Bøger udgivet af Foster Academics

Drug discovery refers to the process of finding potential new therapeutic entities by using a combination of translational, computational, experimental and clinical models. The process of developing new drugs based on an understanding of a biological target is known as drug design. It entails designing molecules with shapes and charge which is complementary to the molecular target with which they bind and interact. Preclinical research using animal and cell-based models, clinical trials on humans, and obtaining regulatory approval to market the drugs are the key steps involved in the development and discovery of new drugs. Modern drug discovery encompasses the identification of screening hits, medicinal chemistry and optimization of those screening hits to improve their selectivity, metabolic stability, affinity, oral bioavailability and efficacy. This book explores all the new frontiers in drug design and discovery. It covers in detail some existent theories and innovative concepts revolving around this domain. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

Radiopharmaceuticals are a group of pharmaceutical drugs which contain radioactive isotopes. They are also referred to as medicinal radiocompounds. These agents are used to diagnose certain medical problems or treat certain diseases. Radiopharmaceuticals can be administered in patients through several different ways. They may be given by mouth, injection, or placed into the eye or into the bladder. There are several applications of diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals. They can be used to examine blood flow to the brain, functioning of the liver, lungs, heart or kidneys, to assess bone growth, and to confirm other diagnostic procedures. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to radiopharmaceuticals. Scientists and students engaged in radiopharmaceutical research will find it full of crucial and unexplored concepts.

Acupuncture is a type of alternative medicine, which is a significant constituent of conventional Chinese medicine. It involves the insertion of thin needles in one or more parts of body which are left there for fifteen to twenty minutes. It is linked with the application of pressure, heat and laser light. Generally utilized techniques of needling in acupuncture are insertion and de-qi sensation. Stainless steel needles are used in acupuncture, which makes them flexible, rust free and prevents them from breaking. Acupuncture is majorly used to provide pain relief, however, it can be utilized for various other conditions such as sciatica, irritable bowel syndrome and fibromyalgia. The topics covered in this extensive book deal with the core subjects of acupuncture. From theories to research to practical applications, studies related to all contemporary topics of relevance to this field have been included herein. This book includes contributions of experts, which will provide innovative insights into this field to the readers.

The prostate gland refers to a type of male reproductive organ that creates fluids which nourish and shield sperm cells. Prostate cancer, prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are the three most common types of prostate diseases. The symptoms of these diseases include blood in the sperm or urine, painful ejaculation, frequent urges to urinate, and dribbling of urine. A number of tests are used to diagnose prostate diseases including the PSA test, biopsies of the prostate, mid-stream urine (MSU) tests, etc. Depending on the type of prostatitis, antibacterial medications and supportive therapies can be used in the treatment. The treatment for BPH may include drugs to reduce the size of the prostate and relax the smooth muscle of the gland as well as surgery to create a permanently enlarged channel in the part of the urethra that passes through the prostate. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the assessment and management of prostate diseases. Its extensive content provides the readers with a thorough understanding of these medical conditions.

Regenerative medicine refers to a field of medicine that develops methods to recreate, replace or fix injured or diseased cells, tissues or organs, without having to cope with immune complications and donor supply shortage. It involves the development and application of tissue engineering, therapeutic stem cells, as well as the creation of artificial organs. The development of materials is a crucial component of regenerative medicine. Materials play a significant role in various tissue repair and therapeutic processes, such as tissue scaffolds, decellularized tissue substitutes, and delivery systems. Regeneration effectiveness depends on the design and manufacture of materials with biocompatible, optimal structural, as well as physicochemical qualities. Regenerative medicine strategies rely on tissue engineering (TE), induced autoregeneration, and somatic cell treatment. This book strives to provide a fair idea about material design and helps develop a better understanding of the latest advances in their use for regenerative medicine. Those with an interest in this field would find it helpful.

Males have a small walnut-shaped gland called the prostate that generates seminal fluid which nourishes and transports sperm. Prostate cancer is a type of cancer which affects the prostate gland. In the initial stages of prostate cancer, there are no symptoms or signs. However, various symptoms and signs can be observed during the progressive stage, which include blood in the sperm, erectile dysfunction, decreased force in the stream of urine, bone pain, difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, etc. There are various risk factors that contribute in the development of prostate cancer, such as family history, older age, obesity and race. The diagnosis of this type of cancer is done through prostate specific antigen (PSA), which is a serum marker. Prostate cancer is currently treated with proton beam therapy, surgery and radiation therapy. This book unravels the recent studies on prostate cancer. It strives to provide a fair idea about diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for this disease to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances in its clinical management. A number of latest researches have been included to keep the readers up-to-date with the global concepts in this medical condition.

