Bøger udgivet af Murphy & Moore Publishing

The immune system protects the human body against harmful microbes such as bacteria, viruses, and also against parasites. It is composed of a network of intricate stages and pathways in the body. Several factors including older age, environmental toxins, excess weight, poor diet and chronic diseases can weaken the immune system. Malnutrition or poor diet can potentially impair the production and activity of immune cells and antibodies. The immune system of a body relies on the presence of many micronutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, selenium, iron and proteins. They are essential for the growth and function of immune cells. Therefore, it is crucial to consume a balanced diet containing a sufficient amount of nutrients for ensuring the efficient functioning of the human body. This book outlines the role of nutrients and dietary components in strengthening the immune system in detail. It aims to equip students and experts with the advanced topics and upcoming concepts in this area of study.

Viruses are microorganisms that replicate only inside the living cells of an organism, such as animals, plants, and microorganisms such as bacteria and archaea. Molecular virology refers to the study of viruses at the level of nucleic acids and proteins. The proliferation of one or more harmful viruses within the body of a host is called a viral infection. Molecular virology seeks to study cellular function and virus biology in order to develop techniques for inhibiting and treating viral infections. Protein-protein, protein-nucleic acid, and protein-lipid interactions control the structure of virus particles. There are several viruses that can introduce their DNA into the nucleus of the host cell. This book provides comprehensive insights into the clinical perspectives of molecular virology. The topics covered herein deal with the core subjects of this field. Researchers and students in the field of virology will be greatly assisted by this book.

Cardiovascular imaging encompasses cardiac imaging and vascular imaging. Cardiac imaging focuses on the non-invasive imaging of the heart through techniques such as MRI, CT scan and ultrasound. Vascular imaging refers to a set of diagnostic procedures used to evaluate the condition of the blood vessels. There are several techniques that are used to generate the images of the blood vessels. Carotid duplex ultrasound is a type of vascular imaging tool that evaluates the neck's carotid arteries which supply blood to the brain. It helps to evaluate the blood flow in the arteries. This book traces some of the recent advancements in cardiovascular imaging methods that are used to diagnose different diseases. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this medical field, it covers techniques and clinical interpretations of cardiovascular imaging. This book is meant for students who are looking for an elaborate reference text on this topic.

Liver is an integral part of the process of metabolism. It helps in the preservation and regulation of the lipid and glucose levels in the body, as well as in energy metabolism. The most common metabolic diseases which can affect the liver are Wilson disease, hereditary hemochromatosis, and Alpha-I antitrypsin deficiency (AATD). Some of the other types of disorders which affect the liver are infections, immune system issues, cancers, and heritable conditions. One of the upcoming methods of study which is used to study the cell metabolism within the liver is metabolomics. It refers to the scientific study of chemical processes involving metabolites, the small molecule substrates, intermediates, and products of cell metabolism. Metabolomics has a very high potential to detect biomarker candidates for the prospective advancement of new therapeutics. The book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of liver metabolism and the recent researches in this field with respect to liver diseases. It will provide comprehensive knowledge to both medical students and professionals.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are elements enfolded in a lipid bilayer membrane. Similar to exosomes, they are released by all living cells. They comprise a variety of bioactive molecules such as lipids, nucleic acids, metabolites and proteins. EVs have potential as a target for liquid biopsies because they can be detected in nearly all types of body fluids, including breast milk, blood, saliva, ascites and urine. Tumor-secreted EVs are important mediators for intercellular communication in both local and remote microenvironments. They are naturally taken up by the target cells and could be utilized to transfer therapeutic agents. It is crucial to recognize EV subtypes in order to determine which pathways are influenced by EVs and which subtypes can be targeted in liquid biopsies or therapeutic methods. This book provides comprehensive insights on extracellular vesicles. It is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide an in-depth knowledge about the role of extracellular vesicles in human health. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

Pharmacogenomics refers to the study of the influence of genes in an individual's response to drugs. This field draws from two fields, namely, pharmacology and genomics. It aims at developing safe and effective medications that can be prescribed based on an individual's genetic makeup. Pharmacogenomics involves the use of genetics to reduce unfavorable drug responses, enhance drug therapies and increase drug efficacy. The use of pharmacogenomics in drug development is expected to eliminate the unpredictable response of drug treatments that occurs due to genetic polymorphisms, which affect metabolism, tolerance and clearance. Pharmacogenomics can potentially be used to create tailored drugs for treating a variety of health issues such as Alzheimer's disease, asthma, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. This book aims to shed light on the role of pharmacogenomics in drug discovery and development. It covers in detail some existent theories and innovative concepts revolving around this domain. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.

