Böcker utgivna av American Medical Publishers

Drug delivery system refers to the creation of a device which enables a therapeutic substance to reach a selected location in the human body without targeting the healthy tissues, cells and organs. It is a wide area of research which is related to the development of various new carrier systems and materials to be used in the delivery of drugs for efficient treatment. The novel systems of drug delivery are focused on providing sustained drug delivery with better body distribution, avoidance of drug clearance, and drug protection from harsh external environment. Furthermore, it comprises of polymeric, lipidic and proteic technologies. The evolution of nanomaterials for drug delivery, known as nano-drug delivery systems (NDDSs), provides the opportunity to avoid the side effects of systemic drug administration and injury caused by the removal of tumors. This book on advances in drug delivery is a collective contribution of a renowned group of international experts. It traces significant advances in drug delivery systems. The book is an invaluable source of reference for medical practitioners, students, scientists, and researchers.

The prostate gland is a part of the male reproductive system. It is located slightly below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It produces a fluid which is a part of the semen. Prostate cancer is a condition that causes malignant cells to develop in the prostate tissues. The symptoms comprise frequent urinating or a weak urine flow. It is diagnosed through tests which examine the prostate and blood. A biopsy is performed to diagnose prostate cancer and determining the grade of the cancer. There are various treatments available for patients with this cancer including surgery, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation therapy and radiopharmaceutical therapy, bisphosphonate therapy, and chemotherapy. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the assessment and management of prostate cancer. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of this disease. This book will prove to be immensely beneficial to students and researchers in this field.

Addiction refers to a neuropsychological disorder characterized by continued substance abuse or engaging in certain behaviors despite being aware of the associated negative outcomes. Repetitive drug usage affects brain function in ways that prolongs yearning and decreases self-control. Experts have identified two major types of addictions, namely, chemical addiction and behavioral addiction. Addiction to substances such as nicotine, alcohol, amphetamine, and cocaine are examples of chemical addiction. On the other hand, behavioral addictions comprise behaviors such as sex, video games, gambling, and binge eating. Addictions are treatable disorders. The first step involved in treating any addiction and ensuring long-term recovery is assessment of addiction. Patients must first undergo a thorough assessment at an addiction treatment center before the experts can devise an effective treatment plan. De-addiction treatment plans usually recommend the use of one or more therapies such as rational emotive behavior therapy, contingency management, cognitive behavioral therapy, medication-assisted treatment, and detoxification. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the epidemiology, assessment, and treatment of addictions. It will help new researchers by foregrounding their knowledge in this area of study.

The term adrenal cortex refers to the outer region and largest part of an adrenal gland. Adrenal cortex is divided into three distinct layers, namely, zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculate, and zona reticularis. The responsibility of each layer is to produce specific hormones. It is also the secondary site for the synthesis of androgens. Zona glomerulosa is the outermost layer of the adrenal cortex. This layer is the main site for the synthesis of aldosterone, a mineralocorticoid. The second zone, zona fasciculata is located between zona glomerulosa and zona reticularis. The basic function of this zone is to produce and secrete glucocorticoids, such as 11-deoxycorticosterone, corticosterone, and cortisol. The major hormone that stimulates cortisol secretion in humans is the ACTH that is released from the anterior pituitary. The third zone, zona reticularis is the innermost layer that produces androgens, namely, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulfate (DHEA-S), and androstenedione (the precursor to testosterone) in humans. This book provides significant information on the pathology and biology of adrenal cortex. It will prove to be immensely beneficial to students and researchers in the field of endocrinology.

Respiratory diseases are a group of diseases that affect the lungs and other parts of the human respiratory system. These diseases can be classified into three types, namely, airway diseases, lung tissue disease and lung circulation diseases. The main cause of respiratory diseases is air pollution, smoking tobacco, or breathing asbestos and radon. Airway diseases are conditions that affect airways carrying oxygen and other gases into and out of the lungs. Some common airway diseases are bronchiectasis, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Asthma is a major chronic respiratory disease that causes difficulty in breathing. Some common symptoms of asthma include wheezing, coughing and tightness in the chest. The diseases that affect the structure of the lung tissue are called lung tissue diseases. They are caused by scarring or inflammation of the tissues which restrict the lungs from expanding properly. This book is a practical guide to respiratory diseases. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to these diseases. This book includes contributions of experts and doctors which will provide innovative insights into respiratory diseases.