Stem cells are the cells in the body from which other cells with specialized functions are generated. They give rise to diverse mature cells, and have the capability to differentiate and self-renew. Stem cells have a significant potential to improve the function of damaged organs or tissues, regenerate biologically, and repair themselves. There are two types of cells, which can be used for cardiac repair, including somatic stem cells and allogeneic stem cells. The primary goal of stem cell therapies for heart diseases is to rebuild heart muscle and restore heart's function and structure. It can also be used for reducing the occurrence and symptoms of heart failure, repairing impaired myocardial cells, and improving the cardiac function. Cardiac cell-based therapies have been used with a range of cell types including peripheral blood progenitor cells, cells expanded through ex vivo culture, endothelial progenitor cells, and skeletal myoblasts such as embryonic stem cells (ESCs), stem cells, aspirated bone marrow cells and pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). This book explores all the important aspects of stem cells and their potential within regenerative medicine of the cardiovascular system. It will help new researchers by foregrounding their knowledge on stem cells.

Any condition that causes inflammation or swelling of the muscles is called myositis. It has various causes, which include inflammatory conditions, injury, infection and immune disorders. Most of the causes of myositis are autoimmune in nature wherein the body attacks its own muscle tissues. Inflammatory conditions such as dermatomyositis, polymyositis, and inclusion body myositis cause severe myositis. Lupus, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis are some of the milder forms of myositis. Common cold, flu viruses, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are some viruses that may cause myositis. Its treatment depends on the underlying cause. Myositis caused due to inflammatory conditions requires treatment with drugs such as prednisone, azathioprine and methotrexate that suppress the immune system. This book is compiled in such a manner that it will provide an in-depth knowledge about the types, diagnosis and treatment of myositis. The readers would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective about this medical condition. The book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information on myositis as well as for experts.

Sexual health involves the absence of sickness, malfunction or infirmity, as well as a condition of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality. It necessitates a positive and respectful attitude toward sexuality and sexual relationships. It is also related with the ability to have safe sexual encounters without compulsion, prejudice and violence. Sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) or genital infections are the infections spread by sexual activity, particularly vaginal intercourse, anal sex, and oral sex. Viruses, bacteria and parasites that cause STD can be passed from one person to another through sperm, blood, vaginal fluids and other body fluids. Vaginal discharge, penile discharge, ulcers on or around the genitals, and pelvic pain are symptoms and indicators of genital infections. Some of the most common genital infections include herpes infection, human papillomavirus infection, chlamydia, hepatitis B, gonorrhea, syphilis and HIV/AIDS. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about sexual health and genital infections. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by it.

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) refers to a type of disease in which malignant cells develop in lung tissues. The symptoms of NSCLC are shortness of breath and a persistent cough. NSCLC is primarily divided into three types, including adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and large cell carcinoma. Smoking is the leading risk factor of NSCLC. Other risk factors include exposure to radiation, family history and exposure to second hand smoke. Chest X-ray, thoracentesis, CT scan, physical exam and health history, sputum cytology and laboratory tests are used to diagnose NSCLC. Patients with NSCLC can receive a variety of treatments, including laser therapy, surgery, chemotherapy, electrocautery, radiation therapy, targeted therapy and cryosurgery. This book provides significant information to help develop a good understanding of non-small cell lung cancer. Those with an interest in the study of this disease would find this book helpful.

Translational medicine is an interdisciplinary branch of the biomedical field that aims to improve human health and longevity by determining the relevance of novel discoveries to human disease in the biological sciences. It is also referred to as translational science. This area of research is supported by three main pillars, namely, benchside, bedside and community. Translational medicine integrates disciplines, resources, expertise, and techniques within these pillars to promote enhancements in prevention, diagnosis, and therapies. It focuses on enhancing clinical medicine by incorporating the latest developments in research, reducing the gap between upcoming knowledge and its clinical application. Translational medicine plays an important role in shortening the duration of clinical trials and providing cost-effective solutions for healthcare delivery. This book provides comprehensive insights into the fundamentals of translational medicine. It is an essential guide for the graduate and postgraduate students, professionals and researchers engaged in this field.

