main phases involved in the wound healing process. The topics included in this book on wound healing and management are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. It explores all the important aspects of wound healing in the present day scenario. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

The diseases arising from abnormal immune responses to normal body parts are called autoimmune diseases. Tiredness and fever are two of the most common symptoms of such diseases. Other symptoms include altered organ function, damage to the tissues and altered organ growth. There is no known cause of autoimmune diseases. Graves' disease, multiple sclerosis, celiac disease, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes mellitus Type 1, systemic lupus erythematosus and psoriasis are some of the common types of autoimmune diseases. Treatment methods include the use of immunosuppressants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and intravenous immunoglobulin. The topics included in this book on autoimmune diseases are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to such diseases. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

Malaria is a chronic infectious disease caused by single-celled microorganisms belonging to the Plasmodium group. It can be caused by five species of Plasmodium, namely, P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. malariae, P. ovale, and P. knowlesi. However, it is most commonly caused by P. falciparum. Its common symptoms include headache, tiredness, vomiting and fever. The microscopic examination of blood by using blood films is the most common diagnostic method. Other diagnostic tests include malaria antigen detection tests and microscopy. Treatment methods include the intake of artemisinin, lumefantrine, mefloquine and sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine. This book will also provide interesting topics for research, which interested readers can take up. It strives to provide a fair idea about malaria and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within the field of malaria research. This book includes contributions of experts and researchers, which will provide innovative insights into this disease.

The techniques and processes used to create the images of the interior of the human body are called medical imaging. It aims to reveal the internal structures of the body, which are hidden by the bones and skin, and to diagnose and treat diseases and disorders. It is also used to identify the possible abnormalities in the anatomy and physiology of the body. Positron emission tomography (PET) is a common type of medical imaging technique. It involves the use of radioactive tracer to observe the metabolic processes of the body as an aid to diagnose a disease. It is most commonly used for the imaging of tumors and cancers. This book unfolds the innovative aspects of medical imaging which will be crucial for the progress of the subject in the future. The various types of medical imaging techniques along with technological progress that have future implications are glanced at in it. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

Telemedicine refers to the health care provided from a distance with the help of telecommunication and information technology. It is helpful in improving access to medical services in distant rural areas. It plays a significant role in saving lives in critical and emergency cases. Teleconferencing and videotelephony are the most common forms of telemedicine. Telepharmacy is a sub-field of telemedicine. It involves the delivery of pharmaceutical care to patients through information technology and telecommunications. Patient counseling, drug therapy monitoring along with prior and refill authorization for prescription drugs are some of the telepharmacy services. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the field of telemedicine. Some of the diverse topics covered herein address the varied branches that fall under this field. It aims to serve as a resource guide for students and experts alike and contribute to the growth of the discipline.

Behcet's disease is an inflammatory disorder affecting multiple body parts. Painful ulcerations in the mouth, genital sores, arthritis and inflammation of the parts of the eye are some of its common symptoms. There is no known cause of it. However, it is attributed to certain genetic factors. Diagnosis is mainly based on the assessment of mouth sores, genital ulcers, skin lesions and ocular inflammatory conditions. Other diagnostic methods include slit lamp examination, fundoscopic examination, magnetic resonance imaging, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, etc. The treatment of Behcet's disease is designed to ease symptoms, reduce inflammation and control the immune system. High-dose corticosteroid therapy, anti-TNF therapy, thalidomide, IVIG, etc. may be used for the management of this condition. This book explores all the important aspects of Behcet's disease in the present day scenario. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to the diagnosis and treatment of Behcet's disease. For all those who are interested in Behcet's disease, this book can prove to be an essential guide.

Family medicine is a branch of primary care concerned with the comprehensive health care of individuals and their families. It focuses on providing continuing care to patients of all genders and ages irrespective of the disease. The primary goals of this field are disease prevention and the promotion of health. A diverse range of acute, chronic and preventive medical care services are delivered by family physicians. This may include routine checkups, counseling for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, health-risk assessments, etc. This book strives to provide a fair idea about this discipline and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within this field. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to family medicine. For all readers who are interested in this medical specialty, the case studies included in this book will serve as an excellent guide to develop a comprehensive understanding.

