Cognitive aging is a flourishing area of research. A significant amount of new data, a number of new theoretical notions, and many new research issues have been generated in the past ten years. This new edition reviews new findings and theories, enables the reader to assess where the field is today, and evaluates its points of growth. The chapters are organized to run from reviews of current work on neuroimaging, neuropsychology, genetics and the concept of brain reserve, through the 'mainstream' topics of attention, memory, knowledge and language, to a consideration of individual differences and of cognitive aging in a lifespan context. This edition continues to feature the broad range of its predecessors, while also providing critical assessments of current theories and findings.

Extensively revised and updated to reflect the current state of knowledge in the study of aging, this Fourth Edition offers a complete profile of the aging process at all levels, from molecules and cells to demography and evolution. Written by international experts in current basic and clinical aging research, this text includes aspects of individual, comparative, and differential aging, and discussions of theories and mechanisms of aging. This invaluable reference illustrates how bodily systems, organs, and functions are affected with aging, describes how genetic and environmental factors influence age-related changes, and addresses some of the clinical consequences of these changes for health and longevity. Well illustrated, with numerous tables and graphs, this book presents up-to-date information from internationally renowned experts in various bio-medical fields. New updated information includes: emphasis on emerging technologies and recent advances in biology and bioengineering that allow greater and longer independence of the elderly recent therapeutic developments in key diseases such as Alzheimer's, osteopenia, osteoporosis, high cholesterol, diabetes, gastritis, sexual impotence, and using transgenic animals as models of aging evaluation of the latest knowledge on the roles of oxidants and antioxidants, and correlates them with other aging-based theories expanded discussion of nutrition and physical exercise chapters on gene and stem cell interventions related to the aging process updated tables to reflect current trends, new research data, and up-to-date statistical information

Fertility Awareness is key to understanding sexual and reproductive health at all life stages. It can be used to either plan or avoid pregnancy. Fertility Awareness Methods (FAMs) are highly effective when motivated couples are taught by trained practitioners. These methods are in demand for ecological, medical, cultural, religious and moral reasons. The ability to control fertility naturally is a lifestyle choice. The Complete Guide to Fertility Awareness provides the science and methodology suitable for health professionals and a general audience. It covers reproductive physiology and the fertility indicators: temperature, cervical secretions and cycle length calculations. It explores ways to optimise conception and to manage conception delays. Case studies and self-assessment exercises are included throughout. The book addresses the scientific credibility of new technologies including fertility apps, home test kits, monitors and devices. The Complete Guide to Fertility Awareness offers: evidence-based information for general practitioners, practice nurses, school nurses, midwives, sexual health doctors and nurses a unique perspective on subfertility for gynaecologists and fertility nurses an authoritative source of reference for medical, nursing and midwifery students a straightforward and practical reference for new and experienced FAM users the core text for the FertilityUK Advanced Skills Course in Fertility Awareness

The aim of this book is to fill the gap between the standard textbooks of obstetrics & gynecology - which do not cover (conservative) infertility treatment - and the specialized textbooks on ART - which don't address topics such as ovulation induction/IUI and the typical treatment of disorders associated with infertility, such as hyperandrogenism and endometriosis. In many countries, the management of infertility treatment is not done by IVF specialists but by general gynecologists or primary health practitioners. In most countries, specific training and/or a license is required to do 'invasive' infertility treatments, such as IVF/ICSI; however, conservative or semi-conservative treatments - such as IUI with or without ovulation induction - can be done without specific training/licensing. This concise, clinically oriented handbook is predominantly written for gynecologists, primary health practitioners, and medical students who want to improve their knowledge on this aspect of their work. Furthermore the aim is to highlight which types of disorders may be treated by conservative means and which types of disorder should be treated by invasive treatment options such as IVF/ICSI.

Coping with Infertility is an essential source of emotional support for any couple struggling with involuntary childlessness. The book offers proven techniques and real-life examples from both men and women, in order to outline common emotional reactions and remind couples that they are not alone in their ups and downs. The coping skills discussed in the book have been assembled from years of working with individuals in clinical trials and have undergone rigorous scientific testing. These state-of-the-art techniques have been shown to be effective in helping couples deal with the stress, depression, relationship problems, and grief often associated with infertility. Coping with Infertility is an easily accessible and problem-focused guide for couples to use in overcoming the emotional roadblocks of infertility.

