Bøger udgivet af Hayle Medical

Adiposity or obesity is the clinical condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the body, to the extent that it poses a negative effect on health. It increases the likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases, obstructive sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, osteoarthritis, etc. It is caused due to a combination of genetic susceptibility, excessive food intake and lack of physical activity. It can however be prevented through the right combination of personal choices and social changes. Changing the diet to reduce the consumption of energy-dense foods, increasing the intake of dietary fibers and regular exercising are the chief strategies for the management of obesity. This book consists of contributions made by international experts on adiposity. It discusses the fundamental as well as modern approaches in the evaluation and management of adiposity. For all readers who are interested in this medical condition, the case studies included in this book will serve as an excellent guide to develop a comprehensive understanding.

Hepatitis C is a liver disease that is caused by the hepatitis C virus. People infected by the virus do not exhibit symptoms initially but occasionally dark urine, yellow tinged skin, fever and abdominal pain may occur. The infection can potentially lead to liver disease and cirrhosis. The hepatitis C virus is spread due to the use of poorly sterilized medical equipment, transfusions, blood-to-blood contact and needlestick injuries. It may also spread when an infected mother gives birth to her baby. There is no vaccination against hepatitis C. However, hepatitis C can be prevented using a combination of harm reduction strategies, including treatment of substance abuse, provision of new syringes and needles, and screening of blood donors. Chronic infection with hepatitis C can be cured with antiviral medications such as simeprevir or sofosbuvir. This book covers in detail the clinical aspects of hepatitis C from pathophysiology to disease management. It unravels the recent studies in hepatitis C. A number of latest researches have been included to keep the readers up-to-date with the global concepts in this area of study.

Colorectal cancer or bowel cancer refers to the development of cancer in the colon or rectum of the gastrointestinal tract. It is the third most common form of cancer. The most common form of colon cancer is adenocarcinoma. Colorectal cancer can occur with age and lifestyle choices. A small number of cases can occur due to underlying genetic factors. Screening is recommended from the age of 50 to 75 as it can be effective in preventing cancer deaths. Colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy can effectively test for the presence of the cancer, while its spread can be determined through imaging techniques. The cellular characteristics of the tumor can be found from the analysis of tissue taken from a surgery or biopsy. For individuals with localized colorectal cancer, the preferred treatment is complete surgical removal, through an open laparotomy or laparoscopic surgery, followed by a colostomy. Chemotherapy may also be used prior to the surgery to shrink the growth. Colorectal cancer can recur, especially in the liver and lungs. This book presents the diagnostic and therapeutic advances in colorectal cancer in the most comprehensible language. As the field of oncology is emerging at a fast pace, this book will help the readers to better understand the latest research and therapeutic advances.

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a medical condition characterized by elevated pressure in the arteries. Long-term high blood pressure is a concern as it is a risk factor for stroke, heart failure, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, chronic kidney disease, peripheral vascular disease, etc. Nearly 90-95% of cases of hypertension are caused due to excess body weight, excess salt in diet, alcohol use and smoking. The remaining cases of high blood pressure can be caused due to narrowing of the kidney arteries, chronic kidney disease, endocrine disorder or the use of birth control pills. Severely elevated blood pressure can cause direct damage to the heart and lungs, brain and kidney. Hypertension usually results from an interplay of genetic and environmental factors. It is diagnosed on the basis of the presence of persistent high blood pressure. Antihypertensive medications such as calcium channel blockers, angiotensin receptor blockers, thiazide-diuretics and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors are used for the management of hypertension. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to hypertension. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. It is a complete source of knowledge on the present status of this important field.

Microcirculation refers to the circulation of blood in the microvessels of the microvasculature that is present within organ tissues. These microvessels include capillaries, arterioles, metarterioles and venules. In addition to these blood vessels, microcirculation is also enabled by the action of lymphatic capillaries and collecting ducts. The delivery of oxygen and nutrients, and the removal of carbon dioxide are possible due to microcirculation. It also regulates tissue perfusion and blood flow thus affecting blood pressure and responses to inflammation. Microcirculation has the three chief components- capillary, pre-capillary and post-capillary. This book discusses the fundamental as well as modern concepts of microcirculation. It consists of contributions made by international experts. For all readers who are interested in the study of microcirculation, the case studies included in this book will serve as an excellent guide to develop a comprehensive understanding.