Urological disorder refers to any condition that affects the urinary tract and its functioning. The urinary tract consists of kidneys, ureters and bladder. Some common urologic disorders are urinary incontinence, urinary tract infections, kidney stones and prostate cancer. Urinary incontinence involves the loss of bladder control. In this condition, a patient experiences uncontrolled leakage of urine. Diabetes, pregnancy or childbirth, overactive bladder, enlarged prostate, and weak bladder muscles are some common causes of urinary incontinence. Kidney and ureteral stones is another urological condition that develops stones in the kidney. These stones can result in the blockage of the tubes which carry urine and cause a substantial amount of pain. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a common technique used to remove large stones. A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection caused by bacteria that infect the lining of the urinary tract. It may result in hematuria or bloody urine. Treatment of UTI depends on the analysis of urine. Antibiotic therapy is a common treatment used for UTI infections. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to urological disorders. It will provide comprehensive knowledge to the readers.

Pediatrics refers to the field of medicine concerned with the medical care of infants, children and adolescents. Integrative pediatric medicine is a branch of medicine that combines traditional medicine with complementary therapies supported by scientific research, primarily aimed at children and young adults. One of the most prominent clinical uses of integrative medicine in pediatrics includes the use of mind-body medicine treatments, such as biofeedback, guided imagery and hypnosis, for the management of pain. Another potential use for mind-body treatments is the reduction of toxic stress and its effects on children's health. The other areas include integrative approaches towards chronic illnesses, like bowel disease, cancer, arthritis, asthma and other conditions where conventional therapies are required but leave treatment gaps. These gaps can be filled with evidence-based integrative therapies that target lifestyle factors like sleep patterns, social support, dietary habits and physical activity levels that are frequently disregarded in the patients. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to integrative pediatrics. Its aim is to present researches that have transformed this discipline and aided its advancement. This book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.

Joint replacement is a surgical procedure concerned with the replacement of a damaged joint with an artificial joint. The artificial joints used in orthopedic surgeries are composed of metals, ceramics or plastics. There are various types of joint replacement surgeries, namely, hip replacement, shoulder replacement and knee replacement. Electrocardiogram, chest-X rays, CT scan and MRI are some commonly used pre-operative evaluation tests. A joint replacement surgery helps to relieve the symptoms like joint pain, joint stiffness and inflammation. There are some risks and complications associated with joint replacement, including heart attack, stroke, urinary tract infection, venous thromboembolism and pneumonia. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to joint replacement. It strives to provide a fair idea about this medical procedure and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances related to this medical procedure.

The type of cancer that involves an abnormal growth of skin cells is called skin cancer. There are three prominent forms of this type of cancer named as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. The main reason for development of skin cancer is exposure of skin to sun, and usually includes lips, ears, neck, face, and scalp. Basal cell carcinoma may appear like a pearly or waxy bump or as a flat, flesh colored scar-like lesion. Squamous cell carcinoma often affects people with darker skin tone and appears as a firm red nodule or as a flat lesion with a scaly crusted surface. The signs of melanoma include a large brownish spot with darker speckles, a painful lesion that itches or burns, or as a mole that changes in color and size. A weakened immune system, exposure to radiation, a personal history of skin cancer, fair skin, and excessive sun exposure are some factors that increase the risk of skin cancer. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the prevention and treatment of skin cancer. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of this disease. The book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) refers to a brain injury caused by an external force such as rapid acceleration-deceleration, direct impact, blast waves, or penetration by an object. It is also called intracranial injury. On the basis of the severity of injury, TBI is categorized as mild traumatic brain injury-mTBI, moderate TBI or severe TBI. An injury to the brain may affect brain function either temporarily or permanently. The mechanical force may also cause damage to the outermost membrane of brain called dura mater. TBI may lead to axonal alteration in the subcortical white matter, corpus callosum, and the brain stem. Falls, vehicle collisions, and violence are among the causes of traumatic brain injuries. The characteristics and severity of TBI are influenced by the type, direction, strength, and duration of pressures. Clinical suspicion of TBI is validated by neurological evaluation, banyan brain trauma indicator (BTI) blood test and neuroimaging techniques such as CT-scans and MRI. The treatment of TBI includes counseling, surgery, rehabilitation therapies and rest. This book is meant for students who are looking for an elaborate reference text on traumatic brain injuries. It also provides interesting topics for research which interested readers can take up. This book aims to serve as a resource guide for students and experts alike and contribute to the growth of the discipline.