Molecular neuroscience is a subfield of neuroscience. It focuses on the examination of the concepts in molecular biology in relation to the nervous system. The communication between neurons usually takes place with the help of chemical transmission across gaps between the cells, known as synapses. The topics that are covered under this discipline include molecular neuroanatomy, the molecular basis for neuroplasticity and the effects of genetics and epigenetics on neuronal development. It also focuses on the molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases. Some of the common neurodegenerative diseases include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease. The transmitted chemicals, called neurotransmitters, are responsible in the regulation of a significant fraction of vital body functions. The ever-growing need of advanced technology is the reason that has fueled the research in the field of molecular neuroscience in recent times. It strives to provide a fair idea about this discipline and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within this field. 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.

The sub-specialty of pharmacy concerned with the study of the medicinal drugs derived from plants and other natural sources is called pharmacognosy. It involves the study of the physical, biological and chemical properties of drugs, as well as the search of new drugs from natural sources. The alternative and pseudoscientific practices of using unrefined plant or animal extracts for the purpose of treatment is called phytotherapy. Herbal medicines are used to treat patients suffering from chronic conditions or diseases like ashtma, cancer, diabetes, etc. This book traces the progress of pharmacognosy and phytotherapy, and highlights some of their key concepts and applications. It strives to provide a fair idea about these disciplines and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within these fields. This book includes contributions of experts, which will provide innovative insights into these fields.

Pain medicine is the branch of medicine dealing with the management of pain for improving the quality of life of patients suffering from pain. When a pathology is resistant to treatment and pain persists, and when the underlying cause of pain can not be understood, the task of pain medicine is to relieve suffering. An important goal of pain management is to address pain in such a way that it is effective and causes as little side effects as possible. NSAIDs, opioids, muscle relaxants, antiepileptic and anti-inflammatory drugs, cannabinoids, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, etc. are medications that are prescribed for mild, acute, severe and chronic pain. For the treatment of chronic pain, whether due to malignant or benign processes, a three-step Analgesic Ladder recommends the kind of prescription for mild, moderate and severe pain and the way to increase analgesia. This book presents the complex subject of pain medicine in the most comprehensible language. From theories to research to practical applications, case studies related to all contemporary topics of relevance to this field have been included in this book. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.

Toxicology is a discipline that is concerned with the study of the adverse effects of chemical substances on an organism. The practice of diagnosing and treating exposures to toxins and toxicants is also under the scope of its study. The correlation of the dose and its effect on the exposed organism is a crucial study in this domain. Medical toxicologists deal with adverse drug reactions, acute or chronic poisoning, substance abuse, drug overdoses and chemical exposures. Practitioners of medical toxicology are physicians specialized primarily in occupational medicine, emergency medicine or pediatrics. This book elucidates new techniques and applications of toxicology in a multidisciplinary manner. It strives to provide a fair idea about toxicology and help develop a better understanding of the latest advances in this field. It is a vital tool for all researching or studying toxicology as it gives incredible insights into emerging trends and concepts.

Clinical and translational medicine refers to the therapeutic clinical potential and application of translational research that seeks to develop the understanding of mechanisms and treatments of human diseases. The clinical variation between diseases, biomarkers, pathogenesis and therapies are also highlighted through studies of clinical and translational medicine. This is a critical and core component of the full-spectrum of biomedical research. Translational medicine refers to an area of research that seeks to determine the relevance of novel discoveries in the biological science to human disease. It also integrates new knowledge in clinical practice and clinical observations into scientific knowledge. Hence, translational research, facilitates the generation of novel hypotheses and disease characterization based on direct human observation. Translational medicine can work to expedite the incorporation of novel endpoints into clinical testing, thus shortening the duration of clinical trials. This book brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the unexplored aspects of clinical and translational medicine. The ever growing need of advanced technology is the reason that has fueled the research in this field in recent times. A number of latest researches have been included to keep the readers up-to-date with the global concepts in this area of study.