Cholesterol is a sterol that is biosynthesized by all animal cells. It is an important structural component of animal cell membranes. It also acts as a precursor for the biosynthesis of steroid hormones, vitamin D and bile acid. The cholesterol ingested is esterified but it is poorly absorbed by the body. It compensates for the absorption of additional cholesterol by reducing further synthesis. The liver excretes cholesterol in a non-esterified form into the digestive tract. About half of this cholesterol is reabsorbed back into the bloodstream at the small intestine. High levels of cholesterol are associated with a high risk of atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, stroke, heart attack, etc. The risk of acquiring these conditions is dependent on the quantity of cholesterol one consumes and also the kind of cholesterol in blood. The management of cholesterol does not necessarily resolve with dietary control alone, but also requires exercise and medication. This book covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around the management of cholesterol. The topics covered herein deal with the concerns and challenges of high cholesterol. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.

Transplantation refers to the process of moving cells, tissues or organs from one part of the body to another, whether within the same person, or between a donor and a recipient. It is usually a life-saving intervention and is a major operation. However, the transplanted tissue or organ may be rejected by the immune system. Rejection is an adaptive immune response of the body that can occur due to the mechanisms of cellular immunity or humoral immunity. Different transplanted tissues favor different rejection mechanisms. Acute rejection occurs in all transplants unless immunosuppression has been achieved. An exception to this is transplantation between identical twins. Hyperacute rejection response sets in within minutes after a transplant, which if unattended may trigger a systemic inflammatory response syndrome. Rapid clumping, particularly the agglutination of red blood cells, is a common risk in kidney transplants. Chronic rejection can arise when there is a long-term loss of function in the transplanted organ. This loss in function arises due to fibrosis of the blood vessels of the transplanted tissues. This is responsible for the long-term morbidity witnessed in lung-transplant recipients. Transplant rejection can be lowered by using immunosuppressant drugs after transplantation and by prior determination of the molecular similitude between donor and recipient. This book provides comprehensive insights into the field of transplantation immunology. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe on the methods and protocols of transplantation. It is a vital tool for all researching and studying this field.

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic inflammatory disease, in which the immune system attacks healthy tissues of the body. It is one of several diseases that mimics other illnesses. Its diagnosis can thus be elusive. Some of the initial and chronic signs associated with this condition are malaise, fever, joint pains, fatigue, rashes and muscle pains. Around 70% of people with lupus have skin symptoms. Multiple genes have an influence in the development of lupus. It may also be triggered by drug reactions but is largely reversible. The severity of the disease in an individual needs to be assessed correctly to successfully treat lupus. The treatment involves the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and anti-malarial drugs. Certain forms of lupus nephritis require cytotoxic drugs such as mycophenolate and cyclophosphamide. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of systemic lupus erythematosus and the recent researches in this condition. The various studies that are constantly contributing towards advancing the diagnosis and management of lupus are examined in detail. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.

Stem cells are the cells that differentiate into other cells and divide upon self-renewal to produce more stem cells. There are two types of stem cells, embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells. Progenitor cells and stem cells serve as a repair system by replenishing adult tissues. In the developing embryo, stem cells differentiate into specialized cells- endoderm, ectoderm and mesoderm, and also maintain the normal turnover of regenerative organs like skin, blood and intestinal tissues. Embryonic stem cells are a theoretically potential source for the development of regenerative medicine and tissue replacement. Adult stem cells can be acquired from adipose tissue, blood and bone marrow, as well as from the blood of the umbilical cord after birth. They are used in medical therapies such as in bone marrow transplantation. They can also be artificially grown and differentiated into specialized cells. Stem cell therapy helps to treat and prevent diseases or conditions. Some of the diseases where stem cell treatment holds potential include Parkinson's disease, diabetes, osteoarthritis, spinal cord injury repair, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, etc. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advances in stem cells. It explores all the important aspects of stem cell therapy in the present day scenario. Scientists and students actively engaged in this field will find this book full of crucial and unexplored concepts.

Stem cells are the cells which differentiate into other cells and thereby replenish tissues of the body. This gives them the potential for therapeutic use in tissue repair and regeneration. Stem cells can be categorized into distinct cell types- embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells. Embryonic stem cells can divide into more stem cells or any type of cell in the body. This allows embryonic stem cells to repair or regenerate diseased tissues and organs. Adult stem cells were believed to create only similar kinds of cells but emerging evidence suggests that these may also have the ability to create other types of cells. This holds immense potential in medicine. Adult stem cells are being tested in people with heart disease or neurological conditions. Adult cells have been successfully transformed into stem cells using genetic reprogramming. This can enable the use of reprogrammed cells and prevent the immune system rejection of new stem cells. This book discusses the fundamentals as well as modern approaches of stem cell therapy. It consists of contributions made by international experts. For all readers who are interested in the study of stem cells, the case studies included in this book will serve as an excellent guide to develop a comprehensive understanding.

