Bøker utgitt av Foster Academics

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is the condition characterized by an abnormal narrowing of arteries that supply blood to all parts of the body other than the heart or brain. The underlying mechanisms of peripheral artery disease are atherosclerosis, blood clots, artery spasm, fibromuscular dysplasia, trauma and vasculitis. Depending on the severity of the disease, PAD can be managed through revascularization, medication and lifestyle changes. Revascularization can be done through an angioplasty, vascular bypass grafting, atherectomy, thrombolysis and thrombectomy. The need for revascularization is determined on the basis of the clinical presentation of critical limb ischemia, claudication and acute limb ischemia. Angiography, in particular magnetic resonance angiography and high-resolution computed tomography angiography provides assessment of vascular anatomy, disease location and lesion character. Such imaging helps to localize the lesions that are targeted for revascularization. The topics included in this book on endovascular treatment and angiography are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. It will help new researchers by foregrounding their knowledge in peripheral artery disease.

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.

Emergency medicine is the medical specialty that is concerned with the care of injuries and medical conditions that require urgent medical attention. The chief dimensions of focus in this area of medicine are life-saving operations such as resuscitation and stabilization, and the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses in the acute phase. The sub-specializations of emergency medicine are medical toxicology, critical care medicine, disaster medicine, hyperbaric medicine, etc. Some of the medical situations that require emergency medical care include heart attack, stroke, fracture, pregnancy related emergencies and complications, manic episode, airway obstruction, etc. This book elucidates the concepts and innovative models around prospective developments with respect to emergency medicine. While understanding the long-term perspectives of the topics, the book makes an effort in highlighting their impact as a modern tool for the growth of the discipline. It attempts to assist those with a goal of delving into this field.

African swine fever, classical swine fever, pseudorabies, influenza A virus in swine, etc. are some of the common swine diseases. Classical swine fever (CSF) is a highly contagious disease of swine that causes skin lesions, fever and convulsions, and ultimately culminates in death. Artificial immunization procedures can confer immunity against this condition. Diagnostic tests, such as direct and indirect immunofluorescence, ELISA and histology of the brain can be used to detect the disease. Swine vesicular disease (SVD) is another acute and contagious viral disease that is caused by the swine vesicular disease virus. It is typically characterized by fever, ulcers in the mouth and snout, feet and teats. This disease can infect pigs by exposure to feed containing lethal meal scraps, or infected fecal matter. Since no vaccine exists for this condition, various eradication measures are adopted such as quarantining infected areas, disposal and depopulation of infected pigs and disinfecting contaminated premises. This book covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around swine health. Some of the diverse topics covered in this book address the varied swine diseases that fall under this category. It is a vital tool for all researching or studying swine diseases as it gives incredible insights into emerging trends and concepts.

The conditions caused due to the hypersensitivity of the immune system to the substances present in the environment that are generally harmless for people are called allergies. Some common allergies are food allergies, hay fever, allergic asthma, atopic dermatitis and anaphylaxis. Symptoms include itchy rashes, runny nose, swelling, red eyes and shortness of breath. Some specific foods, medications, metal and pollen insect stings are some common causes of allergy. Blood tests, skin prick tests, patch tests, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and radioallergosorbent test (RAST) are the main diagnostic techniques. Treatment methods include allergen immunotherapy and enzyme potentiated desensitization. The topics included in this book on allergies are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of allergies and the recent researches related to such medical conditions. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.

The mental disorders characterized by the habit of abnormal eating which negatively affect a person's mental or physical health are known as eating disorders. Some of their common types include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, pica and rumination syndrome. Anorexia nervosa is a type of disorder associated with one's act of putting a limit over one's dietary habits, due to the fear of gaining weight and a strong desire to be thin. The type of eating disorder involving binge-eating episodes followed by purging is called bulimia nervosa. Binge eating disorder refers to the eating disorder associated with binge eating episodes that are associated with psychological and social problems. This book presents the complex aspects of eating disorders in the most comprehensible and easy to understand language. It discusses the fundamental as well as modern clinical perspectives of such disorders. This book is meant for students who are looking for an elaborate reference text on eating disorders.