A form of therapy which is used to replace the normal blood-filtering function of the kidneys is known as renal replacement therapy. It is used in cases like acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease and renal failure. Renal replacement therapy involves several ways of filtration of blood such as dialysis, hemofiltration, hemodiafiltration and kidney transplantation. The process of artificially removing excess water and toxins from the blood is known as dialysis. It is performed in cases where the patient's kidneys are no longer able to perform these functions naturally. This book brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the unexplored aspects of renal replacement. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on renal replacement have been included herein. 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.

Immunology is a branch of biology that studies immune systems and malfunctions of the immune system such as in immune deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, hypersensitivities and transplant rejection. A key area of medical management is the study of transplant rejection in which the immune system attempts to destroy allografts leading to transplant failure. This results in an immediate need to remove the organ from the recipient. The risk of such a rejection can be determined by measuring the panel reactive antibody level. To prevent this, serotyping is done to determine recipient-donor transplantation suitability and immunosuppressant drugs are used. This book unfolds the innovative aspects of transplantation immunology, which will be crucial for the progress of this field in the future. It strives to provide a fair idea about this discipline and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within this field. It is a complete source of knowledge on the present status of this important field.

The surgical branch of medicine, concerned with both operative and non-operative management strategies to treat traumatic injuries, is known as trauma surgery. The common tasks of a trauma surgeon involve the resuscitation and stabilization, evaluation and management of the patient. An area in a hospital meant to provide care to those having major traumatic injuries, including falls, gunshot wounds and vehicle collisions is called a trauma center. Damage control surgery (DCS) is a very common type of trauma surgery. It is used to save the life of critically ill patients. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of trauma and the recent researches in the field of trauma surgery. Such selected concepts that redefine this surgical speciality have been presented in it. A number of latest researches have been included to keep the readers up-to-date with the global concepts in this area of study.

The specialized domain of hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery encompasses the surgical solutions and interventions for the treatment of liver, pancreas and biliary tract related conditions. Such conditions include neoplastic liver disease, congenital and acquired non-neoplastic liver disease, neoplastic biliary disease, congenital and acquired non-neoplastic biliary disease, neoplastic pancreatic diseases, congenital and acquired non-neoplastic pancreatic disease and diseases of the duodenum, among others. The surgical procedures involved in transplantation, surgical oncology and trauma surgery in the regions of the pancreas and duodenum, the biliary tract and the liver are also part of hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery. The aim of this book is to present researches that have transformed this discipline and aided its advancement. The readers would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective about this field of surgery.

An operation performed in the pelvis or abdominal region using small incisions with the help of a camera is known as laparoscopy. Laparoscopic surgery is also known as minimally invasive surgery and keyhole surgery. In comparison to the common open surgical procedures, laparoscopic surgeries have more advantages, such as less pain, reduced haemorrhaging, small incisions, lower risk of infections and short recovery time. A laparoscope, scissors, forceps, probes, hooks, dissectors and retractors are some of the common surgical tools used in laparoscopic surgeries. Cholecystectomy, colectomy and nephrectomy are some of the most common laparoscopic procedures. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to laparoscopy. The various advancements in laparoscopic surgery are glanced at and their applications as well as ramifications are looked at in detail. This book includes contributions of doctors and experts which will provide innovative insights into this field.

Surgery of the female reproductive system is known as gynecological surgery. Gynecology involves the study of the health of the breasts and the female reproductive system, which includes the uterus, vagina and ovaries. A speculum is often used for the purpose of gynecological examination. Hysterectomy, oophorectomy and tubectomy are some of the common gynecological surgical procedures. The surgical removal of the uterus is known as hysterectomy. Oophorectomy is a type of gynecological surgery related to the surgical removal of the ovaries. Tubectomy refers to the surgical procedure for sterilization in which a woman's fallopian tubes are blocked and sealed in order to prevent the eggs from reaching the uterus for implantation. It is a permanent and effective method of birth control. The objective of the book is to give a general view of the different areas of gynecological surgery. It elucidates the concepts and innovative models around prospective developments with respect to gynecological surgery. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