The technologies or medical devices that have been designed or developed using IT systems, algorithms, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud or blockchain, which are meant for supporting the healthcare organizations fall under the umbrella of healthcare technology. The advancement of technology has led to the adoption of medical equipment and technologies such as electronic health records (EHRs) and diagnostic imaging machines. EHRs have substituted the paper medical records thus making it easier to access and organize the medical records, reports and other healthcare data. Technology solutions help in increasing the productivity as they maintain collaboration across systems and manage costs. Healthcare interoperability across diverse and fragmented healthcare systems significantly reduces the total cost of care by minimizing the number of unnecessary or repeated tests which ultimately help the clinicians make faster diagnoses. It further automates the process of measuring and capturing data of patient care to spot the specific issues that need improvement. This book outlines the processes and applications of strategic heath technology. It traces the progress in this field and highlights some of its key concepts and applications. This book includes contributions of experts and scientists which will provide innovative insights into this field.

An addiction is a chronic dysfunction of the brain system concerned with reward, motivation and memory. It involves the way a body craves a substance or behavior, especially if it causes a compulsive or obsessive pursuit of reward and lack of concern over consequences. In contemporary times, smartphone and internet addiction has become a major issue of concern. Smart phone addiction is composed of various basic components. These include obsessive phone use, behaviors such as repetitive checking for messages or updates, or feelings of agitation or suffering without the phone. Internet addiction is a type of addiction that involves the inability to control one's internet use. This condition results in serious impairment of various life functions and can result in a variety of health conditions. This book provides a comprehensive understanding of smartphone and internet addiction. It will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a type of developmental disability caused by brain differences. ASD patients frequently struggle with social engagement and communication, as well as confined or repetitive activities or interests. Additionally, people with ASD have a distinct manner in which they learn, move or pay attention. Young adults and adolescents with ASD may struggle to develop and keep friendships, communicate with adults and peers, or comprehend the appropriate behaviors expected in the workplace or at school. There are several risk factors associated with ASD, including genetic, environmental and biological factors. There are no medical tests to diagnose ASD and the individual's development stage and behavior is assessed for diagnosis. ASD treatments aim to alleviate symptoms that affect quality of life and daily functioning. Treatment plans are typically collaborative and tailored according to the individual requirements. This book discusses the evaluation and assessment of autism spectrum disorder. A number of latest researches have been included herein to keep the readers up-to-date with the global concepts in this medical condition.

Physical activity and diet is crucial throughout childhood for maintaining body mass index (BMI), maintaining optimum body composition and lowering the risk of diet-related chronic diseases later in life. Children require a nutritious, well-balanced diet that includes foods from every food category in order to receive a variety of nutrients for good health. Milk and dairy products, grains, oils and fats, beans, meat, as well as vegetables and fruits are important food items for children. Physical activity is necessary for the healthy development and growth of children, as it benefits their minds and bodies. The amount of physical activity required by children varies according to their age. Exercise helps to manage and prevent non-communicable diseases, like diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. The symptoms of anxiety and depression are also decreased by exercise. This book covers the role of physical activity, exercise and diet in pediatrics. It will prove to be immensely beneficial to students and researchers in this field.

The human T-lymphotropic virus, also known as HTLV, refers to a group of human retroviruses which are recognized for causing a type of cancer known as adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma, and a demyelinating disease called HTLV-1 linked myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis. The HTLVs are a part of larger group of primate T-lymphotropic viruses. The members of this family which infect human beings are known as HTLVs and those who infect old world monkeys are known as Simian T-lymphotropic viruses (STLVs). There are four types of HTLVs that have been found, namely, HTLV-1, HTLV-2, HTLV-3, and HTLV-4. HTLV-1 is clinically significant and it is transmitted sexually, through blood transfusion, sharing needles in drug use and breast feeding. The virus illustrates low antigenic variability and natural immunity is possible in humans. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to human T-lymphotropic viruses. It will help the readers in keeping pace with the rapid changes in this area of study.

Biomechanics refers to the study of the motion, structure and function of the mechanical components of biological systems. This can span various levels, from whole organisms to cell organelles, organs and cells by utilizing the methods of mechanics. Sports biomechanics involves quantitative study and analysis of sports activities and professional players. It includes a thorough analysis of sport movements to reduce the risk of injury and enhance athletic performance. The laws of mechanics are used in biomechanics for gaining a better understanding of the athletic performance through computer simulation, mathematical modeling and measurement. Biomechanics facilitates sports players to work on various areas, such as enhancing running technique to improve efficiency or speed, enhancing vehicle aerodynamics and enhancing swimming technique to maximize propulsion. This book contains some path-breaking studies in sports biomechanics. It aims to shed light on the researches focused on optimizing human performance through the application of the principles of sports biomechanics. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

Skeletal muscles are organs found in the vertebrate muscular system that are usually connected to skeleton bones through tendons. It is the most abundant tissue in the human body and it is longer than other muscle tissues. It also has a strong innate ability to repair tissue damage occurred through an accident or degenerative illnesses, like muscular dystrophy, and regenerate new muscle fibers. Satellite cells and myogenic progenitors located between the muscle fiber membrane and the basal lamina are primarily responsible for regeneration. Skeletal muscles have the ability to regenerate and repair themselves following a trauma in a sophisticated and well-organized manner. This process requires the existence of varied cell populations, the up and down regulation of different gene expressions, along with the involvement of numerous growth agents. The topics in this book on the regeneration of skeletal muscles are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. The readers would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective in this area of orthopedics.