Chronic diseases refer to those conditions that often last for three months or more, and have the potential to get worse with time. These diseases are more common in older people, and can typically be managed but not cured. Diabetes, cancer, stroke, arthritis and heart diseases are the most common types of chronic diseases. These diseases have symptoms specific to the disease, but can also cause subtle symptoms like mood disorders, pain and exhaustion. Several chronic diseases are caused by a combination of risk factors, such as physical inactivity, tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption and poor nutrition. Chronic diseases can be treated in a variety of ways including psychological therapy, surgery, radiotherapy and physical therapy. However, the use of medication is the most prevalent therapeutic method. This book explores all the important aspects of chronic diseases in the modern day. It provides significant information for clinicians to help develop a good understanding of these diseases.

Orthopedics is the branch of surgery concerned with the treatment of conditions involving the skeletal system and its interconnecting parts. The musculoskeletal system comprises parts including bones, muscles, joints, tendons, and ligaments. Orthopedics is focused on treating several complications and conditions, such as bone fractures, back pain, neck pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, congenital conditions, and joint pain from arthritis. Arthroscopic surgery is a common type of minimally invasive orthopedic surgery. It is used to diagnose and treat problems in the knee joint. The surgery for knee replacement is broadly categorized into two types, namely, total knee replacement and partial knee replacement. Total knee replacement is used to remove and replace the entire damaged knee joint with metal components. This book provides comprehensive insights into the field of orthopedics. It will also provide interesting topics for research which interested readers can take up. Researchers and students actively engaged in this field will find this book full of crucial and unexplored concepts.

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a condition in which the blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries becomes too high. Pulmonary arteries are responsible for carrying oxygen-poor blood from the heart to the lungs. Some common symptoms of pulmonary hypertension are shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, swelling in ankles, racing heartbeat and decreased hunger. Various risk factors associated with it are heart disease, lung disease, hypoxia, Down syndrome, and presence of blood clots in pulmonary arteries. There are many different kinds of tests for the diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension, such as right heart catheterization and Doppler echocardiogram tests. The common tests to examine the underlying cause of pulmonary hypertension include blood tests, chest CT scan, chest X-ray, and pulmonary ventilation/perfusion scan. The treatment methods for pulmonary arterial hypertension are diuretics, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary vasodilators. This book explores the clinical aspects of pulmonary hypertension in detail. It consists of contributions made by international experts. This book will prove immensely beneficial to professionals and students involved in the study and managment of this medical condition at various levels.

Kidney diseases (or renal diseases) are a group of disorders characterized by damage to or disease of the kidney that affects the ability of the kidney to filter fluid and waste from the blood. These diseases can be classified into two categories, namely, nephritis and nephrosis. Nephritis is a condition in which there is inflammation in the kidney. There are several types of nephritis based on the site of the inflammation and it can lead to nephritic syndrome. Nephrosis is a condition without any inflammation in the kidney which can cause nephrotic syndrome. There are several causes of kidney diseases including accumulation of immunoglobulin A antibodies in the glomerulus, long term exposure to lead and its salts, long-term usage of analgesics, and administration of chemotherapy agents in the body. The diagnosis of kidney diseases involves a physical examination, and tests such as urine tests and renal ultrasonography. The topics covered in this extensive book deal with the core aspects of kidney diseases. It consists of contributions made by international experts. This book will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and post graduate students.

