ALBERT

Description: Mineralogy includes thirteen chapters that discuss the methodology of specific mineralogical methods, the composition of minerals from different igneous rocks, and the composition of minerals from different sedimentary rocks.It contains detailed mineralogical studies from Africa, Asia, and Europe. Chapters present different scientific mineralogical methods and detailed descriptions of minerals from different magmatic and sedimentary rocks.

Description: Benzimidazole is a comprehensive survey of the known and new methods of benzimidazole synthesis, the spectral and theoretical aspects of existing benzimidazole derivatives, and the anticancer properties of a new class of benzimidazole derivatives. This book examines aspects and newer mechanisms of benzimidazoles containing heterocyclic moiety. Chapters report on anticancer properties of benzimidazole derivatives, novel methods of synthesis of benzimidazoles, versatile nature of the benzimidazoles, spectral and theoretical studies of benzimidazole derivatives, and medicinal importance and pharmacological aspects of benzimidazole derivatives.

Description: Green Chemistry - New Perspectives is at the frontiers of this continuously evolving interdisciplinary science, and publishes research that attempts to reduce the environmental impact of the chemical enterprise by developing a technology base that is inherently non-toxic to living things and the environment. The book covers all aspects of green chemistry, including chemical synthesis, nano synthesis, eco-friendly processes, biomass, extraction techniques, environmental remediation, and energy, making it a unique reference resource. This will continue to encourage scientists around the world to develop novel synthetic methods or improve the existing ones to circumvent some of the problems and favours all aspects of green chemistry. This book is intended for academia, professionals, scientists, as well as graduate and undergraduate students without any geographical limitations.

Description: This book consists of several selected chapters on important subjects in modern high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). The content addresses aspects related to both improvements in the mainstream HPLC/UPLC technology and utilization, as well as developments of exploratory new materials and equipment. The book presents useful details about the presented subjects as well as describes new applications and/or relevant case studies for each subject. It is addressed to a large audience of analytical chemists involved in separation science. Each chapter is authored by scientists with considerable field and academic experience.

Description: More than 2,500 serotypes of Salmonella exist. However, only some of these serotypes have been frequently associated with food-borne illnesses. Salmonella is the second most dominant bacterial cause of food-borne gastroenteritis worldwide. Often, most people who suffer from Salmonella infections have temporary gastroenteritis, which usually does not require treatment. However, when infection becomes invasive, antimicrobial treatment is mandatory. Symptoms generally occur 8 to 72 hours after ingestion of the pathogen and can last 3 to 5 days. Children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals are the most susceptible to salmonellosis infections. The annual economic cost due to food-borne Salmonella infections in the United States alone is estimated at $2.4 billion, with an estimated 1.4 million cases of salmonellosis and more than 500 deaths annually. This book contains nineteen chapters which cover a range of different topics, such as the role of foods in Salmonella infections, food-borne outbreaks caused by Salmonella, biofilm formation, antimicrobial drug resistance of Salmonella isolates, methods for controlling Salmonella in food, and Salmonella isolation and identification methods.

Description: Recent Advances in Chemical Kinetics provides a comprehensive overview of several types of chemical reactions. It includes six chapters that discuss solvent catalysis, customized flow reactors, p-conjugation in kinetics, kinetics of autoxidation, molecular chameleon for cations and anions, and internal clocks of atoms.

Description: Redox reactions are involved in biochemistry, energy, corrosion, and much more. In both biology and electrochemistry, the redox reaction is complex and varied. For example, redox shuttles in supercapacitors show aspects of molecular electrochemistry applied to electrode porosity. In pseudocapacitors, the formalism associated with their electrochemical response requires investigation and formalism. Similarly, the simple definition of redox potential opens fundamental questions about its measurement in solutions without supporting salts. This book illustrates the variety of redox reactions in its examination of the importance of redox molecules in the development of new electrical energy storage devices.

Description: We are living in a critical time, both for humanity and the planet, which has led us to look for more sustainable formulas to interact with the environment. One of the important changes in the design and operation of chemical processes is the search for environmentally friendly technologies. Supercritical carbon dioxide has been revealed as a promising environmentally friendly solvent that is energy efficient, selective and capable of reducing waste, making it a promising alternative to conventional organic solvents. However, reliable and versatile mathematical models of phase equilibrium thermodynamics are needed for the use of supercritical carbon dioxide in process design and viability studies. This book reviews experimental procedures for obtaining high-pressure phase equilibria data and describes the phase diagrams of binary mixtures and some thermodynamic models capable of determining the conditions of phase equilibria at high pressures. These concepts are applied to the components of the transesterification reaction of rac-2-pentanol with a vinyl ester, which is important in the pharmaceutical industry because (S)-2-pentanol can be obtained as a reaction product. This product is a key intermediate in the synthesis of drugs against Alzheimer’s disease.

Description: In recent decades, artificial porous structures have attracted increasing enthusiasm from researchers inspired by the fascinating molecular pores in nature and their unique biological functions. Although substantial achievements in porous materials have been realized, the construction of topologically designed pores is still challenging. Recently, the emergence of covalent organic frameworks (COFs), which are constructed based on organic and polymer chemistry, has made it possible to design artificial pores with controlled pore size, topology and interface properties. COFs are crystalline porous materials constructed by the precise reticulation of organic building blocks via dynamic covalent bonds. Distinct from non-covalent interactions which tend to produce isostructures, covalent bonds enable accurate pore design owing to their predetermined reaction pathways. In addition, the appropriate polycondensation of organic building units enables the formation of extended two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) polymer architectures with periodically ordered skeletons and well-defined pores. With their large surface area, tailorable structures, and tunable chemistry, COFs are regarded as potentially superior candidates for various applications including catalysis, energy storage and conversion, mass transport and biotechnology. This book examines the historic achievement of COFs, providing clear and comprehensive guidance for researchers on their structural design, synthetic protocols and functional exploration.

Description: Fluoride covers a continuum of topics that are frequently studied in the broad area of fluoride (F) research. It provides an overview of the primary sources of environmental fluoride in typical high-fluoride environments and demonstrates the transitions and transformations that emerge and culminate in hydro-geochemical interactions that result in fluoride-fouling of large portions of the world’s water and agricultural resources. This way, the book pinpoints the connection between F enrichment of water sources and the prevalence of endemic fluorosis in certain areas of the world. In order to contribute to a better understanding of the global fluoride problem, new fluoride detection and quantification technologies are proposed with an in-depth analysis of emerging trends in the use of portable user-friendly devices in point-of-use measurements of water fluoride. This has been presented against the backdrop of a robust overview of traditional fluoride quantification methodologies that are still in wide application among the scientific communities. In addressing fluoride toxicities, which are not limited to dental and skeletal dilapidations, the authors have explored the role of natural antioxidants in ameliorating physiological fluoride-induced noxious effects in mammalian systems. Nonetheless, since community dependence on high-fluoride water due to a lack of alternative clean water sources remains to be the principal pathway of human fluoride over-exposure, a review chapter on F mitigation techniques applied all over the world is incorporated aiming at providing a succinct overview of water defluoridation techniques and strategies being used to combat the impacts of human F overexposure around the globe. Since every cloud has a silvery lining, the possibility of using ammonium fluorides as a novel reagent in mineral processing has been considered convenient industrial fluorinating agents, which present the possibility of complete regeneration that is not afforded by the reagents presently used in decomposing silicon component of the ores.

Description: This book discusses the chemistry and applications of pyridine derivatives. The library of pyridine derivatives is growing steadily with numerous synthetic analogues already described and the identification of new, naturally occurring pyridine-based compounds. The book includes ten chapters organized into two parts. The first part focuses on the numerous types of reactions that arise from pyridine derivatives. The second part examines the pharmaceutical applications of pyridine derivatives as well as their usefulness as sensors for metal cations and extracting agents for platinum group metals.