Selecting the best embryo to transfer to the uterus is key to successful in vitro fertilization (IVF). A huge amount of research has been devoted to this topic and there are numerous methods used, from simple morphological assessment to molecular biological techniques to assess the genome and metabolism of the newly fertilized embryo. For many of these techniques, an adequate evidence base is lacking, and expert opinion is valuable. Clinical imperatives require ranking all embryos in a cohort according to their viability, thereby enabling the selection of the best embryo to optimize live birth outcome: a key indicator used to measure and rate IVF Clinics worldwide. This clear and informative manual will provide embryologists and clinicians with an overview of the tools now available to assist in embryo selection, as well as evidence for their efficacy and safety and the broader considerations that must underlie these important clinical decisions.

In the last 15 years, fertility treatment has become mainstream medical practice. With this evolution has come a change in focus from effectiveness ('success rates') to safety, patient acceptability and ethical questions. It is recognized that effectiveness also depends crucially on safety and good risk management. The purpose of this book is to address this wider change in focus. Reducing Risk in Fertility Treatment examines risk in assisted conception, covering a wide range of topics and areas. 'Risk' refers to situations in which an outcome of value to people is uncertain. Specifically for the purpose of this book, 'Risk' means situations where patients or professionals or society as a whole is at risk of an adverse outcome in relation to fertility treatment. It therefore encompasses clinical complications, risks inherent in laboratory practice, reputational and business risks to clinics and ethical risks to society as a whole. It will be an essential resource for all clinic staff to consult in reducing the risk associated with their work. It will provide practical resources such as 'how to' guides, but also a theoretical discussion of uncertainty where this exists. The book is primarily directed to practitioners in the area of fertility treatment, namely clinicians, embryologists, nurses, counsellors and administrators. However, it is likely also to be relevant to policy-makers, commissioners of health services, researchers in this field and biomedical ethicists.

To what extent should parents be able to choose the kind of child they have? The unfortunate phrase 'designer baby' has become familiar in debates surrounding reproduction. As a reference to current possibilities the term is misleading, but the phrase may indicate a societal concern of some kind about control and choice in the course of reproduction. Typically, people can choose whether to have a child. They may also have an interest in choosing, to some extent, the conditions under which they do so, such as whether they have a child with a serious disability or disease. The purpose of this book is to explore the difficult and controversial question of the appropriate ethical and legal extent of reproductive autonomy in this context. The book examines ethical, legal and public policy issues in prenatal screening, prenatal diagnosis (PND), selective abortion and preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). It explores the ethics of these selection practices and the ability of current ethical guidelines and legal mechanisms, including the law on selective abortion and wrongful birth, to deal with advances in genetic and other knowledge in these areas. Unlike in the United States, in England the relevant law is not inherently rights-based, but the impact of the Human Rights Act 1998 inevitably raises questions about the proper scope of reproductive autonomy in this context. The implications of the analysis are considered for the development of relevant law, public policy and ethical guidelines and will be of interest to academics in medical law and ethics, health professionals, lawyers, those working on public policy and students with an interest in these issues.