Ophthalmology is a medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. It is also involved in the study of the anatomy and physiology of the eye. Cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration are the four most prevalent eye disorders that can cause vision loss or blindness. Ophthalmology encompasses the usage of both surgical procedures and pharmaceutical interventions. It also makes use of artificial intelligence. Approved AI-based devices can be used to detect disorders by analyzing images of the eye taken with a retinal camera and utilizing a system to analyze whether the patient has any abnormalities and whether therapy is required. This book unfolds some of the vital pieces of work being conducted worldwide on various topics related to ophthalmology. Such selected concepts that redefine the research in this field have been presented herein. As this field is emerging at a rapid pace, the contents of this book will help the readers understand the developments taking place in ophthalmology.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) refers to a type of neurodegenerative disease that typically begins slowly and worsens over time. The most usual symptom is trouble remembering recent events. Various other symptoms can also occur with the progression of the disease, such as loss of motivation, behavioral issues, mood swings, problems with language, self-neglect and disorientation. As the health of the patient deteriorates, they frequently withdraw from society and family. There are numerous environmental and genetic risk factors that contribute to the development of this disease. An allele of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) is the most powerful genetic risk factor. There are several other risk factors, such as high blood pressure, a history of head injury and clinical depression. There are no treatments that can reverse or stop the development of the disease, while some can temporarily alleviate symptoms. This book aims to understand the clinical perspectives of Alzheimer's disease. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of this disease. Those with an interest in this field would find this book helpful.

Anorexia nervosa refers to a mental health disorder where a person restricts food intake intentionally due to an intense fear of weight gain. The common symptoms of anorexia nervosa are constipation, hair loss, infertility, brittle nails, dry skin, abnormal heart rhythms, and low blood pressure. It can be caused due to multiple factors, such as genetics, trauma, environment, peer pressure and emotional health. There are several complications associated with this eating disorder including depression, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder and substance use disorders. The diagnosis of anorexia nervosa is comprised of tests such as liver function tests, kidney function tests, urinalysis, bone density tests and complete blood count test. A combination of various methods, such as psychotherapy, medication, nutrition counseling, and hospitalization may be needed for the treatment of anorexia nervosa. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to anorexia nervosa. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, it targets students and professionals.

Antiarrhythmic drugs, also known as cardiac dysrhythmia medications, are a class of drugs used to treat irregular heart rhythms (cardiac arrhythmias) such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation. Amiodarone, flecainide, ibutilide, and lidocaine are a few antiarrhythmic drugs. Most of these drugs can be administered intravenously or orally, depending on the severity of the illness. These drugs have multiple modes of action. For instance, different classes of antiarrhythmic drugs include sodium channel disrupters, potassium channel blockers, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and cardiac glycosides. The side effects of antiarrhythmic medications are possible issues with the liver, kidney, thyroid or lungs, along with tiredness, nausea, and shortness of breath. This book aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of antiarrhythmic drugs and the recent researches in this field. It consists of contributions made by international experts. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

Ultrasound is a method of diagnostic imaging that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of structures within the body. This method involves the application of a thin layer of gel on the skin, which helps the transducer in transmitting ultrasound waves across the body. This device is placed directly on the skin, vagina or rectum to generate images through wave reflection. In this imaging method, sound travels through fluids and soft tissue which echoes back from denser surfaces for creating an image. Some common techniques used for ultrasound imaging are bone sonometry, abdominal ultrasound, breast ultrasound, echocardiogram, ophthalmic ultrasound, etc. Ultrasound guided biopsies are performed to collect a sample of tissue. Furthermore, it can also be used in the field of anesthesiology for guiding needle placement. This book discusses the clinical approach to ultrasound. It provides comprehensive insights into this area of diagnostic imaging. The book will serve as an invaluable resource for students and professionals.

Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is a vitamin that dissolves in water. It is commonly found in citrus fruits and some vegetables. Vitamin C plays an important role in the repair of tissues, formation of collagen and enzymatic production of some neurotransmitters. It is also essential for the functioning of the immune system and several enzymes. The deficiency of vitamin C causes scurvy. The early symptoms of scurvy include weakness, feeling tired, and sore arms and legs. It could lead to bleeding under the skin, spongy gums, 'corkscrew' hair growth, and poor wound healing without proper treatment. Adequate doses of vitamin C should be supplemented in diet. However, large doses of vitamin C can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, trouble in sleeping, and flushing of the skin. This book includes some of the vital pieces of works being conducted across the world, on various topics related to vitamin C. Those in search of information to further their knowledge on the role of this vitamin in nutrition and health will be greatly assisted by it.