Rheumatology is a branch of medicine, which is concerned with the diagnosis, and treatment of rheumatic diseases. There are more than 200 different types of rheumatic diseases, such as osteoporosis, arthritis, back pain, gout, lupus, etc. A significant focus of this field lies in the treatment of immune-mediated disorders of the musculoskeletal system, autoimmune diseases, vasculitides and soft tissue. Rheumatology may also be assumed to be the study of medical immunology. Physical examination and specialized tests including X-rays, ultrasounds, rheumatoid factor test, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, cytopathology, etc. are performed for the diagnosis of rheumatic diseases. After diagnosis, their treatment strategy comprises of a prescription of analgesics, steroids, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, monoclonal antibodies or disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Corrective interventions such as arthrodesis, removal of cartilage fragments or loose bone, joint replacements, etc. can also be performed for improving function, soothing pain and limiting disease activity. This book provides comprehensive insights into the field of rheumatology. There has been rapid progress in the understanding of rheumatic diseases, their diagnoses and treatments, which have been included in this extensive book. It is an essential guide for both academicians and those who wish to pursue this discipline further.

Rheumatic disorders are the conditions that cause chronic and intermittent pain, and affect the joints and connective tissue. Some rheumatic disorders are osteoarthritis, tendinitis, back pain, capsulitis, palindromic rheumatism, etc. Some rheumatic diseases are autoimmune in origin such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus, ankylosing spondylitis, etc. Different rheumatic disorders have varied causes and all of these require different kinds of treatment. The diagnosis of rheumatic disorders is done through a physical examination and specialized laboratory and imaging tests. The initial therapy of rheumatological diseases is usually through analgesics, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), etc. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy are other recommended treatment techniques. The study of such conditions and the development of therapeutic interventions for these disorders are under the scope of rheumatology. This book elucidates the concepts and innovative models around prospective developments with respect to rheumatology. The topics included in this book on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. Through this book, we attempt to further enlighten the readers about the new concepts in this field.

A surgical specialty concerned with the alteration, restoration or reconstruction of the human body is known as plastic surgery. There are two main categories of plastic surgery, namely, reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery. Hand surgery, the treatment of burns, craniofacial surgery and microsurgery are classified as reconstructive surgery. It is concerned with the reconstruction or the improvement in the functioning of any specific body part. Cosmetic surgery deals with the improvement of the appearance of a body part. Some of the common techniques and procedures of plastic surgery include autotransplantation, allotransplant, xenotransplantation, etc. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on plastic surgery have been included in this book. It provides significant information of this discipline to help develop a good understanding of plastic surgery and related fields. 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.

The type of surgery which is meant to restore the form and function of the body is known as reconstructive surgery. It may include simple techniques, such as primary closure and dressings, as well as complex skin grafts, free flaps and tissue expansion. It does not include cosmetic surgery, which is concerned merely with the purpose of improving a person's physical appearance and the removal of one's signs of aging. Some of the branches of surgery under which reconstructive surgeries often take place include pediatric surgery, podiatric surgery and gynaecological surgery. Biomaterials are used in reconstructive surgery for correcting or replacing damaged body parts. A successful implantation can be achieved through an anatomical, biochemical, pathological and physiological understanding of the condition. This book covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around reconstructive surgery. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to reconstructive surgery. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

The diseases related to the organs and tissues involved in gas exchange are called respiratory diseases. They involve the conditions associated with the upper respiratory tract, bronchi, pleura, alveoli, trachea, bronchioles and pleural cavity. Common cold is one of the most common respiratory disease. Other severe respiratory conditions include acute asthma, pneumonia, pulmonary embolism and lung cancer. Pulmonology is the field of medicine dealing with respiratory diseases. Some of the common tests used for diagnosing respiratory diseases include blood tests, chest X-ray, bronchoscopy, ultrasound, computed tomography scan and pulmonary function test. Medications include the intake of antibiotics and leukotriene antagonists, and the inhalation of bronchodilators and steroids. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on respiratory diseases have been included in this book. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory diseases. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.