Heparin refers to a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan which is used as a type of drug. These drugs are classified as anticoagulants since they rely on the activity of antithrombin. Heparin is primarily utilized to treat unstable angina and heart attacks. It is administered through injection into a vein under the skin. Its other applications include usage in kidney dialysis machines and inside test tubes. It is an unfractionated mixture of various partially sulfated polymers of different carbohydrates such as D-glucosamine, L-iduronic acid, 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-D-glucose, D-glucuronic acid, and 2-deoxy-2-sulfamino-D-glucose. Heparin chains are diverse in size and include both N- and O-sulfation and N-acetylation patterns, due to the complex biosynthesis process and unpredictability of animal species and tissues. This book provides comprehensive insights into the structure, functions and clinical applications of heparin. It aims to serve as a resource guide for students and experts alike.

Childhood obesity refers to a state in which a child's health or well-being is harmed by the presence of excess fat in the body. The methods to identify and evaluate body fat are problematic and due to this reason, BMI is frequently used to diagnose the presence and extent of obesity. The prevalence of obesity in children varies by gender and sex. The longer a child remains obese or overweight; the more likely it is that the child will grow up to be obese with all the associated morbidities. Children are exposed to a variety of social, nutritional and obesogenic environmental risks influencing their health throughout the life. Child obesity can be managed with physical activity and dietary changes. These play a significant role in ensuring a child's health and in maintaining the nutritional level, and diet patterns and quality. This book explores all the contemporary issues and challenges related to childhood obesity in the present day scenario. It strives to provide a fair idea about obesity in children and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances in its clinical management. This book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.

Geology is a field of natural science that involves the study of the Earth and other astronomical objects, characteristics and composition of these objects and how they change over time. Medical geology is a new interdisciplinary field that investigates the relationship between natural geological factors and their impact on animal and human health. It also attempts to develop an understanding of how the environment influences the geographical distribution of health issues in both animals and humans. Naturally high quantities of minerals, elements, microbes, or other compounds may also be found in geologic materials including soils, volcanic emissions, rocks and dusts, which can improve or harm human health. They may also consist of impurities from human sources such as chemicals, pathogen contaminants or minerals. There are several diseases which can be caused due to geologic materials such as cardiovascular disease and iodine deficiency. This book elucidates the concepts and innovative models around prospective developments in the field of medical geology. Those in search of information to further their knowledge on the effects of geological environments on human health will be greatly assisted by it.

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.

Polyphenols refers to a broad family of naturally occurring organic compounds that are distinguished by the presence of several phenol units. They are abundantly found in plants and are structurally diverse. Polyphenols can be found in a variety of plant-based foods and beverages including nuts, fruits, wine, soy, vegetables, tea and spices. A diet high in vegetables and fruits may reduce the chance of developing certain types of cancer. Natural polyphenols are known to decrease the risk of cancer through their anti-cancer mechanisms such as anti-inflammation, modulation of cell cycle signaling, removal of anticancer agents, and activity of antioxidant enzymes. They also regulate numerous molecular events implicated in carcinogenesis such as apoptosis and arrest of the cell cycle. This book aims to understand the therapeutic effects of polyphenols in treating cancer. From theories to research to practical applications, case studies related to all contemporary topics of relevance to this area of study have been included herein. The book will help new researchers by foregrounding their knowledge on this topic.

Sarcopenia refers to a type of muscle loss which occurs due to aging or immobility. It is characterized by a progressive loss of skeletal muscle strength, mass and quality, which is dependent on factors such as nutrition, exercise level and co-morbidities. Sarcopenia is a component of the frailty syndrome and can result in decreased quality of life as well as incapacity, falls and fractures. It has become a crucial subject in geriatric medicine and represents a growing area of research. Inactivity is a major risk factor of sarcopenia and regular exercise can significantly decrease the muscle loss. The most beneficial form of exercise is resistance training, which is designed for enhancing the muscle stamina and strength by using resistance weights and bands. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of sarcopenia and the clinical implications of the researches conducted on it. Most of the topics introduced herein cover new techniques for clinical diagnosis and treatment of sarcopenia. The book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information on this disease as well as for experts.