Neurogastroenterology is a subspecialty of gastroenterology which deals with the diseases wherein disordered interactions take place between the central nervous system (CNS) and the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Neurogastroenterology deals with alterations taking place along the gut-brain axis. The brain-gut axis refers to the two-way biochemical signaling that takes place between the GI tract and the CNS. Neurogastroenterology deals with the neurology of the GI tract, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. It also focuses on the control of digestion through the enteric nervous system, the central nervous system, and integrative centers in sympathetic ganglia. The field of neurogastroenterology predominantly studies the diseases of the intrinsic enteric nervous system, i.e. the brain of the gut, which is a part of the nervous system and is responsible for controlling motility, endocrine secretions, and microcirculation of the gastrointestinal system. This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the field of neurogastroenterology. It is appropriate for students seeking detailed information on this area as well as for experts.

Urological cancer refers to a type of cancer which affects the structures and organs of female and male urinary systems, as well as the male reproductive system. It is classified into five types, including testicular cancer, bladder cancer, urethral cancer, kidney cancer and penile cancer. Blood in the urine is a sign of penile, bladder and kidney cancer. It can also lead to pelvic and back pain in the later stages. Those suffering from penile or testicular cancer may develop a visible lesion on the skin, as well as swelling or other skin abnormalities. The consumption of tobacco is a major risk factor for all types of urological cancer. The diagnosis is done through lab tests, biopsies, ureteroscopy or cystoscopy, and imaging techniques such as ultrasound, MRI, X-ray, angiogram or CT scan. The treatments of this disease rely on the stage and grade of tumor as well as on the choices of patients, and include radiation therapy, surgery and chemotherapy. This book unravels the recent studies on urological cancer. It strives to provide a fair idea about the latest advances in the clinical management of this disease. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.

Urological cancers refer to a group of diseases that develop in the organs of the urinary tract and the male reproductive tract as a result of aberrant cell development. These can affect the urethra, kidneys, bladder and ureter, as well as the testicles, penis and prostate in males. Cancers in these organs cause symptoms like a lump, pain, blood in the urine and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Urological cancers can be caused by a variety of factors, including the environment, genetics, lifestyle or other factors. Many of these cancers are treatable if detected early. Majority of these cancers are treated surgically in an attempt to eliminate the tumor. In certain cases, radiation therapy like cyberknife is preferred after surgery or in its place. This method employs high-energy beams, such as X-rays, to regulate or stop the development of cancer cells. Some patients may receive chemotherapy to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging studies on urological cancers. It aims to understand the clinical perspectives of these cancers. This book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.

Viruses are intracellular parasites that are found in all types of life forms, from plants and animals to prokaryotes and archaebacteria. These obligate infectious agents subvert various essential molecular and cellular processes of the host cell. Viruses exploit host cells to replicate and proliferate from cell to cell and from host to host, which leads to an increase in their own population within the host. Infection begins when viruses attach to the surface of the host cell. This means that the viruses bind to one or more cellular receptors, including proteins, carbohydrates and lipids. Viruses not only show the ability to evade immune responses to infect and replicate host cells, but also show the ability to control cellular stress responses such as degradation pathways, autophagy and cell death. Vector-borne viruses usually persist within the vector, but not on other hosts. Viruses often assemble within virus factories, but they can also mature and fold their surface and fusion proteins, depending on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), Golgi apparatus, and subsequent extracellular pathways. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts related to the cell biology of viruses as well as virus-host interactions. It aims to serve as a resource guide for students and experts alike and contribute to the growth of the research on viruses.

A neurodegenerative disease refers to a type of disease caused due to the progressive loss of structure or function of neurons. This whole process is known as neurodegeneration. This process can occur at several levels of neuronal circuitry in the brain, which ranges from molecular to systemic. Various types of neurodegenerative diseases include, Parkinson's disease, multiple system atrophy, Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, prion diseases, multiple sclerosis and Huntington's disease. A common pathogenic feature of various neurodegenerative diseases is the buildup of aggregated proteins, which can induce cellular dysfunction and ultimately lead to cell death. Neurodegenerative diseases might be categorized on the basis of their primary clinical characteristics, major molecular abnormality or anatomic distribution of neurodegeneration. The understanding of the molecular aspects of a variety of neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease can help to improve patient management from a basic or clinical standpoint. This book contains some path-breaking studies neurodegenerative diseases. It aims to shed light on molecular and clinical pathology of these diseases. This book will serve as a reference to a broad spectrum of readers.