A closer look at your patient's family situation can help you develop a more effective treatment plan Family Behavioral Issues in Health and Illness is a basic but thorough introduction to the impact family dynamics can have on a person's health. Ideal as a supplemental training text for healthcare professionals, this unique book examines the connections between family and health, presenting a concise summary of family systems theory, basic family assessment, and the family life cycle. The book provides an understanding of how the patterns and systems found in a diverse range of family styles can create special health issues, and how the ability to assess and anticipate those issues can ensure the most comprehensive patient care and cost-effective management of time and resources. As long as families continue to be the primary environment where patients learn and develop their beliefs and overall attitudes about life, it remains essential that any primary healthcare model includes a strong background in family dynamics and the critical, pivotal points of family life. Family Behavioral Issues in Health and Illness addresses the most important aspects of family to consider when providing care, presenting practical, real-life case studies that examine the resilience, strengths, and possibilities of families, as well as the problems and dysfunctions. The book looks at how significant events, such as marriage, divorce, birth, and death affect families, and how a knowledge of special family issues, including parenting, abuse, disability, and chronic illness prepares the healthcare professional to provide effective care for traditional, single-parent, multiracial, blended, adoptive, and same-gender families. Family Behavioral Issues in Health and Illness examines: boundaries, roles, and rules triangulation subsystems scapegoating parentification healthy families the family genogram spiritual crises of family members infertility families without children intergenerational families the family in later life coping with alcoholism, dementia, bereavement, and/or mental illness and much more Family Behavioral Issues in Health and Illness is an essential reference for healthcare professionals, educators, parents, and family members. The book provides a practical understanding of family relationships that helps healthcare providers guide patients toward a more complete well-being.

Many scientists today are working to retard the aging process in humans so as to increase both life expectancy and the quality of life. Over the past decade impressive results have been achieved in targeting the mechanisms and pathways of aging. In "The Quest for Human Longevity," Lewis D. Solomon considers these scientific studies by exploring the principal biomedical anti-aging techniques. The book also considers cutting edge research on mental enhancements and assesses the scientific doubts of skeptics. "The Quest for Human Longevity" is also about business. Solomon examines eight corporations pursuing various age-related interventions, profiling their scientific founders and top executives, and examining personnel, intellectual property, and financing for each firm. Academic scientists form the link between research and commerce. Solomon notes that the involvement of university scientists and researchers follows one of two models. The first is a traditional model in which scientists leave academia to work for a corporation or remain in academia and obtain business support for their research. The second is a modern model in which scientists use their intellectual property as a catalyst for acquiring equity interests in the firms they organize. Critics have pointed to the dangers of commercialized science, but Solomon's analysis, on balance, finds that the benefits outweigh the costs and that problems of secrecy and conflicts of interest can be addressed. If scientists succeed in unlocking the secrets of aging and developing drugs or therapies that will allow us to live decades longer, the consequences for society will include profound social, political, economic, and ethical questions. Solomon deals with the public policy aspects of significant life extension and looks at the conflict between those who advocate the acceptance of mortality and the partisans of life. "The Quest for Human Longevity" will be of interest to policymakers, sociologists, scientists, and students of business, as well as general readers interested in these compelling issues. "Lewis D. Solomon" is Theodore Rinehart Professor of Business Law at George Washington University Law School. A prolific author on legal, business, public policy, and religious topics, he has written over fifty books and numerous articles. He is an ordained rabbi and interfaith minister.

Scientists investigating germ cells have, over the past 15 years, originated discoveries and innovations that give us valuable insights into the mechanisms that regulate not just stem cell function, but human development in its widest sense. With contributions from some of the leading researchers in the field, Male Germline Stem Cells: Developmental and Regenerative Potential assesses the implications of these discoveries for understanding the fundamental biology of germline stem cells as well as their potential for human stem cell-based therapies. This monograph covers many of the fundamental issues now being explored by today's generation of stem cell researchers, including the field's potential for regenerative medicine. Ranging from an assessment of the pluripotency of primordial germ cells and their possible applications in treating testicular cancer, to the recovery of once-mordant fertilization-competent sperm, this volume has it all. It is a reference point for any scientist involved in related research as well as being a timely summation of what could prove to be a hugely exciting and very fruitful area of inquiry.

Andrology, the science of the physiology, pathology and molecular biology of male reproduction, is a relatively new specialty that has become increasingly important with the advent of modern assisted reproductive techniques (ART). The Atlas of Clinical Andrology describes both normal and abnormal reproductive physiology, and summarizes recent research in the fields of endocrinology, immunoandrology, molecular andrology, and ART. Focusing on the cutting edge of recent knowledge and advances in clinical andrology, it incorporates the latest clinical research findings and makes them accessible to clinicians who need this essential information for the most effective application of assisted reproductive techniques.