Nursing care comprises collaborative and autonomous care of individuals of all ages, groups and communities in all settings. The primary objective of nursing care is to promote well-being and prevent illness. It is also responsible for providing emotional and psychological support to ill, disabled and dying people. There are various tasks performed by within nursing that includes the assessment of patients, conducting medical tests and creation of treatment plans. Some of the key skills which fall under the umbrella of this discipline are leadership, ability to stay calm, enthusiasm for learning, interpersonal skills and problem solving ability. This book unravels the concepts, connections and skills required for delivering nursing care. 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 book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.

Nursing is the branch of medical science which involves delivering person-centered care. It is also focused on the maintenance of the optimal well-being and quality of life for individuals. The principal roles of nursing include health promotion and prevention of illness, caring for disabled and mentally ill persons, and engaging in healthcare teaching. Nursing also involves providing assistance in healthcare research. On the basis of the patient being cared for, nursing can be divided into various specialties such as mental health, pediatrics and gerontology. This book studies and analyses the central concepts of nursing and its utmost significance in modern times. It strives to provide a fair idea about this area of medical science and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within this field. The book is a vital tool for all researching and studying the field of nursing.

Healthcare focuses on improving the health of a patient through the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of a medical condition or a disease. It is provided by various professionals including doctors, nurses, physicians, therapists and lab technicians. Nursing is a healthcare profession that involves the care of individuals and their families to assist them in the process of recovering from an illness and achieve optimal quality of life. Advanced practice nursing is a type of nursing with advanced interventions that shape clinical healthcare outcomes for individuals, families and diverse populations. The key role of advanced practice nursing is to prescribe medication, as well as diagnose and treat minor illnesses and injuries. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to advanced practice nursing in healthcare. It is meant for students and professionals who are looking for an elaborate reference text on this branch of nursing.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a non-degenerative, non-congenital lesion or damage to the brain caused by an external mechanical force. As a result of injury to the brain, the patient may experience a permanent or temporary impairment of cognitive, physical and psychosocial functions due to reduced or altered state of consciousness. TBI can be broadly categorized into closed head injury and open brain injury. Serious blow to the brain wherein an object strikes the head but is not able to break the skull is called closed head injury. Open head injury happens when an object hits the head and penetrates into the brain. Falls, vehicle-related collisions, violence, and sports injuries are some of the main causes of TBI. Loss of consciousness, memory or concentration problems, headache, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, and changes in sleeping patterns, are some of the common symptoms of TBI. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the diagnosis, management and rehabilitation of traumatic brain injury. The readers would gain invaluable knowledge that would broaden their perspective about this medical condition.

A neurological disorder refers to a type of disorder that affects the nervous system. These disorders include multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, Parkinson's disease, brain tumors, epilepsy, neuroinfections, and cerebrovascular diseases. There are several signs and symptoms of these disorders, such as muscle weakness, seizures, loss of sensation, paralysis and poor coordination. Neurological disorders are diagnosed using a variety of medical techniques, including positron emission tomography (PET), electroencephalography (EEG), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), computerized tomography (CT scan) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scan). These medical technologies generate massive amounts of complex and high-dimensional data, which is a crucial source for planning therapies and treatments. Various advances in clinical practice and medical technologies are being developed, such as therapies with the potential to detect and treat Alzheimer's disease before its symptoms manifest, usage of stem cells for replacement therapy, and development of implantable wireless brain devices. This book unravels the recent studies on neurological disorders. It elucidates the advances in medical technology and clinical practice with respect to these disorders. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.

A neurological disorder refers to any disorder of the nervous system. A variety of symptoms can occur during these disorders due to biochemical, structural or electrical abnormalities in the spinal cord, brain or other nerves. Biomarkers offer a dynamic and powerful approach for gaining a better knowledge of a range of neurological disorders. They are also used in prognosis, screening, observational and analytic epidemiology, diagnosis, and randomized clinical trials. These markers are defined as changes in the constituents of body fluids or tissues, which provide a way to classify diseases and risk factors uniformly. They can help in learning more about the underlying pathogenesis of a disease. Biomarkers can also reflect the entire disease spectrum from the earliest manifestations to the final stages. The validity of biomarkers must be carefully evaluated in relation to the stage of disease. This book aims to shed light on the clinical biomarkers of neurological disorders. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.