Description: The book discusses multiple issues associated with modern dosimetry in physics and treatment planning and how investigators from diverse world centers and institutions approach problem-solving in these important areas. It examines topics including pretreatment validation and factors affecting reference dosimetry. It also addresses unique issues affecting pediatric populations as well as the modern role of thermoluminescence validation. Several chapters discuss intensity modulation, including defining modern problems associated with both treatment planning and the definition of tumor and normal tissue contours. Furthermore, the book examines the role of imaging as both a vehicle to define tumor targets and normal tissue as well as a tool for dose validation.

Description: Protein aggregation causes malfunction in several biochemical processes. Genetic and spontaneous formations of these transmissible spongiform encephalopathies are fatal to humans and animals. Conformational change of normal form of the protein to misfolded form causes its accumulation. The misfolded infectious protein agent forms the pathogenesis of the disease. This book presents pathology of the disease along with current knowledge of the structure-activity mechanism in the first two sections. Dyshomeostasis of metals is implicated in the pathogenesis of prions, and this influence is discussed further to understand the prion mechanism. Genetic resistance and immunobiology of the disease are elaborated in the following section. Finally, a computational study on the dynamics of the prion propagation provides a structural basis of the mechanism.

Description: The book comprises 14 chapters covering all the issues related to water desalination. These chapters emphasize the relationship between problems encountered with the use of feed water, the processes developed to address them, the operation of the required plants and solutions actually implemented. This compendium will assist designers, engineers and investigators to select the process and plant configuration that are most appropriate for the particular feed water to be used, for the geographic region considered, as well as for the characteristics required of the treated water produced. This survey offers a comprehensive, hierarchical and logical assessment of the entire desalination industry. It starts with the worldwide scarcity of water and energy, continues with the thermal - and membrane-based processes and, finally, presents the design and operation of large and small desalination plants. As such, it covers all the scientific, technological and economical aspects of this critical industry, not disregarding its environmental and social points of view. One of InTech's books has received widespread praise across a number of key publications. Desalination, Trends and Technologies (Ed. Schorr, M. 2011) has been reviewed in Corrosion Engineering, Science & Technology – the official magazine for the Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining, and Taylor & Francis's Desalination Publications. Praised for its “multi-faceted content [which] contributes to enrich it,” and described as “an essential companion...[that] enables the reader to gain a deeper understanding of the desalination industry,” this book is testament to the quality improvements we have been striving towards over the last twelve months.

Description: Tropical Medicine has emerged and remained as an important discipline for the study of diseases endemic in the tropic, particularly those of infectious etiology. Emergence and reemergence of many tropical pathologies have recently aroused the interest of many fields of the study of tropical medicine, even including new infectious agents. Then evidence-based information in the field and regular updates are necessary. Current Topics in Tropical Medicine presents an updated information on multiple diseases and conditions of interest in the field. It Includes pathologies caused by bacteria, viruses and parasites, protozoans and helminths, as well as tropical non-infectious conditions. Many of them are considering not only epidemiological aspects, but also diagnostic, therapeutical, preventive, social, genetic, bioinformatic and molecular ones. With participation of authors from various countries, many from proper endemic areas, this book has a wide geographical perspective. Finally, all of these characteristics, make an excellent update on many aspects of tropical medicine in the world.

Description: Progress in agricultural, biomedical and industrial applications' is a compilation of recent advances and developments in gas chromatography and its applications. The chapters cover various aspects of applications ranging from basic biological, biomedical applications to industrial applications. Book chapters analyze new developments in chromatographic columns, microextraction techniques, derivatisation techniques and pyrolysis techniques. The book also includes several aspects of basic chromatography techniques and is suitable for both young and advanced chromatographers. It includes some new developments in chromatography such as multidimensional chromatography, inverse chromatography and some discussions on two-dimensional chromatography. The topics covered include analysis of volatiles, toxicants, indoor air, petroleum hydrocarbons, organometallic compounds and natural products. The chapters were written by experts from various fields and clearly assisted by simple diagrams and tables. This book is highly recommended for chemists as well as non-chemists working in gas chromatography.

Description: This book discusses electrocatalysis and electrocatalysts for energy, water electrolysis, water treatment, CO2 conversion, and green chemistry. It reviews various electrocatalysts and their properties and electrochemical performances. The first section of the book covers topics in direct alcohol fuel cells including Pt-based electrocatalysts as non-carbon electrode support materials and the development of electrocatalysts for direct methanol fuel cells. The second section of the book covers various topics in electrocatalysis and electrocatalysts for a cleaner environment, including electrocatalysts for the conversion of CO2 to valuable products and SYNGAS, electrocatalysts for water electrolysis, and much more.

Description: Surfactants are ubiquitous and have applications in diverse areas, including food, cosmetics, detergents, lubricants, enhanced oil recovery (EOR), and targeted drug delivery systems. Their wide diversity of applications owes to their unique structure, namely, a hydrophilic and a hydrophobic group present in the same molecule. Although most surfactants used industrially are synthetic, there is a growing need for natural surfactants, as the latter is obtainable from renewable sources and are less toxic and highly biodegradable in contrast to their synthetic counterparts. This book is a compilation of interesting articles by various experts that cover various applications of both synthetic and natural surfactants.

Description: The chemical sensor plays an essential role in the fields of environmental conservation and monitoring, disaster and disease prevention, and industrial analysis. A typical chemical sensor is a device that transforms chemical information in a selective and reversible way, ranging from the concentration of a specific sample component to total composition analysis, into an analytically useful signal. Much research work has been performed to achieve a chemical sensor with such excellent qualities as quick response, low cost, small size, superior sensitivity, good reversibility and selectivity, and excellent detection limit. This book introduces the latest advances on chemical sensors. It consists of 15 chapters composed by the researchers active in the field of chemical sensors, and is divided into 5 sections according to the classification following the principles of signal transducer. This collection of up-to-date information and the latest research progress on chemical sensor will provide valuable references and learning materials for all those working in the field of chemical sensors.

Description: Of all the parasitic diseases, leishmaniasis is one of the most diverse, with a variety of manifestations, from relatively minor cutaneous lesions to deadly visceral infections. It is also widespread, causing human disease in the Americas, Asia, Europe and Africa. The environments in which this disease occurs range from desert to tropical jungle to urban habitats. Not surprisingly, the literature on this disease is written in a variety of languages including Portuguese, Arabic, English and French among others. This book provides a synopsis in English of much of the recent research on leishmaniasis, with a focus on the epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of the disease as described by researchers around the world, but with a focus on the research from Brazil and the Middle East.

Description: Distillation is an important separation technique that has been used for many centuries to exploit the volatility differences between components in a mixture. The distillation process has many variations and applications. This book includes two sections on desalination and reactive distillation. It discusses desalination in the processes of solar and membrane distillation, with a focus on the reduction of energy costs to obtain potable water. It also discusses reactive distillation, which can be used in some cases to reduce the power duty in the separation process by using the reaction heat directly in the separation. The book includes cases of mathematical modeling, simulation, and optimization of the distillation process.

Description: Mycobacterium tuberculosis in an attempt to understand the extent to which the bacilli has adapted itself to the host and to its final target. On the other hand, there is a section in which other specialists discuss how to manipulate this immune response to obtain innovative prophylactic and therapeutic approaches to truncate the intimal co-evolution between Mycobacterium tuberculosis and the Homo sapiens.

Description: Mycobacterium tuberculosis, as recent investigations demonstrate, has a complex signaling expression, which allows its close interaction with the environment and one of its most renowned properties: the ability to persist for long periods of time under a non-replicative status. Although this skill is well characterized in other bacteria, the intrinsically very slow growth rate of Mycobium tuberculosis, together with a very thick and complex cell wall, makes this pathogen specially adapted to the stress that could be generated by the host against them. In this book, different aspects of these properties are displayed by specialists in the field.