Human reproduction is a form of sexual reproduction, which results in human fertilization, due to sexual intercourse between a man and a woman. Human reproduction begins with copulation, followed by a period of 9-month gestation that lasts until childbirth. During gestation, the fetus grows and develops. While in the uterus, the baby undergoes a zygote stage, embryonic stage and a period characterized by development of all major organs. This can be achieved with the aid of reproductive technology, such as artificial insemination. The field of reproductive technology encompasses all uses of technology in human reproduction such as contraception, assisted reproductive technology and others. Assisted reproductive technology refers to the use of reproductive technology to treat infertility or low fertility. It is effective in individuals suffering from ovulatory disorders. Reproductive analysis enables family planning and monitoring of follicular dynamics, ovarian reserve and semen analysis. Germinal choice technology, artificial wombs, reprogenetics and in vitro parthenogenesis are the reproductive techniques that are undergoing development. An important research direction in reproductive biology is the exploration of same sex procreation. This book contains some path-breaking studies in the field of reproductive biology. It will also provide interesting topics for research, which interested readers can take up. It aims to equip students and experts with the advanced topics and upcoming concepts in this area.

Nuclear receptor proteins which function as transcription factors that regulate gene expression are called peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). These have crucial roles in the regulation of cellular metabolism, differentiation and development, as well as in tumorigenesis. There are three types of PPARs that have been identified so far- alpha (α), beta/delta (β/δ) and gamma (γ). There can be disorders of PPARs, which generally lead to a loss in function, insulin resistance, concomitant lipodystrophy and/or acanthosis nigricans. This book provides comprehensive insights into peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. It aims to shed light on the clinical aspects of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors and the recent researches in this domain. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make this book an invaluable source of knowledge.

Sarcomas are malignant tumors made of cancellous bone, fat, cartilage, muscle, vascular tissues or hematopoietic tissues. Sarcomas are classified into different types based on the type of tissue they closely resemble. Osteosarcoma, liposarcoma, chondrosarcoma and leiomyosarcoma resemble the bone, fat, cartilage and smooth muscle respectively. Sarcomas are further classified depending on the presence and frequency of certain cellular and subcellular characteristics typical of malignant biological behavior. Low-grade sarcomas are treated surgically, or with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Intermediate-grade and high-grade sarcomas are addressed with a combination of all such therapies. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the assessment of sarcoma. The various advancements in its treatment are glanced at and their applications as well as ramifications are looked at in detail. This book, with its detailed analyses and data, will prove immensely beneficial to professionals and students involved in oncology at various levels.

Pneumonia is an inflammatory condition of the alveoli of the lung. It typically starts as an upper respiratory tract infection, which moves into the lower respiratory tract. Pneumonia can be diagnosed based on a chest X-ray and examination of physical signs. In individuals requiring hospitalization, chest radiography, blood tests and pulse oximetry are generally performed. Oral antibiotics, analgesics, fluids and rest are sufficient for complete resolution of the disease. In the elderly, or individuals with difficulty breathing or other medical conditions, treatment requires advanced care. A first dose of antibiotics is required as soon as possible. A combination of corticosteroids and antibiotics can significantly improve outcomes. Neuraminidase inhibitors are used for the treatment of viral pneumonia. Most of the topics introduced in this book cover new techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of pneumonia. It will also provide interesting topics for research, which interested readers can take up. This book aims to serve as a resource guide for students and experts alike.

Perioperative medicine refers to the medical care provided to patients preparing for surgery, undergoing surgery or recuperating from a surgery. Managing operative risks, complications and medical illnesses are the main objectives of perioperative medicine. Various professionals such as anesthesiologists, surgeons, medical consultants and intensivists work in concert in this practice. Many interventions for reducing the adverse outcomes of surgery may be adopted. These may include packages of care for enhanced recovery and maintenance of normothermia. The importance of handling complications in a timely and effective manner as they develop is an important focus of perioperative medicine. This book discusses the fundamentals as well as modern approaches of perioperative medicine. While understanding the long-term perspectives of the topics, it makes an effort in highlighting their impact as a modern tool for the growth of the discipline. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.