The organ in the female reproductive system, which produces ovum, is known as ovary. There are two ovaries present in the female body. Ovaries are also responsible for the secretion of the hormones which play a major role in regulating a woman's menstrual cycle as well as fertility. When an abnormal growth of cells arise in or on an ovary, which invades or spreads to other regions of the body, it is called ovarian cancer. Some kinds of ovarian cancer are epithelial carcinoma, serous carcinoma, germ cell tumors, sex cord stromal tumors, etc. The diagnosis of ovarian cancer is aided by a physical examination, blood test and transvaginal ultrasound, and confirmed with a biopsy. Regardless of the subtype of ovarian cancer, treatment usually involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. This book provides comprehensive insights into the diagnosis and management of ovarian cancer. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to this medical condition. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

The medical condition associated with the inflammation of the liver is called hepatitis. It is caused by viruses. Viral hepatitis is mainly classified into five types, namely, hepatitis A, B, C, D and E. Both hepatitis B and C are generally spread via infected blood. The common symptoms of hepatitis B include vomiting, tiredness, abdominal pain, yellowish skin and dark urine. Assays and PCR tests are used for its diagnosis. Treatment methods include the intake of antiviral medications and interferon treatment. On the other hand, fever, abdominal pain and jaundice are common in patients suffering from hepatitis C. Diagnostic methods include HCV antibody enzyme immunoassay, blood testing and liver biopsies. Use of acetaminophen is helpful in treating it. The topics included in this book on the diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis B and C are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. This book is a complete source of knowledge on the present status of this medical condition.

The type of traditional medicine based on ancient Chinese medical practices, including qigong, tui na, herbal medicine and acupuncture, is known as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is based on the belief that a body's vital energy, called qi, flows through channels, known as meridians, which have branches connected to bodily organs and functions. The Yin-Yang theory and Wu Xing theory are the main philosophies of traditional Chinese medicine. This field emphasizes that diseases are the imbalances or disharmonies in the functioning of qi, yin, yang, meridians, xue and zang-fu. This book attempts to understand the multiple branches that fall under the field of Chinese medicine and how such concepts have practical applications. It strives to provide a fair idea about this discipline and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within this field. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

The field of veterinary medicine deals with the treatment and prevention of animal diseases and injuries. A number of diseases occur in bovines, cats and dogs such as anthrax, buffalo pox, bovine mastitis, bladder stones, rabies, pyometra, brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome, diabetes, obesity, etc. Animals are also prone to injuries such as bite wounds and wounds acquired from stepping on or running into objects. Depending on the injury, wounds may be cleaned and sutured, explored, lavaged and debrided, or left open and allowed to heal. Orthopedic surgeries such as hip replacement, leg amputation, bone fracture repair, etc. may be done to manage traumatic injuries. Zoonoses, such as Ebola, salmonellosis, bird and swine flu, early HIV infections, etc. are caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. These may be transmitted to humans through bites and saliva, or through air. Humans can also infect animals with diseases such as influenza, pneumonia, measles, tuberculosis and leishmaniasis. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the field of veterinary medicine. The objective of this book is to give a general view of the different areas of veterinary medicine and their applications. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

The process of removing excess water, toxins and solutes from the body of those whose kidneys are no longer able to naturally perform these functions is called dialysis. It is usually done in patients with acute kidney injury or end-stage kidney disease. It can act as a temporary relief measure in patients awaiting kidney transplant, and as a permanent measure in cases in which transplant is not possible. The primary types of dialysis include hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis and hemofiltration. Hemodiafiltration and intestinal dialysis are its secondary types. This book brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the unexplored aspects of dialysis therapy. It covers in detail some existing theories and innovative concepts revolving around dialysis therapy. This book includes contributions of experts and scientists, which will provide innovative insights into the subject.