Description: Cyclodextrins (CDs) have attracted great interest from the research community as well as industries in an array of sectors because of their unique structural features. This book provides a comprehensive overview of CDs, beginning with their historical background. Chapters address such topics as the structure and physiochemical properties of CDs, advancements in the field, and potential applications of these materials in fields such as drug delivery and sensing. This book reveals new frontiers in the CD world and is a useful resource for organic, analytical, and supramolecular chemists as well as scientists engaged in biological and material sciences.

Description: The book presents a comprehensive overview of sorption, which is a multi-parametric separation process. It is extensively used in the removal of various pollutants from the tertiary stage of wastewater treatment, from leachates, etc. It discusses fundamental points of the technique as well as kinetic theories and isotherms. It also examines the synthesis and characterizations of all studied adsorbent materials to find their paths of sorption. Finally, it highlights the importance of having a cost-estimation plan for the synthesis of sorbent materials as well as predictions for their reusability.

Description: This book covers the different aspects of non-flavivirus encephalitises of different ethiology. The first section of the book considers general problems of epidemiology such as study of zoonotic and animal vectors of encephalitis causative agents and methods and approaches for encephalitis zoonoses investigations. The members of different virus species are known to be the causative agents of encephalitis, so the second section of the book is devoted to these viral pathogens, their epidemiology, pathology, diagnostics and molecular mechanisms of encephalitis development by such viruses as HIV/SIV, herpes simplex virus type 1 and equine herpesvirus 9, measles virus, coronaviruses, alphaviruses and rabies virus. The next section of the book concerns the study of protozoan pathogens such as toxoplasma and amoebae. The last section of the book is devoted to multicellular pathogen as human Filaria Loa Loa - a filarial worm restricted to the West Africa.

Description: Carotenoids are natural and versatile secondary metabolites, most of them showing colours that vary from yellow to red. They are widespread among living beings where they are involved in many biological roles reporting beneficial actions. To date, more than 750 carotenoids have been described in nature. Humans cannot synthesize carotenoids de novo, thus they are mainly obtained through diet. In fact, carotenoids are consistently found in tissues or biological fluids where they play a beneficial decreasing the risk of developing some diseases.During the last half-century, significant advances in carotenoids research have been made. This book highlights new perspectives and applications of carotenoids including characterization and isolation of new compounds (including rare carotenoids), their production at a mid-large scale (involving new innovative approaches), and uses of carotenoids in different biotechnological fields like food science, biomedicine, and cosmetics.

Description: Infrared Spectroscopy - Perspectives and Applications is a compendium of contributions from experts in the field of infrared (IR) spectroscopy. This assembly of investigations and reviews provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals as well as the groundbreaking applications in the field. Chapters discuss IR spectroscopy applications in the food and biomedicine sectors and for measuring transport through polymer membranes, characterizing lignocellulosic biomasses, detecting adulterants, and characterizing enamel surface advancements. This book is an invaluable resource and reference for students, researchers, and other interested readers.

Description: Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a disease that is transmitted through aerosol. This is the reason why it is estimated that a third of humankind is already infected by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The vast majority of the infected do not know about their status. Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a silent pathogen, causing no symptomatology at all during the infection. In addition, infected people cannot cause further infections. Unfortunately, an estimated 10 per cent of the infected population has the probability to develop the disease, making it very difficult to eradicate. Once in this stage, the bacilli can be transmitted to other persons and the development of clinical symptoms is very progressive. Therefore the diagnosis, especially the discrimination between infection and disease, is a real challenge. In this book, we present the experience of worldwide specialists on the diagnosis, along with its lights and shadows.

Description: The discovery of Salmonella in swine in 1885 marked the beginning of intense efforts to control salmonellae that have continued for the past 127 years. The majority of foodborne outbreaks are caused by only a few of the 2500+ known serovars. While progress has been made on many fronts, salmonellosis has yet to be eliminated in either developed or in developing nations. This work represents the collective contributions of authors from all around the world. Chapters in this book address a wide array of topics related to understanding and controlling this pathogen, including: Salmonella as studied in the environment, air and in food products; virulence and pathogenicity; control by bacteriophages and other antimicrobials; bacterial adaptation; etc.

Description: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a complex illness affecting the immune system. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is an advanced form of HIV infection in which the patient has developed opportunistic infections or certain types of cancer and/or the CD4+ T cell count has dropped below 200/μL. More than 40 million persons around the world are infected with HIV, with approximately 14,000 new infections every day. The disease causes 3 million deaths worldwide each year, 95% of them in developing countries. Optimal management of human immunodeficiency virus requires strict adherence to highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART) regimens, but the complexity of these regimens (e.g., pill burden, food requirements, drug interactions, and severe adverse effects) limits effective treatment. However, more patients with HIV are surviving longer today because of these drugs. This allows further study of commonly associated adverse effects. These may affect all body systems and range from serious toxicities to uncomfortable but manageable events. This book reviews some of HAART-related metabolic and neurological complications.

Description: In 1957, a Streptomyces strain, the ME/83 (S.mediterranei), was isolated in the Lepetit Research Laboratories from a soil sample collected at a pine arboretum near Saint Raphael, France. This drug was the base for the chemotherapy with Streptomicine. The euphoria generated by the success of this regimen lead to the idea that TB eradication would be possible by the year 2000. Thus, any further drug development against TB was stopped. Unfortunately, the lack of an accurate administration of these drugs originated the irruption of the drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Once the global emergency was declared in 1993, seeking out new drugs became urgent. In this book, diverse authors focus on the development and the activity of the new drug families.

Description: The chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an RNA virus that is transmitted to humans by Aedes mosquitos commonly found in tropical and subtropical countries. In humans, CHIKV causes an infection with symptoms strikingly like those of the dengue virus and Zika disease, both of which are also transmitted to humans by the same genus of mosquitos. This book delves into the history of the disease and the molecular characterization of the virus. It sheds light on modern diagnosis tools that allow unambiguous identification of CHIKV infection. In addition, this book addresses the epidemiology of chikungunya fever, the distribution and spread of the disease, and the promising approaches under consideration for preventing and treating the disease.

Description: Despite significant worldwide progress in fighting rabies, a zoonotic viral disease, it remains an important public health concern, causing approximately 50,000 human cases per year. This book summarizes current knowledge regarding rabies, the prevalence and genetic diversity of the rabies virus, and modern approaches to rabies diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. It is a useful resource for scientists, doctors, and students.

Description: Pneumonia is an infectious disease of the pulmonary alveoli that leads to extensive morbidity and mortality. This book presents a comprehensive overview of this disease with chapters on hospital-acquired pneumonia, drug-related problems and hospital readmissions, secondary bacterial infections in viral pneumonia, and iron acquisition in pneumococci.

Description: Leishmaniasis is a major global health challenge, affecting approximately 12 million of the poorest people in 100 countries. It is a deforming and fatal disease in the visceral form. Therapies for leishmaniasis are numerically restricted, basically consisting of the administration of miltefosine, pentavalent antimonials, amphotericin B, or pentamidine. This is an important vulnerability against therapy efficiency that must be overcome by the scientific community. This book discusses important aspects of the disease, such as treatment, epidemiology, and molecular and cell biology. The information contained herein is important for young researchers as they seek to develop safe and effective treatments for this neglected tropical disease.

Description: Salmonella is an extremely diversified genus, infecting a range of hosts, and comprised of two species: enterica and bongori. This group is made up of 2579 serovars, making it versatile and fascinating for researchers drawing their attention towards different properties of this microorganism. Salmonella related diseases are a major problem in developed and developing countries resulting in economic losses, as well as problems of zoonoses and food borne illness. Moreover, the emergence of an ever increasing problem of antimicrobial resistance in salmonella makes it prudent to unveil different mechanisms involved. This book is the outcome of a collaboration between various researchers from all over the world. The recent advancements in the field of salmonella research are compiled and presented.

Description: The preterm parturition syndrome is one of the major obstetrical complications of our time. Understanding the mechanisms leading to prematurity may assist the clinician to tailor the desired treatment that is suitable to the mechanisms leading to preterm birth in a specific patient. In the first section of this book we present an update on the association of periodontal disease, maternal stress, and activation of the hemostatic system and preterm parturition. The second section of the book deals with short and long term effects of prematurity, with a long term aspect of late preterm birth. This book will expand the dialogue between obstetricians, pediatricians and other disciplines regarding the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of prematurity.