The inhalation of harmful airborne particles may result in adverse health conditions and pathological changes in the respiratory tract. It is often seen that noxious inhaled particles activate an inflammatory pulmonary response, which can initiate a sub-chronic or chronic pulmonary disease. These conditions may include silicosis, pneumonitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asbestosis, emphysema, fibrosis, asthma or cancer. The severity of a particle-induced pathology is dependent on the exposure time and concentration as well as particle size, structure and composition. Airborne particles may include combustion-derived particles from welding, cigarette smoke, traffic and industry, etc. as well as biological particles such as pollen and fungi. Research on particle toxicology attempts to investigate the effects of individual particles and sources. This enables better predictability of newly generated particles. In vivo toxicological studies screen for long-term effects in the respiratory tract. Such studies include the histopathological analysis of the lungs for investigating adverse effects of particles. This book provides comprehensive insights into the field of particle toxicology. The topics included herein are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. It will prove to be immensely beneficial to students and researchers in toxicology.

Oxidative stress is a disturbance in the balance between the production of reactive oxygen species and antioxidant defenses. Disruptions in the normal redox state of cells can lead to damage of cell components such as lipids, proteins and DNA. Oxidative stress and cellular senescence are involved in several acute and chronic pathological conditions, such as acute and chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular diseases, biliary diseases and macular degeneration. Some of the major diseases that can be traced back to oxidative stress include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, sickle-cell disease, ADHD, etc. The reactive species formed due to oxidative stress can cause damage to DNA, suppress apoptosis, and promote proliferation, metastasis and invasiveness. These are important processes in the development of cancer. This book covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around oxidative stress. The topics covered herein deal with the physiopathology and clinical aspects of oxidative stress. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.

The ability of the brain to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout a person's life is known as neuroplasticity. This mechanism allows neurons to compensate for disease and injury, and adjust their activities to changes in their environment. The fundamental processes underlying neuroplasticity is that individual synaptic connections are continually removed and recreated depending upon the activity of the neurons. An important consequence of neuroplasticity and one with clinical implications is that the brain activity related to a given function can be transferred to a different location. This can be the basis of the treatment of acquired brain injury and rehabilitation of brain injury. Various rehabilitation techniques such as functional electrical stimulation, virtual reality therapy, constraint-induced movement therapy and treadmill training with body-weight support work due to cortical reorganization. Much research is being undertaken to use neuroplasticity for binocular vision improvement, stereopsis recovery, learning disabilities management, sensory function development, etc. This book provides comprehensive insights into the clinical frontiers and functions of neuroplasticity. 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.

Molecular medicine is concerned with the study of molecular structures and mechanisms, identification of molecular and genetic errors of disease and the design of molecular interventions for correcting these. Such studies are aided by various physical, biological, bioinformatics, medical and chemical techniques. The molecular medicine perspective lays emphasis on cellular and molecular interventions for the management of disease. In molecular pathology, diseases are studied based on an examination of body fluids, tissues or organs. Various techniques, such as DNA microarray, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, multiplex PCR, in situ hybridization, DNA sequencing, in situ RNA sequencing, etc. are used in molecular pathology. Molecular diagnostics refers to a collection of techniques that analyze biomarkers in the genome and proteome, the genetic code of individuals and how cells express their genes as proteins. These allow the diagnosis and monitoring of diseases, detection of risks and formulation of individual-specific therapies. Molecular diagnostics are widely used in prenatal testing for chromosomal abnormalities, identification of infectious diseases, disease risk management, etc. This book discusses the fundamentals as well as modern approaches of molecular medicine. It consists of contributions made by international experts. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

Oxidative stress is an imbalance in the production of free radicals and the body's inability to counteract their harmful effects or detoxify. This imbalance can cause disruptions in cellular signaling. Oxidative stress implies an increased production of oxidizing species and decrease in the effectiveness of antioxidant defenses. Moderate oxidation can trigger apoptosis, while more severe cases cause necrosis. Oxidative stress is considered to be an important element in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, Lou Gehrig's disease, multiple sclerosis, autism, etc. Oxidative stress has been implicated in the incidence of cardiovascular diseases, as oxidation of LDL is a precursor to plaque formation. This book elucidates the concepts and innovative models around prospective developments with respect to oxidative stress. It unravels the recent studies in the mechanisms and disease pathogenesis of oxidative stress. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make this book an invaluable source of knowledge.