Diabetes refers to a group of metabolic disorders that are characterized by having high blood sugar level over a long time. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a type of diabetes which is characterized by relative lack of insulin, high blood sugar and insulin resistance. The usual symptoms of T2D are frequent urination, unexplained weight loss and increased thirst. There can be other symptoms such as fatigue, increased hunger and sores which do not heal easily. Symptoms usually occur gradually. Long-term complications of high blood sugar may lead to several diseases such as strokes, diabetic retinopathy, heart disease, kidney failure and poor blood flow. There are various preventive measures for T2D, which include consuming a healthy diet, maintaining a normal weight and exercising regularly. Treatment of T2D includes dietary changes and exercise. This book aims to understand the clinical perspectives of type 2 diabetes. It strives to provide a fair idea about role of diet and nutrition in T2D and to help develop a better understanding for its clinical management. Those with an interest in this disease would find this book helpful.

The spinal cord is a thin, long and tubular structure made up of nervous tissue. It extends from the medulla oblongata in the brainstem to the lumbar region of the vertebral column. Impairment to the spinal cord results in temporary or permanent changes in its functioning. There are several symptoms of spinal cord injury (SCI), such as loss of muscle function, loss of sensation and difficulty in breathing. An X-ray, MRI or CT scan might be utilized to evaluate whether or not there is damage in the spinal column and the place wherever it is situated. The treatment of SCI concentrates on the prevention of additional injury and helping persons suffering from SCI to lead an active and productive lifestyle. Some conditions of SCI can be managed with medications, to relieve muscle stiffness and pain in addition to medications for improving sexual functioning, bladder control and bowel control. This book is meant for students who are looking for an elaborate reference text on the diagnosis and treatment of spinal cord injuries. It will prove to be immensely beneficial to students and researchers in this field.

Atrial fibrillation (A-fib) refers to a condition of an abnormal heart rhythm characterized by rapid and irregular beating of the atrial chambers of the heart. In this condition, heart's upper chamber shakes and quiver and does not squeeze and contract as it should. A-fib increases the risk of heart failure, stroke and other heart-related problems. Patients with A-fib are more likely to develop dementia and the occurrence of both conditions increases with age. A stroke is a life-threatening medical disorder, which occurs when the blood supply to a portion of the brain is cut off. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. In a situation, where a blood clot escapes from left atrial appendage and reaches the other part of the body, it can cut off the blood supply of the brain which causes a stroke. This book provides comprehensive insights into stroke, dementia and atrial fibrillation. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. This book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.

A stroke refers to a medical condition in which there is insufficient blood flow to the brain that leads to cell death. There are two types of stroke, namely, hemorrhagic and ischemic. Hemorrhagic stroke is caused by bleeding, whereas ischemic stroke is caused by a lack of blood flow. High blood pressure is the most important risk factor of stroke. Modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for stroke are influenced by genetics. The genetic risk is proportional to an individual's gender, age and race. A variety of genetic mechanisms can improve the risk of stroke. Doppler ultrasound, a neurological assessment like NIHSS, arteriography, and MRI scans or CT scans are used to diagnose strokes. If an ischemic stroke is identified within first three to four hours, it can be treated with a medication which can break down the clot. However, surgery is helpful in the case of some hemorrhagic strokes. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of strokes. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of this medical condition. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.

The conditions that affect the skin are called as skin diseases. There are various types of skin diseases and disorders, such as acne, eczema, alopecia areata, epidermolysis bullosa, hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), ichthyosis, pachyonychia congenita, etc. Eczema and psoriasis are common chronic inflammatory skin diseases. Both psoriasis and eczema result in red, itchy scaly patches on the skin. Psoriasis is related to rheumatologic (psoriatic arthritis), cardiovascular, metabolic, hepatic, and psychiatric diseases whereas eczema is related to higher rates of mental health symptoms and disorders that include depression, anxiety, attention-deficit (hyperactivity) disorder, and sleep dysregulation. Both are caused by a complex interplay between skin-barrier disruption, immune dysregulation, host genetics and environment triggers. Common treatment options for eczema and psoriasis include topical treatments often used as monotherapy in mild to moderate disease. In moderate to severe cases, topical treatment is combined with systemic, biologic, or phototherapy. This book unravels the recent studies on skin diseases. It will serve as a valuable source of reference on eczema, psoriasis and related conditions for graduate and post graduate students.