Description: This book includes selected peer-reviewed chapters which cover novel aspects of cysticercosis and neurocysticercosis written by well known international researchers, representing the most relevant Working Group for Cysticercosis of Mexico, Peru, Ecuador, most of the Eastern and Southern Africa countries and Europe plus other contributions from Canada and United States of America. Unfortunately, our colleagues from Asia could not participate in this project for several reasons but we hereby acknowledge their contribution to the scientific level reached by the international scientific community. Apart from the classic issue that cannot be missing in any book about cysticercosis/ neurocysticercosis, we introduced a new hypotheses and novel aspects on historical background, clinical descriptions, investigations, and treatment modalities related to this zoonotic parasitic disease as a leading cause of epilepsy in developing countries. We are looking forward with confidence and pride in the vital role that this book will play for a new vision and mission.

Description: Chikungunya, an arbovirus, is a major global threat affecting multiple areas of the world, even Europe, but recently (2014 - 2015) with large epidemics in Latin America, causing an important acute and chronic morbidity with a low, but present, mortality. This book tries to update the significant epidemiological and clinical research in many aspects with a multinational perspective. This book has been organized in two major sections: (I) ''Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects'' and (II) ''Entomology.'' Section I includes topics covering experiences and studies in different countries, including the infection during pregnancy and children, imported cases, ocular manifestations, coinfections, and therapeutics. Section II includes topics on entomological aspects, related to vector control, and new options for biological control of Aedes aegypti.

Description: Encephalitises are a group of inflammatory human and animal diseases of brain caused essentially by different pathogens. In spite of evident success in approaches for prevention, diagnostics and treatment during the last decades, the encephalitises of different etiology still constitute a menace for thousands of people all around the world. In this book the different aspects of encephalitises of different etiology are discussed such as diagnostics, treatment and clinical management of patients. Also, the data on epidemiology, monitoring, pathology and diagnostics of different viral causative agents are discussed.

Description: The continuing AIDS pandemic reminds us that despite the unrelenting quest for knowledge since the early 1980s, we have much to learn about HIV and AIDS. This terrible syndrome represents one of the greatest challenges for science and medicine. The purpose of this book is to aid clinicians, provide a source of inspiration for researchers, and serve as a guide for graduate students in their continued search for a cure of HIV. The first part of this book, "From the laboratory to the clinic," and the second part, "From the clinic to the patients," represent the unique but intertwined mission of this work: to provide basic and clinical knowledge on HIV/AIDS.

Description: Malaria is a global disease in the world today but most common in the poorest countries of the world, with 90% of deaths occurring in sub-Saharan Africa. This book provides information on global efforts made by scientist which cuts across the continents of the world. Concerted efforts such as symbiont based malaria control; new applications in avian malaria studies; development of humanized mice to study P.falciparium (the most virulent species of malaria parasite); and current issues in laboratory diagnosis will support the prompt treatment of malaria. Research is ultimately gaining more grounds in the quest to provide vaccine for the prevention of malaria. The book features research aimed to bring a lasting solution to the malaria problem and what we should be doing now to face malaria, which is definitely useful for health policies in the twenty first century.

Description: The main goal in compiling this book was to highlight the situation in Africa in terms of AIDS and opportunistic diseases. Several chapters reveal great poverty, an apocalyptic situation in many parts of Africa. Global migration of people resulted in their exposure to pathogens from all over the world. This fact has to be acknowledged and accepted as African reality. New, unconventional hypotheses, not determined by established dogmas, have been incorporated into the book, although they have not yet been sufficiently validated experimentally. It still applies that any dogma in any area of science, and medicine in particular, has and always will hinder progress. According to some biologists, in the future, AIDS is very likely to occur in a number of variations, as a direct result of the ongoing processes in the global human society. Thus, we urgently need a comprehensive solution for AIDS, in order to be ready to fight other, much more dangerous intruders.

Description: Echinococcosis remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality in certain areas of the world, tropical and non-tropical, particularly in rural settings. This book includes different topics with regard to the epidemiology, biology, clinical manifestations, treatment and prevention of the wide spectrum of diseases caused by the different species of Echinococcus involved in human and animal infection, with an aim to update the most significant research in many of them as well as to offer a multinational perspective on different aspects. The book has been organized into three major sections: (I) Epidemiology; (II) Biological and Clinical Aspects; and (III) Treatment and Prevention. Section I includes topics covering epidemiological studies in Colombia, Chile, Mexico and Tunisia, including molecular biology approaches to the study of parasite species. Section II includes topics covering the biology of some Echinococcus species affecting mainly animals, as also the human clinical manifestations in the central nervous system (CNS), genitourinary tract and other organic typical and atypical locations, as well as radiological manifestations of pulmonary disease. Section III includes topics on the usefulness of immunotherapy for antihelmintic treatment and intervention strategies.

Description: Cervical cancer is the second most prevalent cancer among women worldwide, and infection with Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) has been identified as the causal agent for this condition. The natural history of cervical cancer is characterized by slow disease progression, rendering the condition, in essence, preventable and even treatable when diagnosed in early stages. Pap smear and the recently introduced prophylactic vaccines are the most prominent prevention options, but despite the availability of these primary and secondary screening tools, the global burden of disease is unfortunately still very high. This book will focus on epidemiological and fundamental research aspects in the area of HPV, and it will update those working in this fast-progressing field with the latest information.

Description: Amyloidosis is an uncommon disorder characterized by the deposition of extracellular amyloid proteins in tissues. Significant advancement has been made recently, which not only provides insight in to the pathophysiology of the disease but also helps to discover new therapies to fight the deadly disease. If accurate diagnosis and typing are made early, effective or even curative therapies are available. Unfortunately, because of the rarity of the disease and its protean clinical manifestations, patients may be misdiagnosed, especially at early stage of the disease, and this could lead to missed opportunities to effective therapy. The aim of the book is to help readers become familiar with the clinical presentation of amyloidosis and to review the latest diagnostic and therapeutic development.

Description: Dengue Fever in a One Health Perspective underlines important aspects of dengue virus, the most prevalent and life-threatening arbovirus in the world. Over three sections, chapters cover such topics as biological and environmental aspects, physiopathology, molecular biology, diagnosis, and control strategies. The first section provides knowledge on basic aspects of dengue virus biology and its emergence and re-emergence associated to environmental changes. The second section includes two chapters on dengue immunopathology, a drawback in disease control and vaccine development. Finally, the third section examines molecular biology tools employed in dengue virus immunopathogenesis studies, diagnosis, drug design, and in the use of vectors as sentinels in surveillance and vector biology studies.

Description: Many infectious agents, such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites, can cause inflammation of the central nervous system (CNS). Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain parenchyma, which may result in a more advanced and serious disease meningoencephalitis. To establish accurate diagnosis and develop effective vaccines and drugs to overcome this disease, it is important to understand and elucidate the mechanism of its pathogenesis. This book, which is divided into four sections, provides comprehensive commentaries on encephalitis. The first section (6 chapters) covers diagnosis and clinical symptoms of encephalitis with some neurological disorders. The second section (5 chapters) reviews some virus infections with the outlines of inflammatory and chemokine responses. The third section (7 chapters) deals with the non-viral causative agents of encephalitis. The last section (4 chapters) discusses the experimental model of encephalitis. The different chapters of this book provide valuable and important information not only to the researchers, but also to the physician and health care workers.