There are several possible solutions to the different problems presented with female patients who have been unable to conceive. This completely revised edition provides guidance on the technical aspects of diagnosis and explanations of treatment using a how to, when and why approach, incorporating new expanded sections on endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome. Illustrated throughout with tables and graphs as a source for easy reference for guidance and counselling in clinical decision making, it will be essential reading for all those working in the clinical practice setting within infertility, providing all the necessary information required for developing sound clinical judgement in the diagnosis and surgical management of structural abnormalities of the reproductive tract.

Wedding up-to-date scientific information to an understanding of the emotional burdens and ethical dilemmas that inhere in reproductive medicine, Frozen Dreams: Psychodynamic Dimensions of Infertility and Assisted Reproduction provides an overview of the psychology of infertility patients and of the evaluative, administrative, and especially psychotherapeutic issues involved in helping them. The contributors to this volume, who include professionals from nationally prestigious reproductive programs and psychotherapists who evaluate and work clinically with infertility patients, explore the complex choices about life and death that are the daily experience of infertility specialists. In voices equally authoritative and intimate, psychotherapists and other health professionals explore the therapeutic process with patients and couples struggling with miscarriage, infertility, childlessness, the possibility of adoption, and the promise of assisted pregnancy. Among the themes that recur throughout this collection are the following: When is a patient's bitterness, anger, and psychopathology extreme enough to disqualify her as a candidate for infertility treatment? the well-being of offspring resulting from an assisted pregnancy? How does the clinician's personal diagnosis of infertility influence an ongoing psychodynamic treatment? How can a therapist help patients overcome the overwhelming grief of miscarriage? And the contributors are equally attentive to the range of issues that challenge physicians and nurses active in reproductive medicine. Intent on providing practical information that will aid decision-making in this demanding area of practice, they examine questions such as: How reproductive medicine programs should handle difficult patients who present with a sense of entitlement. How staff differences within reproductive medicine programs can be constructively addressed and resolved. Why physicians, nurses, and other program personnel experience burnout and what can be done to prevent it. Written for a large audience of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, researchers, nurses, physicians, and general readers, Frozen Dreams is a fascinating introduction to the human face of reproductive medicine. mental health professionals who work with adult patients through their childbearing years. For professionals who work inside the complex world of infertility treatment, Frozen Dreams will quickly become an essential text that is turned to repeatedly for information, guidance, reassurance, and revitalization.

Just what is the andropause? Although acceptance of the andropause concept by the medical community is growing, it is still a hotly debated issue. But as a busy clinician you have patients to treat and you need information. So where can you find the information you need to understand, diagnose, and treat this condition? A comprehensive, detailed clinical resource, Androgen Deficiency in the Adult Male: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment distills the knowledge acquired by author Malcolm Carruthers in his 20 years of research and clinical experience in diagnosing and treating the andropause.

Carruthers documents the history of testosterone treatment from antiquity to the awarding of the Nobel Prize Adolf Butenandt and Leopold Ruzicka for synthesizing testosterone and patenting its production some 4,000 years later. He discusses the causes of androgen deficiency, the male menopause or andropause, and its differential diagnosis. The text includes reviews of the literature in each section and a fund of bibliographic references gleaned from the author's years of research in this field. This combination of features makes Androgen Deficiency and the Aging Male: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment a technically thorough clinical guide, a complete and detailed reference volume, and a cohesive and readable textbook.

Worldwide, approximately 500,000 in vitro fertilization cycles are performed every year. Although the best possible result is a healthy child, the technology carries a number of varying risks and complications leading to a trade-off between the efficacy of these treatments and their quality and safety. Drawing on contributions from international experts with academic and clinical backgrounds, Assisted Reproductive Technologies: Quality and Safety presents an analysis of the medical risks and complications involved in reproductive medicine. Putting the intricacies of reproductive health in the spotlight, the book describes side-effects, risks, and complications related to ART treatments. It discusses ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, demonstrates the impact of judicious elective single embryo transfer, and focuses heavily on multiple pregnancy as the major risk factor of ART. The editors highlight the relatively less likely, but important risks of oncogenic complications, bleeding at the time of ovum retrieval, and the even smaller but still existing risk for maternal mortality. They include discussions of non-medical factors that can have a major impact on people's lives such as psychological, sexual, financial, moral, ethical, and philosophical dilemmas. In today's litigious climate, modern management of any clinic is all about minimizing risks and complications. Thoroughly addressing quality and safety issues in ART, this book provides succinct, up-to-date information on quality care in reproductive medicine.