Respiratory failure is a serious condition associated with the respiratory tract arising from inadequate gas exchange by the respiratory system. It can broadly be categorized into hypoxemia and hypercapnia. The condition of having abnormally low level of oxygen in the blood is known as hypoxemia. Hypercapnia is a condition associated with abnormally elevated carbon dioxide levels in the blood. Respiratory failure can be classified either as Type I or Type II, on the basis of the presence of abnormal blood gases. Some of the common causes of respiratory failure include reduced breathing caused due to drug intake, reduced air flow caused due to the physical obstruction in the body by foreign masses and thromboembolic conditions. Treatment methods include mechanical ventilation, endotracheal intubation and continuous positive airway pressure. The topics included in this book on respiratory failure are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. It will also provide interesting topics for research, which interested readers can take up. This book is a resource guide for experts as well as students.

Reproductive health refers to the physical and psychological well-being of a person with respect to their sexuality. It is also concerned with the reproductive processes and functions at all stages of life. It facilitates a safer sexual life, which is both, satisfying as well as responsible. One's natural capability to reproduce offspring is known as fertility. Nutrition, instinct, timing, emotions, culture, consanguinity, endocrinology and sexual behavior are some of the common factors, which affect human fertility. Fertility declines with age in both males and females. The various advancements in reproductive health and fertility are glanced at and their applications as well as ramifications are looked at in detail. It brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the unexplored aspects of reproductive health and fertility. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the lungs. It is associated with the blockage of the airways and bronchospasm. Its symptoms include chest tightness, shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. People suffering from asthma are more likely to develop obstructive sleep apnea, anxiety disorders, rhinosinusitis and gastro-esophageal reflux disease. Asthma can be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the most common microbes causing asthma include Chlamydophila pneumoniae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae and human rhinoviruses. People having eczema, hay fever, atopic disease, urticaria and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis have a greater risk of developing asthma. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of clinical asthma and the recent researches related to it. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to clinical asthma. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

Respiratory infections include the infectious diseases of the respiratory tract. Such infections can be classified as lower respiratory tract infection or upper respiratory tract infection. The lower respiratory tract infections are more serious than the upper respiratory tract infections. Some respiratory tract infections are sinusitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, influenza, bronchitis and pneumonia. Human orthopneumovirus is a major cause of lower respiratory tract infections. It generally causes conditions like bronchiolitis and pneumonia. These can be diagnosed through physical examination, skin monitoring to check for hypoxemia, chest X-rays, blood tests, and lab test of respiratory secretions. This book explores all the important aspects of respiratory infections in the present day scenario. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory infections. This book is a resource guide for doctors as well as students.

The condition of high blood pressure within the arteries of the lungs is known as pulmonary hypertension. Chest pain, tiredness, fast heartbeat, syncope, shortness of breath and swelling of the legs are some of its most common symptoms. The causes of pulmonary hypertension are not completely known. However, some of the risk factors include a family history of pulmonary hypertension, sickle cell disease, sleep apnea, HIV/AIDS, blood clots in the lungs and problems with the mitral valve. Physical examination, electrocardiography, chest X-rays, pulmonary function tests and computed tomography scans are some of the common techniques of diagnosing pulmonary hypertension. Treatment methods include atrial septostomy, lung transplantation and pulmonary thromboendarterectomy. The topics included in this book on pulmonary hypertension are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the airway of the lungs. It often involves reversible airflow obstruction and bronchospasm. Some of its common symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing and chest tightness. The condition of a person having asthma usually becomes worse with exercise. It is caused due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Air pollution, smoking during pregnancy, exposure to indoor volatile organic compounds and exposure to indoor allergens, like cockroaches and dust mites, are the common environmental factors contributing to asthma. Spirometry is the recommended test to diagnose asthma. Bronchodilators, leukotriene antagonists and mast cell stabilizers are some of the most commonly used treatment methods. This book unravels the recent studies in the management of asthma. It strives to provide a fair idea about asthma and the challenges and concerns related to it. This book includes contributions of experts and scientists which will provide innovative insights into this disease.