Description: In the wake of the invitation by InTech, this book was written by a number of prominent researchers in the field. It is set to present a compendium of all necessary and up-to-date data to all who are interested. Schistosomiasis or blood fluke disease, also known as Bilharziasis, is a parasitic disease caused by helminths from a genus of trematodes entitled Schistosoma. It is a snail-borne trematode infection. The disease is among the Neglected Tropical Diseases, catalogued by the Global Plan to combat Neglected Tropical Diseases, 2008-2015 and is considered by the World Health Organization (WHO) to be the second most socioeconomically devastating parasitic disease, next to malaria. WHO demonstrates that schistosomiasis affects at least 200 million people worldwide, more than 700 million people live in endemic areas, and more than 200.000 deaths are reported annually. It leads to the loss of about 4.5 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).

Description: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are spread primarily through person to person sexual contact. There are more than 30 different sexually transmissible bacteria, viruses and parasites. STIs lead to high morbidity and complications. This book entitled as Sexually Transmitted Infections is not a text book but provides useful information for general reference work for physicians, researchers and students interested in the subject. Each chapter is abundant in tips useful to general readers as well. It also includes the Introductory chapter providing an overview with special emphasis on syndromic approach to the management of STIs in clinical setting.

Description: More than 10,000 patients are hospitalized every year with Legionnaires' disease in the United States alone. Legionnaires' disease is also an important public health topic as it involves environmental and public issues, as far as its spread and prevention are concerned. With an aging population, increasing number of transplants, increasing use of immunosuppressive medications, and compromised immunity due to multiorgan system disease, Legionnaires' disease is emerging as an important disease.

Description: Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain tissue associated with clinical evidence of brain dysfunction. The disease is of high public health importance worldwide due to its high morbidity and mortality. Flaviviruses, such as tick-borne encephalitis virus, Japanese encephalitis virus, Murray Valley encephalitis virus, or St. Louis encephalitis virus, represent important causative agents of encephalitis in humans in various parts of the world. The book Flavivirus Encephalitis provides the most recent information about selected aspects associated with encephalitic flaviviruses. The book contains chapters that cover a wide spectrum of subjects including flavivirus biology, virus-host interactions, role of vectors in disease epidemiology, neurological dengue, and West Nile encephalitis. Special attention is paid to tick-borne encephalitis and Japanese encephalitis viruses. The book uniquely combines up-to-date reviews with cutting-edge original research data, and provides a condensed source of information for clinicians, virologists, pathologists, immunologists, as well as for students of medicine or life sciences.

Description: Cervical cancer is the second most prevalent cancer among women worldwide, and infection with Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) has been identified as the causal agent for this condition. The natural history of cervical cancer is characterized by slow disease progression, rendering the condition, in essence, preventable and even treatable when diagnosed in early stages. Pap smear and the recently introduced prophylactic vaccines are the most prominent prevention options, but despite the availability of these primary and secondary screening tools, the global burden of disease is unfortunately still very high. This book will focus on the clinical aspects of HPV and related disease, highlighting the latest developments in this field.

Description: This book gives a comprehensive overview of recent trends in infectious diseases, as well as general concepts of infections, immunopathology, diagnosis, treatment, epidemiology and etiology to current clinical recommendations in management of infectious diseases, highlighting the ongoing issues, recent advances, with future directions in diagnostic approaches and therapeutic strategies. The book focuses on various aspects and properties of infectious diseases whose deep understanding is very important for safeguarding human race from more loss of resources and economies due to pathogens.

Description: Syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease was first described in 15th century, is caused by Treponema pallidum subsp. pallidum and occurs worldwide. This book is a collection of chapters presenting the novel knowledge about the T. pallidum and some historical and up to date information about venereal disease and syphilis. The collection of articles includes: immunological aspects recognition of T. pallidum by the pattern recognition receptors of the innate immune; the whole genome analysis of treponemes and new targets for its molecular diagnosis; some historical aspects of venereal diseases treatment; natural history of syphilis including clinical manifestation and epidemiology; a clinical aspects dealing with psychiatric manifestations of neurosyphilis; spatial and temporal patterns of primary syphilis and secondary syphilis described by the spatial and space-time scan statistics; a commonly used methods for laboratorial diagnosis, the serological response to treatment of syphilis and safety in blood transfusion. I hope this book will be useful for students and research fellows as well for the wide audience.

Description: Amyloidoses are a heterogeneous group of diverse etiology diseases. They are characterized by an endogenous production of abnormal proteins called amyloid proteins, which are not hydrosoluble, form depots in various organs and tissue of animals and humans and cause dysfunctions. Despite many decades of research, the origin of the pathogenesis and the molecular determinants involved in amyloid diseases has remained elusive. At present, there is not an effective treatment to prevent protein misfolding in these amyloid diseases. The aim of this book is to present an overview of different aspects of amyloidoses from basic mechanisms and diagnosis to latest advancements in treatment.

Description: Lung parenchyma has been extensively investigated. Nevertheless, the study of bronchial small airways is much less common. In addition, bronchitis represents, in some occasions, an intermediate process that easily explains the damage in the lung parenchyma. The main target of this book is to provide a bronchial small airways original research from different experts in the field.

Description: Continuous acquisition of new knowledge in Medicine is essential to ensure progression in diagnostics and therapeutics. In the last decade the discipline of Hepatology has achieved critical progress in the treatment of viral hepatitis. The present book has been realized by a team of experts daily facing clinical problems in the prevention and management of liver diseases and has been designed for a global readership to offer some practical tips to physicians who want update their level of practice in the field. Its a practical volume for daily reference but also an instrument for improving expertise in viral hepatology and discovering the unresolved issues. Management of HBV and HCV hepatitis in young and elderly, HEV hepatitis, evaluation of liver fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, vaccine and prevention and patient education are some of the most important topics covered by the authors. In addition, an outstanding chapter on the skin involvement during viral hepatitis and the tools to manage them during triple therapy is included in the book.

Description: This book provides an up- to- date summary of many advances in our understanding of anemia, including its causes and pathogenesis, methods of diagnosis, and the morbidity and mortality associated with it. Special attention is paid to the anemia of chronic disease. Nutritional causes of anemia, especially in developing countries, are discussed. Also presented are anemias related to pregnancy, the fetus and the newborn infant. Two common infections that cause anemia in developing countries, malaria and trypanosomiasis are discussed. The genetic diseases sickle cell disease and thalassemia are reviewed as are Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria, Fanconi anemia and some anemias caused by toxins. Thus this book provides a wide coverage of anemia which should be useful to those involved in many fields of anemia from basic researchers to epidemiologists to clinical practitioners.

Description: Each year, malaria kills almost half a million people despite the fact that it is a preventable and curable disease. Malaria has a direct correlation with economic loss due to the need for people to take time off work and the cost of hospital treatments. Undertaking decisive measures to combat malaria is necessary. This book aims to present current approaches in the treatment of malaria. It will be a guide to those working in malaria-endemic regions and cover both diagnosis and treatment. It will also be useful for medical workers in western countries where malaria is not as common. Considering that malaria causes morbidity and mortality, more especially among children below five years of age and pregnant mothers, it is therefore imperative that people from all walks of life should join hands to address this public health problem.

Description: A ubiquitous organism able to infect all mammals and birds, which has been estimated to infect one third of the global human population, Toxoplasma gondii is the most successful parasite on Earth, and toxoplasmosis a major zoonotic disease. A current approach to this zoonosis is the "one health" concept, based on the understanding that a disease occurring between animals and man in a specific environment can only be dealt with at the interface of all "players" involved. This book, composed of a series of articles which integrate human and animal data on toxoplasmosis, by authors from all over the world, offers its readers a view on the current research interests and achievements.

Description: The past decade has seen several changes in HIV prevention, transmission and therapeutic interventions to end the scourge. This book is a collection of expert assays on various aspects of HIV prevention, bioresource deployment, microbicides, host antiviral proteins, antiviral drug responses and novel treatment strategies for which there is evident need for scientific focus and review of the current trend. A visible objective of the book is to provide a wider readership of scientist, clinicians, social workers/HIV caregivers, immunologist, postgraduate students, trainers and vaccine developers an informative and multidisciplinary approach to HIV treatment and intervention strategy by presenting current trends in the development of therapeutic options and its attendant challenges. Practical and informative, the book provides state-of-the-art information on dynamics of HIV distribution, transmission, therapeutic measures and functional cure.