Applied natural sciences such as clinical virology, medical microbiology, genetic epidemiology, clinical epidemiology and biomedical engineering are of wide use in health care. Such a set of applied sciences is collectively termed as biomedical science. It is concerned with the development of new therapeutic strategies or advanced diagnostic tools for the treatment and management of diseases. Various genetic engineering, molecular, biochemical and imaging techniques are used to guide such research. Over the past century, there has been significant increase in the longevity of humans, owing to advancement in medical research. Biomedical research encompasses both basic and clinical research. Medical research has major benefits, such as insulin treatment for diabetes, vaccines for polio and measles, management of AIDS, improved surgical techniques like microsurgery, antibiotics for the treatment of different maladies and better successes with cancer. This book outlines the processes and applications of biomedical science in detail. The topics included in this book are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. As this field is emerging at a fast pace, this book will help the readers to better understand the concepts of biomedical science.

Women's health is the branch of medicine which is concerned with the treatment and diagnosis of diseases and conditions that affect the physical and emotional well-being of women. It encompasses a range of focus areas, whether in terms of sexual and reproductive health, or general health. Sexual health comprises of a variety of issues and concerns including pregnancy and childbirth, infertility, sexually transmitted infections, menstruation, menopause, etc. Women are prone to cardiovascular diseases, anxiety, depression, gynecological cancers, dementia, anemia, osteoporosis, etc. Women can prevent the occurrence of several of these conditions through preventive services, such as regular gynecological checkups, bone density testing, immunizations, screening for cancers and STIs, HPV testing and pap smear, etc. Access to healthcare services and resources can play a determining role in lowering mortality rates in women. This book explores all the important aspects of women's health in the present day scenario. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on women's health 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.

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a primary liver cancer. It is the most common cause of death in patients suffering from cirrhosis. Most individuals with hepatocellular carcinoma exhibit signs and symptoms consistent with chronic liver disease. Other risk factors that can contribute to an incidence of this condition include chronic hepatitis B and C, Type 2 diabetes, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, Wilson's disease, etc. The carcinoma can be detected through blood testing and imaging evaluation, especially MRI. The treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma and its prognosis depends on factors such as tumor size, spread, histology and patient health. Surgical resection, liver transplantation, arterial catheter-based treatment and systemic therapy are certain therapies for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma. This book brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the unexplored aspects of hepatocellular carcinoma. The objective of this book is to give a general view of the diagnosis and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. A number of latest researches have been included to keep the readers up-to-date with the global concepts in this area of study.

Nursing is concerned with the prevention of illness, promotion of health, and care of the ill, disabled and dying. Midwifery is a health profession concerned with the provision of healthcare in childbirth, pregnancy, the postpartum period and care of the newborn. Nursing has a wide scope in terms of its reach in diverse areas, such as women's health, neonatal care, pediatrics, adult gerontology, etc. Midwifery-led care has been associated with fewer episiotomies, reduction in the use of epidurals and a decreased risk of losing the baby before 24 weeks of gestation. However, it has also been associated with increased mean length of labor. A midwife is responsible for conducting routine checkups, tests and examinations during the three trimesters of pregnancy, informing a mother about birthing options, assisting with childbirth, and infant and mother assessment. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of nursing and midwifery and the recent researches in these domains. The various studies that are constantly contributing towards advancing technologies and evolution of these fields are examined in detail. It aims to equip students and experts with the advanced topics and upcoming concepts in these disciplines.

The study of health, disease and healthcare approached from a geographical perspective constitutes the field of health and medical geography. The field is focused on the study of the geographies of disease and illness, through descriptive and analytic research. This involves quantifying disease frequencies and distributions as well as the study of the characteristics that make an individual or a population susceptible to disease. An important aspect of health geography is the geography of healthcare, particularly healthcare facility location, utilization and accessibility. All pertinent health risks such as natural disasters, stress, depression, interpersonal violence, etc. are assessed in medical geography. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of health and medical geography and the recent researches in this field. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on medical and health geography have been included herein. This book is an essential guide for both academicians and those who wish to pursue this discipline further.