Aphasia is a condition in which a person's ability to communicate is affected. It is caused by an impairment of specific brain regions responsible for language. It may affect both written as well as spoken language. Stroke (cerebral vascular accident) and head trauma are the most common causes for this condition. However, aphasia can also be caused due to brain tumors or progressive neurodegenerative damage. It usually indicates towards the presence of some other condition such as stroke. Auditory comprehension, vocal expression, reading and writing, and functional communication are the four modalities of communication. Diagnosis of aphasia requires determining if the brain damage was followed by problems in one or more communication modalities of a person's speech or language. The risk of aphasia can be lowered by taking few precautions such as regular exercise, nutritious diet, no alcohol and tobacco consumption, and controlling blood pressure levels. Various types of speech and language therapies such as visual communication therapy (VIC), functional communication therapy (FCT), and melodic intonation therapy (MIT) are helpful in managing aphasia. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of clinical perspectives with reference to aphasia. It aims to serve as a resource guide for students and medical practitioners alike.

Kidney cancer is a form of cancer that develops when renal cortical tumor is formed in the kidneys due to uncontrollable division of healthy cells. It can be classified into several types including renal cell carcinoma (RCC), urothelial cancer, sarcoma, Wilms tumor and lymphoma. RCC is the most common type of kidney cancer that affects the adults. It develops in the proximal tubules which are a part of the filtration system of kidneys. Haematuria, malaise, tiredness, chronic pain in the back, loss of appetite and fever are some common symptoms of RCC. Factors responsible for escalating the risk of RCC include smoking, old age, hypertension and obesity. Clinical management of RCC includes several tests and procedures. Imaging tests like ultrasound, X-ray, CT and MRI are used to detect any abnormality or tumors in the kidneys. Biopsy is a diagnostic method in which a sample of cells is removed from the suspicious area of kidney to identify the signs of cancer. Treatment of RCC consists of surgical methods like metastasectomy and laparoscopic surgery, and non-surgical methods like cryoablation and radiofrequency ablation. This book contains some path-breaking studies on the clinical management of renal cell carcinoma. It will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

Nephrology is the branch of science concerned with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of kidney diseases. Renal replacement therapy, kidney transplantation and dialysis are a few common treatment methods to restore the normal functioning of kidneys. Kidney transplantation is a technique in which a healthy kidney of a donor is transplanted in place of a dysfunctional kidney. It can be classified into two types, namely, deceased donor kidney transplant and living donor kidney transplant. The process of surgically transplanting a deceased donor kidney into the body of a recipient whose original kidneys are unable to function normally is called deceased donor kidney transplant. A procedure in which a kidney is removed from a healthy donor and surgically placed in an individual with kidney failure is known as living donor kidney transplant. This book unravels the recent studies on nephrology and kidney transplantation. It strives to provide a fair idea about this discipline and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within this field. This book will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and postgraduate students.

Epigenetics refers to a field of study concerned with the changes in DNA that do not involve modifications to the underlying sequence. It entails genetic control by factors other than a person's DNA sequence. Epigenetic modifications can activate or deactivate genes and determine which proteins are transcribed. The modifications have various effects on gene expression. The types of epigenetic changes include non-coding RNA, DNA methylation and histone modification. Epigenetic patterns may be affected by a number of lifestyle factors including tobacco smoking, food, exposure to environmental toxins, working on night shifts, obesity, alcohol consumption, psychological stress and physical activity. Epigenetics is a developing area of scientific study that demonstrates how environmental influences such as children's experiences affect the expression of their genes. This book unravels the recent studies in the field of epigenetics. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. The readers would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective in this area of study.

Malaria refers to a type of mosquito-borne infectious disease that affects human beings and other animals. The symptoms of malaria typically include vomiting, fever, headaches and tiredness. It can result in major health issues including permanent organ damage and death, if not treated properly. It is caused by a single-celled parasite of the genus plasmodium. Malaria is diagnosed through antigen-based rapid diagnostic tests or microscopic examination of blood. Antimalarial medications such as atovaquone, mefloquine, primaquine, artemisinin drugs and doxycycline are used in the treatment of malaria. The use of vaccine considerably lowers the risk of malaria in young children. This book aims to understand the immune response to infection and vaccination in malaria. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to this disease. The book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information on this medical condition as well as for experts.