The types of food, in which new ingredients or more of the already existing ingredients are added in order to give them an additional function, are called functional foods. Such foods are enriched during their processing to provide benefits to the consumers. They are primarily designed to provide physiological benefits and to prevent chronic diseases. They can be consumed normally as a part of one's regular diet. The addition of vitamin D to milk is a common example. The topics included in this book on functional foods are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on the nutritional and health impacts of functional foods have been included in it. For all those who are interested in this field, this book can prove to be an essential guide.

Complementary medicine refers to the use of alternative medicine with functional medical treatment, for the purpose of improving the treatment effects. Alternative medicine involves the use of such practices, which are unproven to relieve the pain or to achieve other healing effects of medicine. Naturopathy and homeopathy are two of the most common forms of alternative medicine. Naturopathy is a natural and non-invasive therapeutic treatment method based on the belief that the body heals on its own by using a vital energy, which guides the bodily processes. The belief, that the substances, which cause the symptoms of a disease in healthy people, cure similar symptoms in sick people, forms the roots of homeopathy. The various advancements in complementary and alternative medicine are glanced at and their applications as well as ramifications are looked at in detail in this book. Different approaches, evaluations, methodologies and advanced studies on alternative practices have been included in it. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.

The disease in which increased bone weakness aggravates the risk of a broken bone is known as osteoporosis. If the bone breaks, it leads to chronic pain and difficulties in carrying out normal activities. Osteoporosis is commonly associated with the bones of the forearm, the vertebrae in the spine and the hip. It may occur due to either lower or greater than normal bone mass. It may also occur due to alcoholism, surgical removal of ovaries, anorexia, kidney disease, chemotherapy, etc. Dual-ray X-ray absorptiometry is the most common method to measure it. The imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation is the underlying mechanism in most cases. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of osteoporosis and the recent researches related to it. Different approaches, evaluation and advanced studies on the disease have been included herein. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of osteoporosis.

Nursing is a primary division of healthcare. It can be referred to as the use of clinical judgement in order to provide autonomous or collaborative care to patients. It involves the achievement of optimal health and quality of life for individuals, families or communities. Nurses help in developing a plan of care to treat illnesses by working in coordination with physicians and therapists. Clinical nurse specialists may also diagnose health problems and prescribe medications accordingly. Nursing care can be provided in diverse settings such as hospitals, homes, schools, occupation health settings, etc. This book unfolds the innovative aspects of nursing which will be crucial for the progress of this field in the future. While understanding the long-term perspectives of the topics, this book makes an effort in highlighting their impact as a modern tool for the growth of the discipline. It is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.

The field of medicine concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases is known as rheumatology. It is often termed as the study and practice of medical immunology. Rheumatologists deal with diseases related to the soft tissues, musculoskeletal system, heritable connective tissue disorders, vasculitides and autoimmune diseases. Some common rheumatic diseases are osteoarthritis, tendinitis, capsulitis, palindromic rheumatism, Sjögren syndrome, dermatomyositis and systemic lupus erythematosus. The intake of analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are considered to be effective in treating rheumatic diseases. Surgical methods to treat such diseases include synovectomies and corrective interventions. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the field of rheumatology. The various advancements in this domain are glanced at and their applications as well as ramifications are looked at in detail. This book includes contributions of experts and doctors, which will provide innovative insights into rheumatology.

Palliative care refers to the medical and nursing care meant for people struggling with life-limiting illnesses. It aims at controlling symptoms, reducing pain and providing relief in physical and mental stress at any stage of illness. It focuses on improving the quality of life for the patient as well as their family. The health professionals commonly involved in a palliative care team include nurses, physicians, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and speech-language pathologists. Edmonton Symptoms Assessment Scale (ESAS) is a common method used to assess the symptoms of the patients receiving palliative care. The book studies, analyzes and upholds the pillars of palliative care and its utmost significance in modern times. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of palliative care and the recent researches in the subject. This book includes contributions of experts and researchers, which will provide innovative insights into this field.

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.