Hematologic cancers are the malignancies of the hematopoietic and lymphoid tissues that affect the blood, lymph, bone marrow and lymphatic system. These derive from two blood lineages- lymphoid and myeloid cell lines. Lymphomas, myeloma and lymphocytic leukemias are lymphoid line malignancies, while myelodysplastic syndromes, myeloproliferative diseases, and acute and chronic myelogenous leukemia are myeloid in origin. A blood film and a complete blood count are essential for the diagnosis of a blood cancer. A bone marrow biopsy is usually needed for the analysis of these disorders. These cancers are targeted through symptomatic treatment or more aggressively with immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. In case of a successful treatment, patients are followed up at regular intervals to detect recurrences and secondary malignancies. This book provides comprehensive insights into the field of oncology. It unfolds the innovative aspects of hematologic cancers, which will be crucial for the progress of this field in the future. It will help the readers in keeping pace with the rapid changes in this field.

Health economics is a branch of economics, which is concerned with the rigorous and systematic examination of the problems of healthcare. It strives to develop a comprehension of the behavior of individuals, health care providers and governments by applying economic theories of producer and consumer. Multiple types of financial information are evaluated, such as charges, costs and expenditures. Health economics seeks to optimize the allocation of available health resources for fair distribution, health promotion and disease prevention. It applies economic theory, economic models and empirical techniques for decision-making by health care providers, individuals and governments relative to health and health care. Health economics is crucial for promoting healthy lifestyles and positive health outcomes. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of health economics and the recent researches in this field. Most of the topics introduced herein cover new concepts, tools and applications of health economics. It will help new researchers by foregrounding their knowledge in this field.

Head injury is any injury that results in trauma to the skull or brain, due to falls, accidents or physical assault. Head injury can be conspicuous or inconspicuous. In an open head injury, the skull may be broken or cracked open, leading to bleeding. Besides the more apparent nature of the injury, it may present itself with symptoms such as sleepiness, abnormal behavior, severe headaches, vomiting, mismatched pupil sizes and localized paralysis in certain parts of the body. Many of these problems may not be immediately apparent and may develop later in life. Sometimes, a head injury can result in the destruction or degeneration of brain cells leading to brain damage. Several imaging techniques can aid in detecting and assessing the extent of brain damage, such as MRI, CT scan, PET, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, single-photon emission tomography, etc. Most head injuries though benign need close monitoring for complications such as intracranial bleeding. Neurosurgical evaluation is useful when the brain sustains severe damage. Treatment strives to control elevated intracranial pressure by using paralytics, sedation and cerebrospinal fluid diversion. The second line of strategy may involve barbiturate coma, decompressive craniectomy, hypertonic saline and hypothermia. This book contains some path-breaking studies in head injuries. It provides an evidence-based approach to the management of head injury. It will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and post graduate students.

Gene therapy is a therapeutic technique in which nucleic acid is delivered into the cells of a patient as a drug to treat disease. The fundamental strategy in gene therapy is the use of DNA which when administered, reaches the damaged cells, enters the cell, and disrupts or expresses a protein. Multiple delivery techniques can be used for DNA delivery. Recent advances in the understanding of nuclease function have enabled direct DNA editing using CRISPR and zinc finger nucleases. Genes are incorporated into chromosomes with the help of vectors, which then express the nucleases that knock out and replace the genes in the chromosome. The vectors used in gene therapy can be recombinant viruses or naked DNA or DNA complexes. There is thus a great potential in using gene therapy and gene editing in treating genetic and viral diseases as well as cancer. The ever growing need of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technology is the reason that has fueled the research in the field of gene therapy in recent times. The various studies that are constantly contributing towards advancing therapeutic strategies and mechanisms, and evolution of gene therapy are examined in detail. This book aims to serve as a resource guide for students and experts alike and contribute to the growth of the discipline.

Gastrointestinal imaging comprises of the techniques used for the imaging of the appendix and small bowel, liver and pancreas in the upper abdomen, and the colon and rectum. There has been immense progress in gastrointestinal imaging over the past decades, especially with advances in cross-sectional imaging such as magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. This has played an increasingly important role in the evaluation of gastrointestinal disorders. Further, advances in endoscopic techniques, especially the development of capsule endoscopy have enabled the direct mucosal visualization of the gastrointestinal tract. Cross-sectional imaging techniques allow the thickness of the gastric and bowel wall to be displayed, the deep pelvis ileal loops to be visualized without superimposition, and the mesentery and perienteric fat to be evaluated. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the theory and practice of the use of gastrointestinal imaging in medical science. The aim of this book is to present researches that have transformed this discipline and aided its advancement. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.