Sperm morphology evaluation by strict criteria is the gold-standard used by IVF and andrology units around the world. It is based on an approach to sperm morphology evaluation that utilizes optimal preparation methods, evaluation procedures, and criteria for a morphological normal spermatozoon based on biological evidence. Featuring fresh perspectives from the founders of the Tygerberg strict criteria, Atlas of Human Sperm Morphology Evaluation provides state-of-the-art information on crucial aspects of male factor infertility. The atlas consists of an introductory teaching manual that gives readers the ability to train and test their diagnostic capabilities and enables laboratories to implement quality control measures. Together with a team of internationally renowned experts in the field of human reproduction, the editors explore every avenue you need to know to successfully evaluate and manage male factor infertility. An accompanying interactive CD-ROM training program, STRICT 1-2-3(R) is available from the editors. STRICT 1-2-3(R) has been developed alongside the atlas to provide not only a complete theoretical background on sperm morphology, but also self-training facilities. Laboratory directors and technicians will now be able to set up their own internal quality control program for sperm morphology evaluation.

Written by a fertility nurse specialist and a sexual health information expert, What Every Woman Needs to Know About Fertility is the most comprehensive, practical and accessible guide to fertility awareness methods available.

This essential guide to reproduction puts you in control of your fertility by explaining how your body works, giving you the confidence to make informed decisions about your sexual and reproductive health. It answers every conceivable question about fertility awareness using detailed images, charts and a step-by-step guide to tracking your temperature and observing the bodily changes associated with ovulation, and gives clearly defined guidelines for how to plan, or avoid, a pregnancy.

Dispelling the myths around fertility awareness methods, and explaining the pros and cons of reproductive technologies such as fertility apps, this book also gives practical answers to the questions that all women ask, including:

• How reliable are Fertility Awareness Methods?
• How easy are FAMs to use?
• How can I use FAMs after having a baby?
• How can I use FAMs if I'm menopausal?

With insights into optimum health and preconception care, plus detailed practical advice to ensure the best possible conditions for pregnancy, What Every Woman Needs to Know About Fertility provides unique, comprehensive guidance and choices for all on how to plan or avoid pregnancy naturally.

This atlas summarizes in simple tabulations and elaborate illustrations some of the newest research in the field: male endocrinology, growth factors and wellness, sperm quality and fertility, male reproductive and erectile dysfunction, genetics, andrology and immunoandrology, molecular andrology, mal contraception, and future research directions. Bridging the gap between basic and clinical science, the book covers laboratory techniques and morphological, anatomical, biochemical, immunological, hereditary, and microbiological parameters and their clinical application. Detailed instructions are included so that techniques can be followed accurately.

Contents:
1. The Comparative Policy Design Perspective
2. Belgium: A Bioethical Paradise?
3. ART Policy in Italy: Explaining the Lack of Comprehensive Regulation
4. Policy Networks, Federalism and Managerial Ideas: How ART Non-Decision in Canada Safeguards the Autonomy of the Medical Profession
5. The United States: National Talk and State Action in Governing ART
6. ART in Spain: Technocratic Inheritance and Modernist Aspirations
7. United Kingdom: Regulation Through a National Licensing Authority
8. France: Protecting Human Dignity While Encouraging Scientific Progress
9. The Netherlands: Conflict and Consensus on Assisted Reproductive Technology Policy
10. Germany: ART Policies as Embryo Protection
11. Switzerland: Policy Design and Direct Democracy
12. Legislation for Protection: Why Norway Designed Restrictive Policies in the Field of ART
13. Comparing Policy Design Across Countries: What Accounts for Variation in ART Policy?

Erectile dysfunction is a common problem that may result from a number of medical conditions. With increasing public awareness, men with ED are seeking medical help. This pocketbook will assist the physician in treating and managing ED effectively with either drugs or devices.