Description: Histoplasma and Histoplasmosis is a book on epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of histoplasmosis. It is an all-inclusive source of knowledge for both specialist and non-specialist mycologists at various levels of training or work experience.Through collaborative efforts of the authors and the editor, this book provides up-to-date information on the global distribution of histoplasmosis, an updated estimation of the burden of histoplasmosis in Asia, and recent advances in laboratory diagnosis and treatment of histoplasma and histoplasmosis. This volume is an invaluable source of knowledge for trainees and practitioners alike.

Description: This book offers novel insights on topics such as congenital obstructive nephropathy, cerebral-renal salt wasting, and the role of hemoglobin variability in clinical outcomes of CKD which are not very often discussed in the literature. With comprehensive and insightful reviews by eminent clinicians and scientists in the field, this book is a valuable tool for nephrologists.

Description: There are a lot of important issues related to viral hepatitis studies: molecular biology of viruses, laboratory diagnostics, epidemiology, treatment etc. However, there is a number of special textbooks and monographs on the subject. Considering this fact and rather fast progress in our understanding of the problem this book focuses on the important sections of the problem immune pathogenesis of parenterally transmitted viral hepatitis and some aspects of hepatitis diagnostics. Seven chapters were prepared by several groups of researchers to share information and results of studies with specialists working in the field and persons who are interested to learn about the viral hepatitis issue. The Nobel Prize Committee (the field of physiology and medicine, 2011) awarded Bruce A. Beutler and Jules A. Hoffmann for their discoveries concerning the activation of innate immunity whilst Ralph M. Steinman was awarded for his discovery of the dendritic cell and its role in adaptive immunity. We are proud to say that our book is in line with these discoveries, because 3 chapters cover the problems of innate and adaptive immune response in case of viral hepatitis.

Description: Brucellosis is a major zoonotic disease that may cause a serious illness in humans and animals. Global prevalence of human brucellosis remains significant. More than half a million new brucellosis cases from 100 countries are reported annually to the World Health Organization (WHO). The majority of these cases are reported in developing countries.In humans, brucellosis (undulant fever, Malta fever) is characterized by an acute bacteremic phase followed by a chronic stage that may extend over many years and may involve many tissues. It is a systemic disease, and many organ systems (nervous system, heart, skeletal system, bone marrow, etc.) may become involved following hematogenous dissemination. Although eradicated in some countries, it remains one of the most economically important zoonosis worldwide as it is responsible for huge economic losses as well as significant human morbidity in endemic areas. Because of the nonspecific clinical manifestations of human brucellosis and the need for prolonged combination therapy with antibiotics that are not routinely prescribed for other infectious diseases, laboratory confirmation of the diagnosis is of paramount importance for adequate patient management. In addition, evidence of brucellosis has serious public health implications because it discloses exposure to a contaminated source (infected animals or their products, unsafe laboratory practices, or a potential biological warfare attack). This book addresses human brucellosis with stress on symptoms including those related to the less recognized disease localizations, risk of exposure, treatment, and prevention. Light is shed on animal brucellosis as it pertains to human exposure. The book also emphasizes on laboratory procedures in culturing and serologic techniques. Epidemiologic surveillance is among this books subjects as well as veterinary control measures.

Description: Helminthiasis is a disease caused by parasitic helminths such as flukes, tapeworms, filarial worms, and nematodes. These parasites cause diseases that pose serious health problems, especially in developing countries of the world. Helminthiasis is a reflection of poor socio-economic conditions, which impacts on the social life of victims and economic development. Parasitic helminths live in a variety of habitats in their hosts and are far more widespread than we think. Gastrointestinal helminths are the largest group that affects their host directly through feacal-oral routes. This book not only provides insight into antihelminthic resistance in livestock but it also discusses soil transmitted helminths in pregnant women and children and filariasis as a debilitating disease. The book covers the prevention and control of helminthiasis of which adequate diagnosis is crucial. This book helps to close the information gap on helminthiasis, which has otherwise been classified as belonging to the group of neglected diseases and overlooked as a serious cause of morbidity and mortality of humans and domestic animals. The information in this book proposes that helminthiasis needs more global attention.

Description: Meningitis is a medical emergency requiring a rapid diagnosis and an immediate transfer to an institution supplied with appropriate antibiotic and supportive measures. This book aims to provide general practitioners, paediatricians, and specialist physicians with an essential text written in an accessible language, and also to highlight the differences in pathogenesis and causative agents of meningitis in the developed and the developing world.

Description: Tropical diseases affect millions of people throughout the world and particularly in the developing countries. The millennium development goals had specifically targeted HIV/AIDS and Malaria for substantial reduction as well as Tuberculosis while many other tropical diseases have been neglected. The new sustainable development goals have not made such distinction and have targeted all diseases for elimination for the improvement of the quality of life of human beings on earth. The present book was developed to provide an update on issues relevant to the treatment of selected tropical diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, leishmaniasis, schistosomiasis and ectoparasites such as chiggers which are widely distributed throughout the world. The control of these infections has been hampered by the development of drug resistance and the lack of the development of new and more effective drugs. The understanding of the biochemical processes underlying drug activity is therefore essential for the potential elimination of these infections.

Description: Cholera, a problem in Third World countries, is a complicated diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. The latest outbreak in Haiti and surrounding areas in 2010 illustrated that cholera remains a serious threat to public health and safety. With advancements in research, cholera can be prevented and effectively treated. Irrespective of "Military" or "Monetary" power, with one's "Own Power", we can defeat this disease. The book "Cholera" is a valuable resource of power (knowledge) not only for cholera researchers but for anyone interested in promoting the health of people. Experts from different parts of the world have contributed to this important work thereby generating this power. Key features include the history of cholera, geographical distribution of the disease, mode of transmission, Vibrio cholerae activities, characterization of cholera toxin, cholera antagonists and preventive measures.

Description: This book provides an overview of the globally concerning and emerging public health RNA viruses like SARS-CoV2, Ebola virus, FMD disease, and others. The main drive to publish this book was to present information on the molecular epidemiology pattern, transmission dynamics, host response factor, RNA viral infection, RNA virus evolution, molecular biology of RNA viruses, pathogenesis mechanism and phylogenetic analysis causing viral diseases among humans. This book will help to provide updated research information to the policymaker or planner for further diagnosis with genotyping tools, control, and prevention for further outbreaks of diseases from RNA viruses in tropical and subtropical countries.

Description: The past few decades have seen the escalation of HIV-infections and the 'frantic' search for new drugs to treat the millions of people that live with HIV-AIDS. However because HIV-AIDS cannot be cured, but only controlled with drugs, and the Antiretroviral (ARV) treatment itself results in some undesirable conditions, it is important to generate wider awareness of the plight of people living with this condition. This book attempts to provide information of the initiatives that have been used, successfully or unsuccessfully, to both prevent and combat this 'pandemic' taking into consideration the social, economic, cultural and educational aspects that involve individuals, communities and the countries affected.

Description: Sepsis is a very complex clinical condition that can be considered the central point of the infectious process: the arrival point in the evolution of a localized septic outbreak that has caused a systemic inflammatory reaction. In the clinical setting two important questions regarding the transition from local inflammation, with beneficial effect, to systemic inflammatory disease, with deleterious results, remain unanswered. First, why does the transition from local to systemic disease only occur in some subjects? Second, how long does this transition take? This book attempts to answer these questions. Chapters cover such topics as surgical infections, microbiota therapy in sepsis, cytokines for host immune response, and the role of serum amyloid A in the acute phase of sepsis.