Nursing is a profession that involves the practice of caring for the ill and infirm. It plays a critical role in health-care delivery. It also encourages the well-being of patients and influences positive patient outcomes. It is an important part of the global healthcare systems, since it provides support and care, enables rehabilitation, promotes health, and educates the patients and public on the prevention of illnesses and injuries. It is also involved in forming a patient-centered design that promotes hospital environment safety, health and well-being. The constant attention, presence and observation skills which are a part of nursing enable doctors to make accurate diagnosis and recommend effective treatments. Early warning symptoms of impending emergencies such as respiratory failure or cardiac arrest are also observed within the field of nursing in order to save the lives of people. This book explores all the important aspects of nursing and its relevance in global healthcare in the present day scenario. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

Prostate cancer occurs in the walnut shaped prostate gland, which generates seminal fluid that transports and nourishes the sperm cells in males. It can be diagnosed through various methods such as digital rectal exam, magnetic resonance imaging, prostate-specific antigen test, ultrasound imaging and prostate biopsy. Majority of people with early-stage prostate cancer can benefit from treatment options like irradiation or radical prostatectomy. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the typical systemic therapy for individuals with advanced prostate cancer. Although ADT provides a short term remission, most patients eventually develop castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Effective therapy becomes limited after prostate cancer cells lose their sensitivity to ADT. Several novel alternatives for the treatment of CRPC include taxane, CYP17 inhibitor and AR antagonist. This book contains some path-breaking studies on human prostate cancer cells. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of their detection, growth and treatment. This book is a vital tool for all researching and studying this topic.

Coronavirus disease (Covid-19) refers to a type of an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Symptoms of Covid-19 can vary but frequently include headache, loss of smell, exhaustion, fever, loss of taste, cough and breathing difficulties. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a group of diseases that affect the blood vessels or heart. Covid-19 has various interactions with the cardiovascular system causing myocardial dysfunction and damage as well as increasing morbidity in patients with underlying cardiovascular conditions. Covid-19 can also lead to cardiovascular diseases such as acute coronary syndrome, myocardial damage, venous thromboembolism and arrhythmias. Medications including angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors which are designed to lower cardiovascular risk have a variety of side effects that may impact the severity or susceptibility of Covid-19. This book provides significant information to help develop a good understanding of links between Covid-19 and cardiovascular diseases. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of these diseases. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

Neuroprotection refers to the preservation of neuronal structure and function. It is a therapy option for a variety of central nervous system (CNS) disorders comprising spinal cord injury, neurodegenerative diseases, traumatic brain injury, stroke and acute control of neurotoxin ingestion. Neuroprotection is focused on stopping or slowing down the loss of neurons in order to avoid or limit disease progression and consequent damage. Some of the mechanisms associated with neuronal injury are increased levels in oxidative stress, energy failure, decreased delivery of oxygen and glucose to the brain, and iron accumulation. Neurotrophic factors, bioactive substances, cell engineering, and dietary nutrients may facilitate neuroprotection by improving pathogenic processes associated with neuronal death or degeneration. This book unravels the recent studies on neuroprotection. The readers would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective about this area of neurology. The book will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and postgraduate students.

Pulmonary drug delivery refers to all the techniques used to deliver drugs and aerosols to the respiratory epithelium and epithelial cells directly through inhalation. It is used as a targeted therapy for the treatment of respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and lung cancer. Drug delivery through the pulmonary route offers the distinct advantages of high bioavailability and no first-pass effect, which makes it an important means of delivering therapeutics directly to lung lesions. The benefits of pulmonary delivery include increased efficiency, a faster onset of delivery, decreased side effects, self-administration of non-invasive delivery, and localized action. The inherent properties of lungs such as their low enzymatic environment and high surface area make pulmonary delivery even more effective. This book provides significant information to help develop a good understanding of pulmonary physiology and drug delivery in respiratory diseases. Its extensive content will provide the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.

Tinnitus is a condition characterized by hearing hissing, ringing, whistling, buzzing, chirping or other sounds in the absence of any external sound. It may affect one or both the ears. The level of the noise can vary and it can be either constant or intermittent. There are commonly two types of tinnitus, categorized into objective tinnitus and subjective tinnitus. The sound of tinnitus experienced by people is frequently linked to hearing loss. It is also linked to changes in neural synchrony, neuronal transfer functions and tonotopic organization, as well as changes in neuronal hypoactivity or hyperactivity. The diagnosis of tinnitus is typically based on the individual's description. It can also be diagnosed through an audiogram, otolaryngological examination and neurological examination. Tinnitus is mainly treated with talk therapy, hearing aids and sound therapy. This book provides comprehensive insights into the neuroscience of tinnitus. Its extensive content provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the medical condition.