Description: HIV remains the major global health threat, and neither vaccine nor cure is available. Increasing our knowledge on HIV infection will help overcome the challenge of HIV/AIDS. This book covers several aspects of HIV-host interactions in vitro and in vivo. The first section covers the interaction between cellular components and HIV proteins, Integrase, Tat, and Nef. It also discusses the clinical relevance of HIV superinfection. The next two chapters focus on the role of innate immunity including dendritic cells and defensins in HIV infection followed by the section on the impact of host factors on HIV pathogenesis. The section of co-infection includes the impact of Human herpesvirus 6 and Trichomonas vaginalis on HIV infection. The final section focuses on generation of HIV molecular clones that can be used in macaques and the potential use of cotton rats for HIV studies.

Description: This book is about the highly infective human papilloma virus (HPV). There are more than 200 strains of HPV, though only a few, like HPV 16 and HPV 18, are oncogenic. HPV infections can lead to cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, anus, penis, and oral cavity.Written by authors from across the globe, this book is a comprehensive look at HPV. Chapters cover such topics as the epidemiology of HPV, treatment of the manifestations of HPV, which can include warts on the skin and genitals, diagnosis and management of oral mucosal cancers due to HPV, HPV and pregnancy, and HPV vaccines. It is a useful reference for researchers and scientists in the field, providing them with helpful knowledge to combat and prevent HPV infections and cancers.

Description: Zoonotic diseases are mainly caused by bacterial, viral or parasitic agents although "unconventional agents" such as prions could also be involved in causing zoonotic diseases. Many of the zoonotic diseases are a public health concern but also affect the production of food of animal origin thus they could cause problems in international trade of animal-origin goods. A major factor contributing to the emergence of new zoonotic pathogens in human populations is increased contact between humans and animals. This book provides an insight on zoonosis and both authors and the editor hope that the work compiled in it would help to raise awareness and interest in this field. It should also help researchers, clinicians and other readers in their research and clinical usage.

Description: Brucellosis is an important zoonotic disease. More than half a million new cases from 100 countries are reported annually to the World Health Organization (WHO). The majority of patients are living in developing countries. Brucellosis is a systemic infection with a broad clinical spectrum, ranging from an asymptomatic disease to a severe and fatal illness. Clinical and laboratory features vary widely. The main presentations are acute febrile illness, localized infection, and chronic infection. Laboratory tools for diagnosis of brucellosis include culture, serology, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The goal of brucellosis therapy is to control the illness and prevent complications, relapses, and sequelae. Important principles of brucellosis treatment include use of antibiotics with activity in the acidic intracellular environment, use of combination regimens, and prolonged duration of treatment. This book is the result of several months of outstanding efforts by the authors and the revision of the content by experts in the field of brucellosis. This book is a valid resource and is intended for everyone interested in infectious disease to learn the most important aspects of brucellosis.

Description: Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria are the most numerous commensal aerobic germs located in the human colon. Diarrhea caused by E. coli pathogenic strains is a major cause of death in developing countries, especially the sub-Saharan and South Asian areas. Some strains cause diarrhea, and all of them may produce an infectious disease. This book includes ten chapters covering the main aspects of infections related to E. coli, their pathogenic mechanisms, treatments, and resistance to diverse antibiotics.

Description: Vector-Borne Diseases - Recent Developments in Epidemiology and Control utilizes the unique capabilities of open-access publishing to share exciting developments in the biology, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases spread by arthropods. From malaria to dengue to leishmaniasis, the diseases addressed in this book continue to present threats to the life and well-being of millions around the world. The international cast of writers published here provide specific insight into a full spectrum of diseases spread by insects and their close relatives.

Description: The collective efforts of HIV/AIDS research scientists from over 16 countries in the world are included in the book. This 27-chapter Open Access book well covers HIV/AIDS translational researches on pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and also those beyond conventional fields. These are by no means inclusive, but they do offer a good foundation for the development of clinical patient care. The translational model forms the basis for progressing HIV/AIDS clinical research. When linked to the care of the patients, translational researches should result in a direct benefit for HIV/AIDS patients.

Description: This book discusses the emerging challenges of the filovirus infections Ebola and Marburg virus disease. It reviews the complex ecology and role played by bats and other suspected intermediate hosts, including pigs. Also examined are the challenges for other modes of transmission and early diagnosis and detection. The immunology and pathogenesis of the infections and the impact on the host?s immune systems are discussed. The rare occurrence of Marburg virus infection in pregnancy and the long-term consequences of sexual transmission by survivors is further examined. These discussions have the potential to support future management of outbreaks and guide research for vaccines and medication for Ebola and Marburg disease.

Description: The book Ebola is a relevant resource of knowledge about various aspects of the Ebola virus (EBOV) and the related disease. Many experts from different fields of science and from different parts of the world contributed to the creation of this book. The book contains valuable information about firsthand experience of managing Ebola virus disease (EVD) in Third World countries and offers the best practices to handle possible pandemic outbreaks of Ebola. Detailed analysis of EBOV genome is also given, with the description of EBOV pathology supported with structural information, and in addition, the various tasks and strategies for the development of an effective anti-Ebola cure are proposed.

Description: We are very pleased to present this book dealing with echinococcosis. The chapters of this book are written by surgeons, radiologists, and parasitologists from different hospitals in several countries as Tunisia, Turkey, Indonesia, Nigeria, Romania, Chile and Iraq. This book is intended for clinicians, radiologists, internists, and surgeons involved in the management of patients with echinococcosis.

Description: This book has assembled an array of chapters on the social and psychosocial aspects of HIV/AIDS and their impact on HIV/AIDS and related behaviours. The book addresses key areas of HIV and AIDS, including, but not in any way limited to, care-seeking behaviour, adherence, access, psychosocial needs and support services, discrimination and the impact the epidemic has on various sectors of the economy. The book has seventeen chapters; seven chapters deal with social aspects of HIV/AIDS, four with psychosocial aspects of HIV/AIDS, and the remaining six chapters with the impact of social and psychosocial factors on HIV/AIDS and related behaviours. The book is an essential reading for academics, students and other people interested in the field of HIV and AIDS.

Description: Skin is a natural barrier to infection. Surgical breakage of skin can lead to surgical site infections (SSIs). SSIs are relatively common and constitute a problematic issue in surgical procedures. Most common organisms include Gram-positive, such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, as well as Gram-negative, such as Pseudomonas and others, bacteria. The extent and outcome of SSI can vary widely depending on the procedure, organism, extent, and other factors, and can result in discomfort, severe morbidity, or even life-threatening conditions.It is thus mandatory to be aware of and follow WHO and CDC guidelines for the prevention of SSIs and to reduce risk factors for acquisition. This book sheds light on certain aspects related to SSIs and how to avoid them.

Description: Like any other book on the subject of HIV/AIDS, this book is not a substitute or exhausting the subject in question. It aims at complementing what is already in circulation and adds value to clarification of certain concepts to create more room for reasoning and being part of the solution to this global pandemic. It is further expected to complement a wide range of studies done on this subject, and provide a platform for the more updated information on this subject. It is the hope of the authors that the book will provide the readers with more knowledge and skills to do more to reduce HIV transmission and improve the quality of life of those that are infected or affected by HIV/AIDS.

Description: Anopheles mosquitoes are highly important insects due to their involvement in the transmission of human malaria and its devastating consequences in endemic countries worldwide. In 2010 alone, malaria was responsible for an estimated 660,000 deaths. As the study of Anopheles species and populations is a key element for reaching the goal of malaria elimination, an enormous amount of information has accumulated over the past century, and together in recent decades with the advent of novel technologies the acquisition of new knowledge has accelerated even further. The originality of this book is to offer the latest compilation on various research, new concepts, paradigms and innovative approaches for the control of anophelines using state-of-the-art methodologies and analysis. The 24 chapters, written by internationally recognized experts from 5 continents, cover the rich landscape for the understanding of Anopheles mosquitoes and the development of more effective weapons to control the vector of malaria.