The cancers which affect the throat, mouth, sinuses or nose are classified as head and neck cancers. There are various treatment options for this type of cancer such as surgery, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Surgical treatment involves removing the cancerous tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue. One of the major advancements in head and neck cancer surgery is virtual surgical planning (VSP). It refers to a type of pre-operative planning technique that uses 3D imaging computer software to visualize a surgical procedure. 3D reconstruction of complex head and neck cancers can reveal crucial details like tumor location, range of invasion and blood supply. It also offers the possibility of preoperative simulation for complex defect repair. This book aims to shed light on some of the advancements in surgical otolaryngology related to head and neck cancer surgery. The readers would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective in this area of medicine.

Psychiatry is a specialty of medical science that is concerned with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of mental disorders. Some of the subspecialties within this area of medicine are neuropsychiatry, addiction psychiatry, sleep medicine, child and adolescent psychiatry and social psychiatry. Neuropsychiatry studies psychiatry from a neurological perspective, in order to attribute and understand the behavior and its interaction with social psychology and neurobiology factors. It considers mind to be a part of the brain, while in neurological and behavioral specialties they are considered distinct entities. It is especially important for the treatment of medical conditions which are classified as both neurological and mental. The objective of this book is to give a general view of neuropsychiatry and its 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. This book is a vital tool for all researching and studying this field.

Pregnancy refers to a period when one or more offsprings grow inside a woman's womb. It usually happens through sexual intercourse but it can also happen through assisted reproductive technology procedures. A combination of immunological and physiological changes during pregnancy increase the risk and severity of specific infections. If a woman contracts a serious infection during this period, it can endanger the mother as well as the child. It can also lead to complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight babies. Parasitic infections are common in pregnant women due to decreased body immunity and thus can impact physiological systems. Malaria and ameba infections have been linked to a higher risk of unfavorable pregnancy complications and outcomes. If a mother has a parasitic infection during pregnancy, this can alter immune responses in the fetus and infant. These immunological alterations may affect the way a child reacts to the same infection later in life. This book contains some path-breaking studies on the relationship between infections and pregnancy. It will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

Positive psychology is a sub-field of psychology, which studies the different factors that facilitate individuals, organizations and society in achieving success by developing their strengths. It studies various topics such as subjective well-being, happiness, personal growth, optimism, meaning, strengths, hope and flow. Positive psychology is applied in various areas including sports, workplaces, and medicine. It may be applied in any field wherein the impact of a person's outlook can be transformed into real-time benefits. This discipline plays a significant role in understanding the role of positivity, while developing interventions and methodologies for improving the functioning of people, organizations and society. This book unfolds the advances in positive psychology, which will be crucial for the progress of this field in the future. It is a vital tool for all researching and studying this field.

A wound is an injury that damages the outermost layer of the skin, also known as the epidermis. It involves punctured and lacerated skin, or a contusion caused by a blunt force compression or trauma. Wounds are classified into two major categories, namely, open wounds and closed wounds. Open wounds include incisions, lacerations, abrasions, puncture and avulsions, while closed wounds encompass contusions, hematomas and crush injury. The healing of a wound involves replacement of the damaged or destroyed tissue by a new tissue. Wound healing involves a controlled sequence of biochemical events, which are set into action for repairing the damage. The process of healing takes place in phases, which include blood clotting, inflammation, tissue growth and tissue remodeling. This book contains some path-breaking studies on wound healing as well as tissue repair and regeneration. It consists of contributions made by international experts. The book will provide comprehensive knowledge to the readers.

Hematology is a branch of medicine that deals with the study of blood, and the causes, prognosis, treatments and prevention of blood-related diseases. Red blood cells are a specific type of blood cells, which are the primary means of transporting oxygen to the tissues in the body through blood flow. They transport oxygen to the lungs through the capillaries and then release it in the tissues. The cytoplasm of these cells consists of hemoglobin, which contains the iron biomolecule having the capability to bind oxygen. Hemoglobin also provides the red color to the cells and blood. The cell membrane of the red blood cells comprises lipids and proteins, which provides essential properties for various physiological functions of the cells. These functions include stability and deformability of the blood cells, while traversing the capillary network and circulatory system. The red blood cells are created by the process of erythropoiesis, in which stem cells are transformed into red blood cells. Red blood cells have clinical significance as diseases such as anemia, hemolysis, and polycythemia can occur due to low or high red blood cell count. This book contains some path-breaking studies on red blood cells and the diseases associated with them. It will serve as a resource guide for experts as well as students.

Bovine tuberculosis is bacterial disease that occurs in cattle, domestic animals and wild animals. Mycobacterium bovis is the cause of this disease and can affect various animals, such as goats, deer, dogs, pigs, equines, cats and sheep. In the infected animals, evidence of the bacterium Mycobacterium bovis can be found in the throat and lungs. The other animals that come into contact with the breath or the discharges of the mouth or nose of an infected animal can contract bovine tuberculosis. There is no effective treatment for this disease and the animals which get infected with this disease are ultimately killed. The only way to control bovine tuberculosis is to isolate the healthy animals of the herd from the infected animals. This book elucidates the important perspectives on the prevalence and control of bovine tuberculosis. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.

Civil engineering refers to a professional engineering discipline that is primarily concerned with the design, construction and maintenance of the physical and naturally built environment. The types of structures formed in civil engineering include canals, pipelines, roads, structural components of buildings, bridges, airports, railways, dams and sewage systems. There are a wide range of building materials utilized in construction such as wood, concrete, masonry and steel. These materials have unique properties like durability, weight, cost and strength. These properties are appropriate for specific applications in construction. The testing of building materials aids in construction by revealing any flaws that could lead to future deformities. Testing can be done through two different ways which include laboratory testing and field testing. Some of the types of tests used in this field are non-destructive testing, mechanical testing and fire testing. This book contains some path-breaking studies in the field of civil engineering. It elucidates various building materials and testing methods used in this field. For all those who are interested in civil engineering, this book can prove to be an essential guide.

The Internet connects the people and entities across the globe through digital platforms such as Google, Alibaba, Facebook, Amazon, Kickstarter, and Airbnb. Digital platforms facilitate the exchange of goods, information, and services, that takes place between the consumers and producers. Internet governance refers to the rules and policies related to the management of the global cyberspace. It is used for preventing and penalizing cybercrime and offensive behavior that is observed over the Internet. Some of the organizations and bodies which govern the cyberspace include intergovernmental organizations, national governments, and international multistakeholder forums. The major intergovernmental organizations which are involved in the regulation of Internet use are international telecommunication union, UNESCO, and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). This book outlines the principles and policies of global Internet governance. It will prove to be immensely beneficial to students and researchers in this field.

Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the quality of air inside a school, house, office, or any other building environment. Poor IAQ has been associated with decreased productivity, sick building syndrome, and poor learning in schools. Nausea, sinus congestion, shortness of breath, headache and other symptoms are associated with poor IAQ. Indoor air pollution can cause a variety of health problems, including heart diseases, cancer, respiratory diseases and cognitive deficits. Risk assessment with respect to the IAQ involves the application of the tools and methodologies of risk assessment to the study of indoor air quality. The goal of an IAQ risk assessment is to detect problems with air quality in facility areas and develop long-term solutions to improve the safety and health of building occupants. It involves collecting samples from air and from building surfaces, studying the airflow, and determining the human exposure to pollutants. The main techniques for enhancing IAQ in the buildings include using air filters, eliminating or controlling the source of pollution, and using ventilation to dilute pollutants. This book contains some path-breaking studies on indoor air quality and its risk assessment. It will help the readers in keeping pace with the rapid changes in this field of study.

Forest ecosystem is a self-sustaining functional unit of nature wherein living organisms interact among themselves and with the surrounding physical environment. It is a type of terrestrial ecosystem. Both biotic and abiotic elements such as soil, trees, insects, animals, birds and humans are a part of the forest ecosystem. There are four major components of a forest ecosystem, namely, productivity, decomposition, energy flow, and nutrient uptake and cycling. Nutrient cycle refers to a system that involves the movement of substances and energy between living organisms and non-living elements of the environment. This happens when plants and animals ingest nutrients present in the soil, which are then released back into the ecosystem after they die and decompose. Nutrient cycling is crucial for meeting the nutrient supply of plants in the forest and increasing productivity of forests. This book unfolds the important aspects of nutrient uptake and cycling in forest ecosystems, which will be crucial to develop a complete understanding of the subject matter. It is a resource guide for experts as well as students.

Forests are areas of land that have a dense tree cover. They are the most common terrestrial ecosystem on Earth and are found all over the world. Trees and forests are vital to food production and nutrition. Management of soil fertility and forest nutrition is essential for ensuring the productivity of planted or natural forests. Forest management involves evaluating the land and the nutrient cycling process in order to ensure that the forest soil has sufficient nutrients and organic matter. This evaluation helps in revealing whether or not there are any deficiencies in the soil. Thereafter, fertilizers might be used for ensuring nitrogen fixation and enhancing nutrients in the soil. This book unfolds the different aspects of forest nutrition management. It aims to equip students and experts with the advanced topics and upcoming concepts in this area of forest management.