Description: The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is expressed as a cell surface protein mainly in the central and peripheral nervous system. The discovery that prions are infectious agents changed the concept of protein synthesis in modern biology and built a bridge between the genesis of infectious and genetic diseases. This book discusses the normal function of the PrPC and its modulatory role in synaptic mechanisms. It describes the pathophysiological processes that accompany TSE - neurotoxicity, loss of anti-inflammatory protective function, neuronal death including prion-induced autophagy and apoptosis, and accumulation of PrPSc in the cytoplasm of neurons. Another aspect outlined here is that some prion diseases show strain variations that determine their development, demonstrating their key role in the development and progression of TSE.

Description: Lyme disease, or Lyme borreliosis, is an emerging infectious disease caused by bacteria belonging to the genus borrelia. Borrelia burgdorferi, in the strict sense. This book deals mostly with the molecular biology of the Lyme disease agent orrelia burgdorferi. It has been written by experts in the relevant field and is tailored to the need of researchers, advanced students of biology, molecular biology, molecular genetics of microorganism. It will also be of use to infectious disease experts and people in other disciplines needing to know more about Lyme borreliosis. The book contains chapters on the molecular biology of the Lyme disease agent, zoonotic peculiarities of Bb, advancement in Bb antibody testing, the serology diagnostic schemes in Bb, discovering Lyme disease in ticks and dogs, adaptation to glucosamine starvation in Bb, and porins in the genus borrelia.

Description: In order to fully understand the nature of viruses, it is important to look at them from both, their basic science and clinical, standpoints. Our goal with this book was to dissect Herpesviridae into its biological properties and clinical significance in order to provide a logical, as well as practical, approach to understanding and treating the various conditions caused by this unique family of viruses. In addition to their up-to-date and extensive text, each chapter is laced with a variety of diagrams, tables, charts, and images, aimed at helping us achieve our goal. We hope that this book will serve as a reference tool for clinicians of various specialties worldwide.

Description: Progress obtained by mycobacteriology in recent years is undeniable with regards to preventing, detecting, and treating cases of tuberculosis, millennial disease that is still present as public health issue worldwide. We present here high-impact research and interest topics related to the application of new methodologies, especially molecular methods for rapid diagnostic such as rapid DST, application of high performance liquid chromatography, molecular epidemiology and molecular diagnostic testing on post mortem. Currently, the constant search for vaccines that prevent the disease is promising through research of the immune response generated by the host towards the bacterium, and the effectiveness that may be achieved from developed vaccines. Another high-impact factor is the one generated by considering tuberculosis as a social disease with an infectious component reflected in research about tuberculosis and human rights. Finally, we present important issues of the pathogen interaction with different hosts. The constant knowledge generation that expands the frontiers of understanding is a key factor for finding solutions and successful activities for public health.

Description: Complicated urinary tract infections (cUTIs) are a major cause of hospital admissions and are associated with significant morbidity and health care costs. Knowledge of baseline risk of urinary tract infection can help clinicians make informed diagnostic and therapeutic decisions. Prevalence rates of UTI vary by age, gender, race, and other predisposing risk factors. In this regard, this book provides comprehensive information on etiology, epidemiology, immunology, pathology, pathogenic mechanisms, symptomatology, investigation and management of urinary tract infection. Chapters cover common problems in urinary tract infection and put emphasis on the importance of making a correct clinical decision and choosing the appropriate therapeutic approach. Topics are organized to address all of the major complicated conditions frequently seen in urinary tract infection. The authors have paid particular attention to urological problems like the outcome of patients with vesicoureteric reflux, the factors affecting renal scarring, obstructive uropathy, voiding dysfunction and catheter associated problems. This book will be indispensable for all professionals involved in the medical care of patients with urinary tract infection.

Description: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is carried by 50 100% of the worlds population throughout their lives. Consequences are most readily seen in immunocompromised individuals such as organ transplant recipients, HIV-infected patients and new born infants. This book gives an in-depth view of manifestations of CMV infection in immunocompromised individuals: how it affects the immune system and how it is diagnosed and treated. The book also sheds light on the epidemiology and impact of CMV in sub-Saharan Africa, and also associations with age related disease that are more commonly seen in the western world. It particularly details a recent discovery between CMV and tumour immuno-biology. The book explores the development of a few compounds and also highlights the need to discover novel antiviral agents in future.

Description: It can be said that now is the best time for everyone infected to become aware of their own HIV status. The state of the art in HIV management progressively reveals that antiretroviral treatment can prevent transmission, as well as chronic damage in the human body, if started early. Unfortunately, antiretrovirals are not widely available in many places, especially in developing countries. In these parts of the world, diagnosis of HIV infection must be kept in the agenda as a priority, in order to understand specific details of local epidemics and as an effort to interrupt the chain of HIV transmission.

Description: This book gives a comprehensive overview of HIV and AIDS including NeuroAIDS, as well as general concepts of pathology, immunity and immunopathology, diagnosis, treatment, epidemiology and etiology to current clinical recommendations in management of HIV/AIDS including NeuroAIDS, highlighting the ongoing issues, recent advances and future directions in diagnostic approaches and therapeutic strategies.

Description: Neuropathic pain is known to be pain with nerve involvement. The intensity of which depends on the severity, pain threshold and the ability of suffers to cope. Neuropathic pain may need mono-therapy or combination of therapies to be resolved. Neuropathic pain may not resolve completely, therefore patient's compliance and understanding is essential in its management. Awareness and patient's education on targets may be of help during therapies for neuropathic pain. All chapters treated introduction, characteristics, diagnosis and randomized interventions to certain management of neuropathic pain. We acknowledge all those involve in the making of this book.

Description: In this online Open Access book on "Human RSV Infections", several distinguished authors contribute their experience in respiratory syncytial virology. A major focus lies on the fascinating pathophysiology of RSV and represents recent and actual work on different mechanisms involved in the complex pathogenesis of the virus. The second section elucidates epidemiologic and diagnostic aspects of RSV infection covering a more clinical view of RSV disease. At last, treatment modalities including the search for a vaccine that is still not in sight are discussed and conclude this book, thus building up a circle that runs from experimental models of RSV related lung disease over clinical aspects of disease to the latest news of therapeutic and prophylactic approaches to human RSV infection.

Description: Data are rapidly accumulating from all over the world regarding the efficacy of standardized treatment regimens for drug-sensitive, drug-resistant TB and latent TB infection. While we are facing the menace of multi drug-resistant TB [MDR-TB], extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis [XDR­ TB] has emerged threatening to undermine global efforts at TB control. Hence we have included chapters to cover all aspects of the diagnosis and management of MDR TB. This book will cover all these developments in great detail. With the widespread availability of internet globally various standard web resources available on TB have also been included so that the readers may get the comprehensive and updated guidelines from these resources. The changing clinical presentation of TB, advances in laboratory, imaging diagnostic modalities, therapeutic measures and emergence of MDR TB all suggest a pressing need to have a updated book on TB. Furthermore, while all physicians encounter the TB disease in their clinical practice, there have been a lot of controversies and misconceptions over various issues for the diagnosis and management of TB. Paucity of a well referenced, updated, standard book of TB has prompted us to undertake this venture sharing the clinical experience of global experts of TB. Our book contains chapters on epidemiology, immune-pathology, diagnosis, treatment and latest advances for TB, highlighting the global perspective of tuberculosis. World-wide resurgence of MDR TB indicates that the battle against this foe of mankind will continue in the coming years. TB still remains to be a research priority of paramount importance from medical, social and financial aspects and we have attempted to highlight all the aspects for the treatment of TB. We believe that this book will serve as a practical guide for the diagnosis and management of TB for practicing physicians (especially pulmonologists and internists) and all those who are involved in the management of TB.

Description: The relationship between herpesviruses and humans probably dates from thousands of years ago. In the last few decades, many aspects of herpesvirus infections have been understood, such as infections with a range of manifestations (severe, mild, or subclinical). Herpesvirus can remain latent during a lifetime and sometimes their reactivation can cause different clinical features in the patient. Several conditions have been related to herpesvirus reactivation such as complications in transplant organ recipients and immune regulatory modification in the elderly. Aspects of human herpesvirus simples, varicella-zoster virus, and cytomegalovirus are presented and